Every participant in the 2014 Gay Games will follow the Gay Games 9 Cleveland + Akron Code of Conduct for Participants and Coaches. By registering for the 2014 Gay Games each participant agrees to this Code of Conduct:
- I understand and respect the Gay Games values of Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best™.
- I will show respect and consideration for other participants, volunteers, officials, and staff, and for the laws and customs of the host community.
- I will contribute to making this an enjoyable and uplifting experience for myself and everyone else.
- I will not participate in any sports activity at the Gay Games while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substances.
For Participants
- I will play by the rules.
- I will never argue with an official. If I need to ask a question of an official, I will do so in a friendly and courteous manner.
- For team sports, I will communicate with officials through my captain or coach.
- I will control my temper. I understand that verbal abuse of officials, disparaging other participants, or deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable and are not permitted behavior in any sport.
- I will work be a good sport and recognize the performance of my opponents.
- I will treat all participants as I would like to be treated. I will not bully or take unfair advantage of another competitor.
- I will cooperate with my coaches, teammates and opponents. I recognize that without them, there would be no competition.
- I will participate for personal enjoyment and benefit, not just to please others.
- I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, religion or sexual orientation.
For Coaches, Trainers and Managers
- I realize that everyone participates for pleasure, and winning is only part of the fun.
- I will never ridicule or yell at a participant for making a mistake or failing to come first.
- I will be reasonable in my demands on players’ time, energy and enthusiasm.
- I will operate within the rules and spirit of my sport and teach my players to do the same.
- I will ensure that the time players spend with me is a positive experience; all participants are deserving of equal attention and opportunities.
- I will avoid overplaying talented players: the ‘just average’ need and deserve playing time.
- I will ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the ability of all players.
- I will display self-control, respect and professionalism to all involved in the sport; this includes opponents, coaches, officials, administrators, the media and spectators. I will encourage players to do the same.
- I will show concern and caution towards sick and injured players, and follow the advice of a physician when determining whether an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition.
- I will obtain appropriate qualification and keep up to date with the latest coaching practices.
- I will take care that any physical contact with a participant be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the player’s skill development.
- I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, religion or sexual orientation.
For officials
- I will compliment and encourage all participants.
- I will be consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions.
- I will condemn unsporting behavior and promote respect for opponents.
- I will emphasize the spirit of the game rather than the errors.
- I will encourage and promote rule changes that will make participation more enjoyable.
- I will be a good sport because actions speak louder than words.
- I will keep up to date with the latest trends in officiating and the principles of growth and development.
- I will be ready to justify my decisions.
- I know I set the example for players, and that my behavior and comments should be positive and supportive.
- I will place the safety and welfare of the participants above all else.
- I will give all participants an opportunity to play regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, religion or sexual orientation.
- I will carry out my duties free from any favoritism or bias.