Code of Conduct

Our Code of Conduct establishes principles for team officials, players, parents, guardians and spectators to ensure soccer is a fun, safe, and positive experience for all. It is a condition that all participants read and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct at all times. Failure to comply with them will result in action from Whitecaps FC.

  • Respect for all
  • Leave things better off than you found them
  • Do the best you can

Players

As a Player I will:

  • Always hold respect for opponents, coaches, support staff, referees and teammates.
  • Immediately report any injury, illness, medical or personal wellbeing concern to coaching or medical staff.
  • Not engage in unsporting conduct or negative communication with players, support and coaching staff, spectators, or families of the opposing team.
  • Never use profanity, display tantrums, physically harm or threaten to physically harm, or engage in discrimination, harassment or bullying of any kind.
  • Not engage in negative, discriminatory, or harassing comments towards players or teams through any social media platforms.
  • Not engage in any retaliation (to make someone feel unsafe, unwelcome, or concerned for their wellbeing) after any concerns or complaints have been raised against me or any member of the team or camp.
  • Ensure all digital communication between players and staff members must take place on designated Club platforms and must always adhere to the Rule of Two (no 1-1 communication). Communication between coaches or staff and players using personal social media is not permitted.

Parents and Guardians

As a parent / guardian / spectator I will:

  • Not engage in offensive, discriminatory, harassing or abusive language or behaviour, or physical threats. This includes all forms of maltreatment, as defined by the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS).
  • Communicate privately with the coach or a staff member if I have questions, concerns, or suggestions.
  • Remain outside the field of play and within the Designated Spectator Area (where provided).
  • Refrain from yelling at players or staff, and refrain from coaching from the sidelines during training sessions or games.
  • Not engage in any retaliation after concerns or complaints have been raised against myself or any member of the team or camp.

Coaches

As a coach I will:

  • Adhere to and promote the Code of Conduct to players, parents/guardians and spectators alike.
  • Consistently display the highest standards of behaviour and be a positive role model.
  • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person regardless of age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, place of origin, colour, sexual orientation, religion, mental and physical disability, political belief or economic status.
  • Teach players and parents/guardians to act fairly and respect the rules, referees and opponents.
  • Encourage each player to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
  • Maintain a safe and inclusive environment, free from offensive language, behaviour, or any form of maltreatment.
  • Never engage in public criticism of anyone in any situation on or off the field.
  • Communicate directly, consistently, and respectfully to ensure all expectations and feedback are understood.
  • Make sure that equipment/facilities are safe and in good standing.
  • Inform parents/guardians of any injuries their child might have suffered without delay.
  • Co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.
  • Place mental and physical wellbeing, health, and safety above all other considerations, including performance and results.
  • Abstain from the use of any alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs while in the presence of athletes.
  • Never exert influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
  • Recognize that as a coach, I operate in a position of authority and need to be aware of how I can ensure my position of authority does not compromise the wellbeing, development and safety of players, including neglecting players.
  • Ensure activities are appropriate for the age, development age, maturity, experience, and ability of players.
  • Ensure players, staff, and spectators respect the field boundaries for training and match play.
  • Ensure that all coaches adhere to the Rule of Two (no 1-1) when interacting with minors on and off the field, transportation, and travel.
  • Ensure all digital communication between players and coaches must always adhere to the Rule of Two (no 1-1 communication). Official communication regarding Club programming must take place on designated Club platforms. Communication between coaches/staff and players using personal social media is not permitted.
  • Ensure that any retaliation after concerns or complaints have been raised against myself or any member of the team or camp not be tolerated.

At every Summer Skills Camp, Prospect Camp, Regional Camp and BMO Academy, Safe Sport trained staff will be present and easily identifiable to all athletes, parents/guardians, coaches, and staff. Safe Sport trained staff will be introduced at the pre-camp/academy online parent/guardian/player meeting. On site, they will be responsible for monitoring the health and safety of all participants, including adherence to all Safe Sport practices, activities, and reporting. Safe Sport trained staff are also responsible for providing feedback on policy maintenance and advising on potential procedural improvements.

Responsibilities:

  • Communicating and implementing Safe Sport guidelines, policies, and practices at their location.
  • Monitoring the program to ensure all athletes, coaches, staff, and parents/guardians are adhering to all aspects of safe sport – physical and mental.
  • Providing daily checks and reports on adherence to all safe sport policies and practices.
  • Ensure spectators are not infringing on the designated training spaces.
  • Liaise with on-site first aid as required.
  • Attend online parent introductory meetings prior to the program start.

Responsible Coaching Movement

We are committed to the principles of the Coaching Association of Canada’s Responsible Coaching Movement. More information can be found at: coach.ca

True Sport Principles

We adhere to the True Sport Principles and encourage all who participate with the Whitecaps FC to know and practice them. Find more information about True Sport at: truesportpur.ca/aboutus/

Go For It

Rise to the challenge - always strive for excellence. Discover how good you can be.

Play Fair

Play honestly - obey both the letter and spirit of the rules. Winning is only meaningful when competition is fair.

Respect Others

Show respect for everyone involved in creating your sporting experience, both on and off the field. Win with dignity and lose with grace.

Keep It Fun

Find the joy of sport. Keep a positive attitude both on and off the field.

Stay Healthy

Place physical and mental health above all other considerations - avoid unsafe activities. Respect your body and keep in shape.

Include Everyone

Share sport with others. Ensure everyone has a place to play.

Give Back

Find ways to show your appreciation for the community that supports your sport and helps make it possible.