Code of Conduct for Coaches and Team Managers

Overview

Every participant in our sport has a role to play in ensuring that the game is free from all forms of bullying and abuse, and that it is played in a competitive and fair manner.

All participants in our game have a responsibility to promote respect and good behaviour. As leaders, Coaches and Team Managers must demonstrate the behaviour that they expect their players and spectators to follow.

Responsibilities

  1. Place the health, safety, and welfare of the participants above all else.
  2. Respect the rights and worth of every person, regardless of their age, race, gender, ability, cultural background, sexual orientation, or religion.
  3. Remember that children play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of their motivation and development.
  4. Never ridicule or yell at players for making mistakes or losing a game.
  5. Teach your players to abide by the rules and Laws of the Game and to play within the spirit of the game.
  6. Develop and enhance respect between players, opposition coaches and Match Officials, including by respecting decisions by Match Officials.
  7. Ensure that equipment and facilities meet a reasonable safety standard and are appropriate to the age and ability of the players.
  8. Modify your approach to suit the skill levels and needs of players.
  9. Be reasonable in your demands on younger players’ time, energy, and enthusiasm.
  10. Any physical contact with a person should be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the person’s skill development.
  11. Do not smoke or consume alcohol whilst supervising team members.
  12. Do not tolerate abusive, bullying, or threatening behaviour.
  13. Follow the advice of a physician, or listen to your player, when determining the extent of a player’s injury and their return from injury to training and game scenarios.
  14. Help each individual (player, official, etc.) reach their potential - respect the talent, developmental stage and goals of each person and encourage with appropriate, positive and supportive feedback.
  15. Remember the actions of yourself and your team is reflective of the perception others take away with them.