ST. COLUMBAN MINOR SOCCER CODE OF ETHICS FOR COACHES
Players come with varying degrees of skill and experience. All players must be given the opportunity to learn and participate. Typically the players won’t remember any given game within a very short time, however if you openly criticize them or don’t play them, they will remember you for a lifetime.
Be consistent, fair and just with all players. Be generous with praise when it is deserved and use constructive criticism when necessary. Remember the rule “praise in public, criticize in private”, but do so in a positive manner. Having an assistant coach present is also recommended.
Learn to be an effective communicator. Do not yell negative comments at players. Think about how you react when someone yells at you.
Learn the basics of the game. Familiarize yourself with the rules. Build practices that are challenging, educational and just as importantly fun.
Maintain open communication between yourself and players, as well as parents. Encourage input and feedback from players.
Show respect for all participants. Verbal abuse of players, officials, other team members, coaches and fans will not be tolerated. The use of profanity is also strictly prohibited.
Remember that for league games, often times referees are younger and are learning the game also. Openly criticizing them will only increase the likelihood of mistakes. It will also discourage them from continuing as referee resulting in a reduced number of high caliber referees for older age groups.
Coaches shall refrain from any comments or actions that are disrespectful, offensive, abusive, racist, or sexist.
We will always strive to be a positive role model for young players. Show emotional maturity and be alert to the physical safety of the players. Arriving at games or practices while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Winning is a consideration but not the only one. Learning to compete is also important. But remember kids are there to have fun while learning the skills of soccer. The well-being of the child is more important than winning the game. Our mandate is to build confidence and self-esteem, not only on the pitch but in life as well.