Applies To: All coaches registered and active on the Athlete Connect platform

Purpose:

Athlete Connect is committed to creating a safe, professional, and inclusive environment for athletes and coaches. This Code of Conduct sets out the professional and ethical standards expected of all coaches who use the platform. By registering as a coach, you agree to comply with this Code and uphold the values and responsibilities it represents.

1. Professional Conduct and Representation

• Present yourself in a professional manner at all times in both online and offline interactions.
• Use your real name, accurate credentials, and honest experience history on your profile.
• Avoid making exaggerated claims about your qualifications, results, or affiliations.
• Dress appropriately and maintain a clean, professional appearance during live coaching sessions (virtual or in-person).
• Maintain a clear separation between personal and professional roles in your interactions with athletes.

2. Respect, Equity, and Inclusion

• Treat every individual with dignity and respect, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, or socioeconomic background.
• Actively foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that values diversity in all forms.
• Avoid bias, stereotyping, or favoritism in coaching decisions, team selections, or athlete treatment.
• Use inclusive language and avoid any remarks or jokes that could be considered offensive, inappropriate, or marginalizing.

3. Athlete Safety and Protection

• The safety, health, and welfare of the athlete must be your highest priority.
• Coaches must never:
  • Engage in physical punishment or aggressive behavior
  • Initiate or participate in any sexual, romantic, or otherwise inappropriate relationship with an athlete (minor or adult)
  • Share private or suggestive photos, messages, or content with athletes
• Always maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries with all athletes.
• Follow mandatory reporting laws and platform protocols when you witness or suspect abuse, harassment, or misconduct.
• All training programs must prioritize long-term athlete development, avoiding overtraining or pushing athletes beyond their physical or emotional capacity.

4. Communication Standards

• All communication must be:
  • Professional
  • Transparent
  • Purpose-driven (i.e., related to training, motivation, scheduling, etc.)
• Avoid using slang, emojis, or informal language that could be misinterpreted or feel overly personal—especially with minors.
• Keep parents or guardians copied on all communications with athletes under 18, when applicable.
• Do not solicit or exchange personal contact information for non-coaching purposes.

5. Ethical Coaching Practices

• Base your training approach on evidence-based, safe, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Never encourage or condone cheating, substance abuse, or unsafe methods to enhance performance.
• Respect the rules, officials, and structure of the sport you coach.
• Do not exploit your position for personal, professional, or financial gain beyond agreed-upon platform terms.
• Honor other coaches’ work—do not poach athletes, discredit peers, or undermine others for competitive advantage.

6. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• Respect the privacy of all athletes and families using the platform.
• Do not disclose or share personal information (such as health history, progress reports, or contact information) without the athlete’s or parent’s explicit permission.
• Use the platform’s data and communication tools responsibly and only for intended purposes.

7. Conflict of Interest

• Disclose any potential conflicts of interest to Athlete Connect (e.g., coaching multiple athletes with direct competition).
• Avoid situations where personal relationships or affiliations could interfere with your coaching responsibilities.
• Do not accept gifts, favors, or compensation from athletes or families that might influence your professional judgment.

8. Digital Conduct and Social Media

• Use Athlete Connect only for its intended coaching and development purposes.
• Do not post or share content on social media that could reflect negatively on you, your athletes, or the platform (e.g., profanity, explicit content, offensive opinions).
• Avoid tagging or publicly referencing athletes without their consent.
• Respect intellectual property rights—do not share copyrighted training material without permission.

9. Drug-Free, Alcohol-Free Coaching Environment

• Never use, possess, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during coaching sessions (virtual or in-person).
• Encourage clean, healthy habits in athletes and educate them on the dangers of substance abuse and performance-enhancing drugs.

10. Accountability and Enforcement

• Athlete Connect reserves the right to investigate any allegation of misconduct, breach of policy, or behavior inconsistent with this Code.
• Violations may result in:
  • Temporary suspension
  • Permanent removal from the platform
  • Reporting to legal or sport governing bodies, where appropriate
• Coaches are encouraged to report violations of this Code through the official reporting process provided by Athlete Connect. Retaliation against whistleblowers is strictly prohibited.

11. Coach Acknowledgment

All coaches must confirm the following upon onboarding and annually thereafter:

✅ I have read and understood the Athlete Connect Coach Code of Conduct.
✅ I agree to uphold the principles, responsibilities, and ethical standards outlined in this document.
✅ I understand that any violation of this Code may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the platform.