Grant County Little League

Operating Priciples

This is intended to be an outline of the principles and rules that govern the conduct of all managers and coaches, players, parents, spectators and umpires during sponsored activities.

This program is designed to teach sportsmanship, improve athletic skills and provide wholesome and enjoyable entertainment for the youth involved. To achieve these goals requires that players and adults, both as coaches and as spectators, adhere to certain rules of conduct.

Coaches, Umpires, Players and parents should remember the following principles:

1.      The Game at this level belongs to the Kids!  Not the adults.

2.      Children need positive examples. Negative criticism can damage young egos and discourage athletes.

3.      Make athletic participation for the athlete a positive experience.

4.      Attempt to relieve the pressure of competition, rather than increase it.

5.      Always show respect to all coaches and umpires.

6.      All coaches are volunteers giving personal time to provide a recreational activity for the athletes. Coaching is a valuable community service and should be encouraged and not criticized.

7.      Applaud good plays made by your team and of members of the opposing team. Do not criticize bad plays by either team or any player.

8.      The umpires try to officiate to the best of their ability. They will make mistakes. Do not question the umpire’s judgment, and never question the umpire’s honesty. The umpire is a symbol of fair play, integrity and sportsmanship for athletes.

9.      Accept the results of the game. Encourage athletes to be gracious in victory and proud of their conduct and effort in defeat.

10.  Parental behavior greatly influences children. The attitude shown by parents at the games toward their child, other children, opposing team members, coaches, and umpires influences the child’s values and behavior in sports and in life. Criticism and disrespect for umpires and opponents undermines the purpose of sport and brings into the games stresses beyond those of competition. All parents and coaches comments should be kept positive at all times.

11.  Alcohol consumption or possession on the premises of Grant County Little League facilities is strictly forbidden at all times. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited from all GCLL functions and the adjacent parking lots. Use of alcoholic beverages prior to practices or games is strictly prohibited. Should there be indications of alcohol use, i.e. breath, instability, obnoxious behavior, etc. the person will be ejected from the premises.

        Approved By: Grant County Little League Board                       10/08/06