The Ethos of Our Club
Seattle Rugby Club is distinguished by its regard for the ethos of rugby, worldwide.
Honor your club. Respect yourself and your opponent. Respect the game.
Our no-kidding commitment is embodied in “The Viking Code.” This is not a sign-it-and-forget-it document, but a regular reference point for our conversation with young men and women as they address the challenges of their age, their responsibilities to themselves and their relationships with others.
Behavior which is accepted (if not encouraged) in other sports has no place in rugby. And that standard applies to our coaches and parents as well. And so the Code is something we all subscribe to in our efforts to grow, and grow the game.
The Viking Code
Rugby players always maintain a high level of respect for their opponents, the referees and teammates on and off the field. Every member of Seattle Vikings Rugby Football Club is held to this high ethical standard. Inherent in our selections for teams are Attendance, Attitude and Ability.
Most important, however, is a complete respect for the game. In order to ensure that the principles of sportsmanship, fair play, skill development, and mutual respect among players, coaches, officials, and spectators are the primary considerations governing competition for the
Seattle Vikings, the following Vikings Code has been established:
Players:
Respect the “Game of Rugby” and play within the laws of the Game.
Never criticize the referee and touch judges during or after a match in front of players or spectators.
Play for enjoyment and become part of the rugby family.
Ensure your attendance at all Vikings games, practices and events.
Accept the referee’s decision and let your captain or coach ask any relevant questions.
Always do your best and be committed to the game, your team and your club.
Be a “good sport”. Applaud all good play whether by your team or the opposition.
Winning and losing is part of sport: Win with humility – lose with dignity.
Coaches:
Respect the “Game of Rugby” and coach within the laws of the Game.
Never criticize the referee and touch judges during or after a match in front of players
Tell players the Laws of the Game are mutual agreements which no one should evade or break.
Insist on fair play and disciplined play. Do not tolerate foul play, fighting or foul language.
Create a safe and enjoyable environment in which to train and play.
Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed on sound coaching principles and methods, and on the principles of growth and development of young people.
Seek and follow the advice of a doctor in determining when an injured player is ready to play.
Parents and Supporters:
Respect the “Game of Rugby”.
Never criticize the referee and touch judges during or after a match in front of players.
Encourage your child always to play by the Laws of the Game.
Set a good example by applauding good play on both sides.
Never ridicule, humiliate or shout at young players for making a mistake or losing a match.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from rugby.
As a spectator do not use tobacco, alcohol, drugs, profane language or harass referees, coaches or players. Players deserve a safe and healthy environment.