Coach Code of Conduct

To maintain a professional and accredited status as a Gymnastics Coach, it is essential to adhere to the following guidelines:

 

1. Abide by Gymnastics Australia's constitution and by-laws, complying with their rules and regulations.

2. Follow the established procedures for enforcing the Code of Ethics.

3. Accept and respect judgments made by relevant authorities.

4. Utilise the appropriate procedures for challenging competitive results, contesting team selection decisions, filing complaints, or proposing policy changes within Gymnastics Australia.

5. Directly provide observations and recommendations concerning all aspects of gymnastics to the relevant individuals and organisations for the betterment of the sport.

6. Offer constructive criticism and address comments and observations directly to the relevant individuals or organisations, avoiding gossip, innuendo, or malicious comments.

7. Respect the efforts of appointed and elected representatives of Gymnastics Australia.

8. Maintain professionalism in personal conduct, ensuring it does not bring disrepute to the coaching profession or Gymnastics Australia.

9. Use accreditation status and Technical Membership of Gymnastics Australia honestly, without seeking unwarranted favours.

10. Take responsibility for personal actions and exhibit professional behaviour at all times.

11. Extend professional courtesy to other coaches, athletes, and their parents by keeping them informed about matters relevant to athletes' training programs.

12. Adhere to and respect the regulations governing the sport and the individuals and organisations responsible for administering those regulations.

13. Serve as a role model for the sport and athletes, embodying the values and ethics of gymnastics.

14. Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of all individuals involved in gymnastics.

15. Exercise a duty of care consistent with coaching competence and obligations.

16. Coach within the limits of one's coaching expertise.

17. Follow Gymnastics Australia's safety guidelines to ensure a duty of care for athletes.

18. Develop planned and progressive training programs tailored to the individual developmental needs of athletes.

19. Adjust training programs for injured athletes based on appropriate medical advice when necessary.

20. Provide a safe training environment for participants in both training and competition.

21. Deliver a quality service to athletes and contribute to the growth of the sport.

22. Maintain or improve current NCAS accreditation.

23. Seek continual improvement through performance appraisal and ongoing coach education.

24. Uphold responsibilities as a coach by keeping all relevant qualifications up to date.

25. Ensure athletes have a positive experience during their time under your coaching.

26. Promote and support the development of the coaching profession.

27. Assist others in developing positive attitudes, skills, and knowledge related to the sport.

28. Promote and participate in the education of fellow coaches.

29. Prioritise athletes' welfare, making decisions in their best interests concerning sports, education, and vocational careers.

30. Recognise and acknowledge athletes' individual talents and potential.

31. Maintain a balanced approach to sports involvement in relation to educational and career objectives.

32. Demonstrate leadership and support efforts to combat the use of drugs in sport.

33. Adhere to the regulations of relevant national and international sporting and government bodies.

34. Respect athletes' health and dignity, ensuring fair competition based on their abilities and within the rules of gymnastics.

35. Encourage the removal of any form of personal abuse or inappropriate discrimination through personal example.

36. Refrain from verbal, physical, or emotional abuse.

37. Refrain from any form of sexual harassment towards athletes and colleagues.

38. Avoid using the influence of a coaching position to encourage inappropriate intimacy between coach and athlete.

39. Refrain from any discriminatory practices based on race, religion, ethnic background, or special abilities/disabilities of athletes.

40. Remain vigilant and take appropriate action against any form of abuse directed at or originating from other sources while athletes are under your care.

41. Ensure that physical contact with athletes is appropriate and necessary for skill development.

42. Ensure that spotting methods and philosophy align with established principles and are used solely for facilitating learning or ensuring safe performance.

 

By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to creating a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for gymnastics athletes. Together, we can promote the positive growth and development of individuals in the sport.