Coach Postcard As a coach, you teach more than a sport. How can you help young athletes show respect for their peers? Image is of a sport play drawn on a chalk board. The plays are labeled integrity, leadership, and teamwork. You are more than just a coach. You are a mentor, teacher, leader, and influencer. #SAAM Teach your athletes that derogatory jokes may seem harmless, but they maintain environments that support disrespect and, in some cases, violence. These comments can shape long-term attitudes that may lead members of your team to think it’s acceptable to hurt others. Help the next generation foster healthy attitudes: • Set clear expectations for your players. For example, have a code of conduct that outlines consequences for catcalling or players using gender or sexual orientation as an insult. • Address inappropriate behaviors and turn them into teachable moments. • Encourage your team members to recognize and confront hurtful behavior, even if it comes from teammates. Resources Coaching Boys Into Men: www.coachescorner.org The #TeachEarly Playbook: www.teachearly.org © NSVRC 2017. All rights reserved.