National Federation of Middle School Sports Behavior Expectations (Code of Conduct)

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

FOR REGULAR AND POSTSEASON COMPETITIONS:

Purpose
NFMSS is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and competitive environment where middle school student-athletes can grow, compete, and thrive. All participants, coaches, spectators, and staff share responsibility for upholding these standards.

Core Expectations for All Events (Regular & Postseason)

1. Respect for Participants & Community

  • Treat all players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect.
  • Unsportsmanlike behavior, including taunting, trash talk, or personal attacks, is not permitted.
  • Discriminatory language or actions will result in immediate removal.

2. Positive & Appropriate Conduct

  • Appropriate language is expected at all times.
  • Profanity, negative chants, and disruptive behavior are not allowed.
  • Spectators must wear appropriate attire. Clothing deemed vulgar or inappropriate may result in removal.

3. Supervision & Accountability

  • Each school must have an authorized faculty or staff representative present.
  • This representative is responsible for the conduct of their students, participants, and spectators.

4. Respect for the Game Environment

  • Only authorized participants may enter the playing surface.
  • Interference with gameplay or officials is strictly prohibited.

5. Event Safety & Facility Guidelines

  • Artificial noisemakers (e.g., cowbells, sirens, whistles) are not permitted at indoor events.
  • Laser devices or distracting lights are prohibited.
  • Drones (UAVs) are not allowed at any NFMSS event.

6. Signage & Visual Displays

  • Signs and flags are permitted if they do not obstruct views and are in good taste.
  • Items deemed inappropriate by officials will be removed.
  • Message boards and disruptive displays are prohibited.

7. Enforcement

  • Individuals removed from an event may be banned for the remainder of the competition.
  • Additional disciplinary actions may be enforced by NFMSS and participating schools.

Closing Standard

Participation in NFMSS events means committing to a culture of respect, accountability, and integrity—on and off the field.