North Bristol RFC Codes of Conduct Rugby is a game of long traditions that have developed over time into a number of values that guide the way the game is played and how players, coaches, officials and supporters conduct themselves. At its core, rugby is a physical game and a fundamental value is one of respect - for opponents, teammates and officials. Rugby for the vast majority remains a sport played for enjoyment. As such, other core values we aspire to are firm and inclusive, you will find that values embedded in the codes of conduct set out below. The good Parents Code Do not force an unwilling child to participate - its supposed to be for them, and you may put them off rugby forever. Help the club function properly by turning up on time with the appropriate kit. Be prepared to help out if asked. Don't forget a cold or wet child may not want to play again. Remember to bring a drink for your child. Encourage your child to understand and play within the rules. Teach your child that taking part and trying your best is more important than winning. Focus your child on practicing their skills, sportsmanship and being part of a team. Winning isn't everything and not everyone can score the winning try. Support and encourage your child - never criticize them for making mistakes. Console them for losing, but encourage them to try harder next time. Set an example for sportsmanship - applaud good play by all. Never publicly criticize a referee or Coach - there is no place for 'touchline rage' in mini rugby. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children's sport. Report anything to the Child Protection Officer or Chairman. Support your coaches - they are giving up their time to train your child. If you have any issues with the way a coach is performing, talk to them first. Refer any issues to an Officer of the Club. The good Players Code Play to enjoy rugby - always try your best to improve your skills and play well. Play within the rules and laws of the game. Never argue with referees or coaches - their decision is final, (even if you think that they are wrong). Never use foul and abusive language (swearing) Rugby is a team game - do your best for your teammates and don't try to grab all that glory for yourself. Don't show off, lose your cool, pick on other players or generally misbehave - it's not part of rugby. If you lose, accept it with good grace and try harder next time. Respect good play - from opponents or your team. Help team-mates, opponents, coaches and officials - you can't play rugby on your own. The Coaches Code Don't overload young players with demands, technical information and tactics - remember they are children and they are playing rugby for fun. Don't over play the better players - include everyone. Players develop at different times and in different ways - make allowances for their physical, emotional and mental maturity and development. Winning isn't everything - teach your players to enjoy taking part and performing to the best of their ability. Encourage each player to reach his or her potential. Never abuse, yell, criticise or ridicule children for making mistakes or losing a game. Be organised - establish a structure for the season, prepare a coaching plan for each session, have the appropriate kit. Above all, communicate to players, parents and fellow coaches to set expectations. Make sure players develop an understanding of the rules and laws of the game, that they respect opponents, teammates, coaches and officials. Never question an official's judgement or honesty. Ensure players and parents behaviour is appropriate and in keeping with the spirit of the game and the expectations of the Club. Ensure full adherence to the Club's Child Protection policy The Good Spectators Code Remember Children play sport for their enjoymnent not yours. Acknowledge good individual and team performance from all youngsters irrespective of the team for whom they play. Respect the match officials' decisions. Rember they are volunteers providing an opportunity for youngsters to play Rugby. Never verbally abuse young players, match officials, fellow spectators of coaches. Such behaviour can create a negative environment for young players and their behaviour will often reflect this. Acknowledge effort and good performance rathehr the the "win at all costs" ethics. Verbally encourage all youngsters in a positive way. If you do want to shout make sure it is 'for', not 'at' the players. Encourage all youngsters irrespective of their ability - never ridicuale any individual player, regardless of the team they play for.