What is the T.A.A.F.?

The State of Texas is divided into 17 regions with Regional Directors and Executive Board members representing each region. T.A.A.F. conducts Local, Regional and State championships and competitions in a variety of adult and youth sports. 

More on T.A.A.F.

World Wide Web at www.taaf.com or by calling the T.A.A.F. State Office at (512) 863-9400. The Executive Director of the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation is Mr. Mark Lord.

• Five millions children will visit the Emergency Room this year with sports related injuries.
• Sports injuries cost the US public nearly 50 Billion dollars in 1997.
• Coaches and parents need to be educated!

What are the Advantages of the T.A.A.F. Program?

• One Stop Shopping!
• A printed book of information for the coach to keep as a reference.
• A criminal background check for State of Texas and County of Residence.
• Personal Liability Insurance policy for $1,000,000.
• 48 hour Return on Background Checks.
• An Exam to Guaranty Knowledge of Program.
• Peace of Mind.

Criminal Background Checks

• All checks are insured for accuracy.
• Applicants are checked within State of Texas and County of Residence.
• Questionable and Automatic Disqualification List.
• Background checks are completed by Intel Net.
• Results are returned to the T.A.A.F. State Office within 48 hours.

Insurance

• Each certified coach receives a personal liability insurance policy in the amount of $1,000,000.
• There is no additional charge for the insurance.
• Policy is renewed annually by maintaining certification 

S.P.O.R.T.S.

Safety
Participation
Organization
Relationships
Training
Sportsmanship

T.A.A.F. Certified Coaches’ Ten Commandments

• Thou Shall Lead by Example
• Thou Shall Insist on Manners
• Thou Shall Emphasize Team Effort
• Thou Shall Not Win at All Cost
• Thou Shall Have a Sense of Humor
• Thou Shall Succeed
• Thou Shall Stay Positive
• Thou Shall Promote Safety and Well Being
• Thou Shall Promote Lifetime Fitness/Wellness
• Thou Shall “Turn the Other Cheek”

Bonus Commandment

• Thou Shall Not Expect More or Treat My Own Child Differently Than Any Other Team Member.

Lightning

• Lightning poses a threat to both spectators and participants.
• If you can see it, flee it.
• If you can hear it, clear it.
• A safe shelter includes fully enclosed metal vehicles with windows up, substantial buildings, the low ground and clumps of bushes.
• Unsafe shelters include trees, water, open fields, high ground. Avoid cordless and cellular phones and headsets.
• Wait a minimum of 30 minutes from last site of lightning to resume activity.

Participation

Psychological Needs: Consists of “fitting in”, Coach should avoid labeling and should strive to have everyone participate in all practices and games regardless of skill level.
Physical Needs: Children will develop at different rates and coaches need to be able to meet the needs of all of the players. Remain positive with feedback.
Emotional Needs: A child that’s sits the bench at practice and games will have a difficult time feeling like they are part of the team. 

• Teamwork taught at an early age can lay the groundwork for future success.
• TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More!
• Avoid the “Win at All Costs” mentality.
• Promote Fair Play, Respect, Discipline, Sportsmanship and Fun.
• Zero Tolerance for Unacceptable Behavior
• Equal opportunities for all children regardless of race, religion, gender or economic status.
• Without teamwork, there is NO team.

Relationships

The role of the Coach: A coach is a role model. A coach must place the well being of the child ahead of the will to win and to remember the different developmental stages in your age group. They must organize practices that are challenging but also increase all players self esteem. A coach a should always lead by example by demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship.
The role of the Parent: The parents should always encourage each player to do their best and cheer in a positive way. They must be there to pick up the pieces.

For more program information or how to establish a S.P.O.R.T.S Youth Sports Coachs' Program in your city contact the T.A.A.F. State Office 512 863-9400