Zumbro Valley Baseball League

ZVBL Code of Conduct for Coaches, Parents/Spectators, and Umpires

The Zumbro Valley Baseball League (ZVBL) expects everyone involved—coaches, parents, spectators, players, and officials—to uphold high standards of respect, integrity, and sportsmanship. This Code of Conduct applies to all ZVBL activities, including games, practices, tournaments, and related events. Violations may lead to disciplinary measures determined by the ZVBL Board, up to and including suspension or removal from league participation.

The Board may review any relevant behavior—whether at ZVBL events, other baseball activities, or outside of baseball—when deciding on appropriate consequences.

ZVBL Coaches Code of Conduct

1. Coaches are accountable for the behavior of their players and must prevent any disrespectful, aggressive, or unsportsmanlike actions directed at opponents, officials, or other participants.
2. Coaches will fully understand and follow both the letter and the spirit of ZVBL rules, serving as positive role models for fair play.
3. Coaches will instill in their players a deep respect for the game itself, its rules, the officials, opposing teams, and the league as a whole.
4. Discussions with umpires must remain focused on rule interpretation and clarification—coaches will not argue or dispute judgment calls.
5. Coaches will not allow derogatory, profane, or hostile remarks from the bench or dugout toward opponents, umpires, other coaches, or fans.
6. Coaches will avoid any behavior—verbal or nonverbal—that could provoke players, parents, or spectators into acting inappropriately.
7. Coaches will neither use nor permit the use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances at any ZVBL event or facility.
8. Coaches will promote and expect respectful, professional interactions between umpires, players, and all involved parties.
9. Coaches will actively work to keep spectators associated with their team calm, respectful, and supportive of the game.

ZVBL Parents & Spectators Code of Conduct

At every ZVBL event:

1. Parents and spectators will actively support good sportsmanship by cheering positively for every player, coach, and official—regardless of team affiliation.
2. Parents and spectators will place the well-being and enjoyment of the children above the outcome of any game.
3. Parents and spectators will refrain from using or allowing alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances at ZVBL events. These are youth-focused activities, not adult social gatherings.
4. Parents and spectators will contribute to creating a fun, encouraging atmosphere for all young athletes.
5. Parents and spectators will treat every player, coach, volunteer, fan, and official with courtesy and respect at all times.
6. Parents will support the coach’s decisions and instructions without publicly criticizing or questioning them in front of players or others.
7. Parents and spectators will avoid profanity and maintain appropriate language in all interactions.
8. Parents and spectators will demonstrate full respect for umpires and accept their decisions without argument or confrontation.

ZVBL Umpires Code of Conduct

1. Umpires will arrive on time and be prepared to officiate the game promptly and professionally.
2. Umpires will wear appropriate, clean, and professional attire for every assignment.
3. Umpires will conduct themselves with professionalism, impartiality, and composure throughout the game.
4. Umpires will apply the rules fairly and in a way that supports the developmental goals of youth baseball.
5. Umpires will avoid any personal attacks, profanity, or derogatory comments directed at players, coaches, or spectators.
6. Umpires will not engage in behavior that could inflame players, coaches, or fans or lead to unsportsmanlike conduct.
7. Umpires will neither use nor permit the use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances while officiating ZVBL games.
8. Umpires will model and encourage respectful, dignified communication between coaches, players, and all participants.
9. Umpires will keep in mind that their role supports a game meant to be enjoyable and educational for young athletes.

Consequences for Violations

Any breach of this Code of Conduct should be reported to the ZVBL Board as soon as possible. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, consequences may include:

• Verbal or written warning
• One-game or multi-game suspension
• Temporary or permanent exclusion from ZVBL games, practices, or facilities
• Removal from coaching, officiating, or volunteer roles
• Other measures the ZVBL Board deems appropriate to maintain a safe and positive environment

The ZVBL Board will review incidents fairly and may impose additional sanctions to safeguard the values of respect, safety, and sportsmanship that define our league.

Approved by ZVBL Board: [Date]