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RYA Race Coach Code of Conduct

Sports Coaching helps the development of individuals through improving their performance.
 
This is achieved by:
  1. Identifying and meeting the needs of the individuals.
  2. Improving performance through a progressive programme of safe, guided practice, measured performance and/or competition.
  3. Creating an environment in which individuals are motivated to maintain participation and improve performance.
 
Coaches should comply with the principles of good ethical practice listed below:
  1. All RYA Coaches working with sailors under the age of 18 must have read and understood the RYA Child Protection Policy as detailed on the RYA website www.rya.org.uk/go/safeguarding. If you are unable to access the website please contact coachingdevelopment@rya.org.uk
  2. Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person and treat everyone equally within the context of their sport.
  3. Coaches must place the well-being and safety of the sailor above the development of performance. They should follow all guidelines laid down by the RYA, follow Operating Procedures and hold appropriate insurance cover.
  4. Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with sailors based on mutual trust and respect. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward. In particular they must not abuse their position of trust to establish or pursue a sexual relationship with a sailor aged under 18, or an inappropriate relationship with any sailor.
  5. Coaches must encourage and guide sailors to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
  6. Coaches must hold up to date and nationally recognised governing body coaching qualifications.
  7. Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual.
  8. Coaches must, at the outset, clarify with sailors (and where appropriate their parents) exactly what is expected of them and what sailors are entitled to expect from their coach. A contract may sometimes be appropriate.
  9. Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interest of the sailor.
  10. Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of their sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited substances.
  11. Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
  12. Coaches must notify the RYA immediately of any court imposed sanction that precludes the coach from contact with a specific user group (e.g. children and vulnerable adults).
  13. Coaches must not carry out coaching activities whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or when they have received medical advice not to continue activities that are connected with their coaching (e.g. driving).
  14. Coaches must not behave in a way which brings the sport into disrepute.
 
Failure to adhere to the RYA Coach Code of Conduct may result in the suspension or withdrawal of RYA qualifications or appointments and will be dealt with in line with the RYA Coaches’ Performance Guidelines. To access these Guidelines please contact coachingdevelopment@rya.org.uk
 
December 2018