Coaches serve a number of important roles such as teacher, role model, mentor, guardian and trainer. Good coaches provide athletes with positive experiences in sports participation and help nurture sportsmanship. In order to ensure the quality of coaches, the Hong Kong Coaching Committee has formulated a Code of Conduct for coaches to follow:
- Treat each athlete as an individual and help him/her to reach full potential.
- Promote fair play and show respect for other teams. Accept both the guidelines and the spirit of the rules that define and govern his/her sport.
- Keep up with the latest coaching techniques and seek continual improvement.
- Provide a safe environment. Check that equipment and facilities are safe.
- Ensure training and competitions are suitable for the age and fitness level of the athletes.
- Let athletes know the benefit of sport and encourage them to participate in sport throughout their lives.
- Do not over train athletes. Maintain athletes’ interest and promote their enthusiasm towards sports.
- Always lead by example and do not speak foul language.
- Avoid any form of harassment towards your athletes. This includes harassment on sex, race and disability.