Coach's Code of Conduct

As a coach, you will realize that you are one of the most important and impactful role models in a child's life. Your words and your actions will have a positive and potentially devastating impact on the emotional well-being of the children in your charge. Coaching is a privilege and with it comes responsibility. Coaches set the tone for the team and are responsible for the conduct of their swimmers, parents or guardians and any other coaches on the field.

All children are influenced by my leadership and authority and as their coach, I understand I am a role model. I agree to the following:

1. I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my swimmers ahead of any personal desire or pressure to win.

2. I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, opposing coach, swimmer, team representative, parent/guardian or spectator such as: arguing, refusing to shake hands, excessive yelling or belittling or using profane language or gestures.

3. I will treat each official and opposing coach with respect, and will not engage in open arguments or confrontations, and will work to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

4. I will treat my swimmers fairly and will work towards improving a swimmer’s individual skill set.

5. I will be knowledgeable of the rules set forth for swimming by MCSL, will teach the rules to the swimmers I coach and will adhere to these rules at all times.

6. I will do my best to provide a safe and encouraging competitive situation for my swimmers.

7. I will teach my swimmers to treat other swimmers, coaches, team representatives, and officials with respect regardless of age, race, creed, color, gender, or ability.

8. I will use coaching techniques appropriate for the skills that I teach and will do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging for all swimmers.

9. I will lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all swimmers.

10. I will remember that I am a youth swimming coach and that races and meets are for children and not adults.