National Yo-Yo Contest Code of Conduct
The National Yo-Yo League (NYYL) strives to foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants and spectators at our events. All attendees including competitors, judges, staff, and vendors, must adhere to the following Code of Conduct. Please note, this document is subject to modification as needed at the sole discretion of the NYYL.
By attending any NYYL event, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.
1. Courtesy & Respect:
Attendees will treat others with respect, kindness and consideration. The Yo-Yo community is made up of a wide spectrum of individuals from every stretch of life. With this in mind, it’s important to understand that others’ perceptions of what is, or isn’t offensive might differ from your own. Lead with kindness in your interactions with others and be respectful of others feelings and opinions. No form of harassment, discrimination, or other forms of intimidation will be tolerated at NYYL spaces or events.
2. Anti-Racism & Inclusivity:
Attendees must be mindful of the impact their words and actions may have on others. This includes avoiding the perpetuation of racial stereotypes, hate speech or other derogatory comments. Respect and acknowledge the rights, and identities of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Being respectful of the names and gender identities of others will help keep our inclusive community welcoming to everyone. At no point and time will homophobic, transphobic, racist speech or gestures be tolerated at NYYL spaces or events.
3. Fair Competition:
The NYYL recognizes the extraordinary efforts of its competitors which is why having a fair competitive environment is so important. All participants are expected to compete in the spirit of fairness, honesty, and display good sportsmanship. Respect the rules and decisions of the judges, even if you may disagree. Engaging in any form of cheating, collusion, or unsportsmanlike conduct will result in your disqualification and may result in additional disciplinary action from the NYYL.
4. Positive & Safe Environment:
The NYYL seeks to foster a positive, safe, and supportive atmosphere in our events and spaces. All attendees are expected to offer encouragement and constructive feedback (where appropriate) to fellow competitors. Refrain from engaging in disruptive or disrespectful behaviors that may distract or negatively impact others. If you witness or experience something you feel violates the NYYL code of conduct, please report it to event staff immediately.
5. Conduct Violations:
The NYYL takes all reports of harassment, violence, disruptive behavior, or other code of conduct violations seriously. All reports will be handled with discretion and kept confidential among NYYL organizers and authorized representatives to protect the privacy of those involved. Each report will be investigated as quickly as practicable, and in determining an appropriate resolution or disciplinary actions, the NYYL will review the facts of the incident and validity of the complaint(s).
The NYYL reserves the right to take any action deemed necessary to protect and maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants. Substantiated violations may result in disciplinary actions, up to and including immediate removal from NYYL-sanctioned spaces and events without refund. In extreme cases, the NYYL may permanently bar any participant, competitor, vendor, or spectator from future events. Violations may also result in charges and/or penalties in accordance with local laws. Those found to be in violation of the code of conduct may file a formal appeal to the league to have the degree of their discipline reviewed.
This code of conduct is not exhaustive. It is a framework to foster a respectful, inclusive, and positive environment, and the NYYL may address other inappropriate behavior as necessary to uphold these values. If you experience or witness any conduct violation or are unsure about a situation, please report it to an NYYL organizer on site or use the contact information provided on the event website to reach an authorized NYYL representative. The Yo-Yo community thrives when we treat each other with respect, embrace diversity, and celebrate our shared passion. Join us in continuing our legacy of being an inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone.