The Coaches Code of Ethics - NFHS Coaches
Association
The function of a coach is to educate students
through participation in interscholastic competition. An interscholastic
program should be designed to enhance academic achievement and
should never interfere with opportunities for academic success.
Each student-athlete should be treated as though he or she were
the coaches’ own, and his or her welfare should be uppermost
at all times. Accordingly, the following guidelines for coaches
have been adopted by the NFCA Board of Directors.
The coach shall be aware that he or she has a
tremendous influence, for either good or ill, on the education
of the student-athlete and, thus, shall never place the value
of winning above the value of instilling the highest ideals
of character.
The coach shall uphold the honor and dignity of
the profession. In all personal contact with student-athletes,
officials, athletic directors, school administrators, the state
high school athletic association, the media, and the public,
the coach shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical
and moral conduct.
The coach shall take an active role in the prevention
of drug, alcohol and tobacco abuse.
The coach shall avoid the use of alcohol and tobacco
products when in contact with players.
The coach shall promote the entire interscholastic
program of the school and direct his or her program in harmony
with the total school program.
The coach shall master the contest rules and shall
teach them to his or her team members. The coach shall not seek
an advantage by circumvention of the spirit or letter of the
rules.
The coach shall exert his or her influence to
enhance sportsmanship by spectators, both directly and by working
closely with cheerleaders, pep club sponsors, booster clubs,
and administrators.
The coach shall respect and support contest officials.
The coach shall not indulge in conduct which would incite players
or spectators against the officials. Public criticism of officials
or players is unethical.
Before and after contests, coaches for the competing
teams should meet and exchange cordial greetings to set the
correct tone for the event.
A coach shall not exert pressure on faculty members
to give student-athletes special consideration.
A coach shall not scout opponents by any means
other than those adopted by the league and/or state high school
athletic association.
