Coaching Ethics Flashcards

A 12-year-old gymnast asks her coach to message her privately on social media late at night. What is the most ethical response?

Answer: Decline private messaging and keep communication through transparent channels that include a parent or guardian

Safeguarding standards require communication with minors to be transparent, observable, and involve parents or guardians.

Which independent body was established in 2019 to handle ethics and disciplinary matters within the FIG system?

Answer: The Gymnastics Ethics Foundation

The Gymnastics Ethics Foundation (GEF) operates independently to investigate and adjudicate ethics, safeguarding, and disciplinary cases.

A coach notices a gymnast is training through an injury because she fears losing her team spot. What should the coach do first?

Answer: Remove her from training and refer her for medical assessment

Athlete health and welfare take priority over performance, so a suspected injury warrants stopping and medical referral.

Which situation represents a conflict of interest for a coach?

Answer: Serving as a judge in a competition where their own gymnast is competing

Judging one's own athlete compromises impartiality and is a classic conflict of interest.

Under the World Anti-Doping Code, what can happen to a coach who assists an athlete in using a prohibited substance?

Answer: The coach can be sanctioned for complicity or administration as athlete support personnel

Athlete support personnel, including coaches, can receive sanctions for anti-doping rule violations such as complicity or administration.

A coach routinely comments on gymnasts' body weight in front of the group. Why is this considered unethical?

Answer: It can cause psychological harm and contribute to disordered eating

Public body shaming is emotional abuse that can lead to eating disorders and long-term harm.

Which best describes the coach's duty regarding confidential athlete information such as medical records?

Answer: Disclose it only with consent or when required for safety or by law

Confidentiality must be respected except when consent is given or disclosure is needed for safety or legal reasons.