CODE OF CONDUCT:

​Darien Junior Field Hockey (DJFH) expects the highest standard of conduct by all participants including players, coaches, referees, parents and spectators at all times.  This will provide for and promote a safe athletic environment, positive role models and a sense of community spirit. 

By adhering to this code, DJFH will demonstrate that good conduct and teamwork can bring out the very best in competitive sports.

Everyone will:

1. Respect all players, coaches, referees, parents and spectators.
2. Respect the property of others including all fields.
3. Refrain from taunting, booing, or making negative comments about any players, coaches, referees, parents and spectators.
4. Never argue with the referee′s call.
5. Remember that sports for children should be about having fun, sportsmanship and doing your best.

Players will:

1. Play for fun and give 100% effort at all practices and games.
2. Always respect teammates, opponents, coaches and referees: no taunting, booing, making negative comments about any player(s), coaches, or referees.
3. Work hard to improve skills, learn the game and play by the rules.
4. Follow coaches' directions and instructions.
5. Wear the required equipment at all games and practices, and keep your equipment well maintained.
6. Support teammates at all times.
7. Shake hands with opponents after the game.
8. Keep in mind that at all times you are representing the Town of Darien.

Parents & Spectators will:

1. Remember that children participate in athletics to have fun.
2. Remember that the game is for the children, not the adults.
3. Remember that they are not the coach and refrain from yelling instructions out onto the field.
4. Speak to the coach in private with any concerns and never in front of the children or on the field.
5. Be a positive role model by respecting all players, coaches, referees, parents and spectators at all times.
6. Value skills development, fair competition and good effort.  Recognize that the efforts of all children, your own team and opponents, are more important than the outcome of the game.
7. Cheer for all children on the team, not just your own child.
8. Not encourage any behaviors or tactics that would endanger the health and well-being of anyone.
9. Keep in mind that at all times you are representing the Town of Darien.

Coaches will:

1. Make skill development, sportsmanship, teamwork, fun and learning the game the goals of the team.
2. Be a positive role model by respecting all players, coaches, referees, parents and spectators at all times.
3. Teach the rules of Field Hockey, and abide by those rules in practices and games.
4. Never argue with a referee's call.
5. Never lose your temper.
6. Be generous in any praise, emphasizing the children's efforts over the outcome of the game.
7. Be fair, honest and consistent in coaching philosophies and practices.
8. Recognize that children learn differently and adapt coaching style to each child’s needs accordingly.
9. Communicate clearly to players and parents about goals for the team and what behavior is appropriate.
10. Provide a safe environment for the children to play.