Parent Code of Conduct

From RGSHW SPORT:  Parent/Carer and Supporters – Code of Conduct

In order for our core values to be upheld and our sports programme to be truly successful, it takes the cooperation of all involved; rower, coaches, officials, staff, spectators and parents/carers. Staff have spent some time and effort reinforcing these sporting values within RGS and we believe it is essential that we include parents/carers and friends of RGS in this process.

The following points clarify what we believe to be the essential standards associated with the RGS sporting programme.  In effect it is a code of conduct for parents/carers and supporters but is intended to include you rather than alienate you and should be digested with this sentiment in mind.

Parents/carers as role models

Parents/carers and guardians have a responsibility to help make sure their son gets the most out of his rowing experience. Parental support should always include positive reinforcement of both your sons’ performance and of their efforts. This is essential at an early age, to encourage strong self-esteem and a healthy development in general. Parents/carers should aim to be positive role models, including the display of sportsmanship and the notion of fair play and by avoiding negativity of any kind. It is not acceptable for anyone to ridicule or chastise their child or others for making a mistake or for losing a race. Parents/carers should encourage children to play according to the rules at all times.

Parent/ Guardian: Coach Partnership

Every RGS coach is grateful for the support, encouragement and assistance many parents/carers provide, often driving long distances and rearranging busy schedules to cheer on the RGS crews on a regular basis. It is essential however that all parents/carers and guardians agree to support their respective coach’s decisions when selecting crews or planning training (even in the event that they do not fully agree with them) and do not act to undermine their efforts.

Please refrain from….. 

• Becoming involved with training activities, crew selection or race preparation at any time unless invited to do so by the coach in charge of the event or the coach in charge of the crew

• Airing any grievances relating to any aspect of rowing; the rowers; the coach or officials whilst in the presence of our pupils or other competitors

Coaching staff are open to discussion and would always wish for the speedy resolution of any issues or concerns, but this process must take place in the correct manner and at the correct time. All parent - coach dialogue should be non-argumentative and constructive in its content.

The Coach’s judgement on issues such as selection must be accepted as final.  However well you know your son, you cannot share the same overview of the whole squad. The coach is best suited and entirely qualified to take all factors into consideration and make the right decisions for the team as a whole.

Parent to Parent respect

• Parents/carers & spectators have a responsibility to other parents/carers and spectators. Personal gain and satisfaction should not be derived from a child’s performance. Competition and taunting between parents/carers is never acceptable, and no parent/spectator should ever feel embarrassed or disappointed by their crew or son’s performance. Good performance should always be applauded, and disappointments should always be consoled. Remember that boys learn best by example and praise should be bestowed on the efforts of all crews.

•  Parents/carers and spectators have a responsibility to themselves. The joy and pride associated with watching children learn and grow through sport should be experienced to the fullest, because life-long memories are being created before your eyes.

 Your children row for their enjoyment, which in turn fosters a feeling of self-worth and respect. Please help them in this endeavour by focusing on your child’s efforts and personal achievements rather than purely on whether they win or lose.

Royal Grammar School parents/carers, friends and supporters play an essential role in maximising the success of school sport. We hope that together we will achieve the very highest standards appropriate for a school with a proud sporting past and high aspirations for the future.