RYA Race Coach Code of Conduct

This document outlines the RYA Racing Coach Code of Conduct to which all holders of RYA race coach qualifications and RYA racing appointments (hereafter referred to as coaches) are required to comply. 

Coaches must: 

1. Behave in a manner that is consistent with the values of the RYA, particularly regarding equality, diversity, inclusivity and sustainability.
2. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person and treat everyone equally within the context of their sport.
3. Place the well-being and safety of the sailor above the development of performance. They should follow all guidelines and standards laid down by the RYA, any operating procedures and hold appropriate insurance cover.
4. Encourage and guide students to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
5. Only 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. 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.
6. Comply with the laws and regulations of the jurisdiction in which they are operating.
7. Ensure the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual. 
8. Always clarify with sailors (and where appropriate their parents/guardians/carers) exactly what is expected of them and what sailors are entitled to expect from their coach. A contract may sometimes be appropriate.
9. Behave appropriately to ensure the safety of other coaches, sailors and others under your direction.
10. Treat all RYA coaches, appointment holders, staff and other stakeholders with respect.
11. Co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g., other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interest of the sailor.
12. Read, understand, and comply with the RYA Safeguarding policy, which can be found on the following link: RYA Safeguarding Policy and Procedures.
13. Read, understand and comply with the RYA Anti Doping Rules, as detailed on the RYA website at Anti-Doping (rya.org.uk).
14. Hold relevant, up to date governing body qualifications as approved by the RYA.
15. Always promote the positive aspects of their sport (e.g., fair play) and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited substances.
16. Consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
17. Notify the RYA immediately of any court-imposed sanction that precludes the coach from contact with specific user groups (for example children or adults at risk) and be aware that certain sanctions may result in the automatic withdrawal of your qualification.
18. Notify RYA Coaching Development (coachingdevelopment@rya.org.uk) in the event of any health issues that may affect their ability to carry out their responsibilities, including the use of medication that may impact their role.
19. Not carry out RYA coaching activities whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
20. Not behave in a way which brings the RYA or sport into disrepute.

Failure to adhere to the RYA Racing Coach Code of Conduct may result in the suspension or withdrawal of RYA qualifications or appointments. 

February 2024