Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
Coaches must place the well-being, enjoyment and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance, and above winning. Never engage in or tolerate any form of bullying.
Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.
Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
Adhere to the laws and spirit of the game and respect match officials’ decisions.
Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
Coaches must encourage, promote and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
Promote Fair Play at all times.
Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their Coach.
Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.
Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. encroaching on the field of 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 or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
Coaches should never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour.
Be gracious in victory and defeat.
Never enter the field of play without the referee’s permission and always adhere to the “Respect Line”.
I understand that if I do not follow the code, any/all of the following activities may be taken by my Club, county FA or the FA:
I may be:
Required to meet with the club, league or County Welfare Officer.
Suspended by the club from attending matches.
Suspended or fined by the county FA.
Required to leave or sacked by the club.
In addition:
My FA Coaching License may be withdrawn.
Thank you for your co-operation and assistance.
Revised – Summer 2016
