Player Code of Conduct

Pell City Church League has implemented the following player code of conduct for the important message it holds about demonstrating and promoting good sportsmanship. Players should read and understand the code prior to participating in the Pell City Church League.

By participating on a PCCL Team, you acknowledge and agree:

  1. I will play by the rules of the game and adhere to the policies of the league, and treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect at all times and will not make disparaging remarks, and will not verbally or physically abuse another player, coach, officials, or spectators at any time.
  2. I will show respect to my fellow team members and coaches by playing hard, giving maximum effort and hustling regardless of ability or outcome.
  3. I will respect the play call of officials (and/or coaches) and will address any questions or concerns about a play call in a respectful manner at an appropriate time.
  4. I will show respect to my fellow team members and opposing team members by being a humble winner and a gracious loser and will not taunt other players or teams during or after games or ridicule any player for making a mistake.
  5. I will respect at all times all property belonging to the Pell City Church League, its venues, and its affiliates, as well as the property and equipment of others.
  6. I understand that my choices and actions to violate the rules may result in penalties for myself as well as my team.

There is a Zero Tolerance Policy for players who violate the code of conduct and who intimidate, physically or verbally abuse coaches, other players, officials, or Pell City Church League participants. Any player guilty of improper conduct at any game or practice may be asked to leave the field or facility and may be suspended, from the following practice or game.

Repeat violations may result in a multiple game suspension, or the forfeiture of the privilege of participating in League events for the duration of the season or tournament.

Parent Code of Conduct

The Pell City Church League seeks to instill positive character-building traits in our community’s youth through demonstrating Christian discipleship, while teaching good sportsmanship, respect for others, responsibility, fairness, caring and good citizenship.

We ask that parents and their guests attending all Pell City Church League sponsored events help us by reflecting these character traits at games.

When attending PCCL sponsored events, I therefore agree:

  1. I will be a positive role model and example for children to follow. I will encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, umpires, officials and spectators at every game, practice or sporting event.
  2. I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any umpire, official, coach, player or parent such as booing, taunting, or using profane language or gestures, etc,
  3. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the athletes.
  4. I will teach my child to play by the law of the rules and to resolve conflicts without to hostility or violence.
  5. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, umpires, officials, and spectators with respect regardless of race, sex, or ability.
  6. I will never ridicule or yell at my child or any other participant for making a mistake or losing a competition.
  7. I will respect the officials/umpires and coaches and their authority during games and will never question, discuss or confront officials/umpires and coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.
  8. I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of the official coaches or have permission by the commanding coach in charge.
  9. I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others.

I also agree that if I fail to abide by aforementioned rules and guidelines, I will be subject to disciplinary action that could include but is not limited to the following.

  1. Verbal warning by official, head coach, and/or member of league organization.
  2. Removal from the facility
  3. Game suspension
  4. Season suspension.

Coach Code of Conduct

As a volunteer coach in this church basketball league, I recognize that I am a role model to the athletes, a representative of the church community, and a steward of the values that guide our shared faith. I commit to upholding the following code of conduct:

1. Spiritual Leadership

  • I will conduct myself in a manner that reflects the character and teachings of Christ.

  • I will begin practices and games (as appropriate) with prayer or spiritual encouragement.

  • I will promote Christian values such as humility, compassion, patience, and integrity both on and off the court.

2. Respect for All Participants

  • I will treat all players, referees, parents, fellow coaches, and spectators with dignity and respect.

  • I will not use offensive, derogatory, or abusive language at any time.

  • I will demonstrate self-control and encourage positive behavior in all situations.

3. Commitment to Youth Development

  • I will prioritize the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of every player.

  • I will ensure fair playing time and focus on skill development, teamwork, and character building over winning.

  • I will foster a supportive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged.

4. Fair Play and Sportsmanship

  • I will teach and model the importance of honesty, fairness, and respect for the rules of the game.

  • I will refrain from arguing with officials or engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct.

  • I will encourage my players to show respect to opponents and demonstrate grace in both victory and defeat.

5. Safety and Responsibility

  • I will maintain a safe playing environment and report any concerns to league leadership.

  • I will ensure all equipment is used properly and that practices and games are conducted with players’ safety in mind.

  • I will never be alone with a child who is not my own and will follow all church policies regarding child protection and safety.

6. Accountability and Integrity

  • I will be on time and prepared for all practices, games, and meetings.

  • I will communicate promptly with parents and league officials regarding schedules and expectations.

  • I will accept constructive feedback and remain open to guidance from church leadership and league coordinators.

Coach’s Pledge

I affirm my commitment to this Code of Conduct and understand that failure to uphold these standards may result in disciplinary action or removal from coaching duties.

Game Official Code of Conduct

As an official of the Pell City Church League, I understand that my role is not only to enforce the rules of the game but also to uphold the spirit, integrity, and Christian values of the league. I commit to the following standards of conduct:

1. Representing Christ in All Actions

  • I will conduct myself in a Christ-like manner, modeling humility, patience, and respect in every interaction.

  • I will promote a positive, respectful atmosphere that honors the church community and reflects our shared faith.

2. Fairness and Impartiality

  • I will officiate every game with fairness, consistency, and impartiality, regardless of the teams or individuals involved.

  • I will not allow personal feelings, bias, or external pressure to influence my decisions.

  • I will enforce the rules of the game accurately and without favoritism.

3. Respect for All Participants

  • I will treat all players, coaches, parents, and fellow officials with respect and courtesy.

  • I will remain calm and professional in moments of conflict or disagreement.

  • I will not engage in arguments or respond to criticism with hostility.

4. Promoting a Positive Game Environment

  • I will help foster a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment where players can grow in both skill and character.

  • I will de-escalate tensions when possible and support positive sportsmanship from all involved.

  • I will use my position to reinforce the values of teamwork, humility, and grace.

5. Professionalism and Preparedness

  • I will arrive on time, dressed appropriately, and fully prepared to officiate.

  • I will know and understand the rules of the league and stay informed of any updates or changes.

  • I will use my authority appropriately and avoid unnecessary displays of power or control.

6. Accountability and Integrity

  • I will admit and correct mistakes when possible, striving to learn and grow in my role.

  • I will accept feedback from league leadership and remain open to improvement.

  • I will support the mission of the church and respect the leadership of the league at all times.

7. Commitment to Safety and Ethics

  • I will take all necessary steps to ensure player safety during the game.

  • I will never tolerate or ignore unsportsmanlike conduct, bullying, or harassment.

  • I will follow all church and league policies, including those related to child protection and mandatory reporting.

Officials’ Pledge

I agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and understand that I am entrusted with the responsibility of modeling Christian values while ensuring a fair and respectful game environment. I recognize that failure to abide by these standards may result in disciplinary action or removal from officiating duties.