Zero Tolerance and Violence Prevention Policy

At Megacity Basketball Association (MBA), we are fully committed to safeguarding our community and its members from any form of violence. Our dedication to safety extends to staff, members, volunteers, friends, and visitors. Therefore, MBA has strictly enforced a Zero Tolerance Policy since 2014.*

Definition of Violence:

1. Physical Force: The use of physical force by one person against another community member or player during an MBA event, which has caused or has the potential to cause physical injury (e.g., hitting, shoving, pushing, kicking, etc.).

2. Attempted Physical Force: Any attempt to exercise physical force against a community member or player during an MBA event, which could potentially lead to physical injury (e.g., threatening behavior, shaking fists, property damage, throwing objects, verbal/written threats, etc.).

3. Threatening Statements or Behavior: Statements or behaviors that a reasonable community member or player could interpret as a threat to exert physical force during an MBA event, with the potential to cause physical harm (e.g., verbal abuse, swearing, insults, condescending language, etc.).

Zero Tolerance on the Court:

* Acts of violence on the court are strictly prohibited. Any players involved in physical altercations will face ejection and/or suspension, subject to the discretion of MBA.

* Authorized officials have received instructions to eject a player who throws a punch, whether it makes contact or not, or delivers an elbow above shoulder level. If elbow contact is at or below shoulder level, the officials will decide whether ejection is necessary. Even if a punch or elbow goes unnoticed during the game but is detected upon video review, penalties will be imposed.

No Justification for Violence:

There is absolutely no justification for fighting or abusive behavior in an MBA game. Regardless of provocation from another player or dissatisfaction with officiating, retaliatory actions are unacceptable. Players should expect appropriate penalties for such actions.

Zero Tolerance for FIGHTING:

* MBA maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance towards fighting, harassment, racial slurs, and verbal abuse directed at players, staff, referees, and spectators.

* Each case will be meticulously reviewed by MBA, and individuals found in violation may be banned with no refund and could face prosecution under Ontario Provincial Law. MBA reserves the right to suspend players and/or teams for fighting.

Official Decisions:

* All games will be officiated by authorized officials, and their decisions are final, not subject to dispute.

* Officials possess the authority to issue technical/flagrant fouls and eject players, coaches, and fans from the game. Ejected players will receive an automatic one-game suspension, and each case will undergo review.

* MBA reserves the right to ban repeat offenders with no refund.

Conclusion:

The safety and integrity of our community is paramount. Our Zero Tolerance and Violence Prevention Policy is in place to ensure that MBA remains a place of sportsmanship, fair play, and camaraderie. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines as we work together to create a positive and respectful basketball environment.