CodeofConduct

Code of Conduct for Coaches - July 2009

Coaches are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept of ethics and their attitude directly affects the behaviour of players under their supervision. Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the moral aspect of their conduct.

Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications.

It is natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for coaches. This code is not intended to conflict with that. However, the code calls for coaches to disassociate themselves from a “win-at-all-costs” attitude.

Increased responsibility is requested from coaches involved in coaching young people. The health, safety, welfare and moral education of young people are a first priority, before the achievement or the reputation of the club, school, coach or parent.

Set out below is Code of Practice (which reflects the standards expressed by the National Coaching Foundation and the National Association of Sports Coaches) which forms the benchmark for all involved in coaching:

1. Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.

2. Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.

3. Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.

4. Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.

5. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.

6. Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.

7. Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.

8. Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate, parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their coach.

9. Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.

10. Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone violations of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant rules and regulations or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.

11. Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.

12. Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.

Code of Conduct for Parents / Spectators - July 2009

Parents / Spectators have a great influence on children’s enjoyment and success in football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – it’s fun. It is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football within your club it is important to reinforce the message to parents / spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to:
l Children enjoying football.
l A sense of personal achievement.
l Self-esteem.
l Improving the child’s skills and techniques.

A parent’s / spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:
l Other players.
l Officials.
l Managers.
l Spectators.

Ensure that parents / spectators within your club are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own.

Encourage parents / spectators to:
l Applaud the opposition as well as your own team.
l Avoid coaching the child during the game.
l Not to shout and scream.
l Respect the referee’s decision.
l Give attention to each of the children involved in football not just the most talented.
l Give encouragement to everyone to participate in football.

Ensure that parents / spectators within your club agree and adhere to your club’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.

All players must observe the principles of fair play and respect all others involved in the game including other players, parents, spectators and all officials.
A player should:

1. Make every effort to improve one’s own ability in terms of skill, technique and fitness.

2. Always give maximum effort and strive for the best possible performance in a game.

3. Set a positive example for others and never use inappropriate language.

4. Make every effort consistent with fair play and the laws of the game to help one’s own team play to the best of their ability.

5. Know and abide by the laws, rules and spirit of the game and competition rules.

6. Accept victory and defeat equally.

7. Treat opponents with respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game.

8. Safeguard to physical wellbeing of opponents and oneself by avoiding violent play or conduct of any sort.

9. Accept the decision of the match officials without protest.

10. Show due respect towards match officials and avoid words or actions that may mislead them.

11. Abide by the instructions of their coach and team officials provided that they do not contradict the spirit of this code.

12. Show due respect for the interests of all team officials and spectators.

13. Show respect for equipment and facilities available to assist you train or play the game within the spirit of this code.