Parents Code of Ethics

Parents Code of Ethics

 We as adults set an example that the children participating in the program will follow. The following code of ethics is to be adhered to by all adults. Please sign below stating that you have read and understand this code.

1. Refrain from “sideline coaching”. It is inappropriate for parents to coach players from the sideline. Not only does it devalue the coaching staff but it also confuses the player. Let the coaching staff that has been approved by the board of directors, do their job. Don’t be a coach - be a parent. Offer encouragement and positive reinforcement. A sure way to dampen a child’s enthusiasm is with constant criticism. Parents should not embarrass their child by calling attention to themselves through loud, obnoxious or rude behavior.
2. Do not criticize coaches, players on our own or opposing teams by word of mouth or gesture. Remember that your child learns more from your actions then your words. Practice good sportsmanship by being respectful to other players, parents and coaches on both teams. Cheer for our team rather than against our opponents. Parents should respect the officials and their calls. It’s okay to disagree but inappropriate to disparage.
3. Accept the decisions of game officials as being fair and being called to the best of their ability.
4. Abstain from consumption of alcohol or the use of tobacco products on the playing and practice fields. This is a CDMFA rule. Failure to abide by these rules could jeopardize the future of any Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club teams.
5. Do your best to insure that all participants will have an enjoyable experience in their days with the Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club. Parents should volunteer their services whenever possible. This shows the participants the value of being a team player.
6. Non-certified adults may not enter the playing field for any reason.
7. Occasionally, you may disagree with the way the organization is managed or the way your child’s team is coached. As a member of the Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club, your opinion is important. If you have suggestions for improvements, let them be known at a Executive meeting. Sideline gossip does nothing constructive for the children in the program. If you disagree with the way your child’s coach is handling the team or your child, you should take the following steps:

• Speak to the coach privately. This step resolves most disagreements.
• If you are not satisfied with the coach’s response or would not feel comfortable speaking with the coaches, speak with the President or Vice President of the Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club.
• If the dispute remains unresolved, bring your issues to the next regularly scheduled Executive meeting.
• These steps are part of the Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club and CDMFA League protocol. Not following the proper channels will only delay in issues being addressed. If matters need to be heard by CDMFA, the Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club representative will take them to the league. CDMFA will not entertain emails, phone calls or visits when not followed by this protocol. If your disagreement involves what position your son is playing, please save yourself time and embarrassment. That is a coaching decision and the Sherwood Park Northstars Football Club Executive will not entertain second guessing a coaching decision, unless there is a legitimate safety concern.