Officials Code of Ethics

Declaration of Understanding:

At an organized athletic event, the RCCFO has been entrusted to assist schools & organizations in the education and development of their youth through athletics. The proper operation of such a process requires that officials be independent, impartial along with exercising a high level of self-discipline and responsibility to those they serve. In recognition of these expectations there is hereby established a Code of Ethics. The purpose of the code is to establish guidelines for ethical standards of conduct for all RCCFO officials.

 

• Officials shall master both the rules of the game and the mechanics necessary to enforce the rules, and shall exercise authority in an impartial, firm and controlled manner.
• Officials shall be punctual and professional in the fulfillment of all contractual obligations.
• Officials shall prepare themselves both physically and mentally, shall dress neatly and appropriately, and shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the high standards of the profession.
• Officials shall work with each other in a constructive and cooperative manner in spite of differences of opinion that may arise during debate and/or discussion of rules, position or points.
• Officials shall remain mindful that their conduct influences the respect that athletes, coaches, organizations and the public hold for the profession.
• Officials shall uphold the honor and dignity of the profession in all interaction with student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors, school administrators, colleagues, youth organizations and the public.
• Officials shall take reasonable steps to educate themselves in the recognition of emergency conditions that might arise during the course of competition.
• Officials shall, while enforcing the rules of play, remain aware of the inherent risk of injury that competition poses to athletes. Where appropriate, they shall inform event management of conditions or situations that appear unreasonably hazardous.
• Officials shall maintain an ethical approach while participating in forums, chat rooms and all other forms of social media.
• Officials shall avoid the use of tobacco and tobacco products at the contest site.
• Officials shall not consume alcohol (or any illegal/illicit drug or controlled substance) prior to or during the contest.

 

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. Officials may be reprimanded, fined and/or suspended for any conduct unbecoming of an official registered with the RCCFO.