ROLE
Coaches are in a unique position wielding significant influence. They interface with all groups involved within a club, and thus assume certain obligations and responsibilities to protect the image and profile of the game, not only today, but in particular with coaches of junior teams into the future.
It is essential that coaches are aware of their unique position, and conduct themselves in a manner to maintain the respect and dignity of the position.
All coaches, whether accredited or not, are bound by the AFL Coaches Code of Conduct, as well as these rules, including the specific rules governing Reporting and Disciplinary Procedures.
In these Rules, "Coach" means not only the official team coach but anyone acting in that capacity, whether formally appointed or not, as well as assistant coaches, whether formally appointed or not, who act in that capacity.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The code includes, but is not limited to:
- Setting a good example and displaying utmost honesty and integrity in all dealings.
- Teaching fair play and good sportsmanship.
- Never place the value of winning above that of instilling the highest possible ideals and character.
- Be reasonable in setting demands, goals and expectations.
- Maintain a current knowledge of the Laws, the Rules, of training methods, both theory and practical, and abide by those Laws and Rules.
- Teach and interpret the Laws and Rules to the players.
- Never ridicule players.
- Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all individuals within the context of your involvement in Australian Football, including refraining from any discriminatory practices on the basis of race, religion, ethnic background, or special ability/disability.
- Encourage and create opportunities to develop individual as well as team skill.
- Ensure that all players understand the importance of regular attendance at training and positive attitude at training and that team selection throughout the season, including the finals, may be influenced by their training attendance and attitude.
- Ensure that injured players are given prompt and competent medical attention and that doctors' orders are strictly adhered to.
- Endeavour to keep informed regarding sound principles of coaching and skill development and of factors relating to the welfare of your players.
- Display and foster respect for umpires, opponents, coaches, officials, parents and spectators.
- Do not engage in physical and/or verbal intimidation, abuse or conduct towards any player, official, umpire or supporter. Such actions are totally unacceptable.
- Respect the facilities and equipment of your own and opposing clubs.
- Make no detrimental statements in the media (eg. radio, television, print or electronic media) about the performance of any match officials, umpires, players, or any policy decisions of the club, Greater Sydney Juniors or the AFL.
Appropriate conduct will be achieved through engaging in the following game day protocols:
- Setting a good example, including adherence to the various Codes of Conduct.
- Restraining and counselling officials, players and supporters who may be inclined to become over-excited, particularly if they use inappropriate, abusive, threatening or insulting language or physical action.
- Introducing officials and players to umpires prior to the game, and encouraging those officials and players to courteously acknowledge the efforts of the umpires, irrespective of the match result.
- Welcoming officials, players and supporters of the opposition team on match day.
- Encouraging opposing teams to shake hands prior to the commencement and also at the end of the game.
- Presenting the ground and clubroom environment in a professional and welcoming manner.
- Introducing awards for sportsmanship other than for best and fairest.
- Total abstinence from consuming alcohol at matches.
- Total abstinence from any form of drug use.
DOWNLOAD AFL COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT (443kb)
