Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch

Code of Conduct

At Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch (ECE), we are committed to maintaining a positive, competitive, respectful, and professional environment for all athletes, coaches, families, and supporters. Our organization believes strong culture, accountability, and sportsmanship are essential to athlete development and long-term success both on and off the field.

Participation in ECE is a privilege, and all individuals affiliated with the organization are expected to represent the program with integrity and respect at all times.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch has a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding illegal drugs, alcohol abuse involving minors, vaping, tobacco use by minors, theft, violence, bullying, harassment, or any unlawful activity.

Any player, coach, parent, or affiliated individual found:

• In possession of illegal substances

• Using illegal substances

• Under the influence during any team-related function

• Participating in unlawful or dangerous behavior

• Engaging in bullying, harassment, or threats

may face immediate disciplinary action up to and including suspension or permanent removal from the organization.

All disciplinary decisions will be handled at the discretion of ECE leadership with the best interest of the organization, athletes, and families in mind.

Section 1 — Standards of Conduct

The mission of Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch is to provide athletes with opportunities to grow as competitors, teammates, leaders, and young women through the game of softball.

To uphold the values and reputation of the organization, all coaches, players, parents, and affiliated individuals are expected to demonstrate professionalism, sportsmanship, accountability, and respect.

The following behaviors are not permitted:

1. Unsportsmanlike Conduct

Any inappropriate, disrespectful, or disruptive behavior on or off the field including:

• Excessive arguing

• Poor sportsmanship

• Disrespect toward teammates, coaches, opponents, or officials

• Negative social media behavior representing the organization poorly

2. Verbal or Physical Abuse

Any verbal attacks, threats, harassment, intimidation, or physical altercations directed toward:

• Players

• Coaches

• Parents

• Umpires

• Tournament officials

• Spectators

will not be tolerated.

3. Dishonesty or Misrepresentation

Falsifying player information, tournament documents, eligibility requirements, or any organizational records is strictly prohibited.

4. Actions Against Organizational Values

Any conduct determined to be harmful to the mission, reputation, culture, or integrity of Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch may result in disciplinary action.

5. Social Media Expectations

Players, parents, and coaches are expected to use social media responsibly. Public negativity, harassment, gossip, or behavior that damages team culture or the reputation of ECE may result in consequences.

Section 2 — Parent & Player Expectations

ECE believes strong communication and mutual respect are critical for a successful team environment.

We ask all families to:

• Support all athletes, not just their own

• Respect coaching decisions

• Address concerns privately and respectfully

• Encourage accountability and positivity

• Represent the organization with class at tournaments, practices, and public events

Parents and players are expected to understand that:

• Playing time is earned, not guaranteed

• Coaches make decisions based on development, effort, attitude, and team needs

• Team culture comes before individual agendas

• Growth sometimes requires adversity, accountability, and difficult conversations

Section 3 — Accountability & Review Process

Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch reserves the right to review and address any conduct concerns involving players, coaches, parents, or affiliated individuals.

If a conduct issue arises:

1. Leadership may gather information regarding the incident

2. Discussions may occur with involved parties when appropriate

3. ECE leadership will determine any necessary disciplinary action

4. Actions may include verbal warnings, suspension, removal from activities, or dismissal from the organization

All decisions will prioritize athlete safety, organizational integrity, and team culture.

Our Commitment

Emerald Coast Elite Fastpitch is committed to building an environment where athletes can compete hard, grow confidently, and develop lifelong lessons through softball.

We expect everyone representing ECE to contribute positively to the culture we are building — one centered around:

• Respect

• Accountability

• Teamwork

• Discipline

• Leadership

• Integrity

Together, we aim to create an organization athletes and families are proud to call home.