Code of Conduct and Policies

Coaches are expected to lead by example, demonstrating positive behavior, respect, and sportsmanship at all times. This includes:

• Supporting and recognizing effort, skill, and good sportsmanship from all players, regardless of team affiliation.
• Treating opponents, referees, and spectators with respect, even in competitive situations.
• Modeling appropriate behavior for players by maintaining composure and promoting a positive playing environment.

In return, opponents, referees, and spectators are also expected to show mutual respect and good sportsmanship toward coaches.

We believe that fostering a respectful and encouraging atmosphere enhances the experience for all participants and upholds the integrity of the game.

Zero Tolerance Policy on Negative Behavior

Harford Sports maintains a zero tolerance policy for negative conduct, including demonstrative actions, inappropriate gestures, or hostile remarks directed toward referees, opposing players, coaches, or spectators.

Any coach who engages in hostile, sarcastic, or ill-intentioned behavior—whether verbal or physical—will be subject to immediate ejection and/or suspension from future participation.

We are committed to providing a respectful and positive environment for all participants, and this standard applies before, during, and after every event.

Coach Conduct Guidelines During Games

Coaches are expected to maintain professional behavior throughout the game and shall not engage—directly or indirectly—with opposing coaches or players in any manner that could be perceived as negative, hostile, or sarcastic. This includes demonstrative gestures, actions, or inappropriate remarks.

Coaches must remain on their designated bench or sideline area at all times and are not permitted to leave this area unless directed by a game official.

Adherence to these guidelines ensures a respectful, safe, and sportsmanlike environment for all participants.

Coaches are not to address the Referee(s) in a distracting manner during the game except to point out emergency or safety issues.

NOTE: It is recommended that coaches or other team members do not engage in any conversation with the referee(s) once the game has concluded. All comments should be brought to the attention of the manager at the service desk.

Player Code of Conduct

All players are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times. Any form of misconduct may result in ejection or suspension from the event.

In cases of serious unsporting behavior or violent conduct, players will face long-term disciplinary action, which may include suspension from all future events at Harford Sports.

Our priority is to maintain a safe, respectful, and competitive environment for all participants.

Parent/Spectator Code of Conduct

Parents and spectators must refrain from negatively addressing referees, coaches, or opposing spectators at any time. Unsportsmanlike behavior of any kind will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the facility or event.

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a positive and respectful environment for all participants.

This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Derogatory Remarks Policy Making derogatory or disrespectful comments to or about players, coaches, or spectators from either team is strictly prohibited. Such behavior creates a hostile environment and goes against the values of sportsmanship and respect that we uphold at Harford Sports.
2. Disputing Officials’ Calls Disputing or challenging officials’ decisions during or after the game is not permitted. Referees’ calls are final and must be respected at all times. Arguing or confrontational behavior undermines the authority of officials and disrupts the integrity and enjoyment of the game.
3. Persistent or aggressive disputes may lead to ejection and/or additional disciplinary measures.
4. Violators may be immediately removed from the facility and face further disciplinary action.
5. Yelling or using aggressive language—including criticism, sarcasm, harassment, or intimidation—before, during, or after the game is strictly prohibited.
6. Promoting Violence. Violators may be immediately removed from the facility and face further disciplinary action

If, in the League’s opinion, an individual has behaved in an unsportsmanlike manner, appropriate actions may be taken based on the severity of the offense, including but not limited to:

1. A verbal warning to the offending party
2. Game stopped and instruction for offending party to leave the facility
3. Game stopped and abandoned (resulting in a forfeit for the offending parties team) if the offending party does not leave the facility
4. Suspension of the offending party from all future events for a duration of time until an appropriate resolution has been taken to the satisfaction of Harford Sports Management. 
5. Suspension of the offending party from all future events indefinitely

If a player, parent/spectator, coach, assistant coach is suspended/banned by Harford Sports he/she is not be allowed to participate or have any interaction with their team until they are reinstated.