MFA ŽALGIRIS CODE OF ETHICS

MFA Žalgiris aims to develop players who demonstrate maturity, respect, professionalism, and mindful behaviour both on and off the pitch. This Code of Ethics is a shared agreement that applies to all academy members, their parents, coaches, and administrative staff. The document reflects our values, our priority for safety and emotional well-being, social responsibility, and a modern approach to girls’ football environments.

Our Values

Respect – for oneself, teammates, coaches, referees, parents, and the community.
Responsibility – for behaviour, training attendance, health, communication, and the academy’s image.
Ambition – a constant desire to improve, embrace challenges, and strive for long-term progress.
Unity – team spirit, support, empathy, and respect for differences.
Professionalism – honest conduct, adherence to rules, and a high standard of work ethic.

1. Players’ Commitments

1. Respect all players and contribute to an environment free of bullying, humiliation, or exclusion.

2. Follow the academy’s internal rules and arrive on time to training sessions, matches, and meetings.

3. Demonstrate mature behaviour on the pitch – remain respectful towards referee decisions and opponents.

4. Use equipment responsibly and take care of clothing and the training environment.

5. Inform coaches of any health issues, emotional fatigue, or injury risks.

6. Avoid any behaviour that could endanger their own or others’ safety.

7. Not use prohibited substances nor seek information about methods that violate the principles of fair play.

8. Behave respectfully on social media – not post content that could harm others or damage the academy’s reputation.

2. Parents’ Commitments

1. Create a positive environment where the child feels supported rather than pressured by results.

2. Respect the coaches’ competence and avoid interfering in sporting decisions.

3. Refrain from criticising other players, coaches, or referees during matches.

4. Maintain respectful communication with the administration and other parents.

5. Not share disrespectful, degrading, or misleading content on social media.

6. Inform coaches about changes in the child’s health, emotional difficulties, or behavioural risks.

7. Respect players’ privacy – do not photograph or publish images of other girls without permission.

3. Coaches’ Commitments

1. Ensure a safe, friendly, and developmental environment where all players feel respected.

2. Use training methods based on modern practice and pedagogy.

3. Evaluate players objectively, avoiding favouritism and any form of harassment.

4. Provide constructive feedback appropriate to players’ age and psychological maturity.

5. Monitor players’ physical and emotional condition and encourage a healthy approach to sport.

6. Clearly communicate internal rules and expectations to both players and parents.

7. Not use degrading, offensive, or psychologically aggressive language.

8. Lead by example through behaviour, communication, and attitude toward work.

4. Administrative Staff Commitments

1. Ensure transparent, professional, and legally compliant academy operations.

2. Provide safe, appropriate, and hygienic training conditions.

3. Ensure that all academy members are familiar with the Code of Ethics.

4. Encourage open communication and create conditions for safely reporting violations.

5. Protect personal data and not disclose information without consent.

6. Address conflict situations impartially and professionally.

5. Equal Opportunities, Diversity, and Inclusion Principles

1. MFA Žalgiris does not tolerate discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, nationality, social status, or any other grounds.

2. The academy ensures that all players have equal opportunities to learn, develop, and grow as athletes and individuals.

3. Acceptance of differences is one of the core characteristics of our community.

6. Psychological and Emotional Well-Being Policy

1. Players’ emotional safety is as important as their physical safety.

2. Coaches must monitor signs of burnout, anxiety, or excessive pressure.

3. Any bullying, mobbing, or psychological pressure is strictly prohibited.

4. The administration ensures that players facing emotional difficulties receive appropriate support.

7. Behaviour on Social Media

1. Academy members must use social media responsibly and ethically.

2. It is forbidden to publish information that may harm players, coaches, or the academy’s image.

3. Respectful posts that reflect team spirit are encouraged.

8. Privacy and Data Protection

1. Personal data and visual material are handled in accordance with data protection requirements.

2. Visual material may be published only with the consent of parents or players (if they are of legal age).

9. Violation Process and Consequences

1. Any academy member may report a possible violation.

2. Reports are reviewed confidentially and impartially.

3. Possible consequences include:

   • a warning,

   • a discussion with coaches or administration,

   • temporary suspension from training or matches,

   • more serious disciplinary actions in cases involving violence, harassment, or doping.

10. Final Provisions

This Code of Ethics is a continuously updated document. It may be reviewed based on changes in legislation, academy strategy, and best practices. Every member of the MFA Žalgiris community contributes through their behaviour to creating a safe, mature, and respectful football environment.