Code Of Conduct

CODE OF CONDUCT

ATHLETES

Participate in Little Athletics for the “fun of it” and not just to please parents and coaches.
Compete according to the rules. The rules of competition ensure a safe and equal footing for all competitors.
Any approach to an official should be in a courteous manner. Never argue with an Official.
Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials or other athletes, deliberately distracting, bullying or provoking another athlete is neither acceptable nor permitted in our sport.

Be a good sport. Acknowledge all good results, whether they be by your Centre/Club, or the other Centre/Club.
Any form of cheating is unacceptable.
Work equally hard for yourself and/or your Centre/Club as both will benefit.
Treat all athletes as you would like to be treated.
Do not interfere with, or take unfair advantage of another athlete.
Co-operate with your coach, club mates and other athletes. Without them there would be no competition
Bad language is not to be used at any time.
Substance abuse of any kind is unacceptable.

PARENTS AND SPECTATORS

Encourage children to participate if they are interested. However, if a child is not willing do not force him or her.
Remember children are involved in Little Athletics for their enjoyment, not yours, to be active, to be with their friends and to improve their skills. Never project your own aspirations onto your child.
Any form of cheating is unacceptable.
Focus upon the child’s efforts rather than the overall outcome of the event. This assists the child in setting realistic goals related to his/her ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.
Teach children an honest effort is as important as victory, so the result of each event is accepted without undue disappointment.
Encourage athletes always to participate according to the rules.
Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing an event. There is no circumstance that warrants humiliation.
Turn defeat to victory by encouraging your child to work towards skill improvement, good sportsmanship and achieving personal best performances.
Do your bit to help - rake a pit, measure a distance, record, put gear away after the meeting. Recognize the effort of other officials and thank them for the meeting.
Recognise the value and importance of coaches and officials of whom the vast majority are volunteers.
If you disagree with an official, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than questioning the official’s judgement and honesty in public. Remember, officials give their time and effort for your child’s involvement.
Respect the rights dignity and worth off everyone regardless of their gender, ability and cultural or religious background.
Conduct yourself in a responsible manner relating to language and temper.
Do not engage in practices that effect our sporting environment (alcohol, tobacco and drug use)