National Team Code of Conduct

Athlete Development & Competition Framework

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation National Team Code of Conduct

“Representing Our Island with Honor, Discipline, and Excellence”

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to clearly outline the standards of behavior, professionalism, and responsibility expected of all athletes, coaches, officials, and support staff representing the St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF) in national, regional, and international events.

This Code ensures that everyone associated with the National Team:

Upholds the values of discipline, respect, integrity, and sportsmanship.
Acts as an ambassador for St. Vincent and the Grenadines and for Taekwondo.
Maintains a positive and safe environment for training, competition, and travel.

2. Scope

This Code applies to:

All National Team members, including athletes, coaches, referees, and officials.
All training camps, competitions, travel periods, and public appearances undertaken as part of the STF National Team.
All digital and social media activity related to the National Team.

3. Core Values

All National Team members are expected to embody and promote the following values:

Respect – For teammates, opponents, officials, and all members of the Taekwondo community.
Integrity – Acting honestly and ethically, both on and off the mat.
Discipline – Maintaining self-control and focus during training and competition.
Excellence – Striving for personal bests while supporting team goals.
Pride – Representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines with dignity and honor.

4. Behavioral Expectations

4.1 General Conduct

Treat all team members, officials, and opponents with respect at all times.
Follow the lawful and reasonable instructions of STF officials, team coaches, and chaperones.
Refrain from behavior that could bring STF or Taekwondo into disrepute.

4.2 Training & Preparation

Attend all mandatory training camps and sessions unless excused for valid reasons such as illness or injury (with proof).
Maintain a high level of fitness and technical readiness.
Wear STF-approved uniforms and protective gear for all official activities.

4.3 Competition Conduct

Follow World Taekwondo competition rules at all times.
Respect referee decisions without protest or inappropriate behavior.
Display good sportsmanship in victory and defeat.

4.4 Travel & Accommodation

Abide by STF’s Travel & Chaperone Policy during all official trips.
Respect curfew times and schedules during competitions and camps.
Keep shared spaces (rooms, buses, training halls) clean and orderly.

4.5 Social Media & Public Communication

Use respectful and positive language in all public or online communication.
Do not post material that could damage STF’s reputation or the dignity of teammates, opponents, or officials.
Seek approval before sharing confidential team information.

4.6 Anti-Doping Compliance

Abide by the STF Anti-Doping Policy and all WADA rules.
Submit to testing when requested by authorized personnel.

5. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited for all National Team members:

Any form of harassment, abuse, or discrimination.
Use of illegal drugs or prohibited substances.
Consumption of alcohol by minors or intoxication during official duties.
Theft, vandalism, or intentional damage to property.
Physical altercations or threatening behavior.

6. Disciplinary Actions

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:

Verbal or written warnings.
Temporary suspension from training or competition.
Removal from the National Team roster.
Loss of funding, sponsorship, or other STF benefits.
Referral to relevant authorities if laws are broken.

7. Appeals

Any National Team member who receives a disciplinary sanction has the right to appeal in writing within 7 days to the STF Appeals Panel. The panel will review the case and make a final, binding decision.

8. Declaration of Commitment

All National Team members must sign a Code of Conduct Agreement Form before participating in any STF-sanctioned national or international event. By signing, members acknowledge that they understand and agree to follow the expectations outlined in this policy.