Doncaster Toll Bar Coaches Code of Conduct
All coaches will be asked to sign an electronic copy at the start of every season before they can register with the league.
Everyone in Rugby League has a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the game. Rugby League prides itself on being a family game which prioritises creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all to enjoy and achieve their full potential. Unacceptable behaviour we want to end includes the abuse of match officials; racism, sexism and homophobia; and the poor touchline behaviour of over competitive parents, spectators and coaches.
Positive behaviour we want to encourage centres on the benefits the player gets from the game – self-esteem, fun and enjoyment, friendships, health and fitness.
A coach is an important role model and has the biggest single impact on a player’s experience of the game. This code of conduct provides a framework and an opportunity for you to ensure all players have a positive and enjoyable playing experience.
On and off the field I will:
- Show respect to others involved in the game including match officials, players, coaches, managers, parents, RFL staff and spectators
- Adhere to the playing laws, operational rules and spirit of the game
- Promote and adhere to RESPECT and Tackle it!
- Always respect the match officials decision
- Never engage in public criticism of the match officials
- Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour.
- Adhere to Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Vulnerable Groups guidelines
- Maintain an accurate knowledge of the rules of the game and current coaching methods
- Conduct myself in a manner that demonstrates leadership, respect for the game and for all those that are involved
When working with players I will:
- Place the physical and mental well-being, safety and enjoyment of each player above everything, including winning ensuring every player has an equal opportunity to take part in training and matches, within the rules of the playing competition
- Not use foul language
- ensure my coaching reflects the level of competition being played
- Explain exactly what I expect of players and what they can expect from me
- Ensure all parents/carers of all players under the age of 18 understand these expectations
- Never engage in or tolerate any form of bullying
- Develop mutual trust and respect with every player to build their self-esteem
- Respect and value the diversity of your players and endeavour to meet their individual needs
- Encourage each player to accept responsibility for their own behaviours and performance
- Ensure all activities and practices that I organise are appropriate for the players ability, age and maturity to make the experience of players as enjoyable as possible
- Co-operate with others in rugby league (e.g. officials, RFL staff, club staff,) to ensure the best interests of the players are met
I understand that if I do not follow the code, any/all of the following actions may be taken by my Club, League or the RFL:
- Required to apologise
- Required to meet with club, league or RFL staff
- Monitored by another coach
- I may be sin binned or sent off by the Match Official
- may be required to undertake further educational courses at my own expense
- may be disciplined by my Club including being asked to leave
- I may receive a large suspension from the League Disciplinary Committee in line with the On-Field Sentencing Guidelines
- I may receive further sanctions from the RFL including being given a Permanent Suspension Order from the sport
- Removal of coach licence to practice by the RFL including the removal of insurance cover
- I am responsible for paying any fines imposed on me and these are to be paid by the individual not the team or club (failure to do so will result in further action)