COACHING CODE OF BEHAVIOUR

In addition to the General Code of Behaviour, all coaches participating in any activity held by, or under the auspices of, a Community Cricket Peak Body, Region, Affiliated Club or Association must meet the following standards of conduct:

• Operate within the rules and Spirit of Cricket, and teach players to do the same.
• Remember that young people participate for enjoyment, and that winning is only part of the experience.
• Never ridicule or yell at a young player for making a mistake or not coming first.
• Be reasonable in your demands on players’ time, energy and enthusiasm.
• Avoid overplaying talented players; all young players deserve equal time, attention and opportunity.
• Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of all players.
• Display control and respect towards everyone involved in cricket, including opponents, coaches, umpires, administrators, parents and spectators, and encourage players to do the same.
• Show concern and caution toward sick or injured players. Follow medical advice when determining whether a player is ready to return to training or competition.
• Obtain appropriate qualifications and remain up to date with current coaching practices and principles relating to the growth and development of young people. Do not misrepresent qualifications.
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person, regardless of gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
• Promote a climate of mutual support among players and encourage respect for one another at all times.
• Encourage and support players to take responsibility for their own behaviour, performance and decisions.
• Respect confidentiality and determine, in consultation with players, what information should remain private.
• Provide feedback in a caring and sensitive manner appropriate to the needs of the player. Avoid overly negative criticism.
• Refrain from any form of personal abuse towards players, including verbal, physical or emotional abuse. Remain alert to any abuse directed towards players from other sources while they are in your care.
• Refrain from any form of harassment and treat all players fairly, regardless of gender, race, place of origin, athletic potential, colour, sexual orientation, religion, political beliefs or socioeconomic status.
• Be aware of the position of trust and influence held as a coach and avoid any inappropriate relationships with players.
• Avoid situations that could be viewed as compromising. Any physical contact with a player should be appropriate, necessary and relevant to skill development.
• Use training methods that are safe, suitable and beneficial for players, taking into account their age, experience, ability, and physical and psychological wellbeing.
• Ensure every player’s time in cricket is a positive experience. Provide equal opportunities for participation, improvement and skill development.
• Actively discourage the use of performance-enhancing drugs, alcohol, tobacco and illegal substances.
• Recognise individual differences in players and always consider their long-term best interests.
• Set challenges for players that are both achievable and motivating.
• Respect that a player’s goals may differ from your own as a coach. Encourage excellence through realistic goals and consideration for personal development.
• Act as a positive role model at all times by promoting the values of sport and maintaining high standards of personal conduct.
• Recognise players’ rights to seek advice from other coaches or specialists, and cooperate with relevant professionals such as sports scientists, doctors and physiotherapists.
• Do not exploit coaching relationships or information gained through cricket programs for personal, political or business interests.
• Encourage players and fellow coaches to develop and maintain integrity in all relationships.