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Code of Conduct

Created September 2025

Introduction

The purpose of the Cochrane Minor Soccer Club (CMSC) Code of Conduct is to outline the expectations for behaviour of those associated with the CMSC. In doing so, the CMSC aims to ensure a safe and positive environment for all.

This Code applies to board members, officials, coaches, players, members, volunteers, parents, and spectators who are engaged in CMSC-related activities.  

Expectations for all

All parties have a responsibility to maintain and enhance the dignity and self-esteem of others by:

  1. Demonstrating respect to individuals regardless of body type, physical characteristics, athletic ability, age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, and sexual orientation.
  2. Demonstrating respect for the principle of fair play, which include:
  • Respect for both the letter and spirit of the rules
  • Respect for referees and their decisions
  • Respect for opponents, including modesty in victory and composure in defeat
  • Facilitation of access to sport
  • Maintenance of self-control at all times

3. Promoting the sport in the most constructive and positive manner possible.

Board members

In addition to the expectations for all, board members are expected to:

  1. Comply and be familiar with all governance documents applicable to their role and responsibility.
  2. Ensure that CMSC’s financial affairs are conducted with due regard for all fiduciary and operational responsibilities.
  3. Conduct themselves openly, professionally, lawfully and in good faith in the best interests of CMSC and in a manner which maintains the confidence of the community.
  4. Be fair, equitable, considerate, and honest in all dealings with others.
  5. Promote an environment that supports athletes’ physical and emotional safety.
  6. Ensure facilities and equipment are safe, well-maintained, and in good condition.

Match officials

In addition to the expectations for all, match officials, including referees and game leaders, are expected to:

  1. Seek to inspire the principles of fair play in others.
  2. Conduct themselves with dignity both on and off the field of play.
  3. Study and enforce the current Laws of the Game.

Team personnel

The team personnel-athlete relationship is a privileged one. Team personnel must recognize the power inherent in the position of team personnel and respect and promote the rights of all participants in sport.

In addition to the expectations for all, team personnel, including coaches, assistant coaches, and managers, are expected to:

  1. Provide an environment that supports athletes’ physical and emotional safety.
  2. Ensure a safe environment by selecting activities and establishing controls that are suitable for the age, experience, ability, and fitness level of the involved athletes.
  3. Act in the best interest of the athlete’s development as a whole person.
  4. Recognize that all players, regardless of ability, are equal members of the team.
  5. Respect athletes playing with other teams.

Athletes

In addition to the expectations for all, athletes are expected to:

  1. Treat all teammates with acceptance, respect, and friendship.
  2. Recognize that all players, regardless of ability, are equal members of the team.
  3. Provide encouragement to teammates and not ridicule a participant for a mistake or poor performance.
  4. Act in a sportsmanlike manner and not engage in violent behaviour, foul language, or offensive gestures.

Parents and spectators

In addition to the expectations for all, parents and spectators are expected to:

  1. Encourage athletes to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
  2. Provide positive comments that motivate and encourage participants’ continued effort, reminding athletes that doing one’s best is as important as winning.
  3. Refrain from entering the training or competition area.
  4. Make athletes feel like winners by offering praise for competing fairly and doing their best and never ridiculing a participant for making a mistake.
  5. Demonstrate sportsmanship by applauding good plays by both teams.

Failure to abide by the Code of Conduct

Failure to abide by the Code of Conduct may result in my removal of an individual from the vicinity of the playing field and potentially further sanctions by the CMSC.