coaches code of best practice

COACHES CODE OF BEST PRACTICE All Coaches, Mentors and Trainers should ensure that young people and children benefit significantly from our games by promoting a positive, healthy and participatory approach in our work with underage players. In developing the skill levels of every player equally Coaches should always encourage enjoyment and fun while ensuring meaningful participation in Newtown GAA games and activities. Coaches should always remember that they are role models for the players in their care. As juvenile coaches will often be a child’s first contact with the Club, it is important that the coach be suitable for their chosen roll and be appropriately trained and qualified to fulfil such roles. In signing the Coaches Code of Discipline all persons will participate in coaching and training courses relevant to their roles within Newtown GAA. Coaches like every other member in the club will be expected to adhere to the Clubs Code of Discipline, and the Coaches Code of Best Practise, and must be seen actively enforcing all Codes, systems and guidelines set out by Newtown GAA. COACHES SHOULD lead by example           

Never use foul language or provocative language, gestures to a player, opponent or match official Be positive during coaching sessions, games and other activities Do not equate losing with failure and do not develop a preoccupation with medals and trophies Only enter the field of play with the referees permission Do not question the referee's decision or integrity Encourage players to respect and accept the judgement of match officials Promote fair play Promote RESPECT initiative Avoid smoking while working with young players Do not consume alcohol or non prescribed drugs immediately prior to or while working with young players in your care Encourage parents to become involved in our Club activities wherever possible

CONDUCT OF COACHES when working with underage players    

Don't shout at or lecture players or reprimand/ridicule them when they make a mistake. Avoid incidents of horse play, ensure that all physical contact is appropriate Develop an appropriate working relationship with children based on mutual trust and respect Challenge bullying in any form whether it be physical or emotional, bullying is not acceptable from a young person, coach, parent/guardian, spectator or match official.

Chairman: Secretary: Child Protection Officer:

Dominic Leech Daire Nolan Paul O’Riordan

AVOID COMPROMISING your role as a coach   

Avoid a situation where you are alone in a dressing room or car with a player Avoid taking coaching sessions on your own Avoid spending excessive amounts of time alone with a player or away from other

COACHES CODE OF BEST PRACTISE             

Ensure that all players are suitably and safely attired to play their chosen sport Complete coaching plans for the season Keep a record of attendance at training and at games by both players and coaches Be aware of any medical or dietary requirements of players as indicated on membership and parental consent forms Be punctual and properly attired Rotate the team captaincy and team positions Set realistic- stretching but achievable performance goals Do not communicate individually by text with underage players where possible Do not engage in communications with underage players via social network sites Keep a record of any injuries and action subsequently taken Ensure that all dressing rooms and the areas occupied by your players are kept clean and undamaged in any way Make adequate provision for First Aid service Do not encourage or allow players to play if injured or unwell

PLEASE CUT OUT AND RETURN IT TO YOUR CLUBS CHILDRENS OFFICER OR MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DECLARATION

I ________________________ (print name) acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Code of Behaviour, which I have read and understood in full. I agree to be bound by the principles set out in the Code when participating, playing or attending our Gaelic Games. Signed: ___________________________ Date:_______________________

Chairman: Secretary: Child Protection Officer:

Dominic Leech Daire Nolan Paul O’Riordan