Code of Conduct for Parents

Monday 18th February 2008

Children's sports are supposed to be fun – for the children. Unfortunately, many parents and spectators do not realize that their actions, whether verbal or nonverbal, can have a lasting emotional effect on children. The Club therefore has created the following Code of Conduct for parents and spectators to abide by at every game. Parents and spectators who follow this simple code can help reinforce what playing sport is all about.

As a parent or spectator, I will:

  • not force my child to participate in sports;
  • remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for youth, not adults;
  • inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others;
  • learn the rules of the game and the policies of the Club;
  • be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or other sporting event;
  • not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; refusing to shake hands; or using profane language or gestures;
  • not encourage any behaviours or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the athletes;
  • teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence;
  • encourage my child treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, colour, sex or ability;
  • teach my child that doing one's best is more important than winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance;
  • never ridicule or yell at my child or other participant for making a mistake or losing a competition;
  • emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit my child over winning;
  • promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire I may have for my child to win;
  • recognize the importance of volunteer coaches and others to the development of my child and the sport. I will communicate with them, as required, and support them. If I have a concern, I will talk to the coach at the appropriate time and place;
  • help maintain a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will refrain from their use at all sports events;
  • refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of the official coaches of the team.