Code for Parents

  • Do not force an unwilling youngster to participate.
  • Never ridicule or shout at your child, or any other, for making a mistake or losing.
  • Encourage a child always to play by the laws of the sport.
  • Teach young people that honest effort is as important as victory so that the result of each contest is accepted without undue disappointment.
  • Turn defeat into victory by helping young people work towards skill improvement and good sportsmanship.
  • Remember that young people learn best by example.
  • Do not publicly question the judgement or honesty of match officials.
  • Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from all levels of youth sport.
  • Recognise the value and importance of volunteer coaches and officials. They give their time and resources to provide recreational activities for young people.

Code for Players

  • Play for enjoyment, not just to please your parents or coach.
  • Abide by the laws of the sport.
  • Never argue with the decisions of match officials � let your captain or coach ask any necessary questions.
  • Control your temper – no foul language.
  • Work equally hard for yourself and your team – your team’s performance will benefit and so will your own.
  • Be a good sport – applaud all good performance, whether by your team or by the opponent.
  • Treat all participants as you yourself would like to be treated.
  • Don’t interfere with, bully or take advantage of any other player.
  • Remember that the aim of sport is to have fun, improve your skills and feel good.
  • At the end of play, applaud and thank your opponents and the match officials. The forming of narrow & aggressive player tunnels should not take place.
  • Win with humility – Lose with dignity.

Code for Coaches

  • Remember that young people need a coach they can respect – be generous with your praise when it is deserved and set a good example.
  • Be reasonable in your demands on the young players’ time, energy and enthusiasm.
  • Remember that they have other interests and demands on their time.
  • Teach young players that the laws of the sport are mutual agreements which no one should evade or break.
  • Ensure that all your charges participate – average and below average participants need and deserve fair time and attention.
  • Remember that young people are involved for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of it – never ridicule or shout at participants for making mistakes or losing it.
  • Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, as well as for the judgement of match officials and opposing coaches.
  • Follow the advice of a doctor in determining when an injured performer is ready to participate again.
  • Never criticise the officials during or after the event in front of players or spectators – always thank officials and if they have made any decisions which require clarification discuss that privately with them afterwards.
  • Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed on sound coaching principles and the principles of growth and development of young people.
  • Encourage young people to develop basic skills and FAIRPLAY and avoid over-specialisation during their formative years.
  • Insist on fair and disciplined play – do not tolerate foul play, cheating, violence or bad language.

Code for Spectators

  • Remember that young people are taking part in organised sport, which is intended to be played for enjoyment. They are not professional or international gladiators.
  • Be on your best behaviour. Do not use profane language or harass players, coaches or officials.
  • Acknowledge good performance and FAIR PLAY by opponents as well as by your own team.
  • Show respect for opponents and officials. Without them, there would be no competition.
  • Condemn the use of violence in all forms.
  • Verbal abuse of players or officials is not acceptable in any shape or form.