coaching info

Coaches Code of Conduct

Winning is a consideration, but not the most important one. The development of our young athletes, with their continued enjoyment and involvement in the sport is paramount to establishing a successful program at the High School level.
Be a positive role model. You have a significant impact on your athletes, who look to you for leadership. Exhibit emotional maturity, honesty, and be fair and consistent with your players at all times.
Each player is an individual. What works on one does not necessarily work on another. Adjust to personal needs and problems of players, being a good listener. Never verbally or physically abuse a player. Give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence, and develop self-esteem.
Organize practices that are fun and challenging, encouraging all players to be team players.
Maintain an open line of communication with your player’s parents.
Explain the goals and objectives of the Mattawan Youth Football Program.
Stress the importance of good health habits, clean living, and safety to your players.

Do not force your child to participate in football. They should play because they have a strong personal desire to do so.
Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches, or officials. By exhibiting a positive attitude, your child will benefit.
Encourage your athlete to play by the rules. Children learn best by example, so applaud the good play of both teams.
Emphasize skill development and work ethic, and how they benefit a young athlete.
Support the coaches and officials, on and off the field. Coaches are all volunteers, who are doing their best. Without them, there would be no Youth Football Program. Criticism of officials only hurts the game.
Applaud a good effort in victory and in defeat, reinforcing the positive points of the game and player development. Work to remove the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.

Play because you want to.
Work hard to improve your skills and have FUN!
Be a team player, get along with your teammates and coaches.
Learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline.
Be on time for all practices and games. Let your coach know in advance if you are going to be late, or miss a practice or game.
Learn the rules and play by them. Always be a good sport.
Respect your coaches, teammates, parents, opponents and officials.
Never argue with decisions/calls made by officials. Remember, you are representing the Mattawan Youth Football Program.

Be there for one reason…the kids.
No parent is to approach the players, coaches, or player’s bench/area during a game.
No verbal abuse of any coach, player, or official during a game.
All player concerns/issues are to be discussed between the player, parent(s), and coach(s) outside of a game, in private.
Cheer and encourage verses criticize and demean.
Get involved. See the Team Parent(s) for opportunities to help.
Read and sign the code of conduct document. Failure to read and sign the document will result in your child being ineligible to participate in scheduled games.

Zero tolerance for use of alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco, etc.
No swearing.
No talking when a coach is talking.
No throwing of any items.
Show respect for Officials and the opposition.
No criticism of teammates.
Be at practice, on time. Tardiness and missed practices will negatively impact playing time.
All equipment must be properly sized and worn for contact. This is for your safety.
Issued uniforms are your responsibility. Take care of them. Turn back in to your coach at the end of the season as instructed, cleaned.
Candy money must be turned in before the first game. No candy money, no playing time.
Take care of your health. Football is a demanding sport. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, and eat nutritious, balanced meals.
Inform your coach, in advance, of any health related issue or injury.