SALL Baseball & Softball Social Media Policy

Shaler Area Little League (SALL) Baseball & Softball uses social media as a communication and promotion tool. It is very important that all involved are aware of the SALL Baseball & Softball Social Media Policy and that a breach of this policy will have consequences including and up to removal from league sponsored games and activities.

1. Social media can be fun, helpful and dangerous. Comments, notes and photos posted on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and on-line forums are usually constructive and positive. Negative comments and images, bullying, criticism and sexist remarks can be dangerous and harmful to people’s wellbeing and reputation and the image of the sport.

2. Do not use social media to be critical of teammates, coaches, officials, administrators, volunteers or spectators. Any comment you make on social media sites has the potential to be seen by millions of people. That is great if comments are positive. But it can be extremely negative and harmful if critical of people. Before you post a comment on social media ask yourself this: Would I want millions of people to read something negative about me?

3. Always assume the person you are talking/writing about will see what has been said/written.
Just because an online chat is between two people does not mean it remains private and nobody else can see it. Social media is accessible to everyone. Even if the person you are discussing does not see it, somebody else may. The result is, you rather than the person you are ridiculing will be seen in a negative light.

4. Use social media as a positive outlet to promote players, teammates, teams, clubs and others involved in baseball. Posting results and acknowledging individual and team performances on social media makes many people aware of team and individual achievements. That can have a positive effect for many people and should be used, encouraged and embraced wherever and whenever possible.

5. When using social media, show the same respect and regard for people that you would show and are expected to show when playing, officiating or attending a baseball game.

6. When in doubt leave it out. If you are unsure if what you are posting on social media is inappropriate, then it is best not to post it.

7. Do not tolerate or condone poor social media behavior or actions. If you are aware of or observe poor social media behavior or actions, do not accept it. There is no place for it in baseball or softball and it will not be condoned. Do NOT act alone, report it to team coach, commissioner or SALL Board of Directors.

8. Be aware that your actions on social media may have serious consequences. Negative comments and images, bullying, criticism and sexist remarks do not only impact negatively on the people they are about. If you are found to have acted improperly on social media regarding a baseball or Softball related matter, you are liable to disciplinary proceedings as well as a subsequent suspension from baseball or softball could be imposed.