La Pine Sports Academy

24-Hour Communication Policy

Policy Statement

La Pine Sports Academy (LPSA) is committed to maintaining a positive, respectful, and development-focused environment for all athletes, coaches, officials, and families.

To support healthy communication and reduce emotionally driven conflict, LPSA formally adopts the 24-Hour Communication Policy. This policy applies to all sports and programs operating under La Pine Sports Academy.

Purpose

The 24-Hour Rule is widely recognized by youth sports organizations across the United States as a best practice for managing post-game and post-practice concerns.

Its purpose is to:

• Allow emotions to settle following competition

• Promote thoughtful and productive conversations

• Protect athletes from adult conflict

• Support volunteer coaches and officials

• Model maturity, accountability, and respect for our players

LPSA recognizes that parents and guardians may not always agree with coaching decisions or officiating calls. However, coaches and referees are often volunteers who are developing alongside our athletes. Coaching decisions are made in the best interest of the team as a whole, not solely from an individual player’s perspective.

Policy Guidelines

1. No Immediate Confrontations

Parents/guardians shall not approach or confront a coach, team official, or referee regarding game or practice concerns until at least 24 hours have passed from the conclusion of the event.

This includes:

• Game strategy

• Playing time

• Officiating decisions

• Team discipline matters

• Any perceived negative situation

Conversations held in the heat of the moment are rarely productive and often undermine the environment we are working to build.

2. Communication After 24 Hours

After 24 hours have passed, parents/guardians may contact the Head Coach to respectfully discuss concerns.

Communication should be:

• Scheduled in advance

• Conducted in a calm and professional manner

• Focused on development and solutions

3. Officials (Referees and Umpires)

Under no circumstances may a parent/guardian confront a referee or game official before, during, or after a contest.

All officiating concerns must be directed to the Head Coach after the 24-hour period. The Head Coach may elevate concerns to LPSA leadership if appropriate.

Officials are essential to our programs and must be treated with respect at all times.

4. Escalation Process

If a concern is not resolved at the Head Coach level, parents/guardians may request a formal meeting with the LPSA Board of Directors.

Board meetings regarding disputes will be:

• Scheduled in advance

• Conducted professionally

• Focused on policy, development, and program standards

Enforcement

Violation of the 24-Hour Communication Policy will be considered a breach of the LPSA Parent Code of Conduct.

Consequences may include:

• Verbal or written warning

• Required meeting with Board leadership

• Temporary suspension from attendance

• Disciplinary hearing as recommended by the Head Coach

• Further action as determined by the LPSA Board of Directors

Commitment to Culture

La Pine Sports Academy believes youth sports are a training ground for life.

We expect:

• Accountability

• Respect

• Emotional discipline

• Leadership by example

By adopting the 24-Hour Rule, we are teaching our athletes how to handle adversity, disagreement, and competition with maturity and integrity.

Thank you for partnering with us to create a positive, growth-centered environment for every athlete.