Code of Conduct - Coaches and Officials

Coaches and Officials Code

Coaches, Officials and Volunteers Code of Conduct

Sport should be safe, fun and conducted in a spirit of fair play

All coaches, officials and volunteers in athletics should:

• Consider the wellbeing and safety of participants before the development of performance.
• Develop an appropriate working relationship with participants, based on mutual trust and respect.
• Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and the experience of those taking part.
• Promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play)
• Display consistently high standards of behaviour.
• Follow all guidelines laid down by the national governing body and the club.
• Hold appropriate qualifications and insurance cover.
• Never exert undue influence over participants to gain personal benefit or reward.
• Never condone rule violations, rough play or the use of prohibited substances.
• Encourage participants to value their performances and not just results.
• Encourage and guide participants to accept responsibility for their own performance and behaviour.
• Never use foul or inappropriate language.
• Never engage in any form of sexual relations with anyone under the age of 18, or vulnerable adults.
• Read, understand and put into practice all club policies and procedures.

Coaches and leaders should never place themselves in a compromising position by texting or communicating via social media sites with juvenile athletes. All such communications regarding athletics should be sent via the parents or guardians of the athlete.

The following should apply when communicating with juvenile athletes:

• Do use a club group text or email system for communicating with parents/guardians of athletes.
• Do not communicate individually by text or email with juvenile athletes.
• Do not engage in communications with underage athletes via personal social network sites.
• Always use official club group text or social media sites to communicate with juvenile athletes.

I have fully read and understand the above code of conduct and will ensure that my conduct and practice reflects the above policies.

Signed: …………………………… Name: ………………………………. Date: ……………….