Codes of Conduct

Codes of Conduct outline an agreed standard of behaviour for everyone – including administrators, coaches, officials, players and parents. See below for draft Codes of Conduct that your club can make use of:

Administrators

I will:

Create pathways for club members to participate not just as players but also as coaches, referees, administrators etc;
Ensure that rules, equipment, length of games and training schedules are modified to suit the age, ability and maturity level of players;
Ensure quality supervision and coaching for players;
Remember that players participate for their enjoyment and benefit;
Help coaches and officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development, and help to improve the standards of coaching and officiating;
Ensure that everyone involved in sport emphasises fair play;
Distribute a code of conduct to players, coaches, officials and parents and encourage them to follow it;
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or cultural background;
Promote adherence to anti-doping policies.

I will not:

Arrive at the venue intoxicated or drink alcohol at junior matches;
Allow the unlawful supply of alcohol at training, games or club functions;
Use bad language, nor will I harass players, coaches, officials or spectators.

Coaches

I will:

Remember that players participate for enjoyment and winning is only part of the fun;
Never ridicule or yell at players for making a mistake or not winning;
Be reasonable in my demands on players’ time, energy and enthusiasm;
Operate within the rules and spirit of the game and teach my players to do the same;
Ensure that the time players spend with me is a positive experience. All players are deserving of equal attention and opportunities;
Avoid overplaying the talented players and understand that the average players need and deserve equal time;
Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of all players;
Display control, respect and professionalism to all involved with the sport including opponents; referees, coaches, officials, administrators, the media, parents and spectators. I will encourage my players to do the same;
Show concern and caution toward sick and injured players and follow the advice of a physician when determining whether an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition;
Obtain appropriate qualifications and keep up to date with the latest coaching practices and the principles of growth and development of young players;
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or cultural background;
Promote adherence to anti-doping policies.

I will not:

Arrive at the venue intoxicated or drink alcohol at junior matches;
Allow the unlawful supply of alcohol at training, games or club functions;
Use bad language nor will I harass players, officials, spectators or other coaches.

Officials

I will:

Place the safety and welfare of players above all else;
Show concern and caution towards sick and injured players;
Be impartial, consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions;
Accept responsibility for my actions and decisions;
Condemn unsporting behaviour and promote respect for the individuality of players;
Avoid any situations which may lead to or be construed as a conflict of interest;
Be a positive role model in behaviour and personal appearance and ensure my comments are positive and supportive;
Be a good sport as I understand that actions speak louder than words;
Always respect, remain loyal to and support other officials;
Keep up to date with the latest ‘Laws of the Game’, trends and principles of their application
Refrain from any form of personal abuse towards players or other officials;
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or cultural background.

I will not:

Arrive at the venue intoxicated or drink alcohol at junior matches.

Players

I will:

Always play by the rules;
Never argue with an official. If I disagree with a decision I will inform the captain, coach or manager during a break or after the competition;
Control my temper. I understand that verbal abuse of officials and other players or deliberately; distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable or permitted behaviour in any sport
Work equally hard for myself and my team;
Be a good sport and applaud all good plays whether they are made by my team or the opposition;
Treat all players in my sport as I like to be treated. I will not bully or take unfair advantage of another competitor;
Co-operate with my coach, team mates and opponents;
Display modesty in victory and graciousness in defeat;
Participate for my own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents and coaches;
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion;
Thank the opposition and officials at the end of the game;
Comply with anti-doping policies.