Twin Valley League Code of Conduct for Fans

November 18, 2020

The Troy Board of Education at their regular Board of Education Meeting on November 16th approved the Twin Valley League Spectator Code of Ethics.  The Twin Valley League approved the Code of Conduct at their November 2020 League Meeting.  

TWIN VALLEY LEAGUE SPECTATOR’S CODE OF ETHICS

Winning is often so important that some people have lost sight of the educational values inherent in athletics/activities.  If the full benefit of athletics/activities as an educational tool is to be utilized, schools must immediately concern themselves with spectator sportsmanship.

The playing of a contest should be regarded by the spectators as an art and should be appreciated and enjoyed as such.  Respect for our players, coaches/sponsors, and officials, regardless of their own team loyalty, is essential for raising the standards of good sportsmanship.  

Ethical consideration for the spectators:

• Recognize the official/judge as a person of integrity and qualification; and respect the decisions accordingly.

• Treat game officials with respect. Do not complain about or argue about calls or decisions during or after an athletic event. The Twin Valley League will not tolerate disrespect to game officials. 

  • The Three Strike Rule: If game officials ask school personnel to address a spectator, or if deemed necessary by school administration,  for disrespectful conduct before, during, or after a game, school personnel will speak with the spectator. If the conduct continues after this discussion, the spectator will be required to leave the venue immediately and complete the NFHS “Sportsmanship Course” prior to attending the next sporting event. The incident will be recorded by school personnel. If a second incident occurs with the same spectator during the same school year, this individual will be required to leave the venue immediately, complete the NFHS “Sportsmanship Course” prior to attending another sporting event, and will not be able to attend the next sporting event of that season (or the following applicable season if incident occurs at the last contest of the season). If a third incident occurs, the spectator will be required to leave the venue immediately and will no longer be able to attend further athletic events during the applicable sports season and possibly remaining applicable sports seasons during the school year. This policy applies to home and away events. 

  • Further disciplinary action and requirements may be deemed necessary by administration as situations arise. If an offense is deemed more serious than a ‘first strike” offense, additional penalties may be determined by administration or the action may be deemed as a “second strike” offense, for example. This list of offenses is not all inclusive.

  • “Be the solution, not the problem.”

• Refrain from creating disturbances which would be detrimental to the flow of the

contest and/or to the safety of the participants involved.

• Refrain from harassment, profane language, or ostentatious behavior in respect to

participants and coaches/sponsors.

• Become familiar with the rules of the games in order to enjoy it more and to under-

stand the decisions made by the official.

• Exhibit team loyalties and support without negative action toward their opponents or

officials of the contest.