USATF officials get an official Code of Ethics: No smoking!

The USATF National Officials Committee also did some business last December at Reno. They approved an official’s Code of Ethics. Unsure if this is a first, but it’s new to me. Among other things, officials can’t smoke, drink or chew tobacco while overseeing events. Didn’t know these were a problem. But now y’all know what to look for in an ethical official.  Most officials I’ve been associated with have been pretty competent and courteous. A few have been horse’s asses. But I didn’t see equine derrieres mentioned in the code. So I guess you can’t legislate niceness.Check out the list.

Official’s Code of Ethics

The USA Track & Field Officials Committee expects all officials to adhere
to the highest standards of ethics, honesty, and integrity. This Code of Ethics
guides officials’ conduct in general; it cannot prescribe behavior in every
possible situation. Membership may be withdrawn for officials whose conduct is
inconsistent with this Code.

USATF Officials shall:

  1. Be fair, consistent, and impartial to ensure equitable
    treatment for all competitors.
  2. Have a thorough knowledge of the rules and procedures for the
    particular event or position assigned and review them prior to a competition.
  3. Cooperate with fellow officials to conduct competition in a
    safe and professional manner. Be courteous and avoid confrontations or making
    derogatory comments to athletes, coaches, spectators, or other officials.
  4. Demonstrate respect and courtesy for other officials. Avoid
    interfering with duties assigned to other officials or publicly questioning the
    performance of other officials. Assist in correctly applying rules and support
    final decisions rendered by chief officials. Provide and accept performance
    feedback in a positive manner.
  5. Honor all assignments and agreements made for performance of
    officiating and support duties.
  6. Not discriminate against any individual or group on the basis
    of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, or other protected
    characteristic.
  7. Not engage in harassment by making unwelcome advances, remarks,
    or display of materials where such would create an intimidating, hostile, or
    offensive environment.
  8. Not fraternize with athletes or coaches, provide tips or
    comments which could be construed as coaching for any athlete, nor cheer for or
    provide encouragement to particular athletes or teams during a competition.
  9. Not use tobacco products while in the field of competition, nor
    consume alcoholic products before or during a competition.
  10. Not seek recognition or attention during a competition.
  11. Conduct an honest self-evaluation after each competition, to
    identify errors made and areas for improvement; and be receptive to suggestions
    for conducting events in the best possible manner in the future.

Related posts:

  1. USATF officials launch blog for info and opinions
  2. USATF officials: Had no choice but to bar athlete
  3. USATF officials updated on changes in masters throws
  4. USATF officials inject jolliness into official Web site
  5. WMA accepts World Anti-Doping Code

February 4, 2009

2 Responses

  1. simpdog - February 4, 2009

    Now this is best thing I’ve heard out of that meeting yet…great job USATF!
    seriously…are you kidding me?

  2. NOLAN SHAHEED - February 4, 2009

    I think I’ll have a chaw of tobacco during my next race to get that whiskey smell off my breath.lol

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