Summer Camp Parent/Guardian Handbook

Program Goals and Expectations

YMCA Summer Camp is designed to offer a safe, fun, and enriching environment for children ages 3 and up. Our goal is to provide children with opportunities to develop meaningful relationships, build self-confidence, and foster respect for others. Through a diverse range of planned activities, we aim to support the development of the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
The activities at YMCA Summer Camp include arts and crafts, drama, structured games, sports, fitness, reading, music, science exploration, service learning, outdoor play, swimming, field trips, and more. We are committed to creating an environment that accommodates a variety of needs and interests, ensuring every child’s experience is both rewarding and enjoyable.

Program Goals for Your Child:

•    To provide a safe, healthy, and enjoyable learning environment where your child is valued and cared for.
•    To offer opportunities for social, emotional, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities.
•    To respect each child’s individuality while fostering a positive attitude towards themselves and others.
•    To give children the tools to make healthy choices and develop a strong sense of responsibility.

Parent Involvement:

•    Parents will have opportunities to engage in activities with their children and actively participate in the camp experience.
•    Parents will receive regular communication about their child’s daily routines, activities, and any special events.
•    Parents are encouraged to schedule conferences with staff and camp supervisors to discuss their child’s development, achievements, and any       concerns.
•    Parents may contribute to the camp by sharing special skills, talents, or resources with the camp community.
•    The YMCA Summer Camp team respects and acknowledges each family’s unique values and beliefs.

What to Pack for Camp:

To ensure your child is fully prepared for each day, please pack the following items:
•    Backpack: A child-sized backpack that your child can carry comfortably throughout the day (if necessary).
•    Appropriate Summer Clothing: Comfortable clothes suitable for active play and outdoor activities.
•    Tennis Shoes: For safety and comfort (no flip-flops, please).
•    Swimsuit and Towel: For swimming activities.
•    Nutritious and Filling Lunch: Required on field trip days.
•    Water Bottle: A refillable, non-glass bottle for hydration.
•    Light Jacket: For cooler mornings or unexpected weather changes.
•    YMCA Summer Camp T-shirt: Worn on field trip days.
•    Spray Sunscreen: Staff are unable to apply sunscreen lotions or rub-on sunscreens. Please provide spray sunscreen for your child to apply as        needed.

We are committed to providing a meaningful and positive experience for your child at YMCA Summer Camp. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. We look forward to a fun and rewarding summer ahead!

Communication and Parent Involvement

Parent Role: The involvement of parents is essential to the success of the Summer Camp Program. We encourage parents to visit the camp and engage with staff on special activities such as birthdays, guest speakers, themed events, holidays, and family events. Active participation from parents strengthens the camp community and creates a positive and enriching experience for all children.

Parent Concerns: If you have any suggestions, questions, concerns, or complaints regarding the Summer Camp Program, the behavior of staff, or camp policies, we recommend the following steps:

1.    Step 1: Begin by speaking with your child’s assigned staff member. You may either leave a message at the YMCA for a return call or address          the matter when picking up your child.
2.    Step 2: If your concern remains unresolved after Step 1, please reach out to our Youth Development Director at (294) 1619, who will be                  happy to assist you further.

We are committed to resolving any concerns in a prompt, respectful, and effective manner.

Data Privacy Provision: YMCA Summer Camp adheres to all applicable State and Federal data privacy regulations. Personal and medical information provided during registration is shared solely with the Summer Camp staff to ensure the appropriate care and safety of your child. For families receiving financial assistance, such information is only shared with Administrative Staff and the Youth Development Director.

REMIND App: To streamline communication, we utilize the REMIND App for important updates, including emergency notices, weather-related changes, and schedule modifications. It is mandatory for all parents to download this free app to receive these crucial notifications. Please ensure that you have installed the app on your mobile device to stay informed.
 

Check-In and Check-Out Procedures

•    Athletes Under 12: Must be signed in and out of camp by an adult aged 16 or older, who is also listed on the authorized pick-up list. Sign-             in/sign-out sheets will be available at the camp location.
•    Athletes 12 and Older: May sign themselves in and out of camp and are responsible for their own well-being before and after camp.

Location of Camps
•    Fitness Training Camps: Held at the YMCA’s Training Zone or the Fortin Gym.

•    Sports Camps: Locations vary based on the sport your athlete is registered for. Camps may take place at the YMCA Fortin Gym, Rocky                    Mountain College Football Field (Herb Klindt Field), City Park (location TBD), Lockwood Schools Track & Field, and Pioneer Park Tennis Courts.

Limited Busing Option between Sports and Fitness Camps

Busing between Fitness Training and Sports Camps is available for athletes registered for both camps within the same week. The transportation service runs Monday - Wednesday at a cost of $15. There are no busing on Thursdays.

•    5th to 7th Grade Bus Option (Sports Conditioning Camp/Sports Camp): Busing is available on limited weeks for athletes registered for both Sports Conditioning and Sports Camp. After signing up for both camps, an adult 16+ will need to check in and out their athlete at both camps as follows: 

o    Drop-off at Sports Conditioning Camp: Adult 16+ must sign their athlete in.
o    Transportation to Sports Camp: Athlete will be checked in by Sports Camp staff.
o    Pick-up at Sports Camp Location: Adult 16+, who is listed on the authorized pick-up list must sign their athlete out.

•    8th to 10th Grade Bus Option (Sports Fitness Training/Sports Camp): Available for athletes who are 12+ years old and are enrolled in both Sports Fitness Training and Sports Camp. Athletes will be on their own at the YMCA until Sports Fitness Training begins at 2:00 p.m. We recommend sending your athlete with lunch.

Communication

To receive updates and notifications regarding Sports Camp, please visit ygametime.com:
1.    Enter your zip code and select Billings Family YMCA.
2.    Navigate to the Sports & Programs tab and select Sports Camps.
3.    Choose the camp your athlete is attending and click Sign Up.
4.    Enter your phone number and click Submit to receive updates via text.

Camp Schedule Overview: Each camp, regardless of sport, follows a similar structure with slight variations depending on the focus. Here’s an overview of a typical day:

•    Monday Morning: The entire camp gathers for introductions to coaches and staff, followed by a discussion of expectations for the week.
•    Warm-ups: Daily group warm-ups followed by breakouts into smaller groups based on position, skill, technique, or event focus.
•    Coaching Sessions: Each group will receive focused coaching for approximately 45-50 minutes, with regular water breaks.
•    Group Meeting: A mid-session meeting to discuss progress and apply new skills.
•    Afternoon Coaching: Groups will break again based on their focus areas (Offense/Defense, etc.).
•    Cool Down & Reflection: The camp ends with a cool-down, including dynamic and static stretches, followed by a group discussion on being       an athlete and applying lessons learned in and outside of sports.
•    Thursday Game Day: A day of competition where campers apply the skills they’ve learned throughout the week in friendly competitions.

Sports Fitness Training – 8th – 10th Grade

Our Sports Fitness Training program is designed to enhance athletic performance and prepare athletes for both their current and future sports seasons. This small-group training, limited to 5-10 athletes, is led by a certified personal trainer that will focus on key areas such as strength, agility, and conditioning, ensuring a comprehensive approach to athletic development. Held in our state-of-the-art Training Zone, athletes will receive a top-tier training experience in a facility equipped with the latest equipment to support their growth.

This program is seamlessly integrated with our summer sports camps, ensuring that athletes remain physically prepared for their chosen sports while training alongside peers with similar competitive goals. While the program does not focus on specific sport skills, it prioritizes the development of foundational athletic abilities that elevate performance across a variety of sports.

Sports Conditioning Camp –Ages 8 – 12 years

Our Sports Conditioning Camp runs for two weeks Monday-Wednesday and is led by a certified personal trainer with expertise in enhancing strength, speed, agility, and endurance. This program is seamlessly integrated with our summer sports camps, ensuring that athletes stay physically prepared and primed for optimal performance throughout the summer.

The camp provides age-appropriate conditioning drills and exercises designed to improve overall athleticism. Whether your child is a developing athlete or preparing for an upcoming sports season, they will receive expert coaching in a positive, supportive environment.

Administration of Medications
The YMCA Summer Camp Program does not administer any medication, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications (such as Tylenol, Benadryl, etc.), or any other medications. The administration of medications is prohibited at the YMCA Summer Camp Program.

Enrollment, Health, and Emergency Forms
All Enrollment, Health, and Emergency Forms (program registration forms) must be completed and submitted to the YMCA or Youth Development Director before the child’s first day of attendance. It is crucial to maintain up-to-date information on these forms. If there are any changes to contact information, address, or phone number, please notify the Youth Development Director immediately.

Sunscreen Policy
We request that all campers arrive at the YMCA Summer Camp Program with sunscreen already applied. Sunscreen lotions, body tattooing, hair brushing, or applying makeup are not permitted. Additionally, staff, volunteers, or other participants are prohibited from applying medications, lip balms, or sunscreens under any circumstances.
Children aged 8 and older are responsible for reapplying sunscreen as needed throughout the day. Staff will assist children under the age of 8 with sunscreen application. Please ensure that your child has sunscreen spray with them each day.

YMCA Policy for Recording and Reporting Accidents
In the event of a medical emergency, staff will take the necessary actions to obtain care for the child, including:
•    Administering first aid as deemed appropriate by the staff
•    Completing an Accident/Incident Report, which will be kept in HR files
•    Notifying parents regarding the incident, including the type of first aid administered, and requesting the parent to pick up the child if necessary.

Daily Attendance Policy
A parent or authorized adult (16+ years of age) must accompany each child into and out of the YMCA Camp Program site each day. The adult must sign the child in and out on the daily attendance roster.

Daily Attendance Policy for Sports and Fitness Camps     
Youth 12+ years of age may sign themselves in and out of sports and fitness camps.  Youth under the age of 12 must have a parent or authorized adult (16+ years of age) accompany each child into and out of the YMCA Camp Program site each day. The adult must sign the child in and out on the daily attendance roster.

Adding Authorized Pick-Ups Policy
Only the primary account holder can add or remove individuals from the authorized pick-up list. These changes must be made in person; email or phone requests will not be accepted. Authorized pick-up lists must be updated annually. Children will only be released to individuals listed on the authorized pick-up form. YMCA staff will ask for identification from the person picking up the child, and a photo ID (e.g., driver’s license) will be required.

Intoxication Policy
If a parent or authorized adult arrives to pick up a child and appears to be intoxicated, the child will still be released to the individual, as required by state law. However, YMCA staff will immediately notify local law enforcement, providing the description and license plate number of the vehicle.

Late Pick-Up Fees Policy 
Parents are required to pick up and sign out their child by the designated closing time of each camp. A late pick-up fee of $1 per minute, after the first 5 minutes, will be charged and paid at the YMCA Member Service Desk. If parents have not contacted the camp program or picked up their child within 15 minutes, emergency authorized contacts will be notified to pick up the child. If the child remains at the program one hour after closing, local law enforcement will be contacted for child abandonment.

Sign-Out Policy (for all camps other than Sports and Fitness) 
Each child will have a designated line for sign-in and sign-out. Parents or authorized pick-ups (16+ years of age) will document the time of arrival and departure. Staff will ask to see parent identification and verify authorized pick-up names and IDs.  

Sign-Out Policy for Sports and Fitness Camps                                                           
Youth 12+ years of age may sign themselves in and out of sports and fitness camps.  Youth under the age of 12 must have a parent or authorized individual 16+ years of age sign them out.

If your child is absent or has a change in schedule, please notify us via the Remind app. Only individuals listed on the authorized pick-up form will be allowed to pick up your child. Authorized pick-ups must be at least 16 years of age. 

Emergency Closing Policy
In the event of an emergency closure due to weather or building issues, announcements will be made via our Remind and Daxko apps. If you are unsure, please call the YMCA. Staff will make every effort to contact parents and will remain open until every child has been picked up.

Evacuation Policy
In the event of an emergency evacuation, all children in our youth programs will be swiftly evacuated to the Q2 building.

Transportation Policy
The YMCA Summer Camp Program organizes weekly educational and recreational field trips. YMCA transportation, operated by a certified driver, will be used for all transportation needs. The following behaviors are prohibited during bus transportation:
1.    Loud voices or yelling
2.    Throwing objects
3.    Standing while the bus is in motion
4.    Any behavior deemed unsafe by the bus driver

Parents will be notified in advance of all field trips and locations. Staff and children will adhere to all safety measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

All campers are required to wear their YMCA Summer Camp T-shirts on field trips. Parents will be notified if an additional field trip occurs during the week.

YMCA Summer Camp: Program and Financial Information

Registration and Fees: The camp registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Detailed information regarding camp registration dates, associated costs, and late fees can be found on our website. All fees must be paid in full at the time of registration. Families requesting financial assistance must ensure that their application is submitted and approved prior to registration to qualify for any applicable discounts.

Cancellations and Refunds: Please be advised that camp fees are non-refundable, and transfers between camp weeks will not be permitted.
 

City County Health Department Childcare Illness Policy:

To ensure the health and safety of all children in our care, the following illness policies are enforced. Children exhibiting any of the symptoms listed below are not permitted to attend the YMCA or off-site locations:

•    Fever of 100°F or higher: Children must be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication before returning.
•    Vomiting and Diarrhea: Children must be free from vomiting and diarrhea for 24 hours before returning. Vomiting is defined as two or more         episodes within a 24-hour period. Diarrhea is characterized by an increased number of stools, increased water content, or a change in stool           consistency that cannot be contained by a diaper or clothing.
•    Bacterial Infections: Children diagnosed with bacterial infections must have received 24 hours of antibiotic treatment before returning.                 These include: 
o    Strep throat
o    Scarlet fever
o    Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
o    Impetigo
o    Skin infections, such as draining wounds or burns
•    Rashes: Any generalized rashes must be evaluated by a healthcare provider before the child can return. A written statement from the                     healthcare provider authorizing 
      the child’s return is required.
•    Chickenpox: Children with chickenpox must remain at home until the sores have dried up, typically within 5-7 days. The child may not return       even with parental consent during the contagious period.
•    Severe Illness Symptoms: Any child exhibiting severe symptoms (e.g., uncontrolled coughing, breathing difficulties, wheezing, stiff neck,             irritability, poor food or fluid intake, or a seizure) must be evaluated by a healthcare provider before returning.
•    Nasal Discharge: Children may not be excluded for a nasal discharge unless it is green and accompanied by a fever. In this case, the child            must be evaluated by healthcare provider and authorized for return.

Response to Illness After Drop-Off: If a child develops symptoms of illness after a parent or guardian has left:
1.    The child will be isolated immediately.
2.    Parents/guardians will be contacted to pick up the child.
3.    If necessary, the YMCA will report cases of suspected communicable diseases (e.g., salmonella, shigella, giardia) to the local health                         department on the same day.

Head Lice: Children with head lice must be completely free of nits and eggs before returning to camp. Multiple treatments and thorough combing may be required to ensure the lice have been eradicated.
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Severe Medical Emergency:
In the event of a severe medical emergency where immediate care is required:
1.    911 will be called immediately.
2.    Parents will be contacted as soon as possible after emergency services have been notified.
3.    If a parent cannot be reached, authorized emergency contacts listed on the Emergency Contact Form will be contacted.
4.    The YMCA staff, in collaboration with paramedics, reserves the right to determine the appropriate transport method to a medical facility.
5.    Families are responsible for any expenses incurred due to medical emergencies or injuries.

Please ensure the YMCA has up-to-date contact information, including emergency contacts, so that we can reach you in case of an emergency. These details should be updated each summer.
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Insurance and Liability: Medical coverage for children is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
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Child Abuse and Neglect: Under Montana State Law, all YMCA staff members are mandated reporters. Any suspected physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or neglect of children must be reported to Child Protective Services.

Safety Education:

•    Who Should Talk to Children About Safety? Parents are the best educators on personal safety. However, YMCA staff will reinforce these             lessons with children during camp activities.
•    When to Start Talking About Safety? It is important to begin teaching personal safety from a young age. Children should be taught the             proper names for their body parts, and as they grow, the information should be adapted to their maturity level.
•    What Else Can Parents Do to Keep Children Safe? 
o    Listen to your child and encourage open communication.
o    Know your child's daily activities and habits.
o    Set boundaries for places they can go, people they can interact with, and things they may do.
o    Reassure your child that their safety is your primary concern.
o    Teach your child to trust their instincts and encourage them to say "no" when necessary.

Appropriate and Inappropriate Physical Contact: The YMCA's policy encourages positive, appropriate physical interactions while prohibiting any form of inappropriate physical contact. Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer status.

•    Appropriate Physical Interactions:
o    Side hugs
o    Shoulder-to-shoulder or “temple” hugs
o    Handshakes, high-fives, and pats on the shoulder or back
•    Inappropriate Physical Interactions:
o    Full-frontal hugs, kisses, sitting on laps
o    Any form of affection that is unwanted by the child or staff member
o    Inappropriate touching (e.g., chest, bottom, or genital areas)

Appropriate and Inappropriate Verbal Interactions: Staff and volunteers must maintain a respectful tone in all communications with children. Any form of verbal abuse, name-calling, inappropriate jokes, or sexual discussions is strictly prohibited.

•    Appropriate Verbal Interactions:
o    Positive reinforcement and praise
o    Encouragement and appropriate jokes
•    Inappropriate Verbal Interactions:
o    Name-calling, derogatory remarks, or shaming
o    Sexual conversations or discussions of personal issues with children
o    Use of profanity or inappropriate jokes
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Bathroom and Locker-Room Supervision: To ensure safety and prevent inappropriate behavior, the following guidelines must be adhered to:

•    Take children to the bathroom in small groups, never alone.
•    Always check the bathroom before allowing children to enter, ensuring no one is hiding.
•    Ensure that no one child is left alone in a bathroom stall. If more than one child is going in, supervise them closely.

Moving Groups of Children: When transitioning groups of children from one location to another, staff should conduct a head count before and after the transition. A staff member should always lead the group, and another should be at the end of the line to ensure all children are accounted for.
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Responding to Disclosures of Abuse: If a child discloses abuse, parents should listen attentively, avoid expressing shock or anger, and reassure the child that they did the right thing by speaking up. The child should be reassured that the abuse was not their fault and that they will be safe. Any disclosures should be documented, and the appropriate authorities should be contacted immediately.

For any concerns related to child abuse or safety, please contact the Youth Development Director or another senior management staff member at the YMCA.

The YMCA is committed to creating a positive environment for all children enrolled in our programs. Every program participant has the right to feel welcomed, safe, and nurtured. To support this goal, the Billings Family YMCA has established a Code of Conduct to guide the actions and behavior of all participants in YMCA school-age programs.

Participants are Expected to:

•    Uphold the YMCA core values of Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, and Caring.
•    Demonstrate respect for others by refraining from initiating or participating in derogatory or inappropriate comments, behaviors, or actions          based on an individual’s sex, race, ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.
•    Adhere to the Billings Family YMCA’s Child Abuse Prevention Policies as outlined in the parent handbook.
•    Comply with all adult requests and redirection from YMCA staff.
•    Remain in the program area within sight and sound supervision at all times.
•    Follow the group plan and cooperate with program activities.
•    Abide by school rules when the program is held on school property.

No Tolerance Policy

We request the support of parents and guardians in maintaining a fun, safe, and respectful environment for both children and YMCA staff. We strive to work with families to prevent negative behaviors but ask that parents talk to their child about avoiding the following behaviors (this list is not exhaustive):

•    Bullying/Harassment of any kind (see specifics below).
•    Actions deemed physically or verbally aggressive towards YMCA staff or other participants, including spitting and the use of foul language.
•    Purposely leaving the program area without permission.
•    Hiding outside the visual and auditory supervision of staff.
•    Damaging YMCA or school property.
•    Engaging in inappropriate exposure.
•    Rough play (e.g., headlocks, tackling) with the intent to harm.
•    Deliberate or repeated throwing of objects in a manner that could cause harm.
•    Creating inappropriate artwork or visual materials.
•    Misuse of YMCA technology (including taking and using YMCA-issued electronics inappropriately).
•    Possession or use of drugs, alcohol, or weapons.

Bullying/Harassment
A person is considered to be bullied when they are repeatedly exposed to negative actions from others, often due to an imbalance of power.

Negative actions may include, but are not limited to:
•    Physical: Hitting, shoving, grabbing, spitting, tripping, inappropriate hand gestures.
•    Verbal: Teasing, name-calling, racial or sexual comments, threatening harm, or taunting.
•    Social: Spreading rumors, excluding others, telling others not to be friends with someone, or embarrassing someone in public.

Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including early dismissal from the program, suspension, or removal from the program. Such actions will be documented in a behavioral report and signed by parents/guardians. The YMCA prioritizes the integrity and quality of its programs, and we will take appropriate steps to maintain both.

Due to the variety of behaviors children may exhibit, the YMCA reserves the right to suspend or expel a child based on concerns for the physical or emotional safety of the child, other children in the program, and staff.

Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct

To foster a positive and healthy atmosphere, this Code of Conduct outlines expectations for parents/guardians. If these conditions are not met, parents may face suspension from YMCA programs.
•    Parents/guardians must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
•    Parents/guardians should refrain from using foul language at any YMCA program location.
•    Parents/guardians must not exhibit derogatory conduct toward YMCA staff, participants, or other parents/guardians.
•    The misuse of drugs or alcohol at any YMCA location is prohibited.
•    Parents/guardians are not permitted to take photographs or videos of other participants or YMCA programs.
•    Parents/guardians must comply with requests from YMCA staff for photo identification.

The YMCA reserves the right to terminate a child’s involvement in the program at any time if necessary.
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HEPA – Healthy Eating and Physical Activity

The Billings Family YMCA is dedicated to promoting healthy eating and physical activity in our Summer Camp program, in alignment with the YMCA’s national commitment to combat childhood obesity and encourage a healthier lifestyle for all participants.

•    Each child will engage in at least 30-60 minutes of physical activity per day, including a mix of moderate and vigorous activities that promote       muscle and bone strengthening.
•    Outdoor play will be prioritized whenever possible.
•    The YMCA Summer Camp program does not allow television access and limits digital device time to under one hour per day. Digital device use is restricted to homework or programs that actively engage children in physical activity.
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Snacks and Food Service Practices

The Billings Family YMCA participates in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), a federally funded program that provides free, healthy meals to children and teens in low-income areas during the summer months when school is not in session. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers this program. Local organizations can participate in this program to ensure that children in the community have access to nutritious meals during the summer.
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USDA Nondiscrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and USDA regulations, the USDA, its agencies, offices, and employees, as well as institutions participating in or administering USDA programs, are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Individuals with disabilities who require alternative communication means (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language) should contact the agency where they applied for benefits. Those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities may contact the USDA via the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (AD-3027), which can be found online at How to File a Complaint. You can also write a letter providing the required information and submit it by:

•    Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
      Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
      1400 Independence Avenue, SW
      Washington, D.C. 20250-9410
•    Fax: (202) 690-7442
•    Email: program.intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
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Introduction

At the YMCA, we believe sports are an opportunity to build character, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of community. This Sportsmanship Code of Conduct applies to all players, coaches, parents, and spectators to ensure a positive, respectful, and fun environment for everyone.
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1. For Players
•    Show respect to teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials.
•    Play fair and follow the rules of the game.
•    Encourage and support your teammates — celebrate successes and stay positive during setbacks.
•    Accept victory with humility and defeat with grace.
•    Avoid unsportsmanlike behavior, including arguing, taunting, or intentional fouls.
•    Stand against bullying — treat everyone with kindness and include others, both on and off the field.
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2. For Coaches
•    Model the values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility.
•    Prioritize the personal and athletic development of all players over winning.
•    Encourage effort and improvement, not just results.
•    Treat referees, players, and other coaches with respect — never argue or criticize publicly.
•    Create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
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3. For Parents & Spectators
•    Cheer for all players — not just your own child.
•    Respect referees, coaches, and players; avoid criticizing or arguing with officials.
•    Focus on the effort and improvement of athletes rather than the score.
•    Support the team’s coach and reinforce positive messages.
•    Remember: Children play sports for fun, learning, and friendships — keep the experience enjoyable.
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4. Consequences & Accountability
Failure to follow the Sportsmanship Code of Conduct may result in:
•    A verbal warning from the YMCA staff.
•    Temporary removal from the game or event.
•    Suspension from future games or events.
•    Permanent dismissal from the program (for severe or repeated violations).
All decisions regarding consequences will be made by YMCA staff in alignment with the values of fairness and respect.
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5. Core Values
Our sports programs are guided by the YMCA’s core values:
•    Honesty — Be truthful and fair.
•    Caring — Show compassion and support for others.
•    Respect — Treat everyone with dignity.
•    Responsibility — Be accountable for your actions.
By participating in YMCA sports, all players, coaches, parents, and spectators agree to uphold this Sportsmanship Code of Conduct.

Let’s work together to create an encouraging, respectful, and fun sports experience for all!