KOUTS SOCCER CLUB
COACHES CODE OF ETHICS
The position of coach or leader of any youth group is an important and serious responsibility. All the children look up to the coach and respect his position. His/Her behavior is constantly under observation by them, and they will strive to imitate his/her actions. Any violation of this code of conduct may result in disciplinary action from the SAY Area and/or District.
The following CODE OF ETHICS AND BEHAVIOR is offered here to exemplify the ideal Kouts Soccer Club coach.
I WILL:
Know the laws of the game and teach them to your players. Read the rulebook and attend a coaching and/or a referee clinic.
Abide by the laws of the game and the SAY rules. Set the example for your players that no one is exempt from the laws of the game.
Ensure that each practice and game is safe, fair, and fun. Your players should always come first!
Treat the referee with respect, no matter what the call is. Allow for the fact that they are human and will make mistakes. It is not your job to correct them. You may respectfully ask our club's NWISL rep if you have any concerns. All refs are scheduled through the NWISL after meeting their training requirements. Most importantly, they are KIDS and are learning.
Exhibit exemplary conduct at both practices and games. Team discipline reflects the coach’s attitude 100%.
Coach clean, skillful, honest, and sportsmanlike soccer. Stress playing is hard to win over winning itself. Teach fair play and the “Golden Rule” (do unto others as you would have them do unto you) and apply it to all games and practices. It is not about making the goal, it's about HOW you made it: Who passed to you? How did your team assist you?
Set an example of good sportsmanship including what it means to be humble. Require all players and parents to behave in the same manner. The coach is responsible for the conduct of the players and parents when they are together as a team.
Maintain a climate of enjoyment. Discourage negative remarks and/or harassment of players, referees and other spectators among players and spectators.
Work at team morale. Morale is as important as soccer skills and tactics, to be a “fun leader”.
Maximize praise and minimize criticisms. Make corrections slowly and calmly in a manner tailored to the individual.
Refrain from profanity or vulgar language. Remember that you are helping to mold the character of your players.
Coach talented and non-talented players with equal vigor. Allow players more than their required minimum playing time.
Minimize coaching from the sidelines during games. Screaming during the game accomplishes nothing.
Pre-plan all practice sessions in detail. Make them interesting, fast-paced and involve all team members as much as possible (minimize standing in lines).
Welcome feedback. No one is perfect! Do not be afraid to change. Accept innovative ideas from players and parents alike concerning potential problems and ways to improve.
Refrain from using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products at all youth soccer events. Encourage the player’s parents to refrain.
Understand reporting obligations. Report any suspected child abuse to Kouts Soccer Club board and the center for SafeSport and local law enforcement.
Always remember, you are teaching more then a game and skill. You are teaching your players respect, self confidence, sportsmanship, humbleness, and building friendships.
“TIMES TWO” POLICY
All SAY areas will require no less than two adults (suggested as unrelated), per
team, to be present at all team functions such as games, practices, picnics, etc. No
Exceptions!
1. The adults assigned can be a combination of coaches, parents, board members, etc.
2. While the focus of this policy is the child, it also provides protection for the
volunteers in case of misunderstandings.
3. IMPORTANT! Failure to implement the "Times Two" policy may adversely impact a SAY area’s liability insurance coverage.