Code's of Conduct

• I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all individuals within the context of my involvement in Australian Football, including refraining from any discriminatory practices on the basis of race, religion, ethnic background, or special ability/disability.

• I will abide by and teach the AFL Laws of the Game and the Rules of my Club and League/Association.

• I will be reasonable in the demands I make on the time commitments of the players in my care, having due consideration for their health and well-being.

• I will refrain from any form of personal abuse or unnecessary physical contact with the players in my care and monitor safety always

• I will have due consideration for varying maturity and ability levels of my players when designing practice schedules, practice activities and involvement in competition.

• I will avoid overplaying the talented players aiming to maximise participation and enjoyment for all players regardless of ability.

• In recognising the significance of injury and sickness, I will seek and follow the physician’s advice concerning the return of injured or ill players to training

• I will endeavour to keep informed regarding sound principles of coaching and skill development, and of factors relating to the welfare of my players

• I will at all times display and teach appropriate sporting behaviour, ensuring that players understand and practice fair play.

• I will display and foster respect for umpires, opponents, coaches, administrators, other officials, parents and spectators.

• I will ensure that players are involved in a positive environment where skill learning and development are priorities are not overshadowed by a desire to win.

• I reject the use of performance enhancing substances in sport and will abide by the guidelines set forth in the AFL DRUG POLICY.

Note: This “Coaches Code of Conduct” is signed and conformed to as part of the accreditation requirements of the AFL. It is the stated policy of the MMJFC that all coaches must have a Level 1 coaching certificate thereby ensuring that all coaches have signed off on the required code of conduct.

• Play by the rules – the rules of our club and the laws of the game.

• Never argue with an umpire or other official – without these people, you can’t play football.

• Control your temper - verbal abuse of officials and sledging other players doesn’t help you enjoy or win any games.

• Be a team player – It’s a team game, treat it that way.

• Treat all players as you would like to be treated – fairly.

• Co-operate with your coach, the umpires and team-mates.

• Play for your own enjoyment & to improve your skills.

• Don’t use ugly remarks based on race, religion, gender or ability – you’ll let down yourself, your coach, teammates and family if you do.

• Encourage children to participate only if they are interested. If a child is not willing please do not force them

• Focus upon the child’s efforts and performance rather than the outcome of the game. This assists the child in setting realistic goals related to their own ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.

• Teach your child that an honest effort is as important as victory so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.

• Never ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a game and encourage your child to play by the rules

• Remember your child should be involved for their for involvement, not yours

• Your child learns best by example. Applaud good play by both teams.

• If you disagree with an umpire or an official, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than questioning the official’s judgment and honesty in public.

• Do not swear at our abuse umpires. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from junior sporting activities. Without umpires there would be no game for your child to be involved in and parents must set the right example.

• Recognise the value and importance of volunteer coaches. They give their time and resources to provide recreational activities for your child and deserve your support and appreciation.

• Support your club officials in maintaining the highest standards of behaviour both on and off the field. Offer your assistance to the team your child is playing in so that every opportunity is being provided for the best supervision and support. Your child will enjoy your involvement

• Avoid confrontation, if you are abused or feel threatened by other adults, and then report it immediately to your coach or team manager.

• Be at your child’s match at least 40 minutes before play is due to begin to receive last minute information pertinent to the match and to allow your child warm up. Ensure that your child attends training regularly.

• Ensure that your child attends matches for which they are scheduled to participate in, (health permitting). If an absence is planned, communicate it.