North Catawba Optimist Club Code of Ethics for Parents & Spectators

Parents & Spectators - I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care and encouragement for all players participating with North Catawba Optimist sports teams by following this code of ethics.

• I will refrain from making derogatory remarks while on North Catawba or affiliates property.
• I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of any personal desire to win.
• I will remember that the game is for the children and not for the adults.
• I will make sure my child treats other players, coaches fans and referees/umpires with respect regardless of race, sex, Creed or ability.
• I will remain in control and MAY NOT throw any equipment due to the outcome of a play, game or officiating call.
• I will promise to help my child enjoy the sporting experience by being supportive of the coaches and referees/umpires, being a respectful fan and assisting in whatever manner I am able.
• I will assist the coaching staff by refraining from coaching my child from stands/sidelines during a game.  Instead, I will be encouraging and affirming whenever possible.
• I will do my best to make each sport fun for my child.
• I will set the example of sportsmanlike conduct for the youth that are competing.
• I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment. 
• I will demand a drug, alcohol and smoke free sports environment for my child and agree to assist by refraining from their use at all NCO games and practices.
• I understand that it is now considered a Misdemeanor in NC, North Carolina General Stat. Section 14-33(b)(9) to verbally or physically abuse or touch a referee or coach.
• Profanity at any North Catawba function in the presence of players is UNACCEPTABLE and repeated abuse will be addressed by a North Catawba Optimist board member, officer or higher.
• I  understand that any behavior that endangers the safety of a child, parent, Spectator Coach or game official will result in appropriate disciplinary action, following a review by the North Catawba Optimist board members.
• I understand that while on North Catawba or affiliates property, I must maintain a wardrobe that properly covers all body parts that are deemed inappropriate for children to see.
• I understand that if I am ejected from a game by a game official or North Catawba Optimist member for improper actions, I will be asked to leave the grounds that day and will also be suspended for the next scheduled game.
• I realize that my failure to abide by this code of ethics may directly affect my child's status on their team.
• I certify that I am fully aware and agree to abide by the North Catawba Optimist Code of Ethics and understand that failure to do so could affect my child's status on the team and/or my availability to attend any North Catawba Optimist events, including team meetings, practices and games.

Parents/Guardians that allow their child to play at North Catawba Optimist Club accept all the principles in this document and agree to abide by all of them.