To All Rep Coaches, Players, Spectators and Supporters:

Watching or participating in the sport of lacrosse can be a wonderful thing that can provide all of us with many cherished memories that will last for many, many years. However, our game, especially in a competitive environment has become vulnerable to incidents that not only do a disservice to the sport but often provide a source of embarrassment for participants and players alike. Unfortunately, this too can have long-lasting negative effects that go beyond those directly involved.

To assist in maintaining the sport’s integrity and dignity, the GSLA has put in place a Code of Conduct similar to that of the Ontario Lacrosse Association. This Code applies to all who are associated with our lacrosse community. It is important that we all conduct ourselves accordingly.  Individuals who fail to do so can be prohibited from participating – in any capacity including spectator. This applies to house league and rep situations.

We have now reached the point of our season where our rep teams are beginning to form and take those exciting steps towards playing against other lacrosse communities. As such, our players, coaches and lacrosse families become representatives for our local game and ambassadors for our city. As a lacrosse community, we have a shared responsibility to each other to guard against any negative behavior towards any player, team, spectator, official or other participant regardless of where they come from or who they are. Incidents that contravene the Code of Conduct will be investigated by the GSLA executive and dealt with according to our Constitution, by-laws, policies and/or codes. No amount retaliation, taunting, unsportsmanlike or other negative behavior is acceptable. This is especially important where abuse or negative conduct towards a referee is involved. While we cannot govern the behavior of those from outside our membership, we can all share the responsibility to protect our own image. At times this may mean taking some initiative reminding those that get too caught up in the game to take a deep breath and relax. Or alternatively, accepting the advice of others to take that deep breath ourselves and cool down.

Lacrosse is a game that exists for the enjoyment of all. Keep it fun and preserve the dignity of the game. Today’s players and officials will benefit from the positive environment we create. Cheer and celebrate the high points of their efforts, leave those “less than stellar” moments to go unnoticed. There is no benefit to highlighting our own disappointment or other people’s errors. The values we set for our game transcend beyond the floor or arena. Our young players and officials are the future players, teachers and administrators of our sport. Many of us are their role models. They deserve our best efforts to see that their memories provide many happy thoughts that they can share with their children when have their turn to play.

Enjoy the game and have fun. These years go by all too fast, but the memories will last a lifetime. Help make it someone else’s memories as enjoyable as your own.

Go Rockhounds!