Page 41 - Sports Officials Handbook

CODE OF ETHICS
National Federation of State High School Associations
The NFIOA Board of Directors has developed and officially adopted the following Code of Ethics for high school officials.
Declaration of Policy:
Schools have entrusted us to assist them in the educational development of their youth through athletics. The proper operation of such a process requires that officials be independent, impartial and responsible to people they serve. In recognition of these expectations there is hereby established a Code of Ethics for all officials. The purpose of the code is to establish guidelines for ethical standards of conduct for all officials.
An Official must devote time, thought and study to the rules of the game and the mechanics necessary to carry out these rules so that one may render effective and creditable service in a fair and unbiased manner.
An Official must work with fellow officials and the state association in a spirit of harmony and cooperation in spite of differences of opinion that may arise during debate of points or rules at issue.
An Official must resist every temptation and outside pressure to use one’s position as an official to benefit oneself. Under all circumstances, officials must avoid promoting the special interest of any person or group of persons other than the athletes we serve.
An Official must constantly uphold the honor and dignity of the avocation in all personal conduct and relations with the student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors, school administrators, colleagues, and the public, to be a worthy example to the athletes under one’s jurisdiction.
An Official will be prepared both physically and mentally, dress according to expectations, and maintain a proper appearance that is befitting the importance of the game.
The Official shall avoid the use of tobacco products at the contest site.
An Official must remember and recognize that it is important to honor contracts regardless
of possible inconvenience or financial loss.
Every member of the officiating profession carries a responsibility to act in a manner becoming a professional person. The conduct of any official influences the attitude of the public toward the profession in general as well as toward the official in particular.
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