Code of Conduct

The Good Coach’s Code

•	Avoid overplaying of players (particularly talented players)
•	All players need and deserve equal opportunity to play
•	Remember that young people play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only a part of it
•	Motivate youngsters through positive feedback and constructive criticism
•	Never allow young players to train/play when injured
•	Promote the positive aspects of their sport (e.g., fair play), and never condone law violations or use of prohibited substances
•	Consistently display high standards of personal behaviour and appearance
•	Never overtly criticise players or use language or actions which may cause the player to lose self-esteem or confidence
•	Do not criticise the officials
•	Respect the opposition
•	Give all players equal opportunity
•	Control your volume
•	Set a good example

The Good Parent’s Code

•	Be familiar with the teaching and coaching methods used by observing the coaching and training sessions in which their child participates
•	Be aware that the Club or School has a duty of care to ensure the safety of players and therefore, where appropriate, assist coaches with the supervision of the players, particularly where numbers are large and there is a need to transport players to away games
•	Support coaches in utilising these virtues
•	Remember that young people play rugby for their own enjoyment not that of their parents
•	Encourage young people to play – do not force them
•	Focus on the players’ efforts, rather than winning or losing
•	Be realistic about the players’ abilities; do not push them towards a level that they are not capable of achieving
•	Provide positive verbal feedback both in training and during the game
•	Remember that persistent, negative messages will adversely affect the players’ and referee’s performance and attitude
•	Always support them in their efforts to eradicate loud, course and abusive behaviour from the game
•	Remember than young people learn much by example
•	Always show appreciation of good play by all players both from their own Club and the opposition
•	Respect decisions made by the match officials, even if they appear to make a mistake, and encourage the players to do likewise.

The Good Spectator’s Code

•	Act as positive role models to all players
•	Be familiar with, and abide by, the RFU Child Protection
•	Guidance in relation to verbal and emotional abuse
•	Never force a child to play rugby
•	Encourage good sportsmanship
•	Do not criticise the officials
•	Remember winning is not everything
•	Applaud good play by all teams
•	Set a good example
•	Keep off the pitch

The Good Players's Code

•	Never argue with the referee
•	Control your temper
•	Be a good sport
•	Win and lose with dignity
•	Have fun