Code of Conduct for Coaches

Set out below is The FA Coaches Association Code of Conduct, which reflects the standards expressed by the National Coaching Foundation and the National Association of Sports Coaches and forms the benchmark for all involved in coaching.

1.  Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and

     every person and treat each equally within the context of the

     sport.

2.  Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player

     above all other considerations, including the development of  

     performance.

3.  Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing   

     bodies.

4.  Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship

     with  each  player based on mutual trust and respect.

5.  Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal

     benefit or reward.

6.  Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept

     responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.

7.  Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate

     are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of

     players.

8.  Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and,

     where appropriate, parents) exactly what is expected of them 

     and also what they, as players, are entitled to expect from their

     coach.

9.  Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other

     coaches & officials ) in the best interests of the player.

10. Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport

     (e.g. fair play) and never condone violations of the Laws of the

     Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game 

     or relevant rules and regulations / the use of prohibited

     substances or techniques.

11. Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour.

12. Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.

Coaches are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept of ethics is their attitude which directly affects the behaviour of players under their supervision.

Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the moral aspect of their conduct.

Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications.

It is natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for coaches. This code is not intended to conflict with that. However, the code calls for coaches to disassociate themselves from a “win-at-all-costs” attitude.

Increased responsibility is requested from coaches involved in coaching young people. The health, safety, welfare and moral education of young people are a first priority, before the achievement or the reputation of the club, coach or parent.