CONSTITUTION OF THE KANSAS CITY YOUTH LACROSSE ASSOCIATION
WRITTEN: August 2009
ARTICLE I NAME AND CORPORATE STATUS
ARTICLE II OBJECTIVES AND GENERAL PRINCIPLES
ARTICLE III MEMBERSHIP and PARTICIPATING CLUB ORGANIZATION
ARTICLE IV DUES
ARTICLE V REPRESENTATION
ARTICLE VI MEETINGS
ARTICLE VII BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARTICLE VIII DUTIES OF OFFICERS
ARTICLE IX ELECTIONS
ARTICLE X FUNCTIONS OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARTICLE XI INDEMNIFICATION
ARTICLE XII STANDING COMMITTEES
ARTICLE XIII DUTIES OF STANDING COMMITTEES
ARTICLE XIV ELIGIBILITY RULES
ARTICLE XV FORFEITURE/DEFAULT OF CONTESTS
ARTICLE XVI CERTIFICATION OF PLAYERS
ARTICLE XVII RECRUITMENT OF PLAYERS
ARTICLE XVIII FINANCIAL REPORT OF TREASURER
ARTICLE XIX KCYLL WEBSITE
ARTICLE XX- CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
ARTICLE XX AMENDMENTS
ARTICLE I - NAME AND CORPORATE STATUS
The Kansas City Youth Lacrosse Association LLC (hereinafter referred to as “KCYLA”) is organized as a Missouri Limited Liability Company. The KCYLA has been organized pursuant to the Missouri Limited Liability Company Act, Chapter 347 RSMO. The KCYLA is organized exclusively for non-profit purposes as such purposes are defined by Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1968, as amended, or such other provisions of Missouri or Federal Law as may from time to time be applicable. The KCYLA, a Missouri Limited Liability Company, is doing business under the name of the Kansas City Youth Lacrosse League (hereinafter referred to as “KCYLL”).
ARTICLE II – OBJECTIVE and GENERAL PRINCIPLES
The objective in organizing the KCYLL is for the stated purpose of: “Promoting and developing youth lacrosse programs in the Kansas City Metropolitan area”. The KCYLA represents the Youth constituencyof the Great Plains Lacrosse Association, a US Lacrosse Chapter. The three (“3”) primary functions of the KCYLL is to provide opportunities for participants to: 1) learn the rules of the sport of lacrosse; 2) develop the fundamental skills necessary to play the sport of lacrosse in a structured and safe environment; and 3) develop a sincere appreciation that honors the unique spirit and sportsmanship of the sport of lacrosse.
GENERAL PRINCIPLES
The rules of play that have evolved to govern games sanctioned by the KCYLL have been the direct result of input from numerous dedicated individuals over the years. The goal of each of these individuals has been to structure a framework of game regulations that would ensure a safe environment in which to conduct lacrosse games while, at the same time, offer an opportunity for all participants to enjoy the traditional challenges of the sport of lacrosse. The current rules governing KCYLL games do, in fact, ensure a safe environment in which to conduct lacrosse games while, at the same time, offer an opportunity for all participants to enjoy the traditional challenges of the sport of lacrosse.
Of equal importance, are the attitudes, purposes and conduct that we adults bring to the sport. Our primary job is not only to create an atmosphere of learning, enjoyment, and good sportsmanship for all of the youths who decide to participate in the KCYLL, but to complete our obligation by conducting ourselves in a manner that reinforces the high standards that we expect the players to sustain. We believe that the most effective method to achieve our goals is to remember that the opposing coaches and the officials are actually engaged in a partnership which is dedicated to providing the players with a quality experience. Working together, we can easily attain the goals that we often fall short of when working individually.
Individuals associated with the administration, the conduct or coaching of KCYLL sanctioned games are, in the final analysis, teachers of young people. Their responsibility is an affirmative one, and they must do more than avoid improper conduct or questionable acts. Their own conduct must be so certain and positive that those younger and more pliable will be influenced by the examples exhibited.
ARTICLE III - Membership / Participating Club Organization
Any organized group/program who meets the requirements of the KCYLL may apply for membership. The requirements for application of membership in the KCYLL are:
1. Forms or operates one or more youth lacrosse teams for boys, girls or both.
2. Program must have an organization of its own consisting of a committee of (3)
with (1) parent of a player. This is the minimum and recommendation
is to have a program committee consisting of 4 with 2 parents of players.
3. Program must have a field location for practices and at all possible be able to hold
home games.
4. All members (board, coaches, players) must have a current US Lacrosse membership
5. No discrimination permitted.
Programs can apply for membership in the KCYLL prior to January 10; however admittance in the KCYLL requires upon vote, the approval of 60% of the existing programs in the KCYLL.
Any member or program of the KCYLL may terminate its membership at any time by so notifying the KCYLL.
ARTICLE IV - Dues
KCYLL Membership dues are established by the Board members of the KCYLL on an annual basis. Each KCYLL program shall pay its dues annually, prior to issuing of schedules. A KCYLL program’s Failure to pay its annual dues will result in the programs NOT receiving the schedule for the current season. (Checks are payable to the KCYLL).
ARTICLE V - Representation
1. Each current KCYLL program shall be permitted one voting Director on the KCYLL Board of Directors. The one KCYLL voting Director shall be entitled to a single vote on each matter presented for consideration to the entire KCYLL Board of Directors. A program with greater than 5 teams (all grade divisions) will be allowed one additional voting Director on the KCYLL Board of Directors. That additional KCYLL Board Member shall be entitled to a single vote on each matter presented for consideration to the entire KCYLL Board of Directors. The name of each program’s Director (s) must be filed in writing with the KCYLL at the Season Opening meeting. Proxy may represent a KCYLL Board Member. That identified proxy serves as the Representative for the respective KCYLL program and that proxy’s vote is binding for that KCYLL program. Without prior notice, any current KCYLL program, not represented in three (“3”) consecutive KCYLL Board of Representative meetings shall forfeit that KCYLL program’s membership in the KCYLL. Such KCYLL program’s membership may be reinstated by a majority vote of the KCYLL Board of Directors, and upon payment of a twenty-five (“$25.00”) fine to the KCYLL.
ARTICLE VI - Meetings
1. The KCYLL shall have a minimum of three (“3”) business meetings annually. There shall be a Fall organizational meeting. This meeting shall be to elect members of the KCYLL Board of Representatives. The second KCYLL meeting shall be a pre-season meeting to be
held in February. The primary function of this meeting is to finalize the schedule for the upcoming season. The third meeting shall be held in May or June. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss any issues arising from the preceding season, prepare for the fall season, and propose any changes to the Constitution or By-Laws.
The President of the KCYLL, or the Officers of the KCYLL Board of Directors may call a special KCYLL meeting at any time.
3. The KCYLL President shall call a special meeting of the KCYLL whenever a petition is brought forth in writing.
4. Electronic meetings (fax/email) and conference call meetings may be used to allow the Board of Directors to discuss and or vote on an issue or issues. Participation in this type of meeting shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
5. Notice of all KCYLL meetings shall be given to all KCYLL programs at least 14 days before each meeting. An agenda for the next KCYLL meeting shall be sent with the notice. It is the responsibility of the KCYLL Program Representative to contact the KCYLL President with agenda items prior to the meeting.
ARTICLE VII - Board of Directors
The KCYLL Board of Directors shall be comprised of one board, representing current KCYLL Boys and Girls Programs. The KCYLL Officers of the KCYLL Board of Directors will consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Terms of the office will be two years, beginning after the year end meeting. The President and Secretary shall be elected on odd years if agreed upon by the members. The Treasurer and Vice President shall be elected on even years or if agreed upon by the members. No individual may hold more than one position. Only current Directors of the KCYLL shall be eligible to serve as officers.
ARTICLE VIII- Duties of Officers
The KCYLL Officers shall perform such duties as are consistent with their office according to usual parliamentary rules as described in “Roberts Rules of Order.” The KCYLL President or his/hers designee shall perform the administrative duties of the KCYLL. The KCYLL Vice President shall perform the duties of the President in the absence of the President. The KCYLL Secretary shall record all votes on issues, minutes of meetings and ensure that notices are given and recorded. The KCYLL Treasurer shall keep all financial records of the KCYLL and distribute an annual budget; provide for the custody, collection and deposit moneys received in such banks designated by the Board. The Board of Directors shall appoint other officers as they deem appropriate. No officer will receive a salary, bonus or other such payment above and beyond legitimate and documented approved expenses incurred on behalf of the association. All checks and notes shall be signed by such one or more officers of the association. No expenditure of five hundred dollars ($500.00) or more shall be made without the prior approval of the Board of Directors
ARTILE IX - Elections
1. A nominating Committee will be appointed by the President to develop a slate of candidates. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor prior to the elections.
2. All elected Board Members shall be voted on at the Fall meeting.
ARTICLE X - Functions of the Board of Directors
1. The Board of Directors of the KCYLL shall be entrusted with the duty of carrying on the work of the KCYLL. Seven KCYLL Program Representatives must be present to constitute a quorum. The KCYLL Board of Directors is empowered to transact such business of the KCYLL as it may deem wise and imperative. The KCYLL President shall advise the KCYLL of the agenda for upcoming meetings.
2. It is the duty of the KCYLL Board of Directors to act as a court and to render decisions by majority vote, in all issues and controversies arising out of the interpretations of any of the articles of this constitution, or its by-laws; or the interpretation or application of any rules and regulations governing league play, such as may be found in our own rules, or those in the NFHS rules, NCAA or committee rulings.
3. The KCYLL President and or the KCYLL Board of Directors may postpone, cancel or forfeit any or all contests in cases where the safety and welfare of people are concerned or in the best interest of the KCYLL. This may be done after consultation with the program or programs involved.
4. The Board of Directors shall elect a President from within their own body.
ARTICLE XI - Indemnification
Indemnification of the KCYLL Board of Directors, Officers, and Other Authorized KCYLL Representatives. To the extent that an Board Member, Officer, or other authorized agent of the KCYLL has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit, or proceeding in which such person was a party as a result of serving as a KCYLL Director, Officer, or authorized agent of the KCYLL, such person shall be indemnified against expenses actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith.
ARTCILE XII - Standing Committees
The KCYLL President, with advice and consent of the KCYLL Board of Directors, “may” appoint the following committees: Nominating, Officials and Rules, Finance, Facilities, Coach Development, Marketing, and other committees the Board feels advisable. Each committee shall consist of a chairperson and at least two other members.
ARTICLE XIII - Duties of Standing Committees
1. Nominating: to nominate a slate of potential board members and conduct the election of same.
2. Official and Rules: to review the rules and suggest modification when deemed appropriate. Recommend disciplinary action.
3. Finance: To oversee the financial viability of the Association, to audit the treasure financial report.
4. Facilities: Oversee field location selection, proper maintenance guidelines and execution of field requirements. Development of Sideline Managers Program
5. Coach Development: Work with US Lacrosse to obtain Kansas City location US Lacrosse Level 1 and 2 certification programs.
6. Marketing: Promotion of KCYLL, New Club (boys & girls) Development, Out of State Competition
ARTICLE XIV - Eligibility Rules
The purpose of the following eligibility rules is to insure to every person in a program which is a member of the KCYLL, the privileges and benefits of participation in lacrosse and to protect that person from unfair competition therein. To be eligible to play on any team representing a program which is a member of the KCYLL a player must fall within the limits of all the following rules:
1. Meet the grade/age requirements for the league in which the player has registered to play.
2. May not be a member of a high school team or high school club team (freshmen, sophomore, junior varsity, or varsity).
3. May not have been recruited from another KCYLL program. Once a player has registered with one KCYLL Program, they may NOT participate on any other KCYLL team within the same season.
4. Should a player wish to transfer within the same season from one KCYLL program to another KCYLL program they must obtain a release from the former program and present the release to the new program with a copy to the KCYLL President. This release must state that the player has not been recruited by any member program. A copy of the release form is distributed.
5. Once a player has signed up for one team in one program, they are prohibited from signing up for another. If such an infraction occurs, the player immediately needs to notify the KCYLL with an explanation to obtain a release, otherwise the player in question must sit out three (3) games from the date of the knowledge of the infraction.
ARTICLE XV - Forfeiture/Default of Contest
1. A KCYLL member team may not forfeit a scheduled contest. Multiple (2) violations of this rule will make the KCYLL team and coach ineligible for any play-off games and also “may” result in a one-year’s suspension. Repeat violations by the same program in consecutive years will result in expulsion.
2. If a KCYLL coach or player is ejected from a KCYLL sanctioned game, they may appoint a representative to replace them. If a representative is not available, the contest may be declared a default and result in a loss for the team. The referee has the power to suspend from a game, or send from the field a player, coach, or fan found guilty of flagrant or repeated misconduct of using abusive language. The player must sit out the next sanctioned game. Any coach that is dismissed from a game must meet with the KCYLL Board of Directors and be cleared before he/she can coach again.
3.The KCYLL President, in conjunction with the KCYLL Official and Rules Committee Representative can declare a default shall they deem necessary due to the rule infractions by an offending KCYLL team.
ARTICLE XVI - Certification of Players
The KCYLL program chairperson of each KCYLL program is responsible for the eligibility certification of their program’s registered players. Birth certificates or school report card are the standard from of age verification or grade in the KCYLL.
ARTICLE XVII - Recruitment of Players
It is the intent of the KCYLL for the individual KCYLL programs to utilize players from within their own area and not to recruit players residing elsewhere. No KCYLL player, coach or program representative (parent, or designate) shall request a KCYLL player to move to another KCYLL program.
ARTICLE XVIII - Financial Report of Treasurer
The KCYLL Treasurer is responsible to submit to the KCYLL Board of Directors and make available to the general KCYLL membership a financial report of all income and disbursements in the operation of the KCYLL. This financial report is required annually to be presented at the Fall meeting for the previous year’s operation.
ARTICLE XIX – KCYLL Website
Any and all web domain names (http//www.kcyll.org,http//www.kcyll.com ) utilized by, or funded by the KCYLL are exclusive property of the KCYLL. Informational content used on any and all web sited utilized by, or funded by the KCYLL (except for informational content provided to the KCYLL by constituent groups for their section of the KCYLL web site) are exclusive property of the KCYLL. In the event that the KCYLL changes its web hosting company or webmaster, all relevant hosting and content information will be passed on by the outgoing web hosting company or webmaster in an expedient manner to the new web hosting company or webmaster.
ARTICLE XX- CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
Consistent with the annual requirements for Board of Directors members of Sanctioned Chapters of US Lacrosse, all KCYLL Board of Directors Members must annually submit, to the KCYLL President by the Fall meeting of each year, a filled out US Lacrosse Form stating no knowledge of either direct or indirect attempts by that KCYLL Board Member to tangibly benefit by their respective participation as agents for KCYLL.
ARTICLE XXI- Amendments
The Constitutions or By-laws of the Association may be amended by a majority vote of the Board of Directors. Any proposed amendments must be submitted in writing to the President at least three weeks before the next scheduled official Board of Directors meeting.
