Code of Conduct
SANDHILLS PATRIOTS CODE OF CONDUCT
Player
Playing for the Sandhills Patriots is a privilege NOT a right. Your continued participation in the Patriots football program is contingent upon your adherence to the Code of Conduct. You have been selected because you have demonstrated athletic ability, commitment, character and a strong work ethic. Do not take this opportunity for granted.
1) RESPECT – You will treat your parents, teachers, classmates, coaches and teammates with respect. Your conduct on and off the field is a reflection not only of you and your family but also of the Sandhills Patriot’s organization.
2) TEAM WORK – Football is a team sport. No one player can win or lose a football game. Teamwork requires each member of the team to work together to accomplish a common goal. It means you help your teammates up after you knock them down. It means you encourage all teammates, even after they have made a mistake. Placing blame on a teammate is not acceptable and detrimental to the program. Your team is only as good as the weakest player. Strive to make everyone on the team the best football player they can be.
3) CONDUCT – Each player will exhibit exemplary conduct while participating in Sandhills Patriots activities. Our practice time is limited and therefore the team must make effective use of its time. In order to accomplish this goal all players must understand the following basic rules of conduct.
(1) PAY CLOSE ATTENTION AND DO NOT SPEAK while a coach is addressing the team.
(2) While the coach is addressing the team, your eyes are to be directed at the coach, and NOWHERE else. After the coach has completed his comments, you can raise your hand to ask any questions.
(3) NEVER walk on the football field. If we take a break you are to jog to the water station and jog back to your coach. If we split up into individual groups, you are to jog to your designated area.
(4) NEVER take off your helmet unless you are at a water break or your coach has given you permission to take off your helmet.
(5) NEVER sit on your helmet.
(6) NEVER sit on the ground. If you are not standing you are to be on one knee.
4) TRAVEL – We will travel at least 4 times during the season, not including tournaments. We will meet at a designated location for those who wish to travel together. All players must be at the field at least one hour BEFORE the start of a game. All players will travel with their Patriots travel bag and will arrive with their game pants and game jersey on (without shoulder pads). You will conduct yourselves as gentlemen at ALL times. If your parents are unable to attend a game and you are traveling with a coach, MAKE SURE the coach is aware of your whereabouts at ALL times before and after the game.
5) SCHOOL WORK – Each player is expected to keep up with their academic responsibilities. Your academic progress comes before your participation in the Sandhills Patriots. No child will be punished for missing practice due to an academic commitment, the need to study for an upcoming test or to complete a school project.
6) COMMUNICATION – You are expected to communicate with your coach in advance if you cannot attend a team function, practice, or game.
7) SPORTSMANSHIP – The Sandhills Patriots organization prides itself in exhibiting good sportsmanship both on and off the field. Treat your teammates, opponents, league officials, and referees with respect. Do not retaliate when others exhibit poor sportsmanship. You will be judged solely by your own conduct.
