This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of every Thunder coach. Coaching is a position of trust, and this Code exists to protect the safety and wellbeing of athletes, promote a fair and respectful sport environment, and give coaches clear guidance on their ethical and professional responsibilities. All coaches are required to read, understand, and abide by this Code as a condition of coaching within the organization. Violations of this Code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from coaching duties.
Coaches have many additional responsibilities.
- The coach-athlete relationship is a privileged one and plays a critical role in the personal, sport, and athletic development of the athlete.
- Coaches are Persons in Authority and must understand and respect the inherent Power Imbalance that exists in this relationship and must be extremely careful not to abuse it, consciously or unconsciously.
- Coaches will: a) Ensure a safe environment by selecting activities and establishing controls that are suitable for the age, experience, ability, and fitness level of the involved athletes b) Avoid compromising the present and future health of athletes by communicating and cooperating with sport medicine professionals in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of athletes’ medical and psychological treatments c) Provide athletes (and the parents/guardians of minor athletes) with the information necessary to be involved in the decisions that affect the athlete d) Act in the best interest of the athlete’s development as a whole person e) Under no circumstances provide, promote, or condone the use of drugs (other than properly prescribed medications) or performance-enhancing substances and, in the case of minors, alcohol, cannabis, and/or tobacco f) Not engage in a sexual or intimate relationship with an athlete of any age in which the coach is in a position of trust or authority
