What are some clear violations of ethical behavior as a coach?

An unfortunate reality faces some of today’s coaches: that the poor behavior of bad coaches has increased fear and paranoia among parents of young athletes. As such, there are many worries that coaches must confront that may even lead to legal action, depending on the severity of a situation.

It is easily clear that some behaviors are simply unacceptable for a coach. For starters, avoid excessively touching the athletes. This includes situations that on the surface may seem minor. For example, hugging an athlete or grabbing their shoulder in excitement could be a mistake that leads to allegations of impropriety from a worried parent or guardian. Beyond minor touching, a coach should never engage in sexual conduct with a player, regardless of that athlete’s age. In order for the coach to protect himself and the athletes from allegations of misbehavior, it is probably wise to avoid being alone with the athletes. Ensure that another adult is present when you need to meet a player in private. Do not make sexually suggestive comments toward an athlete. Such an infraction would be considered harassment and could lead to legal action.

Do not openly criticize a player’s performance. Never verbally berate a player, especially in front of teammates. Beyond being psychologically damaging, it is also counterproductive and will simply make the player resent you. Avoid the use of obscene or vulgar language. If you have issues with a player’s performance, discuss it calmly and rationally in private. Be careful not to embarrass a player in the presence of the other team members. Do not point fingers at players, which will only divide the team and disrupt its unity.

Be careful in your discipline. Under no circumstances should you ever raise a hand to strike a player. Players and parents should feel safe when an athlete is in your care. A player should never fear his coach could physically assault him.

Do not allow an athlete to use performance-enhancing drugs. The desire to win is strong in young athletes, especially when a coach radiates a deep desire that victory is everything. However, steroids and other drugs have adverse long-term effects on athletes. They can damage the body physically, and a player could suffer sever emotional and psychological problems as a result of their abuse. Do what you can to dissuade them from using these drugs. Above all, do not use them yourself. Set a shining example that hard work can result in more success than cutting corners with drugs. Teach kids the dangers of alcohol and “recreational drugs.” Do not drink or take drugs around them.

Never cheat or ask your athletes to engage in cheating. You should always try to help them learn good sportsmanship. They should learn that winning, while good, is not the only goal of an athlete. Teach them that the joy of winning through honest hard work is far better than the feeling of winning dishonestly. Be careful to not even “bend the rules.” You should walk a fine line, so that the athletes will have a good example of proper honest behavior on the field.

Avoiding adverse situations is not always easy, but a prudent coach can do his or her best to ensure the safety of himself and his athletes.