Sport has a very special place in Australian society.
We are proud of
our sporting tradition.
We look up to our champions and we remember
and respect the sporting heroes of yesteryear - a great many of whom
are revered for their deeds on the Athletics field.
Winning, of course, is
a vital part of tradition - but not as important as the spirit of Australian
sport.
And that spirit stems from our commitment to fair play.
The Australian Sports Commission has developed Codes of Behaviour
for use in sporting programs. Little Athletics is a community activity utilising
athletics to help foster the development of Australia's children, and as such,
totally endorses these Codes for all its participants.
PARENTS
A child's basic training in good sportsmanship comes from home
1.
If children are interested, encourage them participate.
However, if your
child is not willing, do not force him or her.
2.
Focus upon your child’s efforts and performance rather than the overall
outcome of the event.
This assists your child in setting realistic goals
related to his/her ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.
3.
Teach your child that honest effort is as important as victory so that the
result of each competition is accepted without undue disappointment.
4.
Encourage your child to always participate according to the rules.
5.
Never ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a
competition.
6.
Remember children are involved in organising sports for their enjoyment
not yours.
7.
Remember that children learn the best by example, applaud good
performance by all athletes.
8.
If you disagree with an official, raise the issue through the appropriate
channels rather than question the official's judgement and honesty in
public.
Remember, most officials give their time and effort for your child's
enjoyment.
9.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children's
supporting activities.
10.
Recognise the value and importance of volunteer coaches. They give of
their time and resources to provide recreational activities of your child.
ATHLETES
It isn't whether you win or lose, but how you play the game
1.
Compete and train for the "fun of it", not just to please your parents
or coach.
2.
Play by the rules.
3.
Never argue with the official's decision. Let your Centre Manager or
Coach ask any necessary questions.
4.
Control your temper – no "mouthing off", breaking equipment, throwing
implements or other equipment.
5.
Work equally for yourself and your team in relay and team events, your
team’s performance will benefit and so will your own.
6.
Be a good sport. Cheer all good performances, whether your club mates
are your opponents.
7.
Treat all athletes as you would like to be treated. Don't interfere with, bully
or take unfair advantage of any athlete.
8.
Remember that the goal of training or competition is to have fun, improve
your skills and feel good. Don't be a show-off or brag about your own
performances.
9.
Co-operate with your coach, club mates and opponents, for without them
you don't have competition.
