Code of Conduct

Sport has a very special place in Australian society. We are proud of our sporting tradition and look up to our sporting champions from whatever field.   Winning of course is a vital part of that tradition - but not as important as the spirit in which the majority of those Australian heroes have played their sport.

That spirit stems from our commitment to fair play. The Little Athletics Code of Behaviour produced below is based on the Australian Sports Commission's Code for use by organisations conducting sporting programs for children.

Parents

A child's basic training in good sportsmanship comes from the home!

1. If children are interested, encourage them to participate. However if your child is not willing, do not force him or her.
2. Focus upon your child's efforts and performance rather than the overall outcome of the event. This assists your child in setting realistic goals related to his/her ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.
3. Teach your child that honest effort is as important as victory, so that the result of each competition is accepted without undue disappointment.
4. Encourage your child to always participate according to the rules.
5. Never ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a competition.
6. Remember children are involved in organised sports for their enjoyment not yours.
7. Remember that children learn best by example and; applaud good performances by all athletes.
8. If you disagree with an official, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than question the official's judgement and honesty in public. Remember, most officials give their time and effort for your child's involvement.
9. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children's sporting activities.
10. Recognise the value and importance of volunteer coaches. They give of their time and resources to provide recreational activities for your child.

Administrators, Officials & Spectators

In Little Athletics, these people are mostly Parents temporarily performing a different function.

1. Remember to behave, as a parent should at all times; don't adopt a different code of behaviour just because your role has temporarily changed.
2. Refer to codes for Parents.

Athletes

It isn't whether you win or lose, but how you play the game!

1. Compete and train for the "fun of it", not just to please your parents or coach.
2. Play by the rules.
3. Never argue with the officials' decision. Let your Centre Manager or Coach ask any necessary questions.
4. Control your temper, no ‘mouthing off' and breaking equipment, throwing implements or other equipment.
5. Work equally for yourself and your team in relay and team events, as your team's performance will benefit and so will your own.
6. Be a good sport. Cheer all good performances, whether they are your centre mates or your opponents.
7. Treat all athletes, as you would like to be treated. Don't interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of any other athlete.
8. Remember that the goal of training or competition is to have fun, improve your skills and feel good. Don't be a show-off or brag about your own performances.
9. Co-operate with your Coach, Centre mates and opponents, for without them you don't have a competition.