Ottawa Internationals Soccer Club

Code of Conduct

Coaches

Be reasonable in your demands on young players time, Remember that they have other interests.

Teach your players that rules of the game are mutual agreements which no one should evade or break.

Group players according to age, height, skill and physical maturity whenever possible.

Avoid over-playing talented players. The "just-average" players need and deserve equal time.

Remember children play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of it. Never ridicule or yell at the children for making mistakes or losing a competition.

Ensure equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate for the age and ability of the children.

Scheduling and length of practice times and competitions should take into consideration the maturity level of the children.

Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, as well as for the judgement of officials and opposing coaches.

Follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured player is ready to return.

Remember the children need a coach they can respect. Be generous with your praise when it is deserved, and set a good example.

Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed on sound coaching principles and the principles of growth and development of children

Players

Play for the "fun of it", not just to please your parents or coach.

Play by the rules.

Never argue with the official's decision. Let your coach ask any necessary questions.

Control your temper - no "mouthing off" or throwing tantrums.

Work equally hard for yourself and your team - your team's performance will benefit and so will your own.

Be a good sport. Cheer all good plays, whether your team's or your opponents'.

Treat all players as you yourself would like to be treated. Don't interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of any player.

Remember the goals of the game are to have fun, improve your skills and feel good. Don't show off or always try to get the most points or penalties.

Cooperate with your coach, teammates and opponents, for without them you don't have a game.

Parents

Do not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.

Remember children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment, not yours.

Encourage your child always to play by the rules.

Teach your child that honest effort is as important as victory so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.

Turn defeat into victory by helping your child work towards skill improvement and good sportsmanship. Never ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a competition.

Remember children learn best by example. Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.

Do not publicly question the officials' judgement and never their honesty.

Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children's sporting activities.

Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They give their time to provide recreational activities for your child.

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Reproduced from the "Fair Play Codes for Children in Sports". Courtesy of the Canadian Council on Children and Youth.