5 Ways to Curb Unsportsmanlike Behavior in Lacrosse

This article appears in the April edition of USA Lacrosse Magazine. Join our momentum.

While addressing unsportsmanlike conduct is important, it’s better to be preemptive. Here are five ways leagues and teams can head it off at the pass.

Create a code of conduct. Outline expected behaviors and ethical standards to be signed by a parent or legal guardian of every player. Establish clear procedures for reporting sportsmanship violations and other non-criminal misconduct. Include a zero-tolerance policy identifying specific acts that are grounds for immediate suspension or removal from the program. USA Lacrosse offers a template on our website.

Card offenders. Synapse Sports first developed the purple card that the IWLCA has since adopted at its events. USA Lacrosse has the sportsmanship card. It’s a preemptive tool used to address unsportsmanlike behavior. It can be assessed to anyone — including spectators — who violates the code of conduct. This verbal and visual warning can be very effective.

Recruit sideline managers. It can be a volunteer or paid position. USA Lacrosse offers a sample job description for the individual who monitors off-field activity to ensure it’s consistent with the code of conduct. Consider paid security detail, like off-duty police and school resource officers, for higher-profile events.

Incentivize positive behavior. Add sportsmanship honors to your post-game (e.g., WSLA’s Honor the Game) and postseason awards. Promote recipients on your web and social media channels much as you would a league or tournament champion.

Nail the preamble. Set the tone with a proper pregame address. USA Lacrosse offers a customizable script reinforcing what will and will not be tolerated according to the code of conduct. Some leagues use signage at playing fields. In Burns, Ore., teams exchange wampum belts before the game to remind them of the sport’s Native American heritage and each participant bears to uphold certain standards and values.