FA Respect Codes of Conduct for Coaches

Respect Code of Conduct


Coaches, Team Managers
and Club Officials

We all have a responsibility to promote
high standards of behaviour in the game.
In The FA’s survey of 37,000 grassroots
participants, behaviour was the biggest
concern in the game. This included
the abuse of match officials and
the unacceptable behaviour of
over competitive parents, spectators and
coaches on the sideline.
Play your part and observe The Football
Association’s Respect Code of Conduct in
everything you do.

On and off the field, I will:
• Show respect to others involved in the
game including match officials, opposition
players, coaches, managers, officials and
spectators
• Adhere to the laws and spirit of the game
• Promote Fair Play and high standards of
behaviour
• Always respect the match official’s decision
• Never enter the field of play without the
referee’s permission
• Never engage in public criticism of the
match officials
• Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive,
insulting or abusive language or behaviour.

When working with players, I will:
• Place the well-being, safety and enjoyment
of each player above everything, including
winning
• Explain exactly what I expect of players and
what they can expect from me



TheFA.com/Respect 

Ensure all parents/carers of all players under
the age of 18 understand these expectations
• Never engage in or tolerate any form of
bullying
• Develop mutual trust and respect with every
player to build their self-esteem
• Encourage each player to accept
responsibility for their own behaviour and
performance
• Ensure all activities I organise are appropriate
for the players’ ability level, age and maturity
• Co-operate fully with others in football (e.g.
officials, doctors, physiotherapists, welfare
officers) for each player’s best interests.

I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any/all of the following actions may be taken by my club, County FA, league or The FA:
• Required to meet with the club, league or
County Welfare Officer
• Required to meet with the club committee
• Monitored by another club coach
• Required to attend an FA education course
• Suspended by the club from attending
matches
• Suspended or fined by the County FA
• Required to leave or be sacked by the club.

In addition:
• My FACA (FA Coaches Association)
membership may be withdrawn.