In 2013, the Executive of CMBA developed and adopted a new Code of Conduct for all players, parents, coaches and umpires within the organization.  It is the hope that everyone will support the identification of these very important guidelines towards a fun, safe and happy atmosphere for all participants.

CODE FOR COACHES

I will be reasonable when scheduling games and practices, remembering that young athletes have other interest and obligations.

I will teach my athletes to play fairly and to respect the rules,  officials and opponents and encourage them to be good sports.

I will remind my athletes that winning a game or a trophy isn’t the only measure of success.

I will ensure that all athletes get fair instruction, support and playing time.

I will not ridicule or yell at my athletes for making mistakes or for performing poorly.  I will encourage my athletes, offer constructive criticism, and maintain a  positive attitude.  I will remember that athletes play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves.

I will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the athletes ages and abilities.

I will remember that children need a coach they can respect.

I will remember to set a good example as actions speak louder than words.  I will maintain a positive attitude and I will be generous with praise and set a good example.

I will not use abusive or disrespectful language, nor will I harass or heckle athletes, coaches, umpires, spectators, or CMBA officials either verbally or in written form of any type, including emails, voice messages, text messages and social network postings.

I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my coaching skills.

I will respect and comply with the umpires’ decisions and decisions of the Discipline Committee.

CODE FOR PLAYERS

I will participate because I want to, not because my parents or coaches want me to.

I will play fairly and by the rules and in the spirit of the game and I will respect my opponents.

I will control my temper and never argue with an umpire – “mouthing off” and fighting can spoil the activity for everybody.  When a call is disputed, I will let the coach handle it.

I will not use abusive or disrespectful language, nor will I harass or heckle athletes, coaches, umpires, spectators, or CMBA officials either verbally or in written form of any type, including emails, voice messages, text messages and social network postings.

I will work at achieving my personal best and not get discouraged if it is not THE best.

I will do my best to be a true team player by being supportive of my team mates and by not criticizing or placing blame on others.

I will remember that winning isn’t everything – that having fun, improving skills, making friends and doing my best are also important.

I will acknowledge all good plays/performances – those of my team and my opponents.

I will remember that coaches and umpires are there to help me.  I will accept their decisions and show them respect.

I will respect and comply with the decisions of the Discipline Committee.

CODE FOR PARENTS AND SPECTATORS

I will remember that young athletes play sport for their enjoyment.  They are not playing to entertain me.

I will not have unrealistic expectations.  I will remember that young athletes are not miniature professionals and cannot be judged by professional standards.

I will respect and, where applicable, comply with the umpires’ decisions and decisions of the Discipline Committee and I will encourage participants to do the same.

I will never ridicule an athlete for making a mistake during a competition.  I will give positive comments that motivate and encourage continued effort.

I will condemn the use of violence in any form and will express my disapproval in an appropriate manner to coaches and Club officials.

I will show respect for my team’s opponents and the umpires, because without them there would be no game.

I will not use abusive or disrespectful language, nor will I harass or heckle athletes, coaches, umpires, spectators, or CMBA officials either verbally or in written form of any type, including emails, voice messages, text messages and social network postings.

I will applaud the value and effort of volunteer coaches, assistant coaches, managers and CMBA officials.

I will not bring to or consume alcoholic beverages at or near the ball park regardless of whether it is a home game, away game or tournament.

CODE OF UMPIRES

I will officiate by the rules.

I will ensure that I am knowledgeable of the rules.  I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my officiating skills.

I will be objective and consistent in officiating the game regardless of my feelings toward a player, coach or a team.

I will handle all conflicts firmly and with dignity.

I will avoid, or put to an end any situation that threatens the safety of the players.

I will control my temper.  Personal criticism of any person by word or gesture is unacceptable.

I will show respect for the participants and their skills.

I will not permit the intimidation of any participant either by word or by action.  I will not tolerate unacceptable conduct toward myself, other officials, players, coaches or spectators.

I will not use abusive or disrespectful language, nor will I harass or heckle athletes, coaches, umpires, other spectators, or CMBA officials either verbally or in written form of any type, including emails, voice messages, text messages and social network postings.

I will not allow the use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs (unless prescribed by a doctor) on the field or in the dugout or in the vicinity of the playing field.

I will be friendly to all participants and encourage players to ask me to clarify any call, whether it is a judgement call or a decision on the Rules.

I will generally warn players of unacceptable behaviour before taking further action for a second offence, although I reserve the right to cite or eject a player for the first offence.