Codes of Conduct

PARENT / SPECTATOR

  • Condemn all violent acts, no matter who the person is.
  • Respect the official’s decisions. Don’t complain or argue about decisions.
  • Unsportsmanlike language, harassment or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.
  • Encourage athletes to play by the rules and to respect opposing athletes and officials.
  • Never ridicule or scorn an athlete for making a mistake, respect their efforts.
  • Understand that sport is part of life experience, and the benefits of involvement go far beyond the final placing.
  • Participate in positive cheering that encourages the athletes in the Centre you are supporting.
  • Remember that children participate in Little Athletics for their own enjoyment, not yours!
  • Never arrive at a Little Athletics competition under the influence of alcohol or bring alcohol to a competition or training.

OFFICIAL

  • Be impartial! Also, be consistent, objective and courteous.
  • Place the safety and welfare of the athletes above all else.
  • Accept responsibility for all actions taken.
  • Avoid any form of verbal contact with coaches, team officials, parents and spectators during competition.
  • Avoid any situation which may lead to a conflict of interest, both on and off the field.
  • Condemn all and every instance of unsportsmanlike, foul or unfair play.
  • Set a good example by the way you dress, speak and act towards athletes, coaches, officials, parents and spectators.
  • Show concern and caution towards sick and injured athletes.
  • Officiate to the age and/or experience of the athletes.

ATHLETE

  • Be a good sport. Respect all good performances whether from your Centre or the opponents.
  • Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit.
  • Always respect the official’s decision.
  • Never become involved in acts of foul play.
  • Honour the spirit and intention of the competition rules.
  • Never engage in disrespectful conduct of any sort.
  • Care for and respect the facilities and equipment made available to you during training and competition.
  • Safeguard your health. Don’t use any illegal or unhealthy substances.
  • Recognise that officials and coaches are volunteers who give up their time to provide their services. Treat them with the utmost respect.

COACH

  • Actively discourage foul play and/or unsportsmanlike behaviour by athletes.
  • Seek to maximise the participation and enjoyment of all athletes regardless of ability; treat all athletes as equals, regardless of their talent.
  • Show concern and caution towards all sick and injured athletes. Follow the advice of a physician and/or sports trainer to the letter when determining when an injured athlete is ready to recommence training or competition.
  • Teach athletes that an honest effort and competing to the best of their ability is as important as victory.
  • Maintain a thorough knowledge of the rules of competition and keep abreast of current coaching methods.
  • Always consider the health, safety and welfare of the athletes.
  • Teach young athletes to realise that there is a big gap between their ability and the professional athlete. Do not coach them as if they are professionals.
  • Ensure that your coaching reflects the level of the competition being involved with and don’t be a ‘winner at all costs’ coach.
  • As coach, conduct yourself at all times, and in all situations, in a manner that shows leadership, respect for the sport of Little Athletics and respect for all those that are involved in the sport.