Code of Conduct

A Foundation purpose upon which the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference is based, and one essential for fulfillment of it's mission, is a focus upon the high ideals of athletics as part of the total educational process. The concept is an ancient one: that sport is to be enjoyed and sport participants are to respect one another, "to be a good sport". Such a concept warrants, in fact demands, the universal acceptance by all WHAC personnel - Chief Executive Officers, Athletics Directors, Coaches, Participants, and Fans - if the Conference is to be a model of the positive values of sports competition.

The "sporting behavior" we seek must be more than a concept, but rather a consistent pattern of thought and action that is apparent to all. Such thought and action will leave no doubt as to the commitment of the WHAC to maintenance of the noble aspects of intercollegiate athletic competition.

Positive "sporting behavior" must permeate all aspects of all sports sponsored by the WHAC. Such behavior should be modeled and strengthened in practices, just as techniques and strategies are. Part of the "game plan" for each contest should be respect and appreciation for your opponent. It is well for personnel at all WHAC schools to keep in mind they will be visitors (guests) 50% of the time. It should be a constant goal of all personnel at host institutions to treat visitors in a cordial and hospitable manner; i.e., as one would treat guests before, during and after each contest.

No room exists for uncivil behavior by coaches, participants, or fans, at any athletic event involving a WHAC member school. The use of profanity, taunting, or threats of physical harm prior to, during or following athletic events is not to be tolerated. Involvement in such behavior must be dealt with on both an Institutional and Conference basis. It is imperative that the WHAC supervisors of officials clearly understand our commitment to positive behavior and convey such to all officials assigned to WHAC contests.

Coaches in all sports are expected to act as mature professionals who revere the WHAC and model positive "sporting behavior" ahead of rankings and fame, and long-term goals ahead of short-term gains. Focus on such a goal helps keep us unified and committed as a Conference to what we claim to be- an association of schools who value athletic competition as a legitimate experience for students; providing opportunities for lifelong learning.