Baseball is a game played at numerous levels including professional, collegiate, interscholastic, community, and recreational from the local to international levels of competition. The function of all players, coaches, umpires, officials and workers is to abide by only the highest level of sportsmanship and conduct.
The coach must be aware that he or she has tremendous influence, either good or bad, in the development of the baseball player, and thus, shall never place the value of winning above instilling the highest desirable ideals of character.
The coach must constantly uphold the honor and dignity of the game. In all personal contact with the athletes, umpires, officials, administrators, state and national organizations, the media, and the public, the coach shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct.
"Bench jockeying" will not be allowed.
Coaches are to prohibit bench jockeying, which would include personal and malicious remarks, cursing and obscene language towards opponents, umpires or spectators.
The coach shall take an active role in the prevention of drug, alcohol and tobacco abuse and under no circumstances should authorize their use.
The coach shall not use alcohol or tobacco products when in contact with players.
Coaches shall not make statements that are false, deceptive, misleading, or fraudulent concerning work activities, personal and organization affiliations.
The coach shall be thoroughly acquainted with American Legion Baseball rules and is responsible for their interpretation to team members.
The spirit and letter of rules should be regarded as mutual agreements.
The coach shall not try to seek an advantage by circumvention of the spirit or letter of the rules.
Coaches shall not permit ineligible player(s) to participate, practice or be a part of any team function without first discussing eligibility with a previous Legion coach or with the State Baseball Chairman, and without securing permission, in writing, the proper forms from the State Baseball Chairman.
Players should be taught to respect the dignity of the game, umpires and opponents.
Coaches should confine their discussion to the rules and not challenge umpire decisions involving judgment.
Coaches shall actively use their influence to enhance sportsmanship by their athletes and spectators. a) Before and after contests, rival coaches should meet and exchange friendly greetings in order to set the correct tone for the game.
Contest umpires will be treated with respect and supported by the coach. a) The coach shall not indulge in conduct which will incite players or spectators against the umpires. b) Public criticism of umpires or players is unethical.
Coaches should expect from the umpires a courteous and dignified attitude towards themselves and the players.
Coaches do not engage in sexual harassment, abuse, or any other harassment.
Coaches should develop and promote a spirit of cooperation among the baseball family, including sponsors and any person connected with the program.
Baseball is a game of fun, designed for enjoyment of youngsters, not to be a hobby for adults coaching them. I recognize the responsibility placed upon me to model ethical behavior.
I pledge myself to observe, practice and maintain this code of ethics.
f Ethics