ATHLETICS

Statement of General Philosophy

Youth, by inherent nature, are active physically and have a zest for adventure. Most young children are interested in playing games, and have a strong desire to compete.

School athletics are a potential educative force of tremendous power in meeting many of the needs of youth. Competition and cooperation are prized in our California culture, and both are fostered by well-conducted athletic games under competent leadership.

Athletics which are regulated to meet educational objectives can provide a major contribution to fitness of the participant through (1) development of an appreciation for health and physical fitness; (2) learning the "give and take" essential to environmental adjustment and appreciation of the values of sportsmanship and cooperation in good citizenship; (3) acquiring skills, knowledge, and attitudes which can result in life-long recreational values; and (4) gaining self-reliance and understanding the necessity for hard work and self-discipline in order to be prepared for the task ahead.

Historically, California has believed in the value of competition in athletics as part of the educational experience. We are dedicated to pursue this principle by directing and encouraging an athletic program, which will give our youth the best possible chance to benefit in full measure from their participation.

CODE OF ETHICS

  • TO EMPHASIZE THE PROPER IDEALS OF SPORTSMANSHIP, ETHICAL CONDUCT AND FAIR PLAY.

  • TO ELIMINATE ALL POSSIBILITIES WHICH TEND TO DESTROY THE BEST VALUES OF THE GAME.

  • TO STRESS THE VALUES DERIVED FROM PLAYING THE GAME FAIRLY.

  • TO SHOW CORDIAL COURTESY TO VISITING TEAMS AND OFFICIALS.

  • TO ESTABLISH A HAPPY RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VISITORS AND HOSTS.

  • TO RESPECT THE INTEGRITY AND JUDGMENT OF SPORTS OFFICIALS.

  • TO ENCOURAGE LEADERSHIP, USE OF INITIATIVE, AND GOOD JUDGMENT BY THE PLAYERS ON A TEAM.

  • TO RECOGNIZE THAT THE PURPOSE OF ATHLETICS IS TO PROMOTE THE PHYSICAL, MENTAL, MORAL, SOCIAL, AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING OF THE INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS.

  • TO REMEMBER THAT AN ATHLETIC CONTEST IS ONLY A GAME - NOT A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH FOR PLAYER, COACH, SCHOOL, OFFICIALS, COMMUNITY, STATE, OR NATION.

  • TO ENSURE THAT OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE IN SPORTS SHALL BE PROVIDED EQUALLY FOR BOTH BOYS AND GIRLS.