SPORTSMANSHIP PLEDGE:
 
 I will not be negative in any way towards players, referees, coaches or spectators. I acknowledge that failing to show respect for others sets a bad example for our children.  I understand that poor sportsmanship in any form and especially in the form of using vulgar language and/or gestures or expressing my malcontent out loud during the game with: 1) the coach's decisions and judgements, 2) the player's actions and/or playing ability or 3) the referee's calls and decisions, risks my expulsion from the gym and, possibly, could result in my suspension from all games for the remainder of the season.  If someone else makes an inappropriate comment, I will not make a negative response that could lead to a confrontation and will leave the disciplinary action, thereof, to the coaches or referees to handle.  I further understand that my child, as a player, should not act in a way that could lead to ejection from a game or embarrassment for the team.  I will endeavour to teach by example to provide my child with the information that is needed for proper and appropriate behaviour. 
  
 I recognize that striving to win, rather than winning itself, is what is important in sports and in life. Striving to win means doing the best you can.
 
 If I am coach, I recognize that players must get playing time to improve and gain the confidence that helps them do the best they can. I acknowledge that this is more important than winning games.  When I coach I will remember that encouragement and praise for every child, not just the best athletes, are critically important to the self-esteem and the ability of each child to achieve and learn.  I further acknowledge that children (and adults) benefit and grow from positive reinforcement, not negative criticism and embarrassment.
 
 I acknowledge that making mistakes and losing are part of life. I pledge that I will be tolerant of the mistakes of players, coaches, referees, and others.
 I recognize that fallibility is inevitable and I will demonstrate the same forgiveness for others that I would like given me. I recognize that mistakes are opportunities for learning.  To that end, I pledge to bring, to the attention of the coach, comments and recommendations in a manner that is constructive and clearly well intended.  I acknowledge that this should be done at a time when my helpful suggestions can be well received, which may not be directly before or after the game.
 
 I recognize that within the parameters of competition, sportsmanship and fair play are paramount. I pledge that I will commit to promoting an atmosphere of healthy competition to ensure fun for all participants.
 
My acceptance of these guidelines is my pledge to exercise each tenant to the best of my ability.