• The coach will not criticize players in front of spectators.
• The coach will accept the decisions of officials.
• The coach will not criticize the officials, the opposing team, the coaches, fans or parents, through language or gesture.
• The coach will emphasize that good athletes are good students, and both are physically and mentally alert.
• The coach will strive to make every football activity serve as a training ground for life, and as a basis for good mental and physical health.
• The coach will emphasize that winning a game is the result of teamwork.
• The coach shall not use abusive or profane language before anyone connected with the game.
• The coach will refrain from “running-up” the score against an opponent. This includes keeping in the first defense at all times.
• The coach shall not be under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs.
• The coach will set an example in personal conduct at all times.
• The coach will not smoke or use any form of tobacco while on the field of play during games, scrimmages or practices.
• The coach will treat each player, opposing coach, parent and administrator with respect and dignity.
• The coach will learn the strengths and weakness of his/her players so they s/he might place them into situations where they have a maximum opportunity to achieve success.
• The coach will protect the health and safety of his/her players by insisting that all of the activities under his/her control be conducted for their psychological and physiological welfare, rather than interests of adults.

• Have fun!

• Be a good sports (win or lose), be honest, fair and always show good sportsmanship to all coaches, players, officials and fans.

• Learn the value of commitment to the team.

• Put personal goals aside for the betterment of the team.

• Show courtesy and respect to teammates, opponents, coaches.

• Realize that athletic contests, including practice sessions are educational experiences and opportunities.

• Players will not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct.

• Players will not engage in rude behavior.

• I will treat everyone, including coaches, parents, players, officials, with respect regardless of race, creed, color, nationality, or sex.

• Give constructive criticism during a private moment, never in front of other parents, players, officials, spectators, etc.
• Support your coach, and refrain from excessive “sideline coaching” from the stands.
• Refrain from using profanity.
• Abide by doctor’s decision in all matters of players health and injuries, and physical ability to play.
• Accept the decisions of officials on the field as being fair and called to the best ability of the officials. Parents must stay off the field and remain under control in order to set a good example for players and other spectators.
• Do not criticize an opposing team, its players, fans, coaches or team, by words or gestures.
• Support the coaches, players and officials and help teach the value of commitment to the teams, sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and fair play.
• Inappropriate behavior is cause for immediate ejection from the stands. Repeat offenses will result in being barred from future games and league sponsored activities.
• Parents will not encourage their child, or any other person, to engage in unsportmanship conduct with any coach, parent, player, participants, officials or any other attendee.

"If you take a look at the work world today, no matter what profession, they're looking for a person who is dedicated, hard-working, loyal and who is willing to make sacrifices for the company.  They're also looking for someone who exhibits good character, leadership and class.  I think those are intangibles that a young person attains from playing football."

- DeMatha (Md.) Catholic High School Head Coach Bill McGregor