St. Maria Goretti Coaches Code of Conduct

The coach has the responsibility and the opportunity of seeking to be a positive role model. Coaches need to recognize that the main goals are to make the athletic program fun for the players, emphasize teamwork, good sportsmanship and support self-esteem. Coaches are called upon to further the SMG Catholic Parish School mission of growing in faith and love together in union with Jesus Christ and one another.

Coach’s Responsibilities:

1. Coaches are selected by the Athletic Association Board. Coaches may be asked to participate in determining team composition.
2. Coaches are responsible for upholding all policies set forth by the Athletic Association Board, the school Principal/Athletic Director, and the Madison Area Independent Sports League (MAISL). This includes adhering to the SMG Athletic Handbook which can be found on the Athletics page of the SMG School website.
3. Any questions or issues with SMG Athletics related to MAISL must go through the SMG MAISL Representative, currently the Athletic Director.
4. Coaches must act in a respectful manner toward players, parents, fellow coaches, officials, Athletic Board, Athletic Director and school staff. Arguing with officials before, during, or after games is unacceptable.
5. Coaches must have a parent meeting at the start of each sport for each season.
6. Coaches are responsible for all team practices and game activities in consultation with and guidance by the Athletic Director. Coaches should make all reasonable attempts start each contest with the minimum number of players for each corresponding sport (i.e. volleyball 6, basketball 5, etc.).
7. Coaches and volunteers that will be working with student athletes are required to have VIRTUS Training before any participation with student athletes can take place. Coaches are also required to submit necessary information for a background check.
8. Coaches are responsible for arranging team practice schedules and informing parents of practice beginning and ending times using TeamSnap. Coaches are responsible for supervision of students from the scheduled beginning to the end of practice times. Note: If a male adult is coaching a team with girls, a VIRTUS trained female adult must be present at all practices. If a female adult is coaching a team with boys, a VIRTUS trained male adult must be present at all practices. Additionally, there must be at least two adults present at each practice.
9. The coach assumes the role of "instructor" for basic skills in the sport he/she is coaching.
10. Coaches will organize and coach the team within the philosophy and goals outlined in the SMG Athletic Handbook. Coaches will organize two practices a week that are fun and challenging for the athletes. Coaches are responsible for informing the parent(s) of any student athlete who is not following the rules of conduct and for working with the parent(s) and Athletic Director to determine the discipline that may be needed. No abusive behavior/contact of any kind is acceptable between coaches and student athletes.
11. Coaches are responsible for equipment, keys, and first-aid kits, which are issued to them by the Athletic Director. When the season is finished coaches will work with the Athletic Director to return those items.
12. Coaches are asked to communicate weekly with their team regarding the upcoming schedule.
13. Coaches may reward their team for their hard work, effort, and dedication with small gifts or treats throughout the season as long as it is kept at a nominal value (i.e. a few dollars per player). If coaches would like to reward their team with gifts that would be higher in value, please review the idea with the Athletic Director prior to purchasing.

I have read, understand and agree to adhere to the conduct, considerations and responsibilities required for St. Maria Goretti coaches. I agree to follow the rules, policies, procedures and regulations stated in the Athletic Handbook and to fully support my fellow coaches and student athletes. I understand that failure to comply with any of the above codes may result in game suspension(s) and possibly being removed from coaching.