Meadowridge AFC Code of Conduct enumerates basic requirements which are organised under 4 principles.
1. Setting a Good Example
The coach’s example is powerful. If a coach insists on fair play, concentrates on players’ enjoyment of the game and their overall, long term development, and supports the referee, players and parents will notice. If a coach discourages (or allows) players to play outside of the rules, are overly concerned about the results, and / or criticise the referee or opposing coach, players will also notice. Above all, children deserve a coach they can respect.
- Coaches, in all contact with MAFC players, parents, officials and coaches, should strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct. Before, during and after the game they should be an example of dignity, patience and positive spirit.
- Before games opposing coaches should meet and exchange greetings to set the proper tone for the game. After games the teams and coaches should meet and congratulate each other in a sportsmanlike manner.
- Coaches should ensure that their players’ football experience is one of fun and enjoyment and improvement in skill (winning is only a part of it). Players should never be shouted at, lectured or ridiculed for making mistakes or for causing a game to be lost. Coaches should be generous with praise when it is deserved.
- Coaches should avoid any conduct which could be construed as physically or verbally abusive.
- Coaches should completely refrain from verbal dissent during a game with an opposing coach’s bench.
- Coaches should honour all professional relationships with colleagues, associations, the media, officials and the public. Conflict of interest and exploitation of these relationships must be avoided.
2. Keeping Players Safe and Equipment in Control
Coaches should have the safety of the players in their charge as their first priority at all times. Coaches should be familiar with the facilities and fields on which their teams practise and play and be mindful of the levels of fitness and skill of each of their players. Coaches should also be familiar with the Laws of the Game, current with age appropriate coaching, aware of applicable existing rules and regulations as well as be informed of DFC and the CTTFA.
- Coaches should check players’ equipment and playing facilities frequently. They should be meet or exceed safety standards and be appropriate for the age and ability of players.
- Coaches should follow the advice of a doctor when determining when an injured player is ready to play again. During a game, and in the absence of medical advice, coaches should err on the side of caution in permitting an injured player to return to play.
- Coaches that are issued with kit ie. jerseys, bibs, balls and cones at the start of the season. This equipment is purchased at considerable expense to MAFC. Coaches are responsible for the care and return of the kit issued at the end of the season. Ensure that regular checks of equipment are carried out and report any discrepancies to the Club Chairman/Junior Chairman.
- Coaches will be held responsible for any loss of equipment.
3. Creating a Positive Experience
MAFC wishes to ensure that games are fair, positive and an enjoyable experience for the children and adults involved. A football game should be friendly and unifying – a spirited social and athletic occasion for players, coaches, referees and spectators.
- Coaches should require all players and spectators to adhere to the highest level of sportsmanship at all times. During the game the coach is responsible for the sportsmanship of the players. If a player is carded or is disrespectful, irresponsible or overly aggressive the coach should remove the player from the game for at least long enough for the player to calm down. Coaches should explain acceptable behaviour to players and parents at a preseason meeting. Encourage parents to make positive comments about fair play by either team. Prohibit them from shouting at players and at the referee.
- Coaches may not use any form of social media, private meetings or informal chats to air any grievances that they have with MAFC, other coaches, parents, players or officials and the CTTFA. Kindly follow the correct channel i.e. Club Chair or Junior Chair to list your concerns.
4. Relating to Officials
Coaches should demonstrate respect for the official and his / her role. Coaches can help referees improve by letting them concentrate on the game, accepting their inevitable occasional mistakes.
- Before a game coaches should introduce themselves to the referee. During the game they should never address the referee except to request a substitution. After the game they should thank the referee and ask players to do the same.
- A small disagreement should be discussed with the referee calmly after the game. For major complaints, or if the referee appeared to be unfair, biased, unfit or incompetent report your opinion to the Club Chairman or Junior Chairman.