Coaches Code of Conduct

As a coach, I understand the responsibility I hold and the significant influence my actions have on the youth athletes I coach. I pledge to uphold the highest standards of conduct and professionalism by adhering to the following Coaches Code of Conduct: 

Commitment to Conduct and Respect 

1. I will conduct myself in accordance with this Code of Conduct at all times, understanding that failure to do so will result in consequences. 

2. I will treat all athletes, opposing coaches, parents, and officials with respect and dignity, regardless of Disability, Race, Creed, Color, Sex, sexual orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Marital Status, National Origin, or Ancestry. 

3. I will not use abusive or profane language at anyone involved in program activities, including players, officials, coaches, parents, or spectators. 

Standards of Behavior 

As a coach with WOW FC, I understand that the following actions are expected of me to maintain a positive and safe environment: 

1. I will not use or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at any league event, nor will I coach, officiate, or participate while impaired. 

2. I will not encourage or participate in physical or verbal altercations, including initiating fights or arguments with any coach, parent, player, participant, official, or attendee. 

3. I will not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or verbal/physical threats or abuse directed at any participant, including coach, parent, player, official, or attendee. 

4. I will not encourage or allow behavior that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of any participant, official, or attendee. 

5. I will aim to prevent and take action if parents, guardians, or spectators representing my team verbally assault or intimidate participants at any time before, during, or after games. 

6. Coaches and staff members will maintain professional relationships at all times, ensuring interactions remain appropriate, respectful, and within the context of sport, focused on fostering a safe and supportive environment. This includes in- person, virtual, and social media interactions. 

Prohibited Conduct 

The following Prohibited Conduct outlines unacceptable actions while engaging with [Program Name]. All references to prohibited conduct are defined by Colorado law or the [Program Name] Prohibited Conduct Policy: 

1. Child Abuse: Including physical, emotional, sexual, medical abuse, or neglect. 

2. Substance Provision: Offering or providing players alcohol, tobacco (including vaping), or illegal drugs. Parents/guardians' approval is required and advice from medical professionals is recommended before consuming or incorporating any over-the-counter or supplements including weight loss/dietary supplements. 

3. Profane or Abusive Behavior: Any verbal, visual, physical, or virtual behavior involving profanity or abuse that impacts minor athletes. 

4. Unlawful Behavior: Breaking any Federal, State, or Local laws. 

5. Misconduct: Emotional and physical misconduct, including stalking, bullying, hazing(Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-9-124), and harassment. 

6. Reporting Failures: Failing to report child abuse or neglect as required by law. 

7. Retaliation: Retaliating against individuals for disclosing or making a report of child abuse or for participating in the resolution of such a report is strictly prohibited and will result in serious disciplinary action. 

8. Aiding and Abetting: Supporting or enabling prohibited behaviors. 

9. Sexual Misconduct: 

Sexual assault or unlawful sexual contact. 

Displaying, providing, or exchanging sexually explicit or pornographic material with players. 

Engaging in massages, intimate physical contact, or romantic relationships with minor athletes. 

Holding uninterruptible or unobservable coaching sessions or meetings. Best practices include ensuring another adult, coach, parent, guardian, or trusted mandatory reporter is present. 

Preparation and Fair Play 

1. I will be prepared for all practices and games and will focus on teaching fundamental skills to ensure all athletes have an opportunity to improve through active participation. 

2. I will uphold the authority of officials and assist them in conducting a fair and impartial contest. 

3. I will comply with all league rules and regulations and will promptly report any suspected violations. 

Transportation Guidelines 

● Coaches should only transport players when transportation is sanctioned by the organization (e.g., provided by the program), and such transportation should include more than one player or an additional adult to ensure accountability and maintain a safe environment for all participants. 

● Considerations for valid licenses, insurance, liability, and accountability should be made for all transportation. 

● Carpooling or rides by parents/guardians outside of organizational oversight are not included but should be encouraged to be held to the same standards of safety. 

Mandatory Reporting 

As a mandatory reporter under Colorado law, Senate Bill 24-113 (SB24-113), and other applicable statutes, including Section 19-3-304 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.), mandatory reporters are legally obligated to report any suspected or known instances of child abuse or neglect. 

● Reports must be made when there is reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect or has been observed in circumstances that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect. 

● In emergencies, I will call 911. For non-emergencies, I will contact 844-CO-4-KIDS. 

● I understand that good-faith reporting provides immunity from liability, civil or criminal, or termination of employment unless it is determined that the report was made recklessly or misreporting requirement changes, highlighting the disproportional reporting rates for minority communities. 

Stay informed about updates or additions to the mandated reporter laws as appropriate under 19-3-304 (C.R.S.) 

Compliance and Accountability 

I will complete all required certifications and training as mandated by my club and the league, including: 

SafeSports Certification

Concussion Training

I understand that if I fail to abide by this Code of Conduct, I may face disciplinary actions, including but not limited to: 

Verbal warning from an official, head coach, club, or league. 

Written warning from my club or league. 

Suspension or ejection from a game by an official, club, or league. 

Game forfeiture as determined by an official or coach. 

Suspension from coaching in the league, with reinstatement subject to current league and club rules.