Coaches Code of Conduct

As a coach in the Little Falls Youth Hockey Association (LFYH), I understand that it is a privilege—not a right—to coach youth hockey. I recognize that my role extends beyond the rink: I am a teacher of skills, a leader of young athletes, and a role model in character, sportsmanship, and respect.

Because I understand these responsibilities, I agree to the following:

Commitment to Player Development

• I will place the safety, development, and well-being of players above winning games.
• I will dedicate the majority of practice time to skill development, including skating, shooting, stick handling, passing and receiving, checking (if age-appropriate), and goaltending fundamentals.
• I will prepare a detailed practice plan for each session, consistent with LFYH’s developmental philosophy.
• I will provide equal opportunities for all players to improve their skills, gain confidence, and develop both physically and mentally.
• I will adjust my coaching to individual player needs, treating each athlete with fairness and respect.

Conduct & Leadership

• I will set a positive example for players by showing respect to athletes, parents, officials, opponents, fellow coaches, and fans.
• I will refrain from using profanity, vulgarity, or abusive language at any time. I will not verbally, physically, or psychologically abuse any player, official, or parent.
• I will maintain control and composure at all times and display emotional maturity.

Communication & Team Management

• I will hold a parent–coach meeting at the beginning of the season to share goals, expectations, and objectives.
• I will maintain open, honest, and respectful communication with players and parents throughout the season.
• I will delegate responsibilities appropriately, including working with a team manager to handle administrative details and engaging parents in team activities.
• I will ensure that players are always supervised by a coach or designated locker room monitor and never left unsupervised.

Commitment to LFYH & the Game

• I will attend all scheduled LFYH coaches’ meetings and adhere to association rules, policies, and expectations.
• I will respect scheduling decisions made by LFYH regarding practices, joint sessions, games, and tournaments.
• I will make every effort to attend all games and practices. Coaches in paid positions must attend at least 80% of scheduled events, with pay adjusted accordingly.
• I will follow LFYH’s discipline policy and communicate concerns to the Coaching Director when necessary.
• I will respect and adhere to all Safe Sport requirements, reporting any violations to the LFYH Board immediately.
• I will handle officiating disputes calmly and respectfully, following USA Hockey guidelines.
• I will represent LFYH positively in the rink, at team events, in hotels/restaurants, and on social media.

Role Modeling & Sportsmanship

• I will teach players that winning is a consideration, but not the most important one. Teamwork and sportsmanship will always come first.
• I will be generous with praise, fair in discipline, and consistent in my expectations.
• I will handle winning with class and losing with grace, knowing that my behavior directly influences the character of my players.