Oxford Little League Code of Conduct and Facility Policy

The Oxford Little League (OLL) is committed to fostering a secure and positive environment for all participants, including players, coaches, umpires, volunteers, and spectators. This Code of Conduct and Facility Policy delineates the expected standards of behavior at all OLL events, encompassing practices, games, and other league-sponsored activities.

I. Code of Conduct

A. Core Principles

The Little League manager and coach occupy positions of leadership. It is imperative that all individuals in these roles recognize the trust and responsibility inherent in a program that addresses a sensitive and formative period of a child's development.

Managers and coaches must demonstrate understanding, patience, and the capacity to effectively interact with children. These individuals should inspire respect through their conduct. Above all, managers and coaches must acknowledge their role in shaping the physical, mental, and emotional development of young people.

The role of a Little League manager extends beyond that of a mere instructor. While knowledge of the game is essential, it does not constitute the sole qualification for a Little League coach or manager.

Although individuals with training and experience in baseball may be desirable candidates for manager or coach, the league screening committee shall also consider other salient qualities. Diligent screening of managers, coaches, and other individuals at the local league level who have contact with children is crucial in identifying those with a history of child abuse.

The core of the Little League experience lies in the interaction between the manager/coach and the player. The manager, more than any other individual, governs the environment in which players can benefit. Consequently, the ongoing enhancement of leadership skills in this critical area is imperative.

Children of Little League age are profoundly influenced by their leaders, whose ideals and aspirations resonate with their own. Managers/coaches and players share a mutual interest in the game, a desire for excellence, and a determination to achieve victory. Children frequently hold their managers and coaches in high esteem, not solely because of the adult's success as a coach or mentor, but because these individuals serve as sources of inspiration.

Managers and coaches must demonstrate sensitivity to the mental and physical limitations of children of Little League age and recognize that the game functions as a vehicle for training and enjoyment, rather than an end in itself. It has been frequently asserted that the efficacy of the Little League program is directly correlated with the quality of leadership demonstrated by managing and coaching personnel. Therefore, new leagues, in particular, should endeavor to enlist the most qualified adults in the community to serve as managers and coaches.

B. Manager and Coach Selection and Responsibilities

Individuals interested in serving as a Little League manager or coach should contact their local league president in person and be prepared to undergo a screening process. This process may include a background check, as well as interviews with individuals possessing knowledge of the applicant's qualifications.

The Little League Education Program for Managers and Coaches is the optimal means of training and qualifying individuals for these roles.

C. Accountability

The responsibility for the conduct of managers and coaches rests primarily with the individuals themselves. All participants in Little League are expected to assume accountability for their actions.

However, as the chief administrator, the president holds the authority to select and appoint managers and coaches. Consequently, no individual shall serve in these capacities without the explicit approval of the president. All appointments are subject to final approval by the local league’s board of directors.

The local Little League board of directors possesses the sole authority to remove or suspend a manager or coach. Any concerns or dissatisfaction with a manager or coach must be presented to the local league president and board of directors. Given the local nature of these positions, it is generally deemed inappropriate for Little League Headquarters to intervene in disputes or conflicts of a personal nature between managers/coaches and parents.

However, any person who believes that a manager or coach (or any other Little League personnel) is, or has been, violently or sexually abusive to children is obligated to report the situation immediately to Little League Baseball International Headquarters, as well as to the local police. Little League policy expressly prohibits individuals with a history of sexual abuse toward children from being granted any volunteer responsibilities within the organization.

D. General Conduct Expectations

All participants and spectators at OLL events are expected to adhere to the following standards of conduct:

1. Demonstrate exemplary sportsmanship at all times.
2. Treat all players, coaches, umpires, and volunteers with the utmost respect.
3. Refrain from the use of profane or offensive language.
4. Abstain from disputing the decisions of coaches or umpires. Umpire decisions are final and binding. Concerns or inquiries should be directed to the OLL Board of Directors at an appropriate time and place, and not during the course of a game.
5. Cultivate a positive and supportive atmosphere.
6. Comply with all OLL rules and policies.

E. Player Conduct

In addition to the general conduct expectations outlined above, players are expected to adhere to the following standards of behavior:

1. Respect for Others: Players shall treat teammates, opponents, coaches, and umpires with respect and courtesy at all times.
2. Prohibited Language: The use of foul or offensive language is strictly prohibited.
3. Bullying: Bullying, including verbal, physical, or emotional harassment, is not permitted.
4. Equipment Misuse: Players shall not intentionally throw or misuse equipment in a manner that could cause harm or damage.
5. Following Rules: Players are expected to learn and abide by the rules of the game and the policies of the league.
6. Best Effort: Players should strive to do their best at all times, so that they never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or their performance.
7. Positive Attitude: Players are expected to compete fairly, try hard, and demonstrate a positive attitude towards the game.
8. Teammate Support: Players should support their teammates and refrain from ridiculing or yelling at them for mistakes or losing a competition.
9. Consequences:
• Coaches possess the authority to remove a player from a practice or game for the remainder of the session for violations of these standards.
• Repeated or severe offenses may be escalated to the OLL Board of Directors, who will determine the player's continued eligibility in the league.

II. Facility Policy

The following policies govern conduct at all Oxford Little League facilities, including fields, dugouts, and surrounding areas, during all OLL events:

1. Animals: With the exception of documented service animals, dogs or other animals are prohibited at any OLL facility, practice, or game.
2. Smoking: Smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes or vaping devices, is strictly prohibited at all OLL facilities.
3. Alcohol: The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited at all OLL facilities.
4. Dugout Access: Access to the dugout area is restricted to authorized and approved coaches and umpires only. Parents and other spectators are not permitted within the dugout area.
5. Prohibited Conduct: In addition to the general conduct expectations outlined above, the following are specifically prohibited:

• Vandalism or damage to OLL property.

• Littering. All individuals are expected to utilize designated trash receptacles.

• Any behavior that endangers the safety of others.

• Any individual who engages in disruptive behavior, fighting, or intimidation of others will be asked to leave the facility and may be referred to the Pennsylvania State Police for assistance and further action.

III. Social Media Policy

The following guidelines govern the use of social media by all participants and spectators at OLL events:

Dos:

• Feel free to share exciting and memorable moments of the Little League experience, including first at-bats, displays of sportsmanship, and team events.
• Remember that most individuals involved with Little League are volunteers who dedicate their time to providing a meaningful experience for children.
• Connect with other parents, volunteers, or community members who share an interest in the program. Social media can facilitate communication, such as notifying parents of items left at the field.
• Share posts from Little League’s official social media platforms (@LittleLeague) and relevant updates from local league social media accounts.

Don'ts:

• Refrain from identifying specific players, umpires, coaches, or league/district/tournament staff by name without obtaining their prior consent. Some individuals may not use social media or may prefer to avoid public attention.
• Avoid engaging in arguments, criticizing the opinions of others, or sharing personal views on sensitive or controversial topics related to Little League activities. It is acknowledged that stressful situations may arise at Little League events; however, these situations are best addressed through direct, respectful communication.
• Do not post any content that could be perceived as inappropriate or offensive.
• Do not share personal data or information pertaining to injuries or accidents.
• Do not use photos or videos of individuals without their permission. If an individual is recording or photographing an event and another participant prefers that their child not be included, the concerned party should communicate their concerns politely and respectfully to seek a mutual understanding.

IV. Enforcement

Violations of this Code of Conduct and Facility Policy, including the Social Media Policy, may result in disciplinary action, including, but not limited to:

1. Verbal warning.
2. Ejection from the OLL facility.
3. Suspension from OLL activities.
4. Removal from a volunteer position.
5. Referral to the OLL Board of Directors for further action.

The OLL Board of Directors retains the authority to determine the appropriate disciplinary action for any violation of this policy.

V. Reporting Concerns

Any concerns or complaints pertaining to violations of this Code of Conduct and Facility Policy should be promptly reported to a member of the OLL Board of Directors.

By participating in or attending Oxford Little League events, all individuals agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and Facility Policy.

VI. Policy Updates and Additional Policies

Please note that the policies outlined in this document may not encompass all circumstances and situations. These policies are subject to change, and additional policies, both written and unwritten, may be enforced. It is the responsibility of all participants and spectators to stay informed of current OLL policies and guidelines, which may be updated periodically.