CODE OF CONDUCT
Last Updated: January 7, 2025
MADE Hoops (“MADE”) is the grassroots leader in cutting edge youth basketball events and experiences. We feature the most competitive middle school leagues in the country, along with unmatched high school and middle school camps and tournaments. Our winning combination? Elite competition, high level coaching and training, unparalleled media coverage and professionally run events.
In order for MADE and its participants to win together, and to foster a safe, fun, welcoming environment for all involved, participants in MADE events must abide by MADE’s rules. Participation in a MADE event is a privilege, not a right.
All MADE attendees/participants (and legal guardians, if the participant is under 18) are responsible for reading, understanding, and adhering to this Code of Conduct (the “Code of Conduct”). This Code of Conduct applies to all attendees/participants present at MADE events, including but not limited to athletes and their guardians, coaches, trainers and other miscellaneous team personnel, staff, and advisors, spectators, and anyone else that participates in or attends a MADE event (individually referred to herein as an “Attendee” or “Participant” and collectively referred to herein as “Attendees” or “Participants”).
Any violation of this Code of Conduct may result in a loss of playing time, team forfeiture, individual and/or team expulsion from the event/circuit, individual and/or team suspension from the event/circuit and/or future events/circuits, and or banishment (whether temporary or permanent depending on the nature and severity of the act) without any form of refund.
I. MADE’s Commitment to Sport
MADE is committed to creating and maintaining a sport community where all those who participate can work and learn together in an atmosphere free from all forms of emotional, mental, physical, and sexual misconduct. This Code of Conduct discusses prohibited misconduct, response, and resolution. In addition to the policies in this Code of Conduct, MADE has adopted and incorporated some definitions and portions of the SafeSport Code for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement (the “Code”) and its appendices (collectively, the “Code”), as it may be amended from time to time, by the U.S. Center for SafeSport (“SafeSport”) into this Code of Conduct (only explicitly as stated by the Code of Conduct).
All individuals participating in and/or attending any MADE event are within MADE’s jurisdiction and disciplinary authority. All Attendees are responsible for their own actions and for knowing the information, policies, and procedures outlined in this Code of Conduct, and any other related policies, regulations, and rules. Attendees may also be subject to the rules, policies, and procedures of SafeSport, and if applicable, shall submit, without reservation or condition, to the jurisdiction of SafeSport for the resolution of any alleged violation of SafeSport’s rules, policies and procedures, or SafeSport’s Code. Ignorance of any rule or regulation in this Code of Conduct or otherwise, is not a defense to a violation or alleged violation of this Code of Conduct, or any MADE rule, regulation, policy, or procedure. For the avoidance of doubt, a violation SafeSport’s Code, rules, policies, and procedures, may also be considered a violation of this Code of Conduct. MADE, at its sole discretion, may agree to mirror and enforce any sanction, punishment, or measures imposed by SafeSport, whether interim, temporary, or permanent, although MADE does not operate under SafeSport’s purview and is not obligated to follow SafeSport’s decision.
For the avoidance of doubt, MADE operates completely independently from SafeSport, and as such, MADE makes its own decisions regarding the creation, implementation, and adherence to MADE rules, policies, and procedures at its sole and ultimate discretion. Any disagreement with any MADE rule, policy, procedure, or otherwise, shall be submitted to MADE for MADE to be the ultimate arbiter of the outcome. By attending a MADE event, you agree that you will abide by MADE’s decision regarding disciplinary action and waive any and all rights to challenge MADE’s decision in any manner whatsoever.
MADE may make changes to the Code of Conduct, and other related rules, policies, and procedures, from time to time. Once posted online, changes are effective immediately unless otherwise noted. Through education, resources, training, and adherence to the rules, policies, and procedures contained in SafeSport’s Code (where referenced) and this Code of Conduct, we will help those who participate in MADE’s events prevent, recognize, reduce, and respond to misconduct in basketball and in sport. For reference, SafeSport’s Code, rules, and regulations, may be found here: https://uscenterforsafesport.org/response-and-resolution/safesport-code/.
II. Misconduct and Prohibited Conduct
This section of the Code of Conduct explains prohibited conduct related to emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct, including but not limited to hazing, stalking, bullying, and harassment. The privilege of being present at a MADE event may be limited, conditioned, suspended, terminated, or denied, if MADE determines an Attendees conduct is and/or was inconsistent with this Code of Conduct or in the best interest of sport and/or MADE (at MADE’s sole and ultimate discretion).
It is a violation of the Code of Conduct for Attendees to engage in or tolerate misconduct or Prohibited Conduct (as defined below), as well as any conduct that would violate community standards, or any conduct that would violate applicable criminal or civil laws.
MADE expressly prohibits the following types of misconduct by its Attendees:
- Criminal Charges or Disposition
- Child Abuse
- Sexual Misconduct
- Physical Misconduct
- Emotional Misconduct (including mental misconduct)
- Stalking
- Harassment
- Hazing
- Bullying
- Other Inappropriate Conduct
- Aiding and Abetting
- Misconduct Related to Reporting prohibited conduct
- Abuse of Process
- Retaliation
(“Prohibited Conduct”).
The above Prohibited Conduct is defined in the SafeSport Code, which can be found here:
https://uscenterforsafesport.org/response-and-resolution/safesport-code/.
MADE has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of Prohibited Conduct. Reports of Prohibited Conduct can be made in accordance with the policies and procedures detailed in Section 3 of this Code of Conduct.
The following forms of misconduct by Attendees are also expressly prohibited and subject to discipline:
- Violation of any anti-doping policies, protocols or procedures as defined by the International Olympic Committee (IOC; www.olympic.org), World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA; www.wada-ama.org), US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA; www.usada.org) or the United States Olympic Committee (USOC; www.teamusa.org).
- Violation of SafeSport rules, policies and procedures promulgated by the U.S. Center for SafeSport (www.safesport.org), including the SafeSport Code and/or Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (“MAAPP”), as they may be amended from time to time.
3. Discrimination against any Attendee on the basis of age, gender, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, genetics, mental or physical disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable, is prohibited.
4. Possession, consumption, sale or distribution of alcohol, tobacco, vaping devices or e- cigarettes, marijuana, illegal drugs, or controlled substances, if such possession, consumption, or distribution is illegal or in violation of MADE or venue policy.
5. The possession, consumption, sale or distribution of alcohol, tobacco, vaping devices or e-cigarettes by anyone registered as an event participant or participates in an event as designated team personnel.
6. The false and/or misleading use of another’s identification card.
7. Physical damage to a facility, vandalism, or theft of items.
8. Possession of fireworks, ammunition, knives, swords, boxcutters, firearms, or other weapons or any item or material which by commonly accepted practices and principles would be a hazard or harmful to other persons at MADE events.
9. Any action considered to be an offense under Federal, State or local law ordinances.
10. Violation of the specific policies, regulations, and/or procedures of MADE or the facility used in conjunction with a MADE event. (It is the responsibility of the individual to be familiar with applicable specific policies, regulations and procedures.)
11. Conduct which is inappropriate as determined by comparison to normally accepted behavior.
12. Physical or verbal threats or intimidation of any type.
13. Any act of fraud, deception or dishonesty in connection with any MADE related activity.
14. Actions that could be detrimental to MADE’s reputation or bring disrepute to MADE’s brand.
15. Any non-consensual physical contact, obscene language or gesture, or other threatening language or conduct directed towards any personnel associated with a MADE event including but not limited to event staff, match officials, arbitrators, ticketing personnel, volunteers, advisors, sponsors, partners, independent contractors, venue personnel etc.
16. Behavior and policies that threaten an athlete’s amateur status, school and/or collegiate eligibility.
17. Behavior that violates transfer policies.
18. Behavior that violates recruiting policies.
- Reporting A Violation of the Code of Conduct
All MADE event Attendees should familiarize themselves with these terms. MADE strongly encourages its Participants programs to adopt similar policies, which are intended to provide and promote a safe environment, free from misconduct and abuse. Should anyone participating in the activities or affairs of MADE observe behavior which violates one or more of the policies contained in this Code of Conduct or SafeSport Code, including but not limited to Prohibited Conduct, such person is responsible to immediately report their observations to a MADE representative and, where required, law enforcement authorities, and/or SafeSport. Reporting parties should not attempt to evaluate the credibility or validity of allegations before reporting to MADE, law enforcement, and/or SafeSport.
A. To MADE
To report a concern involving misconduct or Prohibited Conduct to MADE, an individual may submit an email to [email protected]. An anonymous report does not mean that any of the underlying information submitted will be protected and may limit MADE’s ability to investigate and respond to a report. For this reason, MADE encourages reports to include the reporting individual’s name and contact information.
B. To the U.S. Center for SafeSport
The U.S. Center for SafeSport (the “Center”) accepts all reports of sexual abuse and child abuse within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. The Center also accepts reports of emotional and physical misconduct (including but not limited to bullying, hazing, stalking, and harassment) within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. Reports of emotional and physical misconduct can also be reported directly to USA Basketball, above. Individuals may also submit a report to the U.S. Center for SafeSport here:
Online: https://uscenterforsafesport.org/report-a-concern/
Phone: 833-5US-SAFE (587-7233)
The Center is available 24 hours a day, with an operator and Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (MT). If an individual suspects child abuse or neglect, they should report it to their local authorities before notifying USA Basketball and/or the U.S. Center for SafeSport. If an individual is a mandatory reporter, they are required by law to do so. Additional information on when a person must make a report to law enforcement can be found at www.childwelfare.gov.
C. To Law Enforcement
All cases of suspected emotional, physical, or sexual abuse of a minor (under the age of 18) and violations of applicable law must be reported to local law enforcement immediately. Filing a report with MADE, SafeSport or any non-law enforcing body does not satisfy this obligation.
- The Four Value Pillars of MADE Hoops
- Guardians of the Game: We are true basketball people aiming to create a basketball business that remains always true to the game and putting the athletes development, safety, exposure, and experience first;
- Grit and Grind: We are dedicated “road warriors” who will outwork the competition, hustle to execute our objectives, do whatever is necessary for the person next to us, and be results oriented always;
- There are no problems, only solutions: We are professional “fire fighters” who are masters of solving problems not complaining about them –, understanding that event management is crisis management, put the ease of our teammates and the execution of the event before our own personal self, and we are always solution oriented; and
- Do it then fix it, then do it again: We will always be the “aggressor” by doing newer things, staying cutting edge, always adding creativity, seeking growth, understanding that it won’t be perfect, but being resolute that we will do it to the best of our abilities, fix any and all problems with it, do it again, fix it again, and not stop chasing greatness with everything we do.
- The Values Sought from MADE Participants
MADE’s mission is to (M)aximize (A)thletes’ (D)evelopment and (E)xposure by providing a safe & competitive platform to learn, grow and achieve. To assist us in Maximizing Athletes’ Development and Exposure, we ask our Participants to have a MADE Mindset, which incorporates this Code of Conduct and MADE’s Four Pillars individually for the athletes, guardians, and coaches, as follows:
Athletes:
As a player, I understand that I represent more than just myself when I step onto the court. I will respect the game and demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times. This means showing respect to my teammates, coaches, opponents, referees, staff, and all basketball personnel. I will be trustworthy and reliable, always having my teammates' backs. I will give my all, show respect and listen to my coaches in order to improve my skills. I agree to have a MADE Mindset and not negotiate with myself when it comes to being the best that I can be as an athlete and person.
Guardians/Spectators:
I will set a positive example for my child both on and off the court. I will refrain from coaching during games or practices and will not enter the playing area unless I am an official coach of the team. I will avoid criticizing my child, other players, coaches, and MADE personnel, creating a supportive environment for all involved.
Coaches and Team Personnel:
I will conduct myself with respect towards all individuals involved in the game, including opposing teams, players, coaches, and fans. I will accept the decisions of officials and treat them with respect. It is my responsibility to maintain control of the people affiliated with my program, including but not limited to the athletes, team personnel, and fans, and I will diffuse situations by cooperating with MADE at all times, while adhering to the Code of Conduct. I will refrain from using abusive or profane language and ensure that all my players are eligible to participate. I will prioritize the health and well-being of my players, seeking medical advice when necessary. I will not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or engage with spectators in a negative manner. Lastly, I will abstain from using alcohol, illegal substances, or tobacco products at events and around my team at all times.