The coach’s primary role is to facilitate the process of individual development through achievement of Athletic potential. This role accepts the athletes’ long term interests as of greater importance than short term athletic considerations. To fulfil this role the coach must behave in an ethical manner. By becoming a member of the ATFCA, a coach agrees to be held accountable for any breach of the following points

This includes respecting the right for freedom from physical or sexual harassment and advances.

This appropriateness must take into consideration the age, maturity and skill level of the athlete. This is particularly important in the case of younger or less developed athletes.

This respect should extend to the spirit as well as to the letter of the rules, in both training and competition, to ensure fairness of competitive opportunity between all athletes.

By accepting the role of the officials in providing judgement to ensure that competitions are conducted fairly and according to the established rules.

And conduct of the athletes they coach, while at the same time encouraging the independence and self determination of each athlete by their acceptance of responsibility for their own decisions, conduct and performance.

To prevent any use of prohibited drugs or other disallowed performance enhancing substances or practices. This leadership by coaches includes education of the athletes of the harmful effects of prohibited substances and practices.

Competing within the rules. Observations, recommendations and criticism should be directed to the appropriate person outside the view or hearing of the public domain.

Athletes who are receiving coaching to join their squad or change their coaching situation without first involving the current personal coach or coaches.

Including when an athlete’s development would benefit from a change of coaching situation. The coach should ensure that, in these cases, any formation of a coaching partnership or transfer to another coach is actively explored with the athlete, whose decision is supported.

Coaches should respect that the gaining of coaching qualifications is an ongoing commitment, achieved through the upgrading of their knowledge by attendance of accredited courses and through practical coaching experience. Coaches also have a responsibility to share the knowledge and practical experience they gain.

And continuously maintain the highest standards of personal conduct, reflected in both the manner of appearance and behaviour, so that they do not bring Coaching or the Association into disrepute.

Nor consume alcoholic beverages so soon before coaching that it affects their competence or that the smell of alcohol is on their breath.

This includes working openly with other coaches, using the expertise of sports scientists and sports physicians and displaying an active support of their National Federation and the IAAF.