LEAGUE REMINDER: SPORTSMANSHIP, ETIQUETTE & GENERAL CONDUCT

As we head into a new session, we want to take a moment to remind all teams, players and captains alike, about a few key expectations that help ensure our league remains competitive, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

📘 Know the Rules

All captains and team members are expected to be familiar with or know how to locate:

• The OfficialTeam Manual
• Local Bylaws
• Rule of the Week

These resources are available through Member Services via the app or online. Awareness of the rules is each team’s responsibility.

🤝 Respect is Key

Respect is not optional, it’s essential:

• Respect host locations: We're guests. Treat the venue, its staff, and other patrons respectfully.
• Respect your opponents: You don’t have to be best friends, but basic respect, win or lose, goes a long way.
• Respect non-league players: They share the space and deserve a positive impression of our league.

⏱️ Scheduling & Team Coordination

Occasionally, things happen, players run late, a double post is needed, or a makeup match must be scheduled. If your team needs help or flexibility:

• Be respectful and make the request, but understand if the opposing team chooses to stick to the rules.
• Teams should take ownership of their own challenges, whether that’s a missing player, lack of knowledge, or a roster issue. It's neither fair nor productive to hold the other team responsible, given that the current situation is largely a result of our own team's actions. 
• When responding to a request, consider: "What if the roles were reversed?" Compassion and fairness should always be part of the conversation.

🧠 General Etiquette Reminders

• Keep the atmosphere positive and focused on good sportsmanship.
• Teams should be patient with new players, remember what it was like when you first joined and were learning the ropes.
• Avoid loud, aggressive, or disruptive behavior.
• If there’s a rules dispute, follow the proper process calmly and professionally.
• DO NOT CHEER when your opponent experiences a loss or an unfortunate outcome, such as scratching on the 8-ball or committing a ball-in-hand foul.
• Captains set the tone. Lead by example.

Let’s remember that we’re here to enjoy the game, grow as players, and represent our teams respectively. What makes a league great isn’t just about winning, it’s about how we interact.

Thanks for continuing to make the league a place where everyone can compete and have fun.

Please review the following links:

Official Team Manual (OTM) Page 68 "Conduct During League Play" 

SDAPA Bylaws Section on Sportsmanship and Etiquette