Encino Little League Code of Conduct
Updated August 28, 2025
Preamble
Encino Little League is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all players, coaches, umpires, volunteers, and spectators. We view baseball as an opportunity to instill life lessons rooted in character, teamwork, and respect for the game. We embrace the Six Pillars of Character—Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Good Citizenship—as outlined by Little League Baseball and Softball, and expect all members of our community to uphold these values.
Participant Pledge
As a member of the Encino Little League community, I pledge to:
Prioritize the emotional and physical well-being of players above any personal desire to win.
Promote good sportsmanship by offering positive support for all players, coaches, umpires, and spectators at every game, practice, or league event.
Learn, respect, and adhere to the rules and policies of Encino Little League and Little League Baseball and Softball.
Inform my child’s coach of any physical disability, medical condition, allergy, or safety concern that may affect participation.
Accept the decisions of umpires and league officials as final, refraining from public complaints or negative behavior.
Unacceptable Conduct
The following behaviors are strictly prohibited for players, coaches, managers, volunteers, and spectators:
Physical misconduct: Engaging in or threatening physical actions such as pushing, hitting, or intimidating others.
Verbal misconduct: Using profanity, yelling, making derogatory remarks, or directing personal attacks at any member of the community, including players, coaches, umpires, or spectators.
Unsportsmanlike behavior: Taunting, mocking, booing, throwing equipment, refusing to shake hands, or other actions that undermine the spirit of the game.
Disputing officials: Challenging or arguing umpire judgment calls or making disparaging comments toward umpires, coaches, or league officials.
Disruptive actions: Engaging in behavior that interferes with the safety, enjoyment, or focus of others during games or practices.
Substance use and gambling: Consuming or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, gambling on any game or play, or smoking/vaping (including e-cigarettes) anywhere on the Encino Little League complex, including parking lots.
Communication with Umpires
Only the team manager may approach an umpire to discuss a call, and this must be done respectfully and calmly.
Field coaches, dugout coaches, players, and spectators are prohibited from discussing or challenging umpire decisions at any time, including during or after games.
Umpires may issue warnings for inappropriate behavior. Persistent misconduct may result in ejection from the game.
Enforcement and Penalties
Violations of this Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action, which may include:
Warning: A verbal or written notice to cease unacceptable behavior.
Ejection: Immediate removal from the game or event. Ejected individuals must leave the Encino Little League complex immediately and are suspended from the next scheduled game, practice, or team event.
Suspension: Temporary exclusion from league activities for a specified period, as determined by the Board of Directors.
Expulsion: Permanent removal from all league activities for severe or repeated violations, as decided by the Board of Directors.
Legal action: Physical assault, threats, or other illegal conduct will be reported to law enforcement, in addition to league penalties.
Failure to comply with an ejection may result in game forfeiture or further disciplinary measures.
Acknowledgment
Participation in Encino Little League as a player, coach, volunteer, or spectator is a privilege, not a right. By joining our league, you agree to uphold the standards outlined in this Code of Conduct and to foster a positive, respectful environment for all.