rule (rool) n. [ < L. regere, to rule]

1. an established regulation or guide for conduct, procedure, usage, play, etc.
2. custom
3. the customary course

Santa Ynez Valley Girls Softball Association - Local Rules

T-Ball Rules

Rookie Rules

Division 1 Rules

Division 2 Rules

Players' Code of Ethics

I herby pledge to be positive about my youth sports experience and accept responsibility for my participation by following the Players' Code of Ethics:
I will attend every practice and game that I can, and will notify my coach if I cannot.
I will do my very best to listen and learn from my coaches.
I will show good sportsmanship  before, during, and after games and practices.
I will treat all coaches, players, officials, and parents with courtesy and respect.
I will treat equipment and playing fields with care and respect.
I deserve to have fun during my sports experiences and will alert parents or coaches if it stops being fun.
I will  encourage my parents to be involved with my team in some capacity because it is important to me.
I will do my very best in school.
I will remember that sports are an opportunity to learn and HAVE FUN!

Coaches' Code of Ethics and Conduct

Commitment to the Girls

• Coaches shall put the safety and welfare of their athletes above all else.

• Coaches shall ensure that the activity being undertaken is suitable for the age, experience, ability, and fitness level of the athletes with whom they work.

• Coaches shall know and abide by the laws of the game and teach them to their athletes.

• All practices and games shall be conducted within the letter and intent of the rules of A.S.A. and the SYVGSA.

• Coaches shall encourage the athlete to exhibit good sportsmanship at all times. 

• Coaches shall help maintain a climate of enjoyment among spectators by discouraging negative remarks and/or harassment of players, umpires, and other teams or spectators.

• Coaches shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national or ethnic origin, or qualified handicapped or disabled persons. 

• Coaches shall follow the organization and national governing body rules and state and local laws regarding drug, alcohol and tobacco use.  Tobacco, drugs, and alcohol are prohibited at all SYVGSA events.

• Coaches shall support talented and non-talented players with equal vigor.

• Coaches shall direct comments or criticisms at the performance rather than the athlete.

Commitment to the Umpires

• All game umpires shall be treated in a professional and respectable manner at all times.

• Any displeasure with an umpire's actions or conduct shall be addressed through the proper channels and not through public opinion or demonstration.

• All coaches shall strive to develop positive working relations with the umpires

Commitment to Other Coaches

• A coach has an obligation to be honest and forthright with other coaches in the program.

• Coaches shall treat their colleagues with dignity and respect.

• Coaches shall not use profanity.

• Coaches shall refrain from making derogatory remarks about others.

Commitment to SYVGSA

• Coaches shall behave in a way that they shall bring credit to the program and to themselves.

• Coaches shall exhibit professionalism in their actions, words, and attire.

• Coaches shall act in full accordance with the program, national governing body, and sanctioning body rules.

• Coaches shall report any violations of law, any violation of program rules or the appearance of coach misconduct to the SYVGSA Board of Directors.