Play BETTER, Play SMART

 

Code of Conduct for Coaches, Staff, Volunteers, and Players

 

 

1. Purpose

The Rugby IQ Academy Code of Conduct outlines the expected behaviours and responsibilities for all coaches, staff, volunteers, and players. The primary aim of this Code is to ensure the safety, well-being, and development of young people involved in our programs, while promoting positive, respectful, and inclusive attitudes both on and off the field.

2. General Principles

As a member of the Rugby IQ Academy, you are expected to:

• Promote a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment for all players.
• Act as a positive role model for children, demonstrating respect, integrity, and professionalism.
• Treat all individuals equally, without discrimination, harassment, or bullying.
• Adhere to all relevant laws, policies, and guidelines, particularly those related to child protection and safeguarding.

3. Expectations of Coaches, Staff, and Volunteers

Coaches, staff, and volunteers must adhere to the following principles to ensure a safe and respectful environment for the children in our care:

Respect and Professionalism:

• Treat all players, parents, and colleagues with respect and courtesy.
• Promote good sportsmanship, fair play, and positive behaviour at all times.
• Be a positive role model in both behaviour and language.

Safeguarding and Welfare:

• Ensure that the safety, welfare, and well-being of children are your primary concern.
• Complete Garda vetting (background checks) before engaging in any coaching or supervision of children.
• Complete mandatory child protection and safeguarding training and stay up to date with current best practices.
• Immediately report any concerns related to a child's safety or well-being, following the Rugby IQ Academy's Reporting Procedures.
• Do not engage in any form of physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or mistreatment of any child.
• Avoid inappropriate physical contact. Any necessary physical contact (e.g., helping with a tackle technique) must be appropriate, professional, and kept to a minimum.
• Never be alone with a child in an isolated or private setting. Always ensure there are multiple adults present when working with children.
• Do not share personal contact details (e.g., mobile numbers, social media accounts) with children, unless necessary for Academy purposes and approved by parents/guardians.

Communication:

• Communication with children should always be professional, respectful, and appropriate.
• Use appropriate language and tone at all times, both in-person and online.
• Avoid inappropriate or unnecessary communication with children outside Academy sessions or activities.
• Ensure that any online communication with children (e.g., through social media or messaging apps) is transparent, respectful, and in line with safeguarding guidelines.

Discipline:

• Promote positive discipline that is fair and appropriate to the child’s age and development.
• Never use physical punishment, intimidation, or any form of verbal abuse to correct behaviour.
• Ensure that any disciplinary action is consistent with the Rugby IQ Academy’s policies and is carried out with respect and dignity.

4. Expectations of Players

Players are expected to:

• Respect coaches, teammates, officials, and opponents.
• Participate with a positive attitude, showing respect for the game, their teammates, and the rules.
• Follow the Rugby IQ Academy’s guidelines and policies, including the Code of Conduct.
• Not engage in bullying, harassment, or discrimination against any other player or individual.
• Wear the appropriate kit and equipment during training and matches for safety.
• Report any injuries or discomfort to a coach or medical staff promptly.
• Follow all instructions from coaches and officials, both on and off the field.

5. Expectations of Parents/Guardians

Parents and guardians are encouraged to:

• Support their child’s participation in the Rugby IQ Academy in a positive manner.
• Promote good sportsmanship and positive behaviour in their child.
• Respect coaches, staff, and other players, avoiding disruptive or aggressive behaviour at training sessions or matches.
• Ensure that their child arrives on time for training and matches and that they are collected promptly.
• Communicate with coaches or staff if they have any concerns about their child’s well-being or participation.

6. Unacceptable Behaviour

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:

• Bullying: Any form of bullying, whether physical, verbal, or cyber, is not tolerated.
• Discrimination: Discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic is not acceptable.
• Abuse: Any form of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, or neglect is completely unacceptable and must be reported immediately.
• Intimidation: Intimidation, threats, or any other form of aggressive or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.
• Substance Abuse: Consumption of alcohol or illegal substances during Academy activities or events is prohibited.
• Inappropriate Relationships: Coaches, staff, and volunteers should never develop personal or inappropriate relationships with children in their care.

7. Reporting Misconduct

If any coach, staff member, volunteer, player, or parent witnesses or becomes aware of unacceptable behaviour, the incident must be reported immediately to the Welfare Officer or relevant Academy official.

Reports should include:

• Details of the incident.
• Names of individuals involved.
• Any actions taken so far.
• Date and time of the incident.

Reports will be handled confidentially, with appropriate action taken in line with the Rugby IQ Academy’s Reporting Procedures.

8. Consequences of Misconduct

Violations of this Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action, which may include:

• Verbal or written warnings.
• Suspension from coaching or participation in Academy activities.
• Removal from the Academy.
• Referral to relevant authorities (e.g., Garda Síochána or Tusla) if necessary.

9. Commitment to Safeguarding

All individuals involved in the Rugby IQ Academy have a collective responsibility to ensure that children are protected, respected, and supported throughout their participation in the sport. This Code of Conduct must be adhered to at all times, and safeguarding must remain the Academy’s priority.

This Code of Conduct is a foundational document to ensure that all members of the Rugby IQ Academy are aligned with the Academy's values, safeguarding standards, and expectations for a positive, safe, and respectful environment for children.