1. Purpose and Philosophy
Participation in Edgewood Girls Basketball is a privilege that comes with shared responsibilities. Our program is built on respect, accountability, teamwork, and care for one another.
The coaches are committed to creating a positive, safe, and healthy environment where every player can grow as both an athlete and a person. These guidelines are designed to protect the well-being of all players and ensure that everyone associated with the program feels supported, respected, and valued.
2. Conduct and Team Expectations
Respect and Positive Attitude
- Represent Edgewood Girls Basketball, your teammates, and your school with pride and integrity at all times.
- Show respect for coaches, teammates, officials, opponents, and facilities.
- Negative behavior—including backtalk, arguing, eye-rolling, or dismissive attitudes—undermines the team and will not be tolerated.
- When a coach determines an issue or discussion is resolved, players are expected to accept the outcome respectfully and move forward.
- Maintain a team-first mindset, supporting one another through effort, encouragement, and sportsmanship.
Effort and Accountability
- Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to participate in all team activities.
- Give full attention and effort throughout practices, meetings, and games.
- Practice with purpose, and execute with energy. Low effort in practices leads to low effort in games.
- Coaches’ judgment on effort is the rule during practices and games. The proper response to feedback given on effort is to simply adjust the level of effort given.
- When coach is speaking, no one else is. Balls and other equipment are to remain silent and still.
- If you are unable to give full effort due to pain, illness, or injury, communicate with a coach immediately so expectations can be adjusted appropriately.
- Follow all instructions promptly, especially when related to safety or facility procedures.
- Help keep the gym and facilities clean by picking up trash, putting away equipment, and assisting with any cleanup tasks as needed.
Communication and Professionalism
- Open, honest communication builds trust. Notify coaches in advance of any planned absences or conflicts.
- If you have concerns or need to discuss something personal, let a coach know. A confidential, observed meeting will be arranged.
- A player and coach should never be alone together in an unobservable setting.
3. Safety and Well-Being
The safety and well-being of every athlete is our top priority.
- Report any pain, injury, or concerning symptoms immediately. Sitting out a few reps today can prevent a much longer setback later.
- Use proper form, equipment, and caution in all environments, including the gym, weight room, and locker area.
- Horseplay, roughhousing, or unsafe behavior will not be tolerated.
- Players must maintain personal hygiene and respect shared spaces by keeping belongings organized and the facility clean.
4. Cell Phone Policy
To maintain focus and respect, cell phones are not permitted during:
- Practices
- Team meetings
- Games
- Team events
Phones may only be used for emergencies or with explicit permission from a coach. Players should never have phones out on the bench, sideline, or in the locker room unless instructed by staff.
5. Appearance and Equipment
- All jewelry (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, piercings) must be removed before practices and games, per FHSAA/NFHS safety rules.
- Wear proper basketball gear—uniforms, practice attire, and footwear—as directed by coaches.
- For games, accessory items (sleeves, undershirts, headbands, etc.) must match uniform colors in accordance with FHSAA/NFHS guidelines.
- Tie-on headbands are not permitted.
- Maintain a clean, professional appearance that reflects pride in representing Edgewood.
6. Sportsmanship
Good sportsmanship is the foundation of everything we do. Players are expected to uphold the highest standards of behavior, humility, and respect—both in victory and defeat.
Expectations of Sportsmanship
- Always respect officials’ decisions. Do not question, argue, or show frustration with referees, even when calls feel unfair.
- Treat opponents as competitors, not enemies. Acknowledge good plays, and let your effort and discipline speak for itself.
- Demonstrate grace in victory and composure in defeat. The way you respond reflects not just on you, but on the entire program.
- Support teammates positively at all times—lift others up rather than criticize.
- No excessive celebration, taunting, or gestures meant to show up an opponent will be tolerated.
- Players should not engage with spectators, including family members, fans, or opposing supporters, during games or team events unless approved by a coach.
- Always represent Edgewood Girls Basketball with pride, humility, and professionalism, remembering that your actions reflect the program and the school.
The goal is to compete with intensity while maintaining the respect and integrity that define true athletes.
7. Corrective Procedures
Edgewood Girls Basketball emphasizes accountability, growth, and respect. Discipline exists to guide athletes—not to punish—but to help them learn from mistakes and become better teammates and individuals.
Each situation will be evaluated individually, but the following progression is typical:
- Verbal Warning and Discussion – The coach addresses the issue directly with the athlete to clarify expectations and offer an opportunity for correction.
- Consequences or Loss of Privileges – May include running, temporary removal from activities, or other actions deemed appropriate.
- Reduction in Playing Time or Suspension – Continued or serious violations may lead to loss of playing time or temporary suspension.
- Parent/Coach Conference – If issues persist, a meeting will be scheduled with the athlete, parent/guardian, and coaching staff.
- Removal from the Program – Severe or repeated violations of conduct or safety standards may result in dismissal.
All decisions are made with the best interests of the athlete, the team, and the program in mind. Players who take responsibility, correct their behavior, and demonstrate renewed commitment will always have the opportunity to rebuild trust and contribute positively to the team.
The Edgewood Girls Basketball coaching staff cares deeply about every athlete’s experience and development. Our shared goal is to help each player reach her full potential while maintaining a safe, respectful, and uplifting team environment.