USASF Professional Responsibility Code 2019-2020 9.0 | Page 35

Regardless of the adult’s role in relationship to the athlete, it is the
responsibility for the adult to maintain these guiding principles when
communicating electronically.
1. Does the conversation pertain to the team and team activities?
2. Is the content of the electronic conversation something that any
parent, boss or other adult would agree is professional in nature?
3. Is the electronic communication accessible to anyone at
anytime?
4. Can the information conveyed to the athlete be used as a
permanent part of the athlete’s record?
Summary: An adult must ask him/herself whether the electronic
communication with the athlete is available for all to read,
understand and determine as professional in nature.
Latitude Clause
It is understood that there may be times when a minor athlete is in
distress or seeking counsel from an adult. In the case where:
1. A minor athlete reaches out to an adult
2. The adult responds to a minor athlete
3. The adult takes proactive measures to reach the minor
The following four points are defined as definitively inappropriate
conduct. Any communication with an athlete, either verbal or
electronic may not involve or relate to any of the following:
1. Inappropriate or sexually explicit photos,
2. Sexual innuendos, sexual conversation, explicit language or
sexual activity,
3. Drug or alcohol use, and/or
4. The adult should not relay information about their personal life
or social life outside of the professional environment or discuss
relationships or personal problems.
The adult must be vigilant in evaluating their communication and
interaction. The safety of the athlete and addressing the situation that
initiated the contact must be the focus of the communication. Adults
who are not trained or equipped to mitigate the situation at hand
are advised to seek professional assistance and involve the minor’s
guardian in resolution.
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