Please review our updated Codes of Conduct for spectators, players, and coaches.
To all 4CITY parents, coaches, officials and players:
As we head into the Winter League boys tournament this weekend, we want to remind all of our players, coaches, officials, and spectators that sportsmanship is the cornerstone of the 4th C "competitiveness." Being competitive doesn't mean trying to win a contest at all costs—it means trying to win a contest through proper preparation, teamwork, and maximum effort. It also means being gracious in victory or defeat, honoring your opponent, having fun despite the outcome, and still getting ice cream after the game... maybe with the other team!
This winter league season we have had more issues than normal with player, coach, and spectator conduct that is not aligned with our 4C philosphy. So we are attaching below our Codes of Conduct for spectators and players as a reminder. We have also added new "in-game" coach sportsmanship rules which limit interaction between coaches and officials (including scorekeepers) during the live portions of the game.
Our goal is to ensure a positive, respectful, and fun environment for everyone involved. Please take a moment to review the updated sportsmanship rules below. These guidelines apply to all players, spectators, and coaches at every 4CITY game and event. Persons who do not follow these guidelines this weekend (or at any 4CITY game or practice) will be required to leave the gym.
Good luck to all of our teams this weekend and we will see you on the court!
-- The 4CITY Board of Directors
Player Code of Conduct
Respect Officials: Players must always treat referees, scorekeepers, and other league officials with respect. Only speak to officials in a respectful manner, during a dead ball, and after asking for permission.
Respect Coaches: Show respect to all coaches (your own and opposing teams) at all times. Do not speak when a coach is speaking and thank coaches after every game or practice.
Respect Opponents: Treat opponents as you would your own teammates. Help them up, show concern for their well-being, and participate earnestly in the post-game handshake line.
No Taunting: No standing over players, flexing, getting in an opponent’s face, or celebratory gestures such as “three fingers over the face” or “sniper” pantomimes. Celebrate only with teammates during dead balls or with verbal high fives during the game.
Consequences: Violations result in one warning, then a technical foul, and then disqualification from the game with the possibility of suspension or expulsion from the league for serious or repeated violations.
Spectator Code of Conduct
Respect All Players: Cheer for your player and respect all players. Encourage success for both teams; never cheer mistakes or missed shots.
No Interaction with Referees: Do not interact with referees or comment on calls from the stands. Any concerns must go through your player’s coach.
No Coaching from the Stands: Parents and spectators must not coach or instruct players during the game. If you’d like to coach, please volunteer!
Clapping for Made Free Throws (NEW REMINDER): All fans, regardless of team, should applaud every made free throw and never make distracting noises during free throw attempts. This tradition demonstrates respect for all players and teams.
Consequences: One warning for violations; further violations result in removal from the gym and possible team forfeiture.
Coach In-Game Sportsmanship
Remain Calm: Always follow the 4C Philosophy before, during, and after games.
Talking to Referees: Only speak to referees during dead balls, and always in a respectful manner that cannot be overheard by others.
Respect for All: Treat all players, opponents, and officials (including scorekeepers and timekeepers) with respect at all times. Only speak to scorekeepers/timekeepers during dead balls.
Score Disputes: If you believe the score is incorrect, call a timeout and inform the referee. You will not be charged a timeout if the score was wrong. If out of timeouts, wait for the next dead ball.
Consequences: Technical fouls may be issued without warning for violations. Egregious or repeat violations will result in removal from the gym, and recurring violations can lead to suspension or a ban from coaching at 4CITY.