Seattle Basketball Club Code of Conduct

Effective Date: 3/1/25

The Seattle Basketball Club Code of Conduct is the organization’s statement of expected behavioral standards that all participants are required to read and follow. The Code of Conduct, intended to reflect the stated purpose (see Mission Statement), clarifies the expectations that Seattle Basketball Club participants have responsibility for their actions both on and off the court and have accountability for those actions when Seattle Basketball club standards are violated.

Mission Statement 

Seattle Basketball Club (SBC) is an integrated and all-inclusive organization dedicated to providing the Seattle area LGBTQ+ community and its allies with a well-organized and friendly sporting environment. We are committed to uniting athletes, communities, and cultures on and off the court while promoting health, education, and community service.

Code of Conduct

Expected Behavior

All participants are required to conduct themselves in a manner that aligns with the mission and values of SBC. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Treating all players, referees, and spectators with respect. Treat others as you want to be treated.
• Engaging in fair and positive sportsmanship.
• Following league rules and the spirit of recreational play.
• Take personal responsibility and attempt to talk through issues with others, assuming positive intent and working toward a resolution.
• Reporting any violations or concerns to the Board of Directors promptly.

Prohibited Behavior

SBC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any behavior that threatens the integrity of the league, including:

• Abuse & Harassment: Verbal or physical abuse, including racial, ethnic, gender-based, or homophobic slurs.
• Poor Sportsmanship: Taunting, excessive arguing with/yelling at referees or players, or refusing to comply with game officials.
• Violence & Intimidation: Threats of harm, physical aggression, or intimidation of any kind.
• Property Damage & Theft: Any intentional destruction of equipment or personal belongings.
• Failure to Meet Financial Responsibilities: Non-payment of league fees as required.

Violation Levels & Consequences

To ensure consistency and fairness, violations are defined and categorized as follows:

Minor Violations (e.g., arguing with a referee, excessive complaining, minor unsportsmanlike behavior)

• First Offense: Verbal warning.
• Second Offense: Written warning from the Board.
• Third Offense: One-game suspension.

Moderate Violations (e.g., repeated verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation, or disruptive behavior)

• First Offense: Written warning and potential one-game suspension.
• Second Offense: Multi-game suspension (2-4 games).
• Third Offense: Season-long suspension, subject to Board review.

Severe Violations (e.g., physical violence, threats, extreme harassment, discriminatory behavior, destruction of property)

• Immediate suspension from all SBC activities pending investigation.
• Potential expulsion from the league, subject to Board vote.
• No refund of fees will be provided in cases of expulsion.

Reporting & Investigation Process

• Before reporting, we ask that players take personal responsibility and attempt to work through issues with others, understanding the board may not see every incident.
• Any participant may report a violation to the Board of Directors. Reports will be handled with care and confidentiality.
• The Board will review the incident report, speak with involved parties and witnesses, and determine appropriate consequences.
• Decisions requiring suspension or expulsion will be made by a majority vote of the Board.
• Repeat offenders may be banned from future SBC seasons at the Board’s discretion.

Appeal Process

• Any player facing a suspension of two or more games may submit a written appeal to the Board within seven days of notification.
• The Board will review the appeal and respond within 14 days with a final decision.
• No appeals will be considered for expulsions due to severe violations.

Acknowledgment & Agreement

By participating in Seattle Basketball Club activities, all players agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and accept the outlined consequences for violations. Failure to adhere to these standards may result in disciplinary action as determined by the Board of Directors.

Effective Date: 3/1/25