Saginaw Youth Association Discipline Policy

Saginaw Youth Association Discipline Policy
(Aligned with Northwest Texas Youth Football Association Guidelines)

The Saginaw Youth Association (SYA) follows the discipline policy set forth by the Northwest Texas Youth Football Association (NWTYFA) to ensure a safe, respectful, and positive environment for players, parents, volunteers, and spectators.

Purpose and Policy:
All SYA participants—including players, volunteers (badged and non-badged), parents, and spectators—are expected to display the highest level of respect and sportsmanship at all events. Disruptive or inappropriate behaviors will be addressed based on their severity, with consequences determined by the NWTYFA Executive Board of Directors. SYA reserves the right to immediately dismiss anyone whose actions are criminal in nature or compromise the safety of others.

Code of Conduct:

  • Respectful Behavior: All participants are expected to maintain respectful behavior at all times.
  • Level 1 – Minor Incident: Includes rude or offensive remarks, shouting, vulgar language, unsportsmanlike conduct, or taunting others (e.g., coaches, referees, players).
  • Level 2 – Major Incident: Includes physical assault, threats, derogatory remarks targeting individuals based on age, race, gender, or other protected categories, and unethical actions such as bribery.

Disciplinary Actions:

  1. For Players:

    • Level 1 - Minor Incident: Ejection results in suspension from the next week’s practice. If a player is ejected in the first half, they can return in the second half of the next game; if ejected in the second half, they are suspended for the full next game.
    • Level 2 - Major Incident: Physical violence, such as fighting, results in an automatic one-week suspension and a ban from practice. Repeated incidents or criminal behavior may lead to immediate dismissal from the league.

  2. For Badged Individuals (Coaches, Officials):

    • Level 1 - Minor Incident: A first ejection results in a 2-game suspension and a $100 fine. A second ejection in the same season leads to suspension for the rest of the season, including playoffs, and a $100 fine.
    • Level 2 - Major Incident: Acts of physical violence or other severe misconduct will result in the individual being immediately dismissed from all NWTYFA events. Local authorities may be notified if necessary.

  3. For Parents, Spectators, and Guests:

    • Level 1 - Minor Incident:
      • 1st Ejection: Suspension for 2 games, including practices.
      • 2nd Ejection (same season): Suspension for the remainder of the season, including playoffs.
    • Level 2 - Major Incident: Immediate dismissal from all SYA events, with the duration determined by the NWTYFA Executive Board. If the behavior is criminal in nature, the player may also be dismissed from the program.

Ejection Procedures:

  • If ejected, individuals must leave the field immediately and remain outside the venue.
  • If the ejected individual is a parent of a minor, they will be escorted by the Director on Duty to arrange for another responsible adult to supervise their child. If no responsible adult is available, the child must leave with the ejected individual.
  • Disruptive behavior will result in the involvement of local authorities.

Reporting:
It is the responsibility of the Director on Duty, SYA representative, or board member to report any Level 2 incidents promptly to a NWTYFA officer, including the individual’s name, the details of the incident, and the actions taken.

Conclusion:
By adhering to these guidelines, SYA aims to ensure that all participants have a safe and respectful experience. We appreciate your cooperation in fostering a positive environment for youth sports.