Responsible Coaching
Responsible Coaching Movement
The Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) is a multi-phase system-wide movement, coordinated by the Coaching Association of Canada and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport that has the potential to affect all sport organizations and coaches.
The RCM addresses the role coaches play with regard to issues relating to the health and safety of athletes, both on and off the field of play.
The first phase of the RCM focuses on three key areas:
- the Rule of Two
- Ethics and Respect Training
- Background Screening
What is the RCM?
Established by the Coaching Association of Canada and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, the RCM invites all coaches and sport organizations to learn and apply consistent safety principles. It includes three distinct pillars, each serving to create a sport environment that is Safe, Smart, and Secure.
Rule of Two
A safe sport environment ensures all coaches, staff, and administrators apply the Rule of Two. When following the Rule of Two, all interactions and communications with participants are in open, observable, and justifiable settings, and two responsible adults — whether a coach, parent, staff or screened volunteer — are present.
Ethics & Respect Training
All coaches must take the Make Ethical Decisions module from the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). This module will help coaches be able to identify the legal, ethical, and moral implications of difficult situations that present themselves.
In addition, as of April 1, 2020, ringette coaches must also take the Activity Leader/Coach Program from Respect in Sport. This online training will educate coaches and staff on the prevention of abuse, bullying and harassment. It will also build a culture of respect and enable coaches to become better role models.
Background Screening
Screening is an important part of providing a safe sporting environment and has become a common practice among sport organizations that provide programs and services to the community. Ringette Canada and its Provincial organizations are responsible to do everything reasonable to provide a safe and secure environment for participants in its programs, activities and events. Requiring that valid police record checks, and other background checks as appropriate, be submitted, as part of the screening process, is part of this duty of care.