the game. Do not be one of the “ugly” parents occasionally seen at sporting events.
9. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.
Parents have considerable influence in how sports are conducted. Often they are called on to perform volunteer work to help organise their and
others’ children’s’ activities. Use this rewarding experience, not just to assist in getting the necessary work performed, but also to influence the
atmosphere in which your children play the sport. Children not as fortunate as yours whose parents are not willing or able to be involved
may need some guidance on what is or isn’t acceptable behaviour.
10. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person.
Regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, religion or other factor irrelevant to the game, all persons connected with basketball are
entitled to equal treatment and respect. Avoid any remarks that could be construed as offensive or discriminatory. Sometimes even a joke may
give offence. Even if a person refers to themselves with a particular label, it should not be taken as an invitation for you to do so. Using discretion is
imperative and it is better to err on the side of caution. Your children will most likely follow your lead in matters of discrimination and vilification.
11. Show appreciation for volunteer coaches, officials and administrators.
Volunteers are necessary for the functioning of sporting activities. Without them, your child could not participate. Whilst many are parents of
people involved in the sport, many are also people dedicated to the sport and its development. Show them the respect and appreciation that they
12. Keep children in your care under control.
Basketball encourages you to bring your children to games. However, there can be dangers to them in a basketball stadium. They can also constitute a danger to players. You should ensure that children with you at a basketball game are well behaved and do not wander onto or too near to courts. They can easily be knocked down by a player or a player can trip over a child when concentrating on the play and not expecting a small child to be in the way.
13. Always respect the use of facilities and equipment provided.
Facilities and equipment cost money and will only function properly if kept in good order. Ensure that you do not abuse anything provided for
use. Discourage your children from engaging in dangerous practices such as hanging off hoops or “slam dunking”. Quite properly, these practices
are banned in most venues. Not only can equipment be damaged but serious injury can occur.