Coaches, Officials & Volunteers Code of Conduct

Introduction & Our Guiding Principles

This code of conduct outlines the ethical standards and professional expectations for all coaches, officials, and volunteers at Pro Judo. Since our founding in 2000, we have been committed to providing a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for everyone. Our actions are guided by the Judo Moral Code and our club’s mission to offer an opportunity regardless of ability.

Our commitment is to:

Safety and Well-being: The physical, psychological, and emotional safety of every Judoka is our highest priority.
Respect and Integrity: We will foster a positive environment built on mutual trust, respect, and fair play, embodying the spirit of Judo.
Competence and Professionalism: We will maintain and improve our skills and knowledge, acting with honesty and accountability at all times.

This code is to be used in conjunction with all club policies and those of Judo Scotland and the British Judo Association (BJA).

1. Conduct and Relationships

1.1 Personal Conduct

All Pro Judo coaches, officials, and volunteers must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance, projecting a favourable image of the club and the sport to participants, parents, and the public.

In line with the Judo Moral Code, you will act with honesty and self-control, refraining from smoking, using illegal substances, or being under the influence of alcohol while on duty.
Appearance should be professional, clean, and appropriate for the dojo or event environment.

1.2 Relationships with Our Judoka

A professional relationship is based on mutual trust and respect (Rei).

Boundaries: You are responsible for setting and monitoring clear boundaries between a working relationship and a personal friendship, especially when interacting with young people or individuals of the opposite sex.
Equality: You must respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every individual. As a club that prides itself on being a place for everyone, you must treat every Judoka equally, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.
Undue Influence: In a display of honour and modesty, you must never attempt to exert undue influence over a Judoka for personal gain or reward. This includes, but is not limited to, pressuring an athlete to join a specific club, change their school, or work with a particular agent.

1.3 Confidentiality

In a show of honesty and respect for privacy, you must treat all personal information about Judoka as confidential.

Confidential information must not be shared with any third party without express permission from the participant or their legal guardian.
Disclosure may only occur to relevant professionals (e.g., medical staff, club welfare officer) on a “right to know” basis and only when necessary for the participant’s well-being.

2. Core Responsibilities

2.1 Safeguarding & Participant Safety

The safety and well-being of all Judoka are paramount.

Ensure that all activities and environments under your supervision are appropriate to the age, ability, and experience of those taking part.
Maintain a safe environment, ensuring equipment is in good condition and the area is free of hazards.
You must hold a valid Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) certificate and complete the required Child Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (CWPS) course as mandated by Judo Scotland.
Maintain a current and accurate register of all participants present at each session or event you manage.

2.2 Judo Specifics

Adherence to Rules: You must never condone rule violations, rough play, or the use of prohibited substances. In a display of honour and self-control, you should actively encourage Judoka to respect the rules and the spirit of the sport.
Fair Play: In line with friendship and courage, encourage Judoka to value their performances and personal growth, not just competition results.
Professional Standards: You must hold all appropriate qualifications and insurance cover as required by Judo Scotland for your specific role.

2.3 Officiating & Event Responsibilities

Officials play a unique and crucial role in upholding the integrity of the sport.

Apply the rules of judo fairly and impartially, without bias towards any competitor, club, or individual.
Maintain an appropriate, professional demeanour at all times, handling all situations with calm and self-control.
Work collaboratively with event staff and other officials to ensure all competitions and events are run safely and efficiently.

2.4 Communication & Collaboration

Cooperation: You must communicate and cooperate with other coaches, sports professionals, and medical practitioners for the well-being of the Judoka.
External Criticism: As an act of courtesy, refrain from publicly criticizing fellow coaches or officials. Differences of opinion should be handled privately or through the appropriate Judo Scotland channels.
Opponents & Stakeholders: You must treat opponents and all event stakeholders with respect and encourage your Judoka to act in a similar manner, both in victory and defeat.

3. Professional Competence

3.1 Development

Stay Within Your Expertise: Confine your practice to fields in which you have been formally trained and educated by a recognized body like Judo Scotland or the BJA.
Continual Improvement: In a show of courage, regularly seek ways to increase your professional development and self-awareness through courses, workshops, and experience specific to your role.
Know When to Refer: You must recognize when to refer Judoka or situations to other qualified agencies and verify the competence of those to whom you refer.

3.2 Digital Communication & Social Media

Use digital platforms in a way that reflects the honour and professionalism of Judo.

All communication with Judoka, especially minors, must be professional and related to club or event activities.
When posting photos or videos, you must have the explicit consent of the participant and their parent/guardian, and be mindful of your club’s and Judo Scotland’s social media policies.

4. Responsibilities for Volunteers (Non-Coaching/Officiating)

All volunteers at Pro Judo must adhere to the principles of this code, with a particular focus on:

Respect for All: Treating everyone in the Judo community with dignity and courtesy.
Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality regarding participant information, club finances, or any other sensitive data, as an act of honesty.
Safety: Assisting in creating a safe environment and reporting any concerns to a qualified coach or our club welfare officer.