The function of a coach is to
educate students through participation in interscholastic competition. An
interscholastic program should be designed to enhance academic achievement and
should never interfere with opportunities for academic success. Each student-athlete
should be treated as though he or she were the
coaches’ own, and his or her welfare should be uppermost at all times.
Accordingly, the following guidelines for coaches have been adopted by the
NFICA Board of Directors.
The
coach shall be aware that he or she has a tremendous influence,
for either good or ill, on the education of the student-athlete and, thus,
shall never place the value of winning above the value of instilling the
highest ideals of character.
The
coach shall uphold the honor and dignity of the profession.
In all personal contact with student-athletes, officials, athletic directors,
school administrators, the state high school athletic association, the media,
and the public, the coach shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical
and moral conduct.
The
coach shall take an active role in the prevention of drug,
alcohol and tobacco abuse.
The
coach shall avoid the use of alcohol and tobacco products
when in contact with players.
The
coach shall promote the entire interscholastic program of
the school and direct his or her program in harmony with the total school
program.
The
coach shall master the contest rules and shall teach them to
his or her team members. The coach shall not seek an advantage by circumvention
of the spirit or letter of the rules.
The
coach shall exert his or her influence to enhance
sportsmanship by spectators, both directly and by working closely with
cheerleaders, pep club sponsors, booster clubs, and administrators.
The
coach shall respect and support contest officials. The coach
shall not indulge in conduct which would incite players or spectators against
the officials. Public criticism of officials or players is unethical.
Before
and after contests, coaches for the competing teams should meet and
exchange cordial greetings to set the correct tone for the event.
A
coach shall not exert pressure on faculty members to give
student-athletes special consideration.
A
coach shall not scout opponents by any means other than
those adopted by the league and/or state high school athletic association.