Code of Behaviour

Sailors

1. Sail by the rules

2. Never argue with an official. If you disagree, approach the official after the race
3. Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials and sledging other competitors, deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent are not acceptable behaviours.
4. Work equally hard for yourself and your skipper/crew. Your boats performance will benefit.
5. Treat all participants in your sport as you like to be treated. Do not bully or take unfair advantage of another competitor.
6. Cooperate with officials and other competitors. Without them there would be no competition.
7. Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents.
8. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all competitors regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
9. Respect and consider the property of other competitors. Act responsibly and take care in the vicinity of all boats and equipment.

(Extract, 2005, Junior Sport, Codes of Behaviour, Australian Sport Commission)

Parents/Carers & Spectators

1. Remember that young sailors participate in sailing for their enjoyment, not yours.
2. Encourage young sailors to participate, do not force them.
3. Focus on the young sailor’s efforts and performance rather than winning or losing.
4. Encourage young sailors to follow the rules and the official’s decision.
5. Never ridicule or yell at a young sailor for making a mistake or losing in competition. Positive comments are motivational.
6. Respect the decisions of officials and teach young sailors to do likewise.
7. Condemn the use of violence, do not use foul language, sledge or harass sailors, coaches, officials or other competitors’ parents.
8. Show appreciation for volunteer coaches, officials and administrators. Without them, your child could not sail.
9. Applaud good performance and efforts from all individuals and crews. Congratulate all participants on their performance regardless of the events outcome.
10. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all competitors regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.

(Extract, 2005, Junior Sport, Codes of Behaviour, Australian Sport Commission)

Officials & Volunteers

1. Compliment and encourage the efforts of all young sailors.

2. Be consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions.

3. Condemn unsporting behaviour and promote respect for all young sailors.

4. Emphasise the spirit of the sport rather than the errors.

5. Be a good sport yourself, action speaks louder than words.

6. Never ridicule or yell at a young sailor for making a mistake.

7. Remember, you set an example. Your behaviour and comments should be positive and supportive.

8. Place the safety and welfare of the participants above all else.

9. Give all young sailors a ‘fair go’ regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. 

(Extract, 2005, Junior Sport, Codes of Behaviour, Australian Sport Commission)