Coaches Code of Conduct

Coaches play a critical role in developing well-rounded student-athletes. Your influence goes beyond the game—it's about helping students grow academically, emotionally, and socially through the experience of team sports.

Athletics should enhance a student’s overall education, never compete with it. Coaches are expected to act with professionalism, integrity, and care, always keeping students’ well-being a top priority.

Below are the guiding principles for all coaches:

• Student-First Approach: Always treat student-athletes with the same care and respect you'd want for your own child. Their safety, health, and academic success come first.

• Character Over Winning: Never place the importance of winning above teaching values like honesty, respect, and teamwork. Your influence shapes their character.

• Be a Positive Role Model: Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behavior in all interactions—with students, parents, officials, administrators, media, and the public.

• Promote Healthy Choices: Take a leadership role in discouraging drug, alcohol, and tobacco use. Never use these substances while in the presence of students.

• Support School Values: Your program should align with your school’s mission and help foster school pride and unity.

• Know and Teach the Rules: Learn the rules of your sport and make sure your team understands and follows them. Compete fairly and with integrity.

• Encourage Good Sportsmanship: Help foster a positive environment by promoting respectful behavior among athletes, fans, and school spirit groups.

• Respect Officials: Support referees and game officials—never criticize them publicly or encourage others to do so.

• Set a Positive Tone: Greet opposing coaches respectfully before and after games to model good sportsmanship.

• Maintain Academic Integrity: Do not pressure teachers or staff for special treatment of athletes. Respect the academic process.

• Scout Respectfully: Only scout opposing teams using methods approved by your league or state athletic association.

As a coach, your leadership matters. Set the tone, lead by example, and help student-athletes thrive both on and off the field.