NACA Code of Conduct for Palyer(s) and Member(s)

Enforcement: 

The code of conduct is legally binding for all registered players of the Northern Alberta Cricket Association (NACA). Its primary purpose is to establish a structured framework that promotes the growth and development of cricket within NACA. The code also provides clear guidelines for disciplinary actions in response to violations.

The Disciplinary Committee sincerely appreciates the support and commitment of the membership toward this initiative. In enforcing the code, the committee strives to treat all players and clubs fairly and consistently. The clearly defined policies aim to ensure impartiality and prevent bias.

It is hoped that individuals under disciplinary review will accept the process and recommendations with dignity and understanding.

NACA maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for any form of personal attacks towards umpire, officials, player etc. —whether direct or indirect—during matches or outside of game situations, especially when directed toward other players or related to family matters. Upon notification of such behaviour, membership will be terminated immediately.

Zero Tolerance for Interference with Umpires

Interaction with Umpires: Any sledging, swearing, or abuse directed at umpires (by any team member or dugout player) will result in: 

1.     Awarding the game to the opposing team, 

2.     Removal of the offending player from the tournament 

3.     If a reserve player or 12th man approaches an umpire, the game will be awarded to the opponent without warning, and the captain will automatically receive a warning.  Spectators / supporters will be handed over to jurisdictional authority (police or peace officer) and team will be disqualified same time.

Interaction with Other Players:

·       Verbal abuse between players will lead to: 

·       The abusive player being removed from the game 

·       If fielding, their team will play with one less player 

·       If batting, the team will continue with nine wickets 

·       The captain will receive a first warning 

·       Repeated incidents on the same day will result in the game being awarded to the opposing team. 

·       Harassment from dugout to fielding players will lead to the team losing the match. 

Note: Umpires’ verbal verification is sufficient and valid; no additional complaint is required.

Consequences of Repeat Incidents

1.     Involving Two or More Players:

If two players are involved in a verbal altercation, both will be removed from the game, which will continue with one less player. Both teams will receive a first warning.

2.     Repeat Incidents:

Further violations will result in losing the current game and a suspension of five games, potentially leading to removal from the league.

3.     Physical Contact: 

Any physical contact will result in losing the game and a five-game suspension (first incident). Repeated offenses may lead to removal from the team and a ban for up to two years or more, depending on severity. 

Note: Umpires’ verbal verification is sufficient; no detailed report is necessary.

Examples of Prohibited Conduct (not limited to):

Inappropriate gestures (towards other player/pointing to dugout/umpire etc.) while celebrating,  excessive and aggressive appeal (repeatedly) or refuse to leave from ground when given out, Any type of abuse to umpire or match officials. Intimidation or threats toward umpires, referees, players, officials, or spectators, including language or gestures that offend, insult, humiliate, threaten, or vilify based on race, religion, gender, or ethnicity.  

Acts of violence on or off the field. 

·       Aggressive charging or advancing toward an umpire during appeals. 

·       Deliberate distraction or obstruction on the field. 

·       Throwing the ball dangerously near a player, umpire, or official. 

·       Obscene, offensive, or insulting language or gestures during play. 

·       Inappropriate physical contact between players during the game.

Off the Field Conduct

Level 1 (Verbal Warnings and member need to meet in person, membership will remain be suspended until meeting)

·       Abuse of equipment or ground fixtures. 

·       Public criticism of matches or officials. In public or social media regardless of intent

·       Membership will remain suspended until such event resolved by a written apology.

Level 2 (One Match Suspension):

·       Repetition of Level 1 offenses within a season. 

·       Serious public criticism or inappropriate comments on match-related incidents. 

·       Match manipulation (result, net run rate, bonus points). 

·       Playing without proper registration with an NACA team.

Additional Offenses:

Charges may be laid for conduct that contravenes the spirit of the game or damages its reputation, even if not explicitly covered above.

Prior Record:

Previous violations may influence penalties but do not determine liability.

Captain’s Responsibility:

Captains are responsible for upholding the spirit of the game. The League Manager may impose charges on the captain if they fail to do so.

Property Damage:

Players involved in damaging or stealing property during league activities may be required to compensate the affected party, and charges may be laid.

Penalty Details: 

Penalties are generally applied to upcoming matches. Multiple violations may result in cumulative sanctions. Penalties are not concurrent.

Process and Discretion:

Failure to comply with disciplinary procedures will result in additional suspensions. The League Manager has discretion to assess charges based on reports and circumstances, without being bound by previous similar incidents.

Additional Guidance:

If circumstances are not directly addressed, the League Manager may refer to other NACA rules or the broader ACA regulations.

This comprehensive code aims to foster a fair, respectful, and enjoyable cricket environment for all involved.