BYLAWS OF

MOUNT LAUREL FOOTBALL AND CHEER INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BYLAWS

of

MOUNT LAUREL FOOTBALL AND CHEER INC.

 

ARTICLE I

NAME, PURPOSE, AND SCOPE

            1.1.      Name and Formation. The name of this organization shall be the Mount Laurel Football and Cheer Inc. (hereinafter referred to as "MLFC").  MLFC was formed as a New Jersey non-profit corporation to operate youth football and cheer programs in Mount Laurel, New Jersey (the “Program”).

 

1.2.      Purpose. The primary purpose of MLFC is to:

(a)  Develop a local program for youth sports and activities, namely football and cheerleading, for interested children between the ages of 6 and 14 who reside in Mount Laurel, New Jersey;

(b)  Promote youth programs and activities in accordance with these Bylaws and the directives, goals, and mission set forth by the Board of Directors;

(c)  Provide educational resources, training programs, and networking opportunities to support the growth, professionalization, and sustainability of the Program;

 

(d)  Foster youth involvement in Mount Laurel football and cheerleading as well as sportsmanship, teamwork, and community involvement;

(e)  Participate in the South Jersey Independent Youth Football Association (“SJIYFA”) league, programs, and activities; and

 

(f)  Any other legitimate purpose as determined by the Board of Directors.

 

ARTICLE II

PARTICIPATION & REQUIREMENTS

 

2.1.      Participation and Criteria.  Any person may participate in any team, program, event, or curriculum hosted by MLFC provided the interested person meets the following criteria and eligibility requirements:

 

To be eligible to be a football player or cheerleader, the interested player/cheerleader must:

1.       Be between the ages of 6 and 14;

2.       Attend school in Mount Laurel, NJ;

3.       Be able to attend weekly practices;

4.       Complete and submit a Registration on the MLFC’s website at  https://www.mtlaurelfootball.com/

5.       Submit all required paperwork and forms.

6.       Pay all applicable fees, including Registration fees, equipment fees, and coaching fees.

7.       Players and parents must abide by MLFC’s Code of Conduct for players, parents, participants, and cheerleaders attached hereto as Addendum B-1.

 

To play football or participate in cheerleading, each player/cheerleader must provide and submit the following:

1.       Proof of school registration, including school documentation demonstrating registration as a student;

2.       Copy of birth certificate;

3.       All required medical forms;

4.       All required acknowledgment forms, including rules, regulations, guidelines, etc.

5.       Any form or paperwork required by the MLFC.

 

To be eligible to be a coach or assistant coach, any interest adult must:

1.       Be over the age of 18;

2.       Be a resident of or own property in Mount Laurel;

3.       Be able to attend weekly practices;

4.       Submit all required paperwork and forms;

5.       Abide by and sign the MLFC’s Code of Conduct for Coaches attached hereto as Addendum B-2.

 

 All players, coaches, volunteers, and participants in the Program must abide by all rules, regulations, and guidelines set forth by MLFC, including these Bylaws and Codes of Conduct, and the Bylaws, rules, and regulations promulgated by SJIYFA, as applicable.  Any person’s eligibility and/or participation in the Program may be revoked and/or suspended by the Board of Directors for failure to abide by these Bylaws and any applicable rules.  Any refunds, discounts, or concessions shall be at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

 

ARTICLE III

GOVERNANCE AND OPERATIONS

            3.1.      Board of Directors. MLFC shall be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of five members.  The initial Board of Directors shall consist of Timothy Smith, Dean Bowser, John Thomas, Gene Markin, and Shae Convery (each, an “Initial Director”).  Each Initial Director will serve for a three-year term and may be re-elected to serve as a Director in accordance with the provision in this Article III.

 

           3.2.        Board Responsibilities. The Board of Directors shall be responsible for the overall management and direction of MLFC and will have the power to, among other things:

(a)  Set MLFC’s goals, objectives, mission, and vision in furtherance of and not in conflict with the purpose of MLFC as set forth in Section 1.2;

 

(b)  Establish teams, weight classes, cheerleader squads, and other groups as part of the Program;

(c)  Manage and oversee MLFC's financial management, including creating an annual budget, authorizing expenditures, and expending funds for improvements and the development and management of the Program;

(d)  Appoint and provide guidance to MLFC's officers and any standing or ad hoc committees;

(e)  Ensure MLFC's compliance with any applicable league rules, guidelines, requirements, and standards, including those of SJIYFA;

 

(f)  Establish directives and hold events, conferences, meetings, social functions, and exhibitions to promote MLFC and the Program;

 

(g)  Market, advertise, promote and fundraise as needed to promote MLFC, its teams, and benefits of participation;

 

(h)  Hire and engage contractors, professionals, vendors, suppliers, accountants, lawyers, consultants, etc. as needed in furtherance of the goals, missions, and operation of MLFC;

 

(i)  Promulgate rules, guidelines, and player qualification criteria;

 

(j)  Implement initiatives and directives to raise money for the Program;

 

(k) Make decisions concerning player/participant eligibility, disciplinary actions, waivers, banquets, events, fundraisers, merchandising, and the Program;

 

(l) Participate in sports and cheerleading leagues, organizations, tournaments, and programs.  

 

            3.3.      Officers. The Officers of MLFC shall be:

 

President

Vice President

Program Director

Finance Director

Football Coordinator

Cheer Coordinator

Concessions Director

Fundraising Director

Merchandise Director

Equipment Coordinator

Community Relations Director

General Counsel

 

Officer positions and duties may be created, amended, repurposed or removed by the Board of Directors.  The Officers shall be responsible for the day-to-day management and administration of the Program.  Officers shall serve until their resignation or replacement by the Board of Directors.  The initial Officers of MLFC shall be elected at the first meeting of the Board of Directors.  The roles, responsibilities, and duties of each Officer position are attached hereto as Addendum A.

 

            4.4.      Election and Removal of Directors and Officers.

(a) Election of Directors:

(i) The Board of Directors may elect new or replacement Directors at any annual meeting called for that purpose.
(iii) Directors shall be elected by a majority vote of the Board of Directors and the elections will be recorded in the books and records of the organization.

(b) Election of Officers:

(i) The Board of Directors shall elect officers at the first Board meeting.
(ii) Officers shall be elected by a majority vote of the Directors present at the meeting and the elections will be recorded in the books and records of the organization.

 

(c) Removal of Directors and Officers:

(i) Any Director or Officer may be removed for cause by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.
(ii) Grounds for removal include, but are not limited to, failure to abide by any rules, guidelines or standards of conduct, failure to attend more than half the Board Meetings (for Directors), failure to fulfill duties, unethical conduct, or actions detrimental to MLFC's interests.
(iii) The Director or Officer in question shall be given written notice of the proposed removal at least 15 days prior to the Board meeting at which the removal vote will be taken and shall have the opportunity to address the Board before the vote.

 

            4.5.      Committees. The Board of Directors may establish standing or ad hoc committees to assist in carrying out the MLFC's activities.  The Board of Directors may determine the number of positions on a committee, the titles and roles to be held by appointed committee members, and the responsibilities associated with each role and position.  Committee members may be appointed, removed, and/or replaced by the Board of Directors and each committee member shall serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors.  The initial standing committees shall be:

(a) Executive Committee:

Composed of the Officers and responsible for day-to-day operations between Board meetings.  The Chairman of the Executive Committee shall be the President.

(b) Finance Committee:

Oversees financial management and budgeting processes.  Will track financial performance of the Program and ensure the financial health and viability of MLFC.  The Committee will assist the Board in preparing the annual budget, monitor spending, and make financial recommendations.  The Chairman of the Finance Committee shall be the Finance Director.

(c) Football Committee:

Oversees and manages the football program including players, coaches, safety, equipment, referees, field use, and game schedules. Ensures compliance with SJIYFA league rules and regulations.  The Chairman of the Football Committee shall be the Football Coordinator.

(d) Cheer Committee:

Oversees and manages the cheer program including coaches, participants, routines, uniforms, safety, practice schedules, and equipment. Ensures compliance with SJIYFA league rules and regulations.  The Chairman of the Cheer Committee shall be the Cheer Coordinator.

(e) Fundraising Committee:

Responsible for planning, coordinating, implementing, organizing, and establishing fundraisers and events to support the Program. Responsible for event staffing and engaging volunteers. The Chairman of the Fundraising Committee shall be the Fundraising Director.

 

(f) Merchandising Committee. 

Responsible for designing, sourcing, developing, selling, promoting, and managing team gear, spirit wear, and team merchandise.  Work with vendors, place orders, establish sales channels, staff merchandise tables at games and events, and manage inventory. The Co-Chairmen of the Merchandising Committee shall be the Merchandising Director and Equipment Director.

 

(g) Community Relations Committee. 

Promotes the Program and participation opportunities in the local and regional community.  Assist other Committees with events, publicity, staffing, and community outreach.  Develop and implement strategies for volunteer recruitment, community presence, and public relations.  and The Chairman of the Community Relations Committee shall be the Community Relations Director.

 

(h) Sponsorship Committee. 

Responsible for creating sponsorship opportunities and packages within the Program.  Identify and source business sponsors. Tailor sponsorship packages and opportunities to maximize sponsor participation.  Communicate and interface with sponsors and prospective sponsors.  The Co-Chairmen of the Sponsorship Committee shall be the Fundraising Director and Merchandise Director.

 

The Chairman of each Committee shall be responsible for: scheduling and organizing committee meetings, setting the committee agenda and action items, delegating responsibilities, reporting to the Executive Committee and/or Board of Directors, coordinating efforts to advance the mission, goals, and directives set forth by the Board of Directors, and carrying out the mission of the Committee.

 

The Board of Directors may from time to time create ad hoc committees for specific purposes and staff them accordingly.

 

            4.6.      Board Meetings.

(a) Regular Meetings: The Board of Directors shall meet at least quarterly, with the schedule to be determined by the Board.

(b) Special Meetings: Special meetings of the Board may be called by the President or upon written request of at least two Directors.

(c) Notice: Written notice of all Board meetings shall be provided to Directors at least seven days in advance, stating the date, time, location, and purpose of the meeting, including any agenda items and matters/decisions to be voted upon.

 

(d) Time and Place of Meetings.  The President will designate the time and place of any Meeting of the Board of Directors, which can be held in-person, via Zoom or other video conferencing means, via telephone, or via email.

(e) Quorum: A quorum is required for the Board of Directors to conduct business at a meeting.  A quorum for Board meetings shall consist of a majority of the Directors.

(f) Voting: Unless otherwise specified in these Bylaws, decisions of the Board shall be made by a simple majority vote of the Directors present at a meeting.  Each Director shall have one (1) vote at meetings of the Board of Directors. Any action approved by a majority of the votes of Directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors.

 

(g) Minutes.  The Board of Directors may maintain minutes of any Board meeting, which shall include the date, time and place of meeting, Directors in attendance, items discussed, and any decisions made, including the votes cast by the Directors.

 

(h) Action by Directors Without a Meeting. Any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting if, prior or subsequent to the action, (a) a majority of the Board of Directors consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission, and (b) the written consents are maintained by MLFC as a business record.

 

            4.7.      Committee Meetings.

(a) Annual Meetings: Prior to the start of any regular football or cheerleading season, the Executive Committee shall hold an annual meeting of all Officers for the purpose of discussing and addressing any business matters that may arise or that are put on an agenda. 

(b) Committee Meetings:  Any Committee Chairman may call a meeting of a Committee.  Special meetings of any Committee may be called by the Board of Directors or upon written request of at least 1/3 of the members making up a Committee.

(c) Notice:  Written notice of all Committee meetings shall be provided to Committee members at least 10 days in advance, stating the date, time, location, and purpose of the meeting, including any agenda items and matters/decisions to be voted upon.

(d) Quorum: A quorum is required for a Committee to conduct business at a meeting. A quorum for Committee meetings shall consist of at least 50% of the Committee members.

(e) Voting: Each Committee member shall be entitled to one vote on all matters presented to the Committee for a vote. Unless otherwise specified in these Bylaws, decisions shall be made by a simple majority of the Committee members present at the meeting.  Each Committee member shall have one (1) vote at Committee meetings. Any action approved by a majority of the votes of members present at a Committee meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Committee.

            4.8.      Compensation & Expenses. Directors will not be compensated or receive any monetary compensation for serving on the Board of Directors.  Directors may set and approve the payment of a reasonable salary and/or compensation to any Officer if the Board determines (i) the compensation to be paid is commensurate with the work performed by the Officer for the benefit of MLFC and (ii) MLFC’s finances and budget can sufficiently support the compensation.  MLFC will reimburse any Officer, Director, or corporate agent for any expenses incurred for or on behalf of MLFC and in furtherance of any action authorized by the Board and/or these Bylaws. 

            4.9.      Amendments to Bylaws. These Bylaws may be amended by the affirmative vote of the majority of the initial Board of Directors.  Thereafter, the Bylaws may only be amended by an affirmative vote of at least four (4) Directors at a duly called Board of Directors meeting, provided written notice of the proposed amendment has been provided to all Directors at least 30 days in advance of the meeting.

 

 

 

ARTICLE V

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS AND PETITIONS FOR REMOVAL

            5.1.      Reprimand and Censure. If any Director or Officer is found by the Board of Directors to have violated these Bylaws, any Code of Conduct, any associated rules such as those promulgated by SJIYFA, or exhibited behavior that is unprofessional, unbecoming of an Officer or Director, or that is contrary to the goals and mission of MLFC, the offending Director or Officer will be subject to formal reprimand or censure at the discretion of the Board of Directors (an offending Director will abstain from any Board votes on the matter).  Upon the affirmative vote of the majority of the Board of Directors, the offending Director or Officer will receive a written reprimand documenting the offense, the Board’s findings, the disciplinary measure to be taken, and suggested or required curative or remedial steps to be taken by the offending Director or Officer.  The existence of any reprimands or censures as well as any rehabilitative efforts and results shall be considered in determining whether to re-elect or re-appoint the offending Director or Officer for another term.

 

            5.2.      Petitions.  Any Officer, coach, parent, or player (the “Petitioner”) may petition the Board of Directors to either remove or censure any coach or Officer.  The petition will be in writing and shall state the reasons for the request, specific examples of wrongdoing or inappropriate behavior, any specific details of any events or circumstances that led to the petition (the, “Petition”).  To be considered by the Board of Directors, any Petition must be signed and dated by the Petitioner as well as contain a statement that the Petitioner attests and affirms to the truth and accuracy of the statements in the Petition under penalty of perjury.  Once a valid and conforming Petition is submitted to the Board, the Board of Directors will place the Petition on the agenda at its next meeting and make a decision either sustaining the Petition and taking disciplinary action (reprimand, censure, removal, etc.) or rejecting the Petition and taking no further action.  In the event of a rejection, the Board will provide a written statement of reasons for its decision to the Petitioner.

 

ARTICLE VI

WAIVERS

            6.1.      Territory Rule.  According to Article XII, Rule 2, Paragraph 20 of the SJIYFA By-Laws, a player who resides in a town or municipality that competes in the SJIFYA league, cannot register to play for another town or municipality that also competes in the SJIFYA league unless the player obtains a release waiver from the town of residence. 

 

Each member understands and agrees that any advice, standards, guidelines, recommendations, work product, emails, newsletters, benchmarks, etc. promulgated or distributed by the MLFC is not legal advice and every member is responsible for seeking and obtaining independent legal advice and for determining their own compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and rules.

 

            6.2.      Exceptions to the Territory Rule.  The Territory Rule does not apply where:

 

1.                The town in which the player resides does not have a team in the age specific weight class for which the player is eligible to play.

2.                In the event the player’s parents do not live together the parents/player can select which team to play for – for example, if the player’s mother lives in Pemberton and the parent’s father lives in Burlington Township, the family can choose to play for either team as long as they show proof of one parent’s residence in that town.

3.                A player who has obtained a release waiver continues to play for the same team in consecutive seasons.  If a player skips a year with an organization or goes to play for another organization the player will be required to obtain a new release waiver before being eligible to play again for the first organization.

            6.3.      Obtaining Release Waivers from MLFC.

(a)  Any parent or player (the “Petitioner”) who wishes to play for another team or organization competing in the SJIFYA league may petition (the “Waiver Petition”) the Board of Directors for a player Release Waiver (the “Release Waiver”).

(b)  Any such Waiver Petition must be in writing and contain the following information:

 

·                     Player’s name, birthdate, and place of residence;

·                     Number of years/seasons, if any, the player has played for MLFC

·                     Name of any coaches familiar with player’s participation, skills, and achievements;

·                     Reasons for requesting the Release Waiver;

·                     A statement that the Petitioner attests and affirms to the truth and accuracy of the

            statements contained in the Waiver Petition under penalty of perjury

·                     Date and signature of the Petitioner.

(c)  Once a valid and conforming Waiver Petition is submitted to the Board, the Board of Directors will place the Waiver Petition on the agenda at its next meeting and make a decision either approving the Waiver Petition and issuing a Release Waiver to the Petitioner or denying the Waiver Petition.  In the event of a denial, the Board will provide a written statement of reasons for its decision to the Petitioner.

 

(d)  Whether to approve or deny a Waiver Petition will be at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors.  Factors the Board considers in evaluating Waiver Petitions include, but are not limited to:

 

1.                   The reasons for the Waiver Petition request;

2.                   The contributions made or expected to be made by the player to MLFC’s team;

3.                   The needs of the MLFC team;

4.                   The input and recommendation of the player’s coaches;

5.                   The existence of any safety considerations;

6.                   The player’s wishes and desires;

7.                   The player’s relationship with the other players and coaches;

8.                   Extraneous pressures and considerations, specifically that of parents and other organizations.

 

Not every factor carries equal weight and not every factor may be relevant to a specific Waiver Petition.  The Board will consider each Waiver Petition on its own merits and specific facts.  The approval or denial of waivers to some players is not a precedent for other players.  Each Waiver Petition must be evaluated on its own accord. 

 

ARTICLE VII

GENERAL TERMS

            7.1       Dispute Resolution.

(a) Should a dispute arise between MLFC and any participating parent, player, coach, Officer, or Director concerning or relating to MLFC, the Program, or these Bylaws, the disputing parties shall attempt to resolve the dispute by meeting and conferring in good faith.  The parties will make a good-faith diligent attempt to resolve the dispute prior to mediation.  If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute, they will submit the matter to mediation with a retired New Jersey judge.  The parties will split the cost of mediation, including the mediators’ fees and costs.

 

(b) If mediation is unsuccessful, and the mediator agrees that further negotiations and discussions amongst the parties would be unfruitful, either party may seek a judicial declaration to resolve the dispute in the Superior Court of New Jersey.

            7.2.      Indemnification.

(a) To the fullest extent permitted by New Jersey law, MLFC will indemnify, hold harmless, and defend its Directors, Officers, employees, and authorized agents acting on its behalf and in connection with MLFC business, from any liability or claims arising from their authorized actions on behalf of MLFC.

(b) MLFC may maintain appropriate insurance coverage, including directors and officers liability insurance, to protect MLFC and its leadership from potential claims and liabilities.

 

(c) To the fullest extent permitted by law, MLFC shall advance or reimburse expenses to and indemnify corporate agents, including Directors and Officers, against liabilities actually incurred by the corporate agent in any proceeding involving the corporate agent by reason of his being or having been a corporate agent.

 

ARTICLE VIII

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

 

            8.1.      Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of MLFC shall be from January 1 to December 31.

 

            8.2.      Budget. The Board of Directors will adopt and implement an annual budget for MLFC.  Each annual budget will be made available to any Officer or Director upon request.

 

            8.3.      Financial Reports. The Finance Director or other appointed Finance Committee member shall provide regular financial reports to the Board of Directors and maintain the financial records of the organization.

 

            8.4.      Audit. MLFC's financial records shall be reviewed at least once every three years by an independent certified public accountant selected by the Board of Directors.  Upon the advice of its outside accountants, MLFC may perform an audit at an appropriate time, if the Board of Directors determines the expense of an audit is justified.

 

            8.5.      MLFC Contracts and Instruments; How Executed. The Board of Directors, except as otherwise provided in these Bylaws, may authorize any Officer or Officers, agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute any contract or execute any instrument in the name of and on behalf of MLFC, and this authority may be general or confined to specific instances; and, unless so authorized or ratified by the Board of Directors or within the agency power of an officer, no officer, agent, or employee shall have any power or authority to bind MLFC by any contract or engagement or to pledge its credits or to render it liable for any purpose or for any amount.

ARTICLE IX

DISSOLUTION

 

            9.1.      Dissolution Process.  MLFC may be dissolved by a three-fourths vote of the Board of Directors at a special meeting called for that purpose, provided notice of the proposed dissolution has been given to all Directors at least 60 days in advance.

 

            7.2.      Distribution of Assets. Upon dissolution, after payment of all debts and liabilities, the remaining assets of MLFC shall be distributed to one or more nonprofit organizations with similar purposes, as determined by the Board of Directors and in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

 

 

 

 

 

ADDENDUM A

 

OFFICER ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

President – Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: leading the Program; setting the overall direction and mission of the Program; managing Program affairs and day-to-day operations; delegating responsibilities; ensuring the overall success and proliferation of the Program; and coordinating meetings, events, teams, and Program activities.

 

 

Vice President  – Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: assisting the President and the Executive Committee; stepping in when the President is unavailable; making recommendations to the President about the direction, viability, and improvement of the Program; and performing any other act necessary to implement the mission, vision, and goal of the Program.

 

 

Program Director  – Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: managing the overall structure of the football and cheer Programs; scheduling and coordinating practices, games, and events; managing Program personnel, volunteers, and coaches; and directing Program activities.

 

 

Finance Director  – Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: financial budgeting; maintaining and creating financial records; and directing, managing, and ensuring the organization’s fiscal health.

 

 

Football Coordinator  –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: overseeing, managing, and directing the affairs of the football Program, including the football teams, coaches, and player development.

 

 

Cheer Coordinator –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: overseeing, managing, and directing the affairs of the cheer Program, including the cheer teams, coaches, and cheerleader development.

 

 

Concessions Director  –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: overseeing, managing, and operating the concession stand during games and events; ordering supplies and staffing; food and drink selection, management, and presentation.

 

 

Fundraising Director  –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: planning, managing, coordinating and executing fundraiser events and activities.

 

 

Merchandise Director –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: planning, managing, coordinating and executing the design, production, sourcing, marketing, and sale of team gear and apparel.

 

 

Equipment Coordinator –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: selecting, purchasing, maintaining, sourcing, distributing, and collecting football and cheer equipment and uniforms.

 

 

Community Relations Director  –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: building partnerships with community leaders and participants; promoting the Program; identifying and securing sponsors; creating sponsorship opportunities; raising community awareness of the Program; soliciting volunteers and participants.

 

 

General Counsel –  Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: providing legal guidance and advice; ensuring compliance with governing documents, organization policies and procedures, and league regulations; advising on legal and business matters.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDENDUM B-1

 

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS OF PLAYERS AND CHEER PARTICIPANTS

Each parent/guardian of a player or participant in the Program must:

1. Be Supportive – Encourage players, participants and the team in a positive way.
2. Respect All Participants – Treat coaches, players, officials, and other parents with respect.
3. Stay Positive – Refrain from yelling at referees, coaches, players, other parents, or opponents.
4. Model Good Behavior – Show sportsmanship before, during, and after games.
5. Communicate Properly – Share concerns calmly and without escalation, rudeness, or name calling.
6. Promote Safety – Support a safe environment by following program rules.
7. Encourage Fun and Effort – Value effort, learning, and teamwork over wins and losses.

Acknowledgment: By placing a player or cheer participant in the Program, you understand, acknowledge, and agree that failure to follow this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to removal from games, practices, or the Program.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS AND PARTICIPANTS

Each player or participant in the Program must:

1. Respect the Team – Listen to coaches and support teammates.
2. Play Fair – Always try your best and play by the rules.
3. Show Sportsmanship – Respect opponents, referees, coaches, parents, and teammates.
4. Stay Positive – No negative talk, disparaging comments, bullying, or poor attitudes.
5. Be Responsible – Take care of your equipment, uniform, and facilities.
6. Put the Team First – Work hard, encourage others, and represent your team with pride.

Acknowledgment: By participating in the Program, you understand, acknowledge, and agree that failure to follow this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to loss of playing time, suspension, or removal from the Program.

 

 

ADDENDUM B-2

 

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES

Every coach with MLFC will:

1. Be a Positive Role Model
• Lead by example with good sportsmanship, respect, professionalism, and fair play at all times.
2. Prioritize Player Safety
• Place the emotional and physical well-being of players above all else.
• Follow all safety guidelines, including proper equipment use and concussion protocols.
3. Promote Respect
• Treat all players, parents, officials, and opposing teams with respect.
• Encourage players to respect teammates, coaches, referees, and opponents.
4. Teach Fundamentals and Effort
• Focus on developing skills, teamwork, and discipline.
• Emphasize effort and improvement over winning at all costs.
5. Communicate Clearly
• Keep open and respectful communication with players, parents, and fellow coaches.
• Address concerns calmly and through the proper chain of command.
6. Support a Positive Experience
• Create an environment where every child feels included, valued, and motivated.
• Celebrate team and individual achievements.
7. Follow Rules and Policies
• Abide by league rules, organizational policies, and the directions of officials.
• Refrain from arguing calls, using foul language, or engaging in unsportsmanlike behavior.
8. Commit to Growth
• Be open to feedback and strive to improve as a coach and mentor.

 

Acknowledgment

I have read and understand the above Code of Conduct for Coaches. I agree to uphold these standards and understand that failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from my coaching position.

 

By: _____________________________

Print Name: __________________________          Date: ______________________________