Pitch side etiquette guidance

As we look ahead to the 2026 season, we’re putting a renewed emphasis on something that elevates every match, team and player: sportsmanship.

Creating a respectful, enjoyable environment isn’t just about how we play, it’s also about how we communicate, how we handle the tough moments, and how we support each other.

This year, we’re encouraging all teams to use our etiquette guide as a quick reference throughout the season. It’s designed to help captains, players, coaches, and supporters understand what good pitch side etiquette looks like, especially when it comes to communicating with umpires.

Pitch Side Etiquette: What to Keep in Mind

• All communication should go through captains. Captains are the designated point of contact with officials. This keeps conversations clear, calm, and constructive.

• Judgement calls are final and are based solely on the umpire’s judgement. They are not open for challenge or debate. Judgement calls are:  

  • Balls/Strikes

  • Fair/Foul

  • Safe/Out

Respecting them keeps the game moving and maintains a positive atmosphere.

• Minimise Foul/Abusive language. If there are children around, keep foul language to a minimum. We can all sometimes joke around with opposition players, provided it is good natured. If you are warned, then you should stop. Foul/Abusive language towards umpires is not acceptable.

When Discussion Is Appropriate

Should teams feel the need to speak to an umpire about a rule/clarification, then the captain should request “Time” and then come over to the umpire to initiate a discussion. These discussions should be calm, and brief, keep it to essential points and maintain composure. 

If the captain feels a rule has been applied incorrectly, and there is no clear resolution, then the team has the option to “play under protest." The umpire will make a note of the game situation (inning, score, number of outs, name of batter, runners on base etc.), and the game will continue. If the protest is successful, then the game will be rescheduled for another date, and will resume at the point the protest was recorded. All protests are null and void if the protesting team wins the game. 

By approaching the season with shared expectations and a commitment to respectful communication, we set the stage for a year defined by positive play, teamwork, and the kind of spirit that makes our sport so rewarding.

Feel free to share the infographic and this guide with your teams as we get ready for first pitch.