Earlier this season we published the Fair Play Rules For Spectators, which we are sadly publishing again today in reaction to a recent increase in inappropriate behaviour by both spectators and players.
Remember:
As spectators you are not coaches. Let the coach of your player handle that responsibility. Coaching from the sidelines as a spectator only confuses your player as to who they should listen to.
As caregivers you sometimes get emotionally invested in the outcome of the game. That’s okay, but stay positive in your comments. We have had several concerns raised about inappropriate language by spectators directed at players.
As players – be positive and encouraging with your teammates. There have been concerns raised about players criticizing and belittling teammates both on the court and from the bench. You are not coaches, and we will not accept the behaviour described from coaches either.
This is a game and a league fostered on understanding what it means to be on a team and be supportive of each other as you learn the game together. If you have a greater skill level then you as players need to work to make everyone on the team better too.
As coaches you have an obligation to control the bench and maintain a positive approach in your comments too.
With a scoreboard the games will always be competitive, but the life lessons learned in winning and losing a game with dignity and even more important than the score. Punching walls, throwing uniforms, cursing and throwing water bottles after a game is theatre, not basketball as it should be enjoyed by everyone. Roland Billings
