Hutt Valley Netball Code of Conduct


PARENTS’ CODE OF CONDUCT

If children are interested, encourage them to be involved in sport. However if a child is not willing to be involved, do not force them.

Focus upon the child’s efforts and performance rather than the overall outcome of the event. This assists the child in setting realistic goals relating to his/her ability by reducing the emphasis on being the best.

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

Encourage children to always respond according to the rules.

Never ridicule or shout at a child for making a mistake.

Remember children are involved in organized sport for their enjoyment, not yours.

Remember that children learn best from example.

Applaud good play by both teams and a good call.

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

Remember, most officials give their time and effort for your child’s involvement.

Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.

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


COACHES’ CODE OF CONDUCT

Be reasonable in your demands on young players’ time, energy and enthusiasm.

Teach your players that rules of the game are mutual agreements which no one should evade or break.

Whenever possible, group players according to age, height, skills and physical maturity.

Avoid over-playing the talented players. The “just average” players need and deserve equal time.

Remember that children play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is not the only part of their motivation.

Never ridicule or yell at children for making mistakes or losing a competition.

Remember that Umpires umpire for enjoyment also. Never ridicule or yell at an Umpire of any age for making mistakes.

Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of the players.

The scheduling and length of practice times and competition should take into consideration the maturity and concentration levels of the children.

Develop team respect for the ability of opponents as well as for the judgment of officials and opposing coaches.

Follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured player is ready to recommence play.

Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound coaching principles and the principles of growth and development of children.


PLAYERS’ CODE OF CONDUCT

Play for “the fun of it” and not just to please parents and coaches.

Play by the rules.

Never argue with an official. If you disagree, have your captain or coach approach the official during a break or after the game.

Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials or other players, deliberately contacting or provoking an opponent and throwing equipment is not acceptable or permitted in any sport.

Work equally hard for yourself and your team. Your team’s performance will benefit so will you.

Be a good sport. Cheer all good play, whether it is by your team or the other team.

Treat all players as you would like to be treated.

Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player.

Co-operate with your coach, team-mates and opponents. Without them there would be no game.