Coaches, Team Officials, Parents and Supporters

WINNING IS IMPORTANT BUT WE DO NOT WIN AT ALL COSTS

• Concentrate on developing skill
• Coach – don’t barrack
• Don’t focus on the opposition’s dubious tactics;
• Praise in public, criticise in private; don’t yell at the players;
• Play within the rules; teach the players to play hard but play fair;
• All players must get equal opportunity to play; irrespective of ability;
• All players are to receive equal match time up to and including under 12’s;
• Under13’s to under 15’s should play at least ½ a game;
• Match time for Under 16 & Under17 is at the coach’s discretion;
• Match times are subject to consistent attendance at games and training by players.

BE THE ROLE MODEL FOR YOUR TEAM

• Stay calm, don’t abuse the umpire or dispute an umpire’s decision. Remember most umpires are young and are learning the game too;
• Treat all players and parents with respect;
• No swearing; bad language does not win games;
• Treat club and opposition equipment and facilities as if they are your own;
• Recognise players regardless of their individual ability;

• Use the runner to deliver messages; avoiding yelling at players on the ground;
• Avoid confrontation with opposing clubs’ officials and spectators at all costs;
• Club jackets or polo shirts are to be worn when representing the club.

BUILD SELF ESTEEM IN YOUR TEAM

• Teach players that racial, religious or colour vilification is unacceptable;
• Provide positive feedback and constant encouragement to your team;
• Teach the players that a champion team will always beat a team of champions;
• Ensure that playing the game and training is fun for all;
• Praise the team effort.

KNOW THE RULES OF THE COMPETITION

• Coach the players to respect the umpire and the umpire’s decisions, all the time;
• Teach the players the importance of modified rules;
• Ensure that your team wears correct uniforms;
• Wearing of mouthguards is compulsory;
• If a report or any other incident concerning your team is brought to your attention, notify the club’s “Vice President Juniors” as soon as possible;
• Coaches are ambassadors for our club; our objective is “Happy Players, Happy Parents”.