Zero Tolerance Policy


Because of the physical and verbal abuse taking place at youth sporting events across the country, many organizations have chosen to adopt a Zero Tolerance Policy towards abusive behavior. Gateway Flag Football has decided to take a proactive approach and adopt the following measures:

The following is the policy for all Gateway Flag Football Events.

It is the responsibility of ALL coaches, players, parents, relatives, siblings, and other spectators to maintain the highest standards of conduct for their behavior at all Gateway Flag Football sporting events including, but not limited to, practices, games, evaluations and tournaments. Abusive and obscene language, violent play, violent conduct, fighting, and other behaviors detrimental to the sporting event will not be tolerated.

It is the responsibility of ALL present to support the referees or league officials of that particular event. There will be absolutely NO YELLING OR BELITTLING of the referees. In addition, there will be no criticism, sarcasm, harassment, or intimidation of any kind towards the referees. Failure to follow these simple instructions will undermine the referee’s authority and has the potential to lead to a hostile environment for players, officials, and all other participants and spectators.

It is the understanding of any parent that chooses to have their child participate in Gateway Flag Football events that these simple guidelines MUST BE FOLLOWED.

Penalties:

  • Any minor infraction: A verbal request or warning will be given by a league official or referee, and it is expected that the reason for the warning will stop immediately.
  • Subsequent infractions: The offending person or player will be asked to leave the playing field area immediately. The Gateway Flag Football Board of Directors reserves the right to take further action depending on the severity of the situation.
  • Serious or consistent infractions: Gateway Flag Football’s Board of Directors reserves the right to take action as it deems necessary up to and including permanent dismissal from the Gateway Flag Football leagues and tournaments. Should anyone not comply with this ruling, the Gateway Flag Football director or their representative will seek assistance from the local Police department immediately.

All participants in any Gateway Flag Football sport should adhere to the following principles of good sportsmanship:

  • Respect the decision of coaches and officials
  • No expletives, disparaging comments or derogatory remarks
  • Treat opponents with respect
  • Whatever the outcome of the competition, be respectful. At the conclusion of the game, congratulate and shake hands with the officials, coaches, and opponents.
  • Do not encourage or participate in conduct that violates the rules or spirit of the game.

The following are some simple guidelines that coaches, players, and spectators are expected to follow:

Coaches

Coaches are the role models for our youth and will make an impression on the players for years to come. Coaches must demonstrate good sportsmanship on and off the field. “Coach” represents and symbolizes a leadership role in our community and a representative of Gateway Flag Football. Coaches are expected to:

  • Insure and promote the safety of all participants.
  • Control the behavior of the parents/fans during games
  • Show respect to all players, parents, officials, and opponents
  • Teach fair play
  • Lead by example

Players

It is a privilege to play a sport, be on a team, and represent Gateway Flag Football. Therefore, players must follow the Gateway Flag Football rules during all practices, games, tournaments, and other organized Gateway Flag Football events. Players are expected to:

  • Treat opponents, officials, and spectators with respect
  • Follow all Gateway Flag Football rules and policies for sportsmanship
  • Respect officials and accept their decisions
  • Win without boasting, lose without excuses

Spectators

Gateway Flag Football is honored to have incredible parents and spectators. It is important to remember that the players respond to the actions and behaviors of the spectators. Spectators are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and show respect to all players, officials, and coaches. Spectators are also expected to:

  • Not coach players from the sidelines during the game
  • Do not criticize the officials or coaches
  • Cheer and support all players regardless of the outcome
  • Communicate with the coach and create a supportive environment
  • Understand and respect the different roles of parents and coaches
  • Understand that improper behavior at any event may result in a parent being asked to leave the field or event by a referee or other official and respect that action
  • At all times show empathy for our young developing athletes

Everyone

  • Promote fitness and enjoyment through sport
  • Developing new skills
  • Instilling a desire to succeed
  • Teach responsibility, commitment, and cooperation
  • Prepare one to deal with success and failure
  • Provide an outlet for the release of energy
  • Instill a positive attitude towards authority

The likelihood that our children will realize positive sports value is greatly enhanced when everyone shows good sportsmanship. ​​​​​​​