Coaching Purpose & Philosophy From the UIL “Constitution and Contest Rules” & “Sportsmanship Manual”

The Purpose & Philosophy of the Athletic program:  promote good sportsmanship and fair play  to assist, advise and aid in organization of athletics  promote education and follow eligibility rules  to reinforce the concept that athletics is an integral part of the educational program  promote respect for the rules and a spirit of friendly rivalry  promote accepting decisions of sports officials without protest and treating officials with respect  promote and ensure the health and safety of all  to observe all rules and be ethical in all that is done  to be professional and set a good example

Behavior Expectations of the Coach  Exemplify the highest moral character, behavior and leadership  Act in a positive manner to show your athletes the proper way to conduct themselves in competitive situations.  Respect the integrity and personality of the individual athlete.  Do not ask an athlete to do anything that will put their integrity in question.  Abide by and teach the rules of the game in letter and in spirit.  Set a good example for players and spectators to follow.  Refrain from arguments with officials or other coaches in front of players and spectators.  Shake hands with the officials and opposing coaches before and after the contest.  Show Sportsmanship by Respecting the integrity and judgment of game officials.  Treat opponents and officials with respect and hospitality when hosting an event.  Display modesty in victory and graciousness in defeat in public and in talking with the media.  Never degrade the performance of any participant, coach or official.  Do Not use profanity, obscene language or improper actions, which include the verbal or physical abuse of participants, coaches, officials or spectators.  Hold a pre-season meeting to discuss proper sportsmanship with your athletes and parents.

Behavior Expectations of the Student- Athlete and Cheerleader  Accept and understand the seriousness of your responsibility, and the privilege of representing your school and community.  Make good sportsmanship a top priority for you and your teammates and live up to those standards that have been set.  Learn the rules of the game thoroughly for a better understanding and appreciation of the game.  Treat your opponents with respect and integrity.  Wish opponents good luck before the game and congratulate them in a courteous manner following the contest, no matter the outcome.  Respect the integrity and judgment of game officials.

Behavior Expectations of the Spectator  Always support your team and the efforts of all participants involved.  Do not intimidate or ridicule a player, coach or official before, during or after a contest.  Always praise athletes for their actions during a game; never degrade a participant for their efforts.  Remember that a ticket is a privilege to observe the contest, not a license to verbally assault others or be generally obnoxious.  Learn the rules of the game so that you may understand and appreciate why certain situations take place.  Always respect the integrity and judgment of officials.  Show respect for the opposing players, coaches, spectators and support groups. Treat them as guests to your school.  Be a positive role model at events through your own actions.

Best Practices For All Be a Positive Role Model Good Sportsmanship Respect Athletics is an integral part of the Education process Observe All Rules Be Professional in All you do Athletics is a Privilege Be a Teacher