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.

This year, that commitment comes with a clearer framework, a new sportsmanship rating system that helps us recognise positive behaviour, address issues early, and build the kind of environment everyone wants to play in.

Creating a respectful, enjoyable atmosphere isn’t just about how we play. It’s about how we communicate, how we handle tough moments, and how we support each other, on and off the field.

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. 

The New Sportsmanship Rating Scale (1–5)

After every game, umpires will provide each team with a sportsmanship rating. This isn’t meant to be punitive, it’s a tool for consistency, accountability, and celebrating teams who set the standard.

• Rating 1 — Unacceptable behaviour.   Serious issues occurred: abusive language, repeated dissent, unsafe conduct, or behaviour that significantly disrupted the match. This rating indicates the lowest level of sportsmanship.

• Rating 2 — Below expectations.   There were notable problems: poor communication, disrespectful interactions, or behaviour that required warnings or intervention.

• Rating 3 — Neutral / acceptable.   Everything was fine. No issues, no problems, no negativity — but also no standout examples of exceptional sportsmanship. This is the baseline, the “normal game” rating.

• Rating 4 — Strong sportsmanship.   Positive communication, respect for officials, supportive behaviour within the team, and good‑natured interactions with opponents.

• Rating 5 — Outstanding, above‑and‑beyond excellence.   This should be rare. A 5 is earned when a team demonstrates exceptional respect, leadership, empathy, and positivity — the kind of conduct that elevates the entire match experience.

These ratings help us reinforce expectations and celebrate the teams who consistently set the tone for the league.

Setting the Tone for 2026

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.