CODE OF CONDUCT

Staff, Coaches and Volunteers 

Evo Academy fully supports The FA’s Respect campaign and is committed to upholding the highest standards of behaviour, professionalism, and safeguarding across all aspects of youth football. This Code outlines the expectations for all Evo Academy staff, coaches, and volunteers.

1.a Professional Conduct

• I will uphold all Evo Academy policies, safeguarding procedures, and best practices.

• I will act professionally at all times and never bring the Academy into disrepute.

• I will be punctual, well-prepared, and organised for all sessions and fixtures.

1.b Respect and Behaviour

• I will show respect to match officials, players, fellow staff, opposition, and spectators.

• I will promote and adhere to the Laws of the Game and champion fair play.

• I will never enter the field of play without the referee’s permission.

• I will never publicly criticise officials, opponents, or colleagues.

• I will never engage in or tolerate offensive, abusive or discriminatory behaviour.

1.c Communication and Social Media

• I will communicate clearly and respectfully with players, parents, and fellow staff.

• I will use social media responsibly and avoid posting any content that reflects negatively on the Academy.

1.d Working with Players

• I will prioritise player safety, well-being, and enjoyment over results.

• I will set clear behavioural and performance expectations and involve parents/carers.

• I will foster a positive, inclusive environment where all players feel valued.

• I will build trust and help players develop confidence and self-esteem.

• I will encourage responsibility, effort, and accountability in players.

• I will actively challenge and report any form of bullying or discrimination.

• I will deliver sessions appropriate to players’ age, ability, and stage of development.

• I will work collaboratively with medics, welfare officers, and schools when needed.

Failure to follow this Code may result in disciplinary action, including suspension from duties.

 

 

2. Players 

As an Evo Academy player, I understand that I represent myself, my team, and the Academy at all times. I will act with respect, responsibility, and commitment on and off the pitch.

2.a Matchday Behaviour

• I will treat every session and game as a chance to learn, develop and enjoy football.

• I will follow the rules and show respect to referees, teammates and opponents.

• I will encourage and support others with positive behaviour and language.

• I will respect match officials — only the captain may ask for clarification.

• I will applaud good play and show sportsmanship at all times.

• I will show concern for any injured player, regardless of the team.

• I will win with humility and lose with dignity.

• I will shake hands with opponents and thank officials after each match.

2.b Commitment and Conduct

• I will attend all training and games regularly and on time.

• I will accept coaches’ decisions regarding team selection and substitutions.

• I will take personal responsibility for my behaviour and conduct.

• I will use social media positively and avoid anything that may bring Evo Academy into disrepute.

2.c Expectations

• I will attend all scheduled training sessions and matches unless absence is agreed in advance.

• I will arrive prepared and in full kit for both training and games.

• I will represent Evo Academy with maturity, honesty, and respect.

• I will listen to and act on feedback from coaches to aid my development.

 

 

3. Parents and Carers

Evo Academy values the support and involvement of parents and carers in the development of young players. This Code sets clear expectations to help create a safe and positive footballing environment.

3.a Matchday Conduct

• I understand that attendance at a game is a privilege.

• I will always support match officials and coaches without questioning decisions.

• I will avoid confrontational behaviour and never argue on the sidelines.

• I will set a positive example with encouragement, not criticism.

• I will show respect to all players, coaches, referees, and spectators.

• I will remain in the designated spectator areas during matches and training.

• I will never coach or instruct players from the sidelines — that is the coaches’ role.

• I will accept victory or defeat with dignity and teach my child to do the same.

3.b Expectations

• I will ensure my child attends all activities they are selected for or provide early notice of absence.

• I will help my child arrive punctually and fully prepared for all sessions and fixtures.

• I will trust the judgement and process of Evo Academy coaches and staff.

• I will raise any concerns through the correct communication channels and with respect.

 

 

Signed copies of this Code of Conduct must be submitted at the start of each season.