Spectator Code of Conduct


Indian Lake Local Schools, in association with the Ohio High School Athletic Association, promotes a positive interscholastic experience. The Board of Education believes that activities conducted for the benefit of the students of the School District are a meaningful component of the School District's total program. The Board further believes that through the participation in these activities, students learn important skills and values which will be of benefit throughout their lives. It is clear that both participants and spectators contribute to the educational value of these activities through good sportsmanship, and therefore, it is expected from athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators. Student and adult spectators should set an example of positive encouragement while supporting participants and modeling good behavior. Spectators should be respectful of their surroundings by using appropriate language and demonstrating responsibility for their actions.

Instances of disruptive behavior on the part of spectators at events lessens the educational value of the activity and results in a loss of esteem for the participants and the members of the community.  Therefore, the Board of Education expects both participants and spectators at events to conduct themselves with the highest level of decorum. To this end, the Superintendent, Principal, Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, Police Officer, Official, Site Manager, or Designee under whose supervision the event is being conducted, may request such person or group of persons, who are engaging or participating in unsatisfactory behavior to cease, and/or to leave the school premises.  The supervisor on duty may take reasonable action to ensure the orderly conduct of the event.

Failure to meet the expectations set forth, culminating in ejection from an event or other actions deemed inappropriate by the administration or designee, either home or away, will result in the following disciplinary actions.  (Suspensions apply to both home and away events):

First Offense: The spectator is banned from attending any Indian Lake Athletic event for a period of ten (10) school days. During the ban from athletic events, the individual is required to meet with school administration to review the school's expectations. Failure to meet with the administrative team during this period will result in an extended ban from athletic events. If the ejection occurs within the last ten (10) school days of the season, the suspension will carry over to the tournament or to the next sport season. A letter will be sent from the office of the Superintendent notifying the spectator of the ejection and the dates he/she is prohibited to attend district athletic events.

Second Offense: The spectator is banned from attending any Indian Lake Athletic event for a period of one (1) calendar year from the date of the 2nd offense. All other requirements set forth in the first offense also apply.

Third Offense: The spectator is banned from attending any Indian Lake Athletic events for a period of five (5) calendar years, from the date of the 3rd offense.  All other requirements set forth in the first offense also apply.

Fourth Offense: The spectator receives a lifetime ban from all Indian Lake Athletic events. A letter will be sent from the office of the Superintendent notifying the spectator of the ejection and the lifetime removal from all Indian Lake athletic events.

Appeals Process: Any spectator who has been ejected can appeal the decision by meeting with the Athletic Director, High School Principal, Superintendent, and Board of Education President to discuss the decision within 48 hours of the suspension. The meeting will take place at a time and location that is agreed upon by all parties. The appeal meeting does not imply that the suspension will be reversed.