NAPLES GATORS ATHLETES CODES OF CONDUCT: 

It is important that athletes review and understand the code of conduct. These guidelines are for the good of our Gators family. We strive for a healthy environment for not only the team members, but also the parents and volunteers. When lines are crossed,  it hinders growth and takes away time and energy that can be given to make the best program for our teams. We ask that you sit down with your athlete and review these guidelines. If you have any questions or concerns regarding guidelines, please contact us and we will be happy to go over them with you.

For our athletes

We expect that you come to practice with a “can do” attitude. Athletes  must work to leave school/friend drama and stress at the car door before you walk to the field. Athletes need to commite to working hard, focusing at practice, giving their best effort, doing whatever it takes to be prepared for games/competitions/performances, supporting their teammates, taking constructive corrections and applying them and respecting their Coaches. 

·      Athletes are expected to make their practice and game times a priority. Be well rested, pack water and give yourself the best chance to succeed. Our seasons are short, but action packed full!

·      Athletes, should speak to your Coach if there is some reason that you are not able to fully participate in practice or a game. We understand that everyone has days that they do not feel well or have difficult life situations. 

·      Athletes will accept responsibility for their behavior at on the field, at games and in competitions. They understand that what they do and say affects their teammates, the Naples Gators association and other people either positively or negatively. Athletes should understand that if negative or harmful behavior/attitude continues they may be removed from the team without a refund.

·      Athletes should  live with integrity. They will lead by example by in what they say and do.

·      Athletes should act with self-control and respect towards themselves and the people and things around them, including their parents, their coaches, their teammates, other team members from Naples Gators, other teams and their coaches, judges and audience members at playoffs and competitions.

·      Athletes should not look down on others because of their abilities.

·      Athletes should act with empathy and first try to understand what is going on in the hearts and minds of others and what is causing a situation so that they can be supportive and encouraging.

·      Athletes should always serve as a role model by talking respectfully and acting courteously toward Coaches, teammates, parents, volunteers, our competitors in person as well as on social media. Athletes understand that social media posts that are negative, rude toward or portray a negative image of Naples Gators, its volunteers and/or any teammate may result in removal from the team. Therefore, Athletes should be careful about what they like or post on social media sites as well as what they tweet, re-tweet, share or comment on. Violation of this will call for disciplinary action. 

·      Athletes should give 100% effort to practices, games, performances, competitions, and events. Athletes should understand that their effort demonstrates commitment to the Team and their respect for their Coaches and teammates. 

·      Athletes need to commit to showing up for practice each week in the proper attire for each practice.  Athletes show respect for the fun and sometime intense atmosphere they are training in by always wearing the Naples Gators dress code per your team.

·      Athletes will commit to leaving their drama at the door. When they come to practice, they will be focused on giving their best effort. They will understand that their attitude affects their teammates and Coaches. Athletes should understand that being a part of the Team always requires their best effort.  

·     Athletes will refrain from bullying, gossiping, putdowns, foul/discriminatory language to/or about anyone. Athletes should discuss situations with an individual directly or with their parents and work to resolve the conflict. Gossip is destructive to teams and tears relationships and teams apart. 

·      Athletes should speak with their Coaches or team mom directly about any issues they have with practice, games or any concerns they have. 

·      When playing/performing at other fields/events and competitions, athletes will stay together with their team and have an inclusive and respectful attitude towards everyone. 

·     Athletes should  display good sportsmanship. They will acknowledge and applaud the efforts of others. Athletes encourage their teammates with positive statements. Athletes refrain from boasting to their teammates and “trash-talking” members of other teams.