As a member of USA Deaf Basketball, I understand that I represent myself, my team, my coaches, my family, and the United States of America both on and off the court. I recognize that my behavior reflects on the entire program at all times, including during practices, games, training camps, team meetings, travel, lodging, meals, and all team-related activities.
I commit to upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship, respect, responsibility, discipline, and integrity.
Sportsmanship & Teamwork
- I will demonstrate respect for my teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, staff, volunteers, and spectators at all times.
- I will display good sportsmanship in victory and defeat.
- I will support, encourage, and work cooperatively with my teammates.
- I will put the success, unity, and reputation of the team above personal recognition.
Commitment & Responsibility
- I will attend and fully participate in all practices, games, meetings, training sessions, team functions, and required activities unless I am officially excused by the coaching staff or team administration.
- I will arrive on time, prepared, and ready to give my best effort.
- I will follow all instructions, team rules, schedules, curfews, and expectations established by coaches and staff.
- I will take responsibility for my actions, choices, behavior, and performance.
Respectful Conduct & Behavior
- I will maintain a positive attitude and conduct myself in a mature and respectful manner.
- I will not use abusive, threatening, discriminatory, or inappropriate language, gestures, or behavior.
- I will not engage in bullying, harassment, fighting, intimidation, hazing, or disruptive conduct of any kind.
- I will demonstrate self-control and respect in all settings, including on the court, in public, online, and while traveling.
Travel & International Representation
- I understand that when traveling with USA Deaf Basketball, I am representing both the organization and my country.
- I will follow all team travel rules, itineraries, curfews, and instructions from coaches, chaperones, and staff.
- I will behave respectfully and responsibly in airports, on airplanes, in hotels, at restaurants, at competition venues, and in all public places.
- I will comply with all local, national, and international laws, rules, and customs while traveling.
- I will carry myself in a professional manner and show respect for different cultures, communities, and environments.
Property, Facilities, and Equipment
- I will respect all property, facilities, and equipment used during team activivites and travel.
- I will not damage, misuse, steal, or deface any property, including hotel rooms, airport property, airplanes, buses, vans, locker rooms, gyms, training facilities, restaurants, or other team-related venues.
- I understand that I may be held financially responsible for any damage or loss caused by my actions.
- I will keep team spaces, lodging areas, and shared facilities clean and orderly.
Communication and Respect for Authority
- I will communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully with coaches, teammates, staff, and administrators.
- I will respect the decisions of coaches and officials without arguing, complaining, or showing negative reactions.
- I will address concerns in an appropriate and respectful manner through the proper channels.
Health, Safety, and Substance-Free Expectations
- I will help maintain a safe and healthy environment for myself and others.
- I will not use, possess, distribute, or be under the influence of tobacco, nicotine products, alcohol, illegal drugs, or any banned substance during any team activity or travel event.
- I will follow all team medical, trainging, safety, and wellness expectations.
- I understanding the importance of making safe and responsible choices that protect my health and the well-being of my teammates.
Social Media and Public Image
- I understand that my words, images, and action on social media and in publuc can affect the reputation of USA Deaf Basketball.
- I will use social media responsibly and respectfully.
- I will not post, share, or send content that is inappropriate, harmful, discriminatory, bullying, misleading, or damaging to the team, organization, or others.
- I will not post confidential team information, internal matters, or anything that reflects negatively on USA Deaf Basketball.
Accountability and Consequences
I understand that failure to follow this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action. Depending on the severity of the behavior, consequences may include verbal warning, loss of privileges, reduced playing time, suspension from practices or games, financial responsibility for damages, dismissal from travel activities, or removal from the team. I understanding that serious miscondct may also be referred to parents/guardians, school officials, organizational leadership, or appropriate authorities when necessary.