WESA Conduct Expectations
Contents:
- Background
- Statement from the Member Working Group
- Disputes and Restoring a Friendly Atmosphere
- WESA Member Commitment
- WESA Team Management Committment
- WESA Conduct Expectations (Code of Conduct)
Background
In November 2022 and again in November 2023, the WESA Coaches’ Retreats saw our Coach Squad members come together to discuss our league’s values and goals. The two dominating themes that came out of those discussions were:
A) improving how we communicate with each other, and
B) improving how we establish and share our expectations of one another.
The 2024 Members Working Group, made up of a cross-section of WESA Membership, were asked to take the feedback from the Coaches’ Retreat, along with notes from a 2023 Rookie Advisory Group, and submissions from other enthusiastic members, and make recommendations to the Commission on updates to our rules and procedures. The 2024 WESA Commission gratefully accepted these recommendations.
WESA 2024 Members Working Group Statement:
We have been tasked with putting forward recommendations to the WESA Commission on how to maximize both the engagement of members and the welcoming and inclusive environment that WESA strives to create.
We started with the work done by the WESA Coaches at the annual retreat and the input from enthusiastic members.
Our efforts have been focused on updating the League Etiquette standards by suggesting policy format and content for a WESA Code of Conduct and Agreements for players and coaches to be acknowledged each season.
By focusing on the promotion of clear communication between the league, coaches, and members, as well as clarifying the expectations we have of each other, we believe that the adoption of the ideas we have put forth will set WESA on a positive course for the future.
WESA 2024 Member Working Group: Colin B., Emily D., Sean N., Drew R., Ian G., Justin M., Seán C.
Note from the Commission – While the wording of these expectations has been updated since, the core values and messaging from the working group remains.
Acknowledgements:
Many thanks are due to those who have worked tirelessly to bring these values of clear communication and transparent expectations to the forefront. Thank you to our sister organization, Out for Kicks, for inspiring us with some well thought out wording from their Discipline Policy.
Disputes and Restoring a Friendly Atmosphere
Friendly Competition
Friendliness is more than just a goal—it’s a standard we hold across all aspects of our league. From our 2005 constitution to our current Code of Conduct, the principle of friendly competition is woven into our foundation. It’s not just a nice-to-have—it’s essential to building a welcoming environment where players, volunteers, and spectators alike feel comfortable, respected, and encouraged to participate.
Why Friendliness Matters
Being welcoming is how we grow: it brings people in, helps them feel comfortable changing divisions, and encourages them to stay. A friendly atmosphere makes all the difference—especially for those volunteering their time. Scorekeepers, Team Managers, Coaches, and Commissioners often step away not because of the workload, but because of difficult or negative interactions. That’s something we can influence.
Volunteering and Atmosphere
We can’t overstate how crucial atmosphere is to our volunteer base. A single harsh interaction can turn a reliable volunteer into someone who quietly steps away. If we want to retain the people who make this league run, we must protect the environment they work in.
Handling Issues: A Thoughtful Approach
We recognize that everyone has off days. Our goal isn’t to punish unnecessarily. Unless an incident involves safety, liability, or a major breach of conduct, we prefer to trust adults to resolve things respectfully. However, Umpires have full discretion to act if necessary, including issuing ejections.
Setting the Tone for All Members
People take cues from what they see. A new scorekeeper watching a player insult an umpire without consequence may decide this isn’t the place for them. A spectator or player seeing unresolved conflict might hesitate to return or switch divisions. These small moments define our culture.
Respecting Differences in Perception
Our members come from all walks of life, and naturally, what one person sees as a minor issue may feel much more serious to someone else. We won’t always agree on where the line is—but we can agree to uphold a standard of friendliness and work from there.
Addressing Unfriendly or Toxic Behaviour
Our first goal is always to get back to playing ball in a positive environment. Often, a Team Manager can address behaviour effectively. But when an issue impacts volunteers, officials, or the wider division, the league may step in to protect the integrity of our shared space.
We will always aim to be fair and reasonable. That includes hearing from the member involved, allowing space for accountability, and—when possible—moving forward without holding grudges.
The Process for Addressing the Impact of Unsportsmanlike Behaviour
It's all about impact. If the impact is contained to game play, the the Umpire and/or Team Managers, along with the member, can be expected to take the lead in addressing and restoring a friendly atmosphere. But toxic behaviour can impact others including our volunteers. The greater the scope of impact, the more may be asked of the Commission to assist.
Repeat violations may lead to escalation, but the goal remains the same: address the issue, restore a friendly environment, and get back to playing the game we all enjoy.
Options for a Member to raise concerns
If you believe the Code of Conduct, Agreements, and/or League rules have been violated, the first thing to do is identify the specific rule that you wish to address and the context of the violation. Generally, the issue should be raised with your Team Management if it is a team or game issue. In some cases, members may feel more comfortable asking the Commission for assistance.
These considerations outline a practical approach to handling behavioural issues without defaulting to a formal, time-consuming process that can be hard on our volunteer Commission and inefficient for the league overall. The goal is to resolve matters effectively while keeping things constructive and friendly.
WESA Member Commitment
(from the WESA Governing Manual)
Welcome to WESA!
By joining the league, you’re becoming part of a community built on inclusion, teamwork, respect, and fun. This agreement outlines the shared commitments that keep our league positive, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
All members are asked to read and acknowledge this agreement during registration.
Our Shared Commitment
By registering for the season, I agree to participate in all WESA games, practices, and events in a positive, respectful, and responsible manner.
Following these guidelines helps ensure a great experience for all — and may make me eligible for privileges such as advance registration in future seasons. Failure to follow this agreement may result in action under the WESA Code of Conduct and Bylaws, which can include suspension, expulsion from games, or removal from the league at the discretion of the Commission.
As a WESA Member, I will:
Communicate Regularly
Stay in touch with my Team Management, keeping communication clear and timely.
Commit to My Team
Confirm my attendance at every scheduled game (including the WESA Cup) at least 24 hours in advance, and arrive 30 minutes before game time, unless other arrangements have been made. I understand that not fulfilling these commitments could result in being removed from the team.
Keep the League Informed
If my availability or participation changes, I will notify my Team Management and the League right away so that a replacement player can be found if needed.
Come Prepared
After arriving 30 minutes ahead of game time, I will be ready to play with proper gear and be warming up 15 minutes before game time.
Follow the Code of Conduct
Read, understand, and uphold the WESA Code of Conduct at all times.
Practice Good Sportsmanship
Take personal responsibility for my attitude and behaviour, both on and off the field — including not using or being under the influence of inebriating substances.
Be Open and Coachable
Maintain a positive mindset, be open to learning, and welcome constructive feedback from teammates and coaches.
Stay Connected, Even if Injured
If injured but able to participate, continue supporting my team by cheering, base coaching, or helping from the sidelines whenever possible.
Contribute to Our Community
Do my part to keep WESA vibrant and inclusive by participating in one or more of the following ways:
- Helping organize a team event
- Participating in or assisting with the WESA Pageant
- Helping with dugout duties, field setup, or takedown when asked
- Volunteering at WESA special events
- Serving as a Scorekeeper
In Closing
By acknowledging this agreement, I affirm my commitment to sportsmanship, respect, and community — and to helping WESA remain a league where everyone feels welcome, valued, and proud to play.
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WESA Team Management Commitment
(from the WESA Governing Manual)
Thank you for stepping up to lead!
As part of Team Management, you play a vital role in shaping the experience of every player in our league. Your leadership, enthusiasm, and example reflect the best of what WESA stands for — inclusion, respect, fun, and community through sport.
Before the draft (or upon being assigned to a coaching team), please review and acknowledge the following commitments.
Our Shared Commitment
By serving as a Team Manager or 2nd Coach, I agree to help create a positive, supportive, and safe environment for everyone on and off the field.
As a WESA Team Manager or 2nd Coach, I will:
Lead with Pride and Professionalism
Represent WESA positively, learning and sharing our league’s history, traditions, and rules — including the constitution, bylaws, and policies.
Model Integrity and Sportsmanship
Follow and promote the WESA Code of Conduct at all times.
Be Present and Engaged
Attend at least 75% of games and the WESA Cup, and take time to understand the draft process.
Foster Respect and Inclusion
Treat all members, players, volunteers, and guests with dignity and respect.
Communicate Clearly and Consistently
Keep open communication with my team throughout the season using a real-time chat tool (e.g.,TeamLinkt).
Support Player Development
Organize at least two pre-season practices, review league rules, and create opportunities for players to learn, grow, and succeed.
Promote Safety and Responsibility
Ensure everyone understands league and municipal safety rules — including policies around alcohol and inebriation. Remove any player showing signs of inebriation or consuming alcohol on the bench or the playing field.
Champion Teamwork and Inclusion
Prioritize league values, team building, and good sportsmanship over competitiveness.
Encourage Participation and Fun
Follow league rules for playing time, support maximum participation, and keep team spirit high.
Be Organized and Game-Ready
Arrive prepared with a completed lineup, necessary equipment, and a positive attitude.
Be Approachable and Supportive
Stay open to feedback, offer encouragement, and help players build confidence and connection.
Build Community
Encourage team members to contribute by:
- Organizing team events or social activities
- Assisting with WESA Pageants, special events, or scorekeeping
- Helping with field setup or dugout duties
- Volunteering with league initiatives
In Closing
By acknowledging this commitment, I affirm my dedication to leading with respect, inclusion, and enthusiasm, helping WESA remain a league where everyone feels welcome, supported, and proud to play.
(Note: Failure to uphold these commitments may result in removal from Team Management for the season or ineligibility for future seasons, at the discretion of the Commission.)
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WESA Conduct Expectations (Code of Conduct)
(This is an excerpt. For the full official version please see the WESA Governing Manual)
Note: The Commission, in recent times, have dealt with inappropriate and/or abusive behaviours towards members, volunteers, umpires, and league officials. Failure to adhere to the policies around the consumption of alcohol or inebriating substances, or abusive or bullying actions against anyone, will not be tolerated. (Also see the SPN Code of Conduct)
For all Players, Members, Sponsors, and Volunteers
WESA members, sponsors, and volunteers (whether as participants or spectators) are expected to uphold the following standards of conduct:
1. Maintain sportsmanlike conduct consistent with fair and friendly play at all times— especially immediately before, during, and after games.
2. Treat all members, opposing teams, spectators, sponsors, and umpires with respect.
3. Promote an atmosphere of friendly competition.
4. Follow the WESA Members’ Agreement (and Coaching Commitment, if applicable).
5. Endeavour to learn and follow the rules of the game, including those outlined in the League Appendices.
6. Show respect for the judgment, decisions, and strategy of Team Management.
7. Not engage in verbal or physical confrontations or any unwelcome behaviour, including threatening, harassing, or bullying umpires, team managers, coaches, players, league officials, sponsors, members, volunteers, spectators, members of the public, or iPride officials.
8. Treat all equipment and facilities with respect.
9. Pay all dues promptly to the League.
10. Always operate in good faith in all dealings with the League, umpires, members, volunteers and iPride.
11. Not use WESA or iPride intellectual property, trademarks or other proprietary rights without prior permission from the League.
12. Not be on the field of play while inebriated, nor consume or possess open alcohol or intoxicating substances in the dugout or on the field of play during a game or practice. Keeping our games and dugouts free of alcohol and intoxicating substances promotes a safe, inclusive environment and fulfills insurance requirements.
13. Encourage other members to follow the Code of Conduct.
14. Respect the rules of parks and venues used by WESA, including the removal of all trash and recyclables.
15. Preserve the confidentiality of all privileged information obtained through League volunteer or leadership roles. This includes, but is not limited to, discussions, documents, and correspondence involving sponsors, Commission and Committee members, volunteers, and members.
The above is an excerpt. For the full official version please see the WESA Governing Manual)
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