Officials Code Of Ethics

Officials at an interscholastic athletic event are participants in the educational development of high school students. As such, they must exercise a high level of self-discipline, independence, and responsibility. The purpose of this Code is to establish guidelines for ethical standards of conduct for all interscholastic officials.

• Officials shall master both the rules of the game and the mechanics necessary to enforce them and shall exercise authority impartially, firmly, and controlled.
• Officials shall work with each other and their state associations in a constructive and cooperative manner.
• Officials shall uphold the honor and dignity of the profession in all interactions with student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors, school administrators, colleagues, and the public.
• Officials shall avoid using alcohol and tobacco products from the time they arrive at the competition site until departure following the completion of the contest.
• Officials shall prepare themselves both physically and mentally, shall dress neatly and appropriately, and shall comport themselves in a manner consistent with the high standards of the profession.
• Officials shall be punctual and professional in the fulfillment of all contractual obligations.
• Officials shall remain mindful that their conduct influences the respect that student-athletes, coaches, and the public hold for the profession.
• Officials shall, while enforcing the rules of play, remain aware of the inherent risk of injury that competition poses to student-athletes. Where appropriate, they shall inform event management of conditions or situations that appear unreasonably hazardous.
• Officials shall take reasonable steps to educate themselves in the recognition of emergency conditions that might arise during the course of competition.
• Officials shall maintain an ethical approach while participating in forums, chat rooms and all forms of social media.

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