When you call yourself a coach you apply to join the elite; when others call you a coach you have achieved membership. Behave as you would expect a coach to:

• Always look like a coach – always act like a coach.
• Plan your training sessions. Try to start and finish on time.
• Do not drink alcohol before or during your coaching.
• Never give alcohol to those not old enough to drink it by law.
• Do not smoke when coaching.
• Never ignore bad coaching practise or behaviour. Report it as set out in the safeguarding policy.
• Keep up to date with current coaching practises and law.
• Be aware that you are responsible for the players you work with, so don’t allow players to play on an injury. Refer them to a doctor or sports injury clinic. Ensure you enter ALL injuries in the accident book and get a parent/guardian to sign the entry. It is for your protection.
• Ensure the safety of the children you are coaching by making sure that they have the correct safety equipment and appropriate clothing for the conditions. To fail to do this could be considered as Neglect or physical abuse.
• Ensure safety by teaching the correct techniques; ensure the playing area is safe and free from glass, wood and other such nuisances. Ensure the equipment used is in order. If it’s not – report it. Don’t just put it back for the next person to find.
• NEVER PUT YOURSELF IN A POSITION WHERE YOU COULD BE
SUSPECTED OF VERBAL, PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL ABUSE WITH
ANY CHILD or VULNERABLE ADULT.