The JPS Code of Conduct(s) are found below...

(updated 6/17/2025)

 

JPS Code of Conduct for all Coaches (scroll to view)

JPS Code of Conduct for all Players (scroll to view)

JPS Code of Conduct for all Parents & Guardians of Players (scroll to view)

JPS Code of Conduct for all Spectators, Participants, and Attendees (scroll to view)

 

JPS Code of Conduct for Coaches

As a coach, I understand the responsibility I hold and the significant influence my actions have on the youth athletes I coach. I pledge to uphold the highest standards of conduct and professionalism by adhering to the following Coaches Code of Conduct:

 

Commitment to Conduct and Respect (for JPS Coaches)

1. I will conduct myself in accordance with this Code of Conduct at all times, understanding that failure to do so will result in consequences.

2. I will treat all athletes, opposing coaches, parents, and officials with respect and dignity, regardless of Disability, Race, Creed, Color, Sex, sexual orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Marital Status, National Origin, or Ancestry.

3. I will not use abusive or profane language at anyone involved in program activities, including players, officials, coaches, parents, or spectators.

 

Standards of Behavior (for JPS Coaches)

As a coach with Just Play Sports, I understand that the following actions are expected of me to maintain a positive and safe environment:

 

1. I will not use or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at any league event, nor will I coach, officiate, or participate while impaired.

2. I will not encourage or participate in physical or verbal altercations, including initiating fights or arguments with any coach, parent, player, participant, official, or attendee.

3. I will not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or verbal/physical threats or abuse directed at any participant, including coach, parent, player, official, or attendee.

4. I will not encourage or allow behavior that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of any participant, official, or attendee.

5. I will aim to prevent and take action if parents, guardians, or spectators representing my team verbally assault or intimidate participants at any time before, during, or after games.

6. Coaches and staff members will maintain professional relationships at all times, ensuring interactions remain appropriate, respectful, and within the context of sport, focused on fostering a safe and supportive environment. This includes in- person, virtual, and social media interactions.

 

Prohibited Conduct (for JPS Coaches)

The following Prohibited Conduct outlines unacceptable actions while engaging with Just Play Sports. All references to prohibited conduct are defined by Colorado law or Just Play Sports.

 

 Prohibited Conduct Policy (for JPS Coaches):

1. Child Abuse: Including physical, emotional, sexual, medical abuse, or neglect.

2. Substance Provision: Offering or providing players alcohol, tobacco (including vaping), or illegal drugs. Parents/guardians' approval is required and advice from medical professionals is recommended before consuming or incorporating any over-the-counter or supplements including weight loss/dietary supplements.

3. Profane or Abusive Behavior: Any verbal, visual, physical, or virtual behavior involving profanity or abuse that impacts minor athletes.

4. Unlawful Behavior: Breaking any Federal, State, or Local laws.

5. Misconduct: Emotional and physical misconduct, including stalking, bullying, hazing (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-9-124), and harassment.

6. Reporting Failures: Failing to report child abuse or neglect as required by law.

7. Retaliation: Retaliating against individuals for disclosing or making a report of child abuse or for participating in the resolution of such a report is strictly prohibited and will result in serious disciplinary action.

8. Aiding and Abetting: Supporting or enabling prohibited behaviors.

9. Sexual Misconduct:

● Sexual assault or unlawful sexual contact.

● Displaying, providing, or exchanging sexually explicit or pornographic material with players.

● Engaging in massages, intimate physical contact, or romantic relationships with minor athletes.

● Holding uninterruptible or unobservable coaching sessions or meetings. Best practices include ensuring another adult, coach, parent, guardian, or trusted mandatory reporter is present.

 

Preparation and Fair Play (for JPS Coaches)

1. I will be prepared for all practices and games and will focus on teaching fundamental skills to ensure all athletes have an opportunity to improve through active participation.

2. I will uphold the authority of officials and assist them in conducting a fair and impartial contest.

3. I will comply with all league rules and regulations and will promptly report any suspected violations.

 

Transportation Guidelines (for JPS Coaches)

  • Coaches should only transport players when transportation is sanctioned by the organization (e.g., provided by the program), and such transportation should include more than one player or an additional adult to ensure accountability and maintain a safe environment for all participants.
  • Considerations for valid licenses, insurance, liability, and accountability should be made for all transportation.
  • Carpooling or rides by parents/guardians outside of organizational oversight are not included but should be encouraged to be held to the same standards of safety.

 

Mandatory Reporting (for JPS Coaches)

As a mandatory reporter under Colorado law, Senate Bill 24-113 (SB24-113), and other applicable statutes, including Section 19-3-304 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.), mandatory reporters are legally obligated to report any suspected or known instances of child abuse or neglect.

Reports must be made when there is reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect or has been observed in circumstances that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect.

In emergencies, I will call 911. For non-emergencies, I will contact 844-CO-4-KIDS.

I understand that good-faith reporting provides immunity from liability, civil or criminal, or termination of employment unless it is determined that the report was made recklessly or misreporting requirement changes, highlighting the disproportional reporting rates for minority communities. 

Stay informed about updates or additions to the mandated reporter laws as appropriate under 19-3- 304 (C.R.S.)

 

Compliance and Accountability (for JPS Coaches)

I will complete all required certifications and training as mandated by my club and the league, including:

  • Mandatory Reporter Training
  • Concussion Training

I understand that if I fail to abide by this Code of Conduct, I may face disciplinary actions, including but not limited to:

  • Verbal warning from an official, head coach, club, or league.
  • Written warning from my club or league.
  • Suspension or ejection from a game by an official, club, or league.
  • Game forfeiture as determined by an official or coach.
  • Suspension from coaching in the league / tournament / event, with reinstatement subject to current league / tournament / event and club rules.

 

Documentation of Incidents (for JPS Coaches)

I acknowledge that any incidents related to my conduct will be documented and kept on file by the appropriate organizations for accountability purposes.

By participating in a JPS league, tournament, and/or event, I agree to adhere to this Coaches Code of Conduct and understand my role in promoting a positive and safe environment for all participants.

 

JPS Code of Conduct for Parent(s)/Caregiver(s)/Guardian(s)

Youth sports exist for the development and enjoyment of young athletes. As a parent, caregiver,  or guardian, your words and actions significantly impact the experience of all participants, including players, coaches, officials, and fellow spectators. To foster a positive and respectful environment, all parents and guardians agree to uphold the following Code of Conduct:

 

Commitment to Respect and Positive Behavior (for Parents, Caregivers, & Guardians)

As a parent or guardian of a participant in Just Play Sports, I commit to:

  • Encouraging my child to respect coaches, teammates, officials, opponents, and spectators.
  • Promoting sportsmanship and teamwork, emphasizing effort and enjoyment over winning.
  • Refraining from using foul language, inappropriate gestures, or disrespectful behavior at any program event or facility.
  • It is important to recognize that coaches dedicate significant time and effort to the players and show appreciation for their work.
  • Communicating any concerns constructively with coaches at an appropriate time and place (e.g., following a 24-hour cooldown period after a game or event).
  • Any adult who observes or suspects child abuse is encouraged to report it to 1-844-CO-4-Kids or 911. Coaches as Mandatory Reporters are required to. If you see something, please say something and feel empowered to intervene and keep children safe. This includes actions that are physical, emotional, sexual, and neglectful abuse. You do not need eyewitness evidence to report.

 

Game Day and Practice Conduct (for Parents, Caregivers, & Guardians)

To ensure a positive experience for all participants, I will:

  • Applaud effort, sportsmanship, and skill.
  • Remain at least two yards (6 feet) from the playing field / court to allow players room to compete safely.
  • Never coach from the sidelines or interfere with the coach’s instructions.
  • Respect officials and their decisions, avoiding arguments, criticism, or confrontational behavior.
  • Ensure that my child arrives prepared to participate in practices and games on time.
  • Refrain from engaging in physical or verbal altercations with anyone at program events.

 

Prohibited Conduct (for Parents, Caregivers, & Guardians)

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action:

Use of abusive, profane, or inappropriate language at any event organized by, in support of, or affiliated with JPS, including but not limited to practices, games, tournaments, team meetings, fundraising events, banquets, or any other official gathering. This also applies to behavior within any JPS or partner facility.

  • Engaging in or encouraging unsportsmanlike behavior, including taunting, intimidation, or harassment.
  • Consuming or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at any program-related event or facility.
  • Providing or offering illegal substances, including alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine (including vaping), to any athlete at any program event or facility.
  • An athlete may not be given over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, or supplements without prior parental/guardian consent.
  • Engaging in any actions that could jeopardize the safety or well-being of a child or any other participant.

 

Compliance and Accountability I acknowledge that (for Parents, Caregivers, & Guardians):

  • Any parent or spectator who fails to adhere to this Code of Conduct may be required to leave the event, and play may be suspended until compliance is restored.
  • JPS reserves the right to suspend or remove any player whose parent or guardian engages in persistent or extreme misconduct. No refunds will be issued in such cases.
  • Parents and guardians are responsible for the conduct of guests they bring to events and must ensure that guests understand and follow these expectations.

 

By allowing my child to participate in a JPS league, tournament, and/or event, I agree to abide by this Parent Code of Conduct and ensure a positive, safe, and respectful environment for all participants in JPS.

 

JPS Code of Conduct for Players

As an athlete participating in Just Play Sports events, I understand that my actions reflect on myself, my team, and my organization. I commit to upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship, respect, and effort by adhering to the following Player Code of Conduct:

 

Commitment to Respect and Sportsmanship (for Players)

As a player, I will:

  • Treat teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials with respect.
  • Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and good sportsmanship, whether winning or losing.
  • Follow all team, league, and program rules, including safety-related rules.
  • Take responsibility for my behavior, on and off the field.
  • Tell an adult, coach, professional, or Safe2Tell for the safety of myself and others if I am aware of any person, player, coach, or adult breaking the code of conduct, laws, or rules.
  • Call 911 or contact law enforcement if you or another child is in danger. You can notify 1-844-CO-4-Kids

 

Practice and Game Expectations (for Players)

To ensure a positive and competitive experience, I will:

  • Attend all practices and games on time and be prepared to participate.
  • Give my best effort at all times and focus on improving my skills.
  • Listen to my coaches' instructions and follow their guidance.
  • Support my teammates with positive encouragement.
  • Accept officials' decisions without arguing or showing unsportsmanlike behavior.

 

Prohibited Conduct (for Players)

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action:

  • Using abusive, profane, or inappropriate language at any JPS event, including practices, games, and team functions.
  • Providing or offering alcohol, illegal substances, nicotine (including vaping), medications, or supplements to any athlete at any program event or facility. Drugs or supplements may not be taken without prior parent/guardian consent.
  • Engaging in taunting, intimidation, bullying, hazing (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-9-124), or harassment of other players, coaches, or officials.
  • Cheating, intentionally harming others, or engaging in dangerous play.
  • Engaging in fights, arguments, or disrespectful behavior toward any participant.

 

Compliance and Accountability (for Players)

I understand that if I fail to abide by this Code of Conduct, I may face disciplinary actions, including but not limited to:

  • Verbal warning from a coach or official.
  • Loss of playing time.
  • Suspension from practices or games.
  • Removal from the team, tournament, event, or league for severe or repeated violations.

By participating in a JPS event, tournament, or league, I agree to abide by this Player Code of Conduct and represent JPS (Just Play Sports) with respect, sportsmanship, and integrity.

 

JPS Code of Conduct for Spectators, Participants, and Attendees

Spectators play a vital role in creating a positive, supportive, and respectful environment for all athletes, coaches, and officials. As a spectator at JPS (Just Play Sports) event(s), I agree to uphold the following standards:

 

Commitment to Respect and Positive Behavior (for Spectators)

As a spectator, I will:

  • Encourage and support all athletes, regardless of team affiliation.
  • Promote sportsmanship and respect for coaches, officials, players, and fellow spectators.
  • Applaud effort, improvement, and fair play.
  • Allow coaches to coach and officials to officiate without interference.
  • Address any concerns privately and appropriately, following a 24-hour cooldown period if needed.
  • Any adult who observes or suspects child abuse is encouraged to report it to 1-844-CO-4-Kids or 911. If you see something, please say something and feel empowered to intervene and keep children safe. This includes actions that are physical, emotional, sexual, and neglectful abuse. You do not need eyewitness evidence to report.

 

Game Day and Event Conduct (for Spectators)

To ensure a positive experience for all participants, I will:

  • Remain at least two yards (6 feet) from the playing field / court or designated competition area.
  • Refrain from coaching from the sidelines or distracting players during games.
  • Respect officials' decisions and avoid arguments, criticism, or disruptive behavior.
  • Follow all venue rules and safety guidelines set by JPS (Just Play Sports).
  • Avoid physical or verbal altercations with anyone at program events.

 

Prohibited Conduct (for Spectators)

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and may result in removal from the event:

  • Using abusive, profane, or inappropriate language at any event, including practices, games, tournaments, team meetings, or fundraisers.
  • Providing or offering illegal substances, including alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine (including vaping) to any athlete at any program event or facility.
  • An athlete may not be given over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, or supplements without prior parental/guardian consent.
  • Taunting, intimidating, or harassing players, officials, coaches, or other spectators.
  • Consuming or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at any program event.
  • Engaging in behavior that jeopardizes the safety or well-being of an athlete or any other participant.

 

Compliance and Accountability (for Spectators)

I acknowledge that:

  • Any spectator who fails to adhere to this Code of Conduct may be required to leave the event, with play suspended until compliance is restored.
  • Repeated or extreme violations may result in bans from future events.

 

By attending a JPS event, I agree to abide by this Spectator Code of Conduct and contribute to a respectful, safe, and positive environment for all.