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.