Parents Code of Conduct

MBYB is a recreational, participatory, and instructional program. MBYBs primary goal is to provide a venue for our children to have fun, learn, and compete. The program is built around the beliefs that having fun, learning the game, sportsmanship, balanced competition, and equitable participation should be emphasized over winning. As a parent you play a special role in contributing to the core tenets of MBYB. Through your cooperation and good example you can help assure that all MBYB participants have fun, learn, practice good sportsmanship, and develop self-discipline.

Support Your Child
Support your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team. Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship. Teach your child that hard work and honest effort are more important than victory. This way your child will always be a winner despite the outcome of the game.

Always Be Positive
Parents serve as role models for their children. Be aware of this and work to be a positive role model. Applaud good plays by your childs team as well as good plays by the opposing team. Never cheer against the opponent or use obscene language or gestures. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from MBYB and all youth sports activities.

Remember That Your Child Wants To Have Fun
Remember that your child is the one playing basketball. Its very important to let children establish their own goals and to play the game for themselves. Do not impose unrealistic standards or goals on them. Dont put a heavy burden on your child to win games.

Reinforce Positive Behavior
Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their goals and their natural fear of failure. Nobody likes to make mistakes and if your child does make one remember its all part of learning. Encourage your childs effort and point out the good things your child accomplished.

Dont Be a Sideline Coach
Coaches are parents just like you. They volunteer their time to help make your childs MBYB experience a positive one. They need your support but not necessarily your advice. Please refrain from sideline coaching. If you wish to be a coach, please volunteer.

Recognize that Referees are Human
We all make mistakes and there are differences of opinion. MBYB promotes good sportsmanship and self-discipline. Please refrain from name calling or derogatory comments directed toward officials. Remember that personal conduct must be worthy of imitation by our children.