Code of Conduct.

For coaches, officials, players and spectators.

Code of Conduct for Coaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

·      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.

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

·      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.

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

·      Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.

Code of Conduct for Officials

·      Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.

·      Promote and develop his own team having regard to the interest of the Players, Supporters and reputation of the national game.

·      Share knowledge and experience when invited to do so, taking into account the interest of the body that has requested this rather than personal interests.

·      Avoid all forms of gamesmanship.

·      Show due respect to Match Officials and others involved in the game.

·      Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion of the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.

·      Not use or tolerate inappropriate language.

·      Make every effort to develop the sporting, technical and tactical levels of the club/team, and to obtain the best results for the team, using all permitted means.

·      Resist all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and techniques.

·      Promote ethical principles.

·      Show due respect for the interests of the players, coaches and officials, their own club/team and others.

·      Accept the decisions of the Match Official without protest including avoiding words or actions which may mislead a Match Official and to show due respect towards Match Officials.

For Club Members and Players

·      Play by the rules – the rules of your Club and the laws of the game.

·      Attend training sessions and matches at times advised by the Club. If unable, for a valid reason to do so, players will inform the Club as soon, as is practical.

·      Act respectfully toward the officials and players of their own and opposing Clubs.

·      Respect and follow the directions of coaching staff, match and club officials.

·      Treat all players with respect, as you would want them to treat you.

·      Act respectfully towards match officials at all times. Abusive language is unacceptable.

·      Avoid individual or collective behaviour, which may reasonably be held by spectators to be offensive.

·      Avoid all acts likely to incite spectators to violence or disorder.

·      Abide by the Rules & Regulations and the Competition Rules of the WCFL and Durham FA.

·      Respect the facilities and equipment of their own and opposing Clubs.

·      Do not use remarks based on race, religion, gender or ability as many such comments are politically incorrect and it is your coach, team-mates, Club and family that are let down with such remarks.

·      Make sure payment is made to the General Manager for the game.

·      Make sure nets, corner flags, footballs and all other equipment is looked after. For home games, ALL players need to assist in putting nets up and corner flags in.

·      At least one member must be present at every League Meeting organised by the WCFL (usually every two months). Representatives do not have to pay their £2 match fee the following Saturday for their attendance. However, if any person fails to show, then the team will be heavily fined by the WCFL. If this occurs, then each regular member must pay a share of the fine.

For Spectators

·      Remember that you are there for the participants to enjoy the game.

·      Never ridicule mistakes or losses Supporters are there to support not downgrade.

·      Lead by example and respect all players, coaches, referees, administrators and spectators.

·      Physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.

·      Recognise all volunteers who give up their valuable time.

·      Do not use remarks based on race, religion, gender or ability as many such comments are politically incorrect and it is your coach, team-mates and Club that are let down with such remarks.

·      Respect the facilities and equipment of their own and opposing Clubs.

·      Do not engage in physical and/or verbal intimidation, abuse or conduct toward any player, official, umpire or supporter. Such actions are totally unacceptable.

·      Condemn the use of violence in any form, whether it is by spectators, coaches, officials or players. Abusive language is unacceptable.

·      The Code relates to regulating the conduct and behaviour of players, officials, club administrators, parents and spectators (supporters). Clubs are required to ensure that all club members receive a copy of the Code of Conduct.

·      For more information please visit www.sassco.co.uk.