Fair Play Policy
Ottawa West Little League
(Provisional By-law approved by the Executive Committee on February 3, 2025)
Introduction
Ottawa West Little League is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment in which all participants can enjoy the game of baseball.
OWLL is proud of its on field success, including its many winning seasons and championships. However, our Fair Play Policy emphasizes that there are principles more important than winning, including proper conduct and player development. By adhering to these principles, we aim to create a memorable and rewarding experience for all involved.
Proper Conduct
All participants in the game are expected to demonstrate integrity and professionalism both on and off the field and whether they are winning or losing:
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Respect: Treat all participants, including players, coaches, umpires, and fans, with respect.
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Fair Play: Adhere to the rules of the game and strive for fair competition.
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Sportsmanship: Win with grace and lose with dignity.
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Positive Attitude: Promote a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
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Safety: Prioritize the safety of all participants.
Player Development
Player development is a priority in all divisions, regardless of age and skill level:
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Equal Opportunity: All players should have the same chances to participate and develop their skills in both games and practices.
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Balanced Playing Time: Playing time for all players should be balanced over the course of the season, and in every game wherever possible. Coaches may take into account factors such as attendance at games and practices, individual behaviour and effort, and safety (risk of injury, pitch counts, etc.).
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Skill Development: While it is natural for players to gravitate toward certain positions to optimize their strengths, coaches should expose and develop players in all facets of the game, including both infield and outfield positions.
Coach Responsibilities
All coaches should emphasize the values of respect, fair play, and proper behaviour as outlined below:
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Positive Role Modeling: Set a positive example for players by demonstrating good sportsmanship and respectful relationships with players, other coaches, umpires, and league officials.
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Encouragement: Encourage players to have fun, learn, and improve. Do not force them to participate.
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Respectful and Constructive Communication: Communicate with players, umpires, and league officials in a respectful and constructive manner. Encourage players and parents to provide constructive feedback on their experience.
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Maintain Composure: Keep emotions in check and gracefully accept results. Support players who are learning to regulate their emotions.
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Avoidance of Negative Behavior: Refrain from using abusive language, making threats, or engaging in any other form of harassment.
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Diversity and Inclusion: Promote diversity and inclusion by creating a welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of their identity, background or abilities.
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Safety: Prioritize player safety through adherence to OWLL’s Safety Rules and Resources.
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Mental Health: Prioritize the mental health of all participants by promoting a positive and supportive atmosphere.
Parent Responsibilities
Parents play an important role in shaping their child’s experience in baseball. Encouraging fair play, supporting all players, and showing appreciation for coaches, officials, and fellow parents sets the tone for an enjoyable experience for everyone:
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Positive Role Modeling: Set a positive example for players by demonstrating good sportsmanship and respectful relationships with players, coaches, umpires, and league officials.
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Encouragement: Encourage players to have fun, learn, and improve. Do not force them to participate.
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Respectful and Constructive Communication: Communicate with coaches, umpires, and league officials in a respectful and constructive manner. Provide private and constructive feedback to coaches regarding their child's experience, focusing on specific observations and suggestions for improvement. Refrain from engaging in discussions that may negatively impact the coach's ability to effectively lead the team.
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Maintain Composure: Keep emotions in check and gracefully accept results. Support players who are learning to regulate their emotions.
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Avoidance of Negative Behavior: Refrain from using abusive language, making threats, or engaging in any other form of harassment.
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Diversity and Inclusion: Promote diversity and inclusion by creating a welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of their identity, background or abilities.
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Support Player Safety: Support player safety by ensuring they have the proper equipment and by being aware of and following OWLL’s Safety Rules and Resources.
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Mental Health: Support the mental health of their child by promoting a positive and supportive atmosphere at home.
Reporting Procedures
Concerns about fair play or inappropriate behavior should initially be discussed in private with the Head Coach. If the issue remains unresolved or otherwise cannot be resolved with the Head Coach, it should be reported to the league's Vice President, Programs ([email protected]) and Vice President, Coach and Player Development ([email protected]). All reports will be investigated thoroughly and confidentially.
Retaliation
This Policy encourages open communication between players, parents, coaches and the league. Any person who reports a concern or participates in an investigation will be protected from retaliation.
Conflict
If a provision of this Policy conflicts with a provision of any other rule or policy, the provision that provides the highest level of fair play for all players shall prevail.
Conclusion
By adhering to this Fair Play Policy, we can ensure that Ottawa West Little League remains a positive and enjoyable experience for all involved. Let's work together to create a baseball community that prioritizes fair play, including respectful conduct and player development.
References
Little League Child Protection Program
OWLL Constitution
OWLL Parent Code of Conduct
OWLL Safety Rules and Resources