Code of Ethics - Guidelines
- The primary responsibility of each coach is to assist each athlete to reach his/her maximum level of performance.
- Each coach shall treat all athletes with respect and dignity.
- Each coach shall work co-operatively with fellow coaches.
- Each coach shall treat with respect the statements and actions of fellow coaches and athletes.
- Each coach shall provide for the general welfare, safety, health and well being of the athletes.
- Each coach will respect the decisions of the referees/officials of all meets.
- Each coach will set a good example for the athletes by exhibiting good behaviour.
- Each coach will refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking during all Special Olympic practices, competitions and social events.
- Any conduct considered unethical within the framework of this guideline will be dealt with in accordance with the enforcement policy as outlined in 1000-19 of the manual.
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Responsibilities of a Coach
a. Coaches shall place the health and safety of Special Olympics athletes above all else.
b. Coaches shall abide by the letter and spirit of the rules and be responsible for conducting him or herself in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. Coaches who do not conduct themselves in this manner, or who are offensive by action or language toward athletes, other coaches, volunteers, opponents, officials, and/or spectators, may be prohibited from coaching.
c. Coaches shall be knowledgeable of all existing Special Olympics and National/International Governing Body competition rules and regulations, and prepare their athletes prior to competition in accordance with those rules.
d. Coaches shall ensure that athletes compete in events within their sport which challenge their potential and are appropriate to their ability.
e. Coaches shall be honest and instruct athletes to compete with maximum effort in all preliminary trials and/or finals or he/she shall be prohibited from coaching by the sports specific rules committee at the competition.
f. Team Coaches shall ensure that athletes of all ability levels on a team participate in every game.
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Canadian Special Olympics - Individual Club Philosophy
The mission of Special Olympics in Canada is to provide sport training and competitive opportunities for athletes with a mental disability.
Coaches and athletes must determine the focus of their programs in accordance with this mandate. It may be:
a) To provide athletes with experience in as many sports as possible;
b) To train year round in one specific sport;
c) To focus mainly on fitness;
d) To develop basic motor skills in young athletes
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