Expectations & Standards

Softball team players in a dugout watching a game, wearing black and red uniforms with numbers, and standing near a chain-link fence; spectators visible in the background.

Canada Futures Parent Expectations & Standards

At Canada Futures, we believe that excellence in sport begins with a strong foundation of integrity, respect, and support—from athletes, coaches, and parents. As partners in our mission to develop high-performance athletes and leaders, our parents uphold the following standards in alignment with the Canada Futures Standards in Sport and the Sport Parent Code of Ethics.

Canada Future parents contribute to a culture where athletes can thrive, learn and reach their fullest potential - between and beyond the white lines.

  • • Demonstrate respect for all players, coaches, officials, and other parents—on and off the field.
    • Uphold values of fairness, honesty, and sportsmanship.
    • Support a growth mindset: praise effort, perseverance, and learning.

  • • Respect coaching decisions and understand that player development and team dynamics are a long-term journey.
    • Encourage independence and accountability in your athlete.

  • • Let the coaches coach and the athletes play. Avoid offering technical instruction during practices or games.
    • Ask your child, “Did you have fun?”, “What did you learn?”, and “What do you want to improve?” instead of focusing on wins or stats.

  • • Honour the emotional and physical safety of all participants.
    • Celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion within the sport.

  • • Abide by all team and program communication protocols, timelines, and commitments.
    • Be proactive in addressing concerns respectfully through proper channels.

  • • Cheer for all athletes, not just your own.
    • Recognize the value of effort, resilience, and teamwork beyond the scoreboard.

“A rising Tide,

Lifts all ships.”

- JFK

Canada Futures CoacH Expectations & Standards

Canada Futures coaches are leaders, mentors, and ambassadors of excellence. As role models, they are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, and commitment to athlete-centered development.

Softball team in dugout watching a player warming up on field.
  • • Prioritize the holistic well-being, safety, and development of every athlete.
    • Foster an environment that supports learning, confidence, and personal growth.
    • Respect the individuality, goals, and potential of all athletes.

  • • Embrace a growth mindset—continually pursue learning, certification, and self-improvement.
    • Deliver thoughtful, evidence-based, and developmentally appropriate instruction.
    • Set high standards for both performance and personal conduct.

  • • Act with honesty, integrity, and transparency in all coaching interactions.
    • Maintain appropriate boundaries and avoid any real or perceived conflicts of interest.
    • Uphold the Canada Futures brand with professionalism on and off the field.

  • • Treat all athletes, staff, officials, and opponents with respect and dignity.
    • Commit to equity, diversity, and inclusion, removing barriers and creating welcoming environments for all.
    • Advocate for and empower girls and underrepresented groups in sport.

  • • Model calm, composed, and confident leadership, especially in high-pressure situations.
    • Provide constructive feedback that encourages accountability and growth.
    • Develop leadership and life skills in athletes beyond the white lines.

  • • Ensure a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate training environment.
    • Follow all safeguarding policies and report any concerns related to abuse, harassment, or unsafe conduct.
    • Stay current with Safe Sport and CAC training requirements.

  • • Communicate clearly, consistently, and respectfully with athletes, parents, and fellow coaches.
    • Be approachable, open to feedback, and solution-oriented in challenging situations.
    • Collaborate with the broader Canada Futures team and support the growth of the coaching community.

  • • Model responsible digital citizenship—be mindful that your online presence reflects the Canada Futures identity.
    • Promote the program, athletes, and sport in a positive, inclusive manner.
    • Avoid sharing or endorsing content that contradicts our values or mission.

“a mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.”

— OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES

Canada Futures Athlete Expectations & Standards

At Canada Futures, we believe that high performance meets opportunity through a commitment to excellence, leadership, and character—between and beyond the white lines. Our athletes are expected to embody our core values and uphold the standards of elite performance, both on and off the field.

Softball team in red uniforms gathered on a field with a coach, having a discussion under a clear blue sky.
  • • Attend all practices, games, meetings, and events on time and fully prepared.
    • Embrace a growth mindset: seek feedback, stay coachable, and commit to continuous improvement.
    • Maintain peak physical condition and a strong work ethic.

  • • Lead with respect, humility, and sportsmanship.
    • Represent yourself, your team, and Canada Futures with pride and professionalism at all times.
    • Be honest, accountable, and responsible for your actions.

  • • Prioritize academic responsibilities—athletes are expected to maintain strong grades and communicate proactively about any conflicts.
    • Set personal, academic, and athletic goals and work consistently toward them.

  • • Be a positive influence and role model to teammates and younger athletes.
    • Demonstrate leadership through service, encouragement, and effort.
    • Contribute to a team-first environment by supporting others and communicating openly.

  • • Keep lines of communication open with coaches, trainers, and support staff.
    • Accept constructive criticism with maturity and apply feedback to improve.
    • Ask questions, seek clarity, and express gratitude.

  • • Use social media responsibly—reflect the values of Canada Futures in all public content.
    • Avoid posting or engaging with any content that could damage your reputation or the team’s.
    • Celebrate your achievements and those of others with class.

  • • Engage in opportunities to give back through clinics, mentorship, or volunteer events.
    • Promote inclusivity, equity, and respect in all environments—especially for girls in sport and underserved communities.

burn the ships.