New York Elite Field Hockey Code of Conduct
At New York Elite Field Hockey, our club culture extends beyond the playing field. Parents play a crucial role in influencing and guiding their children, and their behavior is an important part of maintaining the positive environment we strive to create. Parents are expected to be responsible for their conduct both on and off the field and contribute to the overall culture of the club. We trust that our players and parents will uphold the highest standards of conduct and represent New York Elite to the best of their ability.
GENERAL CODE OF CONDUCT
Show respect for all New York Elite coaches and the club.
Allow coaches to do their job without interference; do not question playing time, strategy, or decisions about other players.
Applaud effort, good play, and success from all athletes.
Exhibit good sportsmanship toward both the team and the opposition.
Do not coach from the sidelines, as this can confuse players and undermine the coaching staff’s effectiveness.
Respect referee decisions at all times; let the coach handle any conflicts.
Remain outside the field of play and away from the team’s bench during games.
Encourage players to show respect to their coaches, teammates, opponents, referees, and fellow parents.
Refrain from criticizing any player for making mistakes.
Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting, or abusive language or behavior directed at players, coaches, referees, or other spectators.
Always remember that your behavior reflects not only on you but also on your child and the club.
COMMUNICATION WITH COACHES/CLUB
At New York Elite, the primary focus is on the development of our players and teams. While communication is important, it is equally important that parents recognize that excessive or inappropriate communication can detract from the coaches' ability to effectively plan, develop players, and coach. We have established the following communication guidelines to ensure fairness, clarity, and efficiency.
Players (U14 and above), not parents, are expected to communicate directly with coaches regarding any questions or concerns. If needed, follow-up with parents will be initiated by the coach.
Acceptable communication via email:
Communicating absences or schedule conflicts in advance.
Health, personal, family, or academic issues that impact a player’s ability to participate.
General administrative questions.
Requests to discuss player development (the coach will determine if a discussion needs to be scheduled).
Not acceptable:
Approaching the coach directly after or during a game or practice to discuss concerns in front of players or other parents.
Calling or texting the coaches. Please allow at least 24 hours after an event before contacting, unless in case of an emergency. Email is preferred, and if necessary, a time will be scheduled for further discussion.
Discussing playing time, team placement, position, roster size, or strategy, as these are coaching and club decisions.
Discussing or comparing other players or complaining about other parents. This is never appropriate or acceptable and will not be tolerated.
CONSEQUENCES FOR NOT ABIDING BY THE CODE OF CONDUCT
Parents or players may receive warnings from the coach, club staff, or officials.
Players’ playing time may be affected.
Parents or players may be asked to leave a game, practice, or event.
Parents may be prohibited from attending future sessions or games.
Players and/or parents may be required to leave the club if behavior does not improve.
By adhering to this code of conduct, we can create a positive, respectful, and supportive environment for all players, parents, and coaches at New York Elite Field Hockey.