Ethics

A:  The environment we create for our children and student-athletes is the result of a complex interplay of numerous social contexts and interactions.  The print and electronic media, major sporting events and, in general, the cultural institution of sport, play a major role in the fabric of the lives of American youth.  Any cultural institution that invites or celebrates male aggression and violence contributes to the problem.  Professional sport in our society does that.  Male violent behavior is not only often unquestioned, it is often celebrated in sport (as it

A:  The real challenge is to ask what can each of us do to clearly integrate for our coaches and student-athletes the notions of aggression, competition and respect for our opponents.  Can we explain the difference between making a clean block or crisp tackle and initiating body contact with the intent to maim?  Can we remove hate language and the denigration of any group from the locker room (and classroom, and hallways) and make it clear that both are unacceptable?  Change occurs one person at a time with one small act at a time.  Which of the following can you do

A:  While there is no one ‘right’ composition for the Board or Committee that serves in an athletics program oversight and policy approval role, following are important considerations:

In the arena of educational sport a number of current and historical factors have contributed to the perpetuation of sex discrimination:

Yes, definitely. There should be a clear written policy that specifically states that any intentional violation of a governance association rule or failure to report a rule violation as soon as the employee becomes aware of such, is grounds for immediate dismissal. Such a provision should be in every coach's employment agreement.  Tolerance for violation of laws, policies and rules creates a deviant organizational climate. Upholding the highest ethical standards is the responsibility of every administrator and a leadership requirement.

By Donna Lopiano, President, Sports Management Resources

As academic progress rate (APR) and graduation success rate (GSR) pressures increase on NCAA Division I institutions required to adhere to these rules, we may very well see an increase in unintended consequences on student-athletes and academic support staffs.  History shows that it is impossible to legislate moral integrity.  Make a rule and there are always unanticipated impacts, those who will figure a way around it or live by walking on its gray and hazy edges. 

Generally, an organization should consider addressing the following ten elements in its ethics policy:

There should be an athletic department policy that specifies that all 'team rules' or 'codes of conduct' must be approved by the athletics director or his/her designee. That policy should include the following elements:

1. standard provisions that must be included in the team rules of every team such as: