Port Colborne Minor Baseball: Fair Play Code

In 2012, PCMBA adopted and implemented a Fair Play Code for PCMBA Baseball.

Our Fair Play Code

The notion of Fair Play is a universally understood concept, which underpins all of sport. Without fairness, sport is devoid of any meaning or purpose. Worse still, it can be a detrimental experience for its participants.

But Fair Play is also a philosophy - one of respect for others, and respect for the institution of sport. It leads to an agreement, between all of those involved in sport, on the values and lessons that we want sport to teach our children, and ourselves.

Playing fair also has to do with making choices. As we interact with each other in sport, or as spectators of sport, we must regularly consider and define what we think is right and what is not. Sport engages us in a collective effort to pursue human excellence. As our children interact with

each other in sport, their ability to make good choices about fair play issues matures along with their ability to think and learn about what makes for a rewarding and fulfilling life in society.

Fair Play Definition is taken from the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport.

Fair Play Code for Players

1. I will do my best to be a team player and show a commitment to my team.

2. I will play by the rules and in the spirit of the game.

3. I will control my temper – fighting and “negative comments to others” can spoil the activity for everybody.

4. I will respect my opponents.

5. I will remember that winning isn’t everything – that having fun, improving skills, making friends and doing my best are also important.

6. I will acknowledge all good plays/performances – those of my team and of my opponents.

7. I will remember that coaches and umpires are there to help me. I will accept their decisions and show them respect.

9. I will show respect for the equipment and facilities. I will not litter.

Adapted from Fair Play - It’s Your Call! A Resource Manual for Coaches

1. I will not force my child to participate in baseball.

2. I will remember that my child plays baseball for his or her enjoyment, not for mine.

3. I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

4. I will teach my child that doing one’s best is as important as winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game/event.

5. I will show my child positive reinforcement by offering praise for competing fairly and trying hard.

6. I will never ridicule or yell at my child for making a mistake or losing a competition.

7. I will remember that children learn best by example. I will set a good example and applaud good plays/performances by both my child’s team and their opponents.

8. I will never question the umpires’ judgement or honesty in public.

9. I will support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children’s sporting activities.

10. I will respect and show appreciation for the volunteer coaches who give their time to provide sport activities for my child.

Adapted from Fair Play - It’s Your Call! A Resource Manual for Coaches

 Fair Play Code for Coaches

1. I will teach my athletes to play fairly, demonstrate good sportsmanship and to respect the rules, the equipment and ball diamonds, officials and opponents.

2. I will remember that children play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves. I will also remember that young athletes have other interests and obligations.

3. I will remember that children need a coach they can respect.  Therefore I will be generous with praise and also set an example of good sportsmanship. 

4. I will ensure that all athletes get equal instruction and support as well as fair playing time.

5. I will not ridicule or yell at any baseball player for making mistakes or for performing poorly. I will show umpires the same respect.

6. I will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and I will encourage a litter-free environment.

7. I recognize that coaching is a commitment and I will endeavor to improve my coaching skills.

Adapted from Fair Play - It’s Your Call! A Resource Manual for Coaches