Darien Youth lacrosse, Inc. (DYL) and the Connecticut-New York Youth Lacrosse Association (CONNY) abide by a strict Code of Conduct governing all coaches, players, officials and parents. The purpose of the Code is to ensure that all of those people associated with lacrosse in Darien and in Ct. treat each other with dignity and respect.

The Code of Conduct is a condition of membership for all players, parents, coaches and officials. All members of DYL agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and to be subjected to the consequences of violating the Code. It is understood that by enrolling into the DYL program that players, parents and coaches are all bound by this Code of Conduct and its validity is hereby a matter of record and is not dependant upon physical signature.

All enforcement decisions made by the officials of DYL are final and are not subject to review. No refunds will be granted to those players dismissed from the club for violating the Code of Conduct.
 

1. Teach and practice good sportsmanship at all games and practices. You are role models!
2. Know the rules of the game of lacrosse.
3. Respect the game of lacrosse. Respect the officials. Respect the coaches, who are volunteers.
4. Do not coach your child. Let players play and coaches coach, and support both positively.
5. Do not EVER criticize other players irregardless of the circumstance.
6. Follow the "24 Hour Rule"; if you have a complaint resulting from a game (or practice) situation, speak with the coach on the following day.
7. If there is a serious problem, notify either the President or a Vice-President of DYL.
8. Emphasize the FUN of the game and the team, putting forth effort at all times, not wins and losses.

Players-

1. Respect your teammates, coaches, referees and opponents at all times.
2. Give 100% effort at each practice and game.
3. Know the rules of the game of lacrosse and abide by them.
4. Support and encourage your teammates. Set a positive example.
5. Wear the required equipment at all games and practices, and keep your equipment well maintained.
6. Display good sportsmanship at all times on and off the field.
7. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; that's part of learning.
8. Learn from your coaches; practice hard; play smart; Have Fun!
9. Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

Coaches-

1. A coach is a role model, who must act with the highest moral character possible.
2. Coaches must reinforce the self image of each player. A coach must be positive and constructive.
3. Respect the game of lacrosse. Respect the officials.
4. Teach the rules of lacrosse. Abide by those rules in practices and games.
5. Establish objectives for the team and players and inform them of team and individual goals.
6. Teach and practice good sportsmanship at all games and practices.
7. Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

All-

1. Any conduct, including abusive language and/ or gestures, racially insensitive remarks, damage to property or belongings, or any other conduct that reflects poorly on yourself or DYL is deemed to be unacceptable and will not be tolerated. This rule applies to all players, parents, siblings and guests at all times when in or around games or practices as a member of DYL.
2. During a tournament or game when you are away, you represent the Town of Darien and DYL. Any conduct such as shoplifting, destruction of property, consumption of drugs or alcohol, or any other activity will not be tolerated. This rule applies for the entire time one is away for a game or tournament.
3. The Board of Directors of DYL will deal with unacceptable conduct at its sole discretion, imposing warnings, suspension or expulsion, as it deems appropriate. ANY SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION BASED ON VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT WILL NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY A TUITION REFUND.
    

   * Travel Commitment – All players selected for A and B travel teams must agree to make lacrosse their priority sport for the entire course of the season.  Given the number of highly qualified players we have at each grade level, it is not fair to have roster spots go to players who are less than 100% committed to lacrosse in the spring.  We expect and encourage all of our athletes to play other sports during the rest of the year, as it both increases athletic development and, more importantly, adds to players’ enthusiasm for all of the sports they play.  But we do ask that during our relatively short season that where there are conflicts, you choose lacrosse over other sporting events.  If you are not prepared to make lacrosse your priority, we offer house (5^th and 6th) and our Senior 7/8 team where players can develop their skills and have fun but where there is more flexibility regarding attendance. 
   
   
   * Communication – In order to encourage players to develop as young men, players should communicate directly with their coaches, and by the travel level this is a requirement.  This includes concerns or questions regarding playing time, positions, team placement and suggestions for improvement/feedback.  An exception is for health issues such as allergies, asthma, ADD/ADHD, diabetes, etc., which parents should communicate directly with coaches if they feel the need.  All health issues will be kept strictly confidential.  If parents have issues with a coach, they should discuss those with the boys’ house or travel coordinator, after observing the 24 hour waiting period.  Please remember that all of our coaches are volunteers, and, in the case of our travel coaches, they do not have children on the teams they are coaching.  Please respect their time and dedication to creating a fun, learning experience for all of our players.