All coaches will be required to sign this Code of Conduct for each season of play.
The essential elements of character building and ethics in youth sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and six core principles: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and good citizenship. The highest potential of sports is achieved when competition reflects these “Six Pillars of Character.” Therefore, I agree:
- I will remember that children participate to have fun and to learn and that the game is for youth, not adults.
- I will treat all players fairly regardless of race, religion, sex, ability or any other personal issue.
- I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league.
- I will teach my players to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
- I will be a positive role model for my players and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or other sporting event.
- I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player or parent such as booing and taunting, refusing to shake hands, belittling children, abusive language or actions, or using profane language or gestures.
- I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the athletes.
- I will demand that my players treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.
- I will teach my players that doing one’s best as part of the team is more important than winning, so that they will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or their performance.
- I will praise my players for competing fairly and trying hard and make them feel like winners every time.
- I will emphasize that the desire to win, skill development, and working hard at practices is more important than winning.
- I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire I may have for our team to win.
- I will respect the officials and their authority during games. If there is a question about a call, I will let the head coach handle it through the appropriate channels.
- I will never confront another coach or parent at the game field or in front of the players. I will take time to speak with other adults at an agreed upon time and place.
- I will demand a sports environment for my players that is free from drugs, tobacco and alcohol and I will refrain from their use all youth sports events.
- If I have any questions or concerns about other adults or coaches that cannot be resolved peacefully and respectfully between us, I will report the situation to the director of the sport and/or the Board of Directors and go through the process of healthy conflict resolution. I will not gossip about the situation or slander the other person.
I also agree that if I fail to abide by the aforementioned rules and guidelines, I will be subject to disciplinary action that could include, but not limited to the following:
- Verbal warning
- Written warning
- Suspension from one game
- Suspension for the rest of the season
TYPING YOUR NAME IN THE BOX BELOW WILL COUNT AS YOUR DIGITAL SIGNATURE