Coaches Code of Ethics/Conduct

1.    The term “Coach shall include but is not limited to Head Coach, Assistant Coach(s),

Manager(s), or any other person in a team leadership role.

2.    The coach must never put the value of winning over the safety and welfare of players.

Winning should be the result of preparation and discipline with emphasis placed on

the highest ideals and character traits.

3.    Coaches shall instruct players to play within the written laws of the game and within

the spirit of the game at all times.

4.    Coaches shall not seek unfair advantage by teaching deliberate unsportsmanlike

behavior to players.

5.    Coaches should not tolerate inappropriate behavior from players regardless of the

situation.

6.    Demands on players’ time should never be so extensive as to interfere with academic

goals and progress. Motivation for excellence should include academics as well as

athletics.

7.    Under no circumstances should coaches authorize or encourage the use of medicinal

or performance enhancing drugs. Players should be directed to seek proper medical

attention for injuries and to follow the physician’s instructions regarding treatment

and recovery. At no time should a player be put at risk by returning from injury

prematurely or by being forced to play while injured.

8.    Adherence to all league rules and policies, especially those regarding eligibility, team

formation, recruiting and guest players are mandatory and should never be violated. It

is the responsibility of every coach to know and understand these rules.

9.    Player development and the growth of the player through participation are essential to

the growth of the sport. Additionally, the coach must behave in such a manner that

the principles, integrity, and dignity of the sport are maintained.

10. Officials must have the support of coaches, players and spectators. Criticism of

officials undermines their purpose in the game. Coaches must always refrain from

criticizing officials in the presence of players.

11. Comments regarding an official should be made in writing to the appropriate

organization assigning the official.