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VSA Skateboarding Coaching Code of Ethics
Character goes a long way. Parents and guardians want their young to have positive role models. In this age of social media, it’s very easy to get a glimpse inside one’s life. We see incidents of sporting stars getting in trouble because of social media projections, whether it be self-uploaded or filmed by another person. Coaching may not be high-profile, but your public Acknowledging and practicing the following principals is mandatory when acting in the capacity as a Skateboard Coach:
1. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every human being. Be sure to treat everyone equally regardless of sex, disability, ethnic origin, or religion. Remember that all skaters differ with regard to their skill level, rate of development, and skating background.
2. Ensure the time you spend with a participant is a positive and fun experience.
3. Treat each athlete as an individual. Respect the style, skill level, and goals of each skater. Help each skater reach his or her full potential. While many aspects of coaching will address a group of skaters, be sure to give all individuals equal attention.
4.Be fair, considerate and honest with athletes. Remember that every skater has to start somewhere and each develops at his or her own pace.
5. Be professional and accept responsibility for your actions. Language, manner, punctuality, preparation, and presentation all reflect your professionalism. Display control, respect, dignity and clear communication to all involved with the sport – this includes coaches, officials, administrators, the media, parents and spectators.
Encourage your skaters to demonstrate the same qualities.
6. Make a commitment to providing a quality service to your athletes. Be sure to keep your VSA accreditation, blue card, and first aid up to date. Seek to improve your coaching abilities through constructive feedback and ongoing coach education. Continue to refine and improve the planning of your coaching sessions.
Maintain appropriate records.
7. Operate within the rules and spirit of your sport. Be aware that there are strict guidelines set by governing bodies, ie. SA Anti-doping Policy, Selection Procedures, SA Anti-Harassment Policy. Coaches should educate their athletes on drugs in sport issues in consultation with SA’s Sports Medicine Commission or the Australian Sports Drug Agency (ASDA).
8. Any physical contact with athletes should be appropriate to the situation, and necessary for the athlete’s skill development.
9. Refrain from any form of personal abuse towards your athletes.*This includes verbal, physical and emotional abuse.
Be alert to any forms of abuse directed towards your participants from other sources whilst they are in your care.
10. Refrain from any form of harassment towards your athletes. This includes sexual and racial harassment, racial vilification and harassment on the grounds of disability. You should not only refrain from initiating a relationship with a participant, but should also discourage any attempt by an participant to initiate a sexual relationship with you, explaining the ethical basis of your refusal.
11. Provide a safe environment for training and competition. Ensure equipment and facilities meet safety standards. Equipment, rules, training, and the environment need to be appropriate for the age and ability of the athletes.
12. Show concern and caution towards sick and injured athletes. Modify your training programs where appropriate. Allow further participation in training and competition only when appropriate. Encourage athletes to seek medical advice when required.
Continue to offer the same interest and support towards sick and injured skaters that you would normally.
13. Be a positive role model for your sport and athletes.