IOWA SLAMMERS FASTPITCH SOFTBALL PLAYER & PARENT CONTRACT

As a member of the Slammers softball organization (12U–18U), both players and parents must commit to upholding the standards, integrity, and positive culture of our teams. Please read the following expectations carefully. Your signatures indicate agreement and understanding of these guidelines.

PLAYER EXPECTATIONS

• Attend all practices, games, and team events. Arrive on time and notify the coach in advance if unable to attend. Unexcused absences may affect playing time.

• Listen to and respect coaches, teammates, officials, and opponents.

• Follow all coaching instructions. Maintain a positive, team-first attitude at all times.

• Refrain from negative comments, taunting, or disruptive behavior—on and off the field.

• Adhere to team safety rules and report any injuries or illnesses to coaches promptly.

• Represent the team respectfully in person and on all forms of social media.

PARENT EXPECTATIONS

• Support the team and all players positively—no coaching from the stands during games or practices.

• Address questions or concerns with coaches outside of games and practices, following a 24-hour cooling-off period if possible.

• Ensure timely payment of team fees and fulfill volunteer responsibilities as required.  Down Payments to reserve spots on teams are non-refundable.

• Respect decisions made by the coaching staff and recognize their role as team leaders.

• Model good sportsmanship at all games, practices, and team events.

DUGOUT EXPECTATIONS

• No Phones in the Dugout: Phones must be put away upon entering the dugout and may only be used after practice or games conclude.

• Clean Dugouts: Dugouts must be left clean after each game and practice. Leaving trash or equipment behind will result in a conditioning reminder at the next practice. We strive to represent the Slammers with pride.

• Parent Access to Dugout: Parents are not allowed in the dugout during games. Once the game begins, players are to remain in the dugout, focused on the game, with no distractions. Players may talk to parents and fans before and after games only.

• Support & Focus: Players not on the field must keep their attention on the game, actively supporting and encouraging teammates at all times.

TEAM COMMITMENT

• Playing for another organization/team is NOT prohibited.

• Your Iowa Slammers team is your first priority.  If conflict between team schedules arise, both practices and tournaments/events, your primary obligation and commitment is to the Slammers.  No exceptions.

PLAYING TIME AND COMPLAINTS

• Playing time is not guaranteed. Spots in the lineup are earned through consistent commitment, effort, skill, attitude, and attendance.

• During bracket play and other competitive situations, the coach’s focus will be on winning; the best players will play. We will not necessarily roster bat or guarantee equal playing time.

• If you have concerns or complaints regarding playing time, development, or team decisions, address them directly and respectfully with the coach. The coach is your first point of contact.

• Do not contact the head of the organization regarding complaints unless you have already met with the coach and your concern has not been addressed.

• Bypassing this process disrupts team unity and may impact your standing with the organization.

CONSEQUENCES

Failure to meet these expectations may result in reduced playing time or, in serious cases, suspension or dismissal from the team without refund of fees. All disciplinary decisions are at the discretion of the coaching staff and organization.

IMAGE RELEASE

I understand that my image/likeness may be used in promotional and advertising material in all manners of media including, but not limited to, photos, videos, social media, website posts, etc. If you DO NOT wish to have your player’s image use in promotional material, please check the box below

SIGNATURES

By signing below, both player and parent/guardian acknowledge that they have read, understand, and agree to abide by the above expectations for participation in the Slammers Softball Organization.