Policy 5: Social Media and Networking (UPDATED 2025)
POLICY 5: SOCIAL MEDIA AND NETWORKING
Purpose:
This policy applies to all members of the Lakeland Lacrosse Association (LLA), including coaches, players, officials, parents/guardians, family members, and supporters.
The LLA acknowledges the value of social media and networking and respects the right of all teams and members to express themselves publicly. However, members must understand that once something is posted online, it is public, permanent, and beyond your control. Texts, photos, and comments may remain accessible—even if deleted—and could have serious consequences for you or others. Thoughtless posts can damage reputations and affect future opportunities.
As responsible community members, we must commit to respectful digital conduct. Always ask for permission before sharing content involving others and consider the digital footprint you leave behind.
- Social Media Guidelines
- All LLA members are held to the same standards online as in traditional media (TV, radio, print).
- Inappropriate, disrespectful, or harmful comments toward any LLA participant—including coaches, players, officials, or families—are not tolerated and may lead to disciplinary action.
- All posts, comments, and messages—including texts—are considered on-the-record and publicly accessible. Always conduct yourself in a respectful and professional manner.
- Do not share confidential, personal, or team-related information, including player injuries or internal matters. Only share publicly approved content.
- Pause before you post. Once something is shared online, it cannot be fully retracted. You are responsible for your digital content.
- If your social media activity is related to your role within LLA, we recommend obtaining approval from the Association Board before participating publicly, to protect the LLA brand.
- Players and parents/guardians are asked to refrain from posting about Lakeland Lacrosse:
- Within two (2) hours before a game, and
- For at least one (1) hour after a game.
- If you feel the need to post something negative, please wait 24 hours before doing so or direct the comment privately through appropriate channels.
The following are examples of violations of this policy and may result in disciplinary action:
- Public criticism of LLA officials, players, teams, or members.
- Sharing confidential or sensitive information such as:
- Player injuries
- Trades or team changes
- Game strategies
- Personal or team issues
- Posting negative or derogatory comments about:
- Arena or facility staff
- Opposing teams, coaches, or players
- League officials, directors, programs, or sponsors
- Engaging in or promoting:
- Bullying, harassment, threats, or intimidation
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Public intoxication
- Hazing or sexual exploitation
- Online conduct that contradicts LLA’s values or policies.
- Inappropriate content including racist, sexist, or discriminatory remarks.
- Misrepresenting facts or spreading misinformation that causes undue alarm or confusion.
5.03 Discipline
The LLA Director of Discipline will investigate all reported violations of this policy in accordance with LLA’s existing Policies and Procedures. If a violation is confirmed, the Director of Discipline will issue a suspension or other disciplinary action.
5.04 Summary
When using social media, all LLA members should assume they are representing the Association and its teams. Exercise the same discretion online as you would in person or in traditional media.
Unauthorized use of an individual's image, likeness, or identity—including that of a player, coach, or team member—is considered identity misuse and is strictly prohibited without written LLA approval.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact an LLA board member.
