Corrib Rugby Football Club

CODE OF CONDUCT

Corrib RFC is a club with a proud and longstanding tradition of playing the game of rugby with dedication
and commitment, and always in an enjoyable manner. As players, coaches, parents and supporters, we
all want the best for our teams, but it is important that we all remember that rugby is a game, and that
winning and losing are part of the sport we love.
Both in our own community and on the playing pitch, when we wear the club colours we are acting as
ambassadors for our club and the sport of rugby. From the moment we enter the club grounds, home or
away, we have a duty to the club and each other to hold ourselves to the highest standard of conduct
and behaviour. Before, during and after each game we are all bound to show that Corrib RFC is a club
that plays hard but fair, and always respects the values of Rugby

1.1.1 Players
• Play for enjoyment and become part of the rugby family.
• Respect the “Game of Rugby” and play within the Laws of the Game.
• Accept the referee’s decision and let your captain or coach ask any relevant questions.
• Play with control. Do not lose your temper.
• Always do your best and be committed to the game, your team and your club.
• Be a “good sport”. Applaud all good play whether by your team or the opposition.
• Respect your opponent. Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not “bully” or take
advantage of any player.
• Rugby is a team sport and make sure you co-operate with your coach; team mates and members of
your club.
• Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve your skills and feel good.
• At the end of the match thank your opponents and the referee for the match.
• Always remember that you owe a duty of care to your opponents. Tackle hard but fairly, do not intend
to hurt your opponent.
• Winning and losing is part of sport: Win with humility – lose with dignity.
• As part of the team it is important that you attend training regularly and listen to your coach and help
your team.
• As a team sport, it is important to understand that all members are important to the team!
• Remember you are representing your team, club, family and the game of rugby.

1.1.2 Coaches
• Remember that as a coach that you have a duty of care to all your players.
• Remember that as a coach of an “age grade team” you are acting “in loco parentis”.
• Lead by example - young people need a coach they can respect as a Role Model.
• Be generous with your praise and never ridicule, shout at players for making mistakes or losing a
match.
• Teach your players that the Laws of the Game are mutual agreements which no one should evade or
break.
• Ensure that you are appropriately qualified by gaining the relevant coaching accreditation for your
particular level.
• Be reasonable in your demands on the players’ time, energy, and enthusiasm.
• Encourage respect for all participants – teammates and opponents, as well as match officials.
• Create a safe and enjoyable environment in which to train and play.
Corrib Rugby Football Club
• Always follow professional medical advice in determining when an injured player is ready to play again.
• Develop policies for your club / team to agree procedures regarding discipline, injury prevention & treatment, team selection etc.
• Be responsible and ensure you uphold the ethos of the game and the IRFU.
• Support the IRFU Child Welfare Policy and all policies regarding Children in Sport.

1.1.3 Parents
• Remember, young people play rugby for their enjoyment, not only yours.
• Encourage your child always to play by the Laws of the Game.
• Teach young children that honest endeavour is as important as winning, so that the result of each
game is accepted without disappointment.
• Help young people to work towards skill improvement and good sportsmanship.
• Set a good example by applauding good play on both sides.
• Never ridicule, humiliate or shout at young players for making a mistake or losing a match.
• Do not place emphasis on winning at all costs.
• Do not force an unwilling child to participate in the playing of rugby. If the child is to play, he/she will
do so in good time, through your encouragement.
• Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from rugby.

• As a spectator, do not use profane language or harass referees, coaches or players.
• Do not publicly question the referees judgement and never their honesty.
• Recognise the value and importance of volunteer referees and coaches.
• Identify and acknowledge the good qualities of the Game of Rugby and uphold these values.
• Remember you and your child's contribution to the Game of Rugby is very important to the IRFU and
be proud of your contribution.
• Understand the value of team sport and the importance there of.

1.1.4 Supporters
• Remember that although young people play organised rugby they are not "miniature internationals".
• Be on your best behaviour and lead by example. Do not use profane language or harass referees,
players or coaches.
• Applaud good play by the visiting team as well as your own.
• Show respect for your team's opponents. Without them there would not be a match.
• Condemn the use of violence in all forms at every opportunity.
• Verbal abuse of players or referees cannot be accepted in any shape of form.
• Players or referees are not fair targets for ignorant behaviour.
• Encourage young players to play by the Laws of the Game.
• Spectators can contribute to the enjoyment of the event and all involved.
• Be proud of your club and the Game of Rugby.