Pálmar Ragnarsson, a basketball coach in Iceland, discusses the inclusive and holistic approach of Icelandic youth sports. Sports in Iceland are for everyone, regardless of ability, gender, or background. Coaches are encouraged to ensure all participants feel valued and welcome, promoting a positive environment where children can develop skills, set goals, and build teamwork.

Key principles include:

• Inclusivity: All children receive equal training opportunities, regardless of ability, and the use of healthy methods to inspire motivation.
• Retention and Development: Encouraging children to stay in sports by fostering enjoyment and long-term involvement. This benefits clubs by creating future coaches, volunteers, or supporters.
• Avoiding Specialization: Children are encouraged to try multiple sports rather than focusing on one, which enhances skill development and overall athletic ability.
• Professional Standards: Coaches are professionals, expected to sign employment contracts, respect club rules, and continually educate themselves.

By emphasizing respect, inclusivity, and personal growth, Iceland aims to create a strong foundation for both athletes and the broader community.

Parents  

Ragnhildur Skúladóttir head of Education and Sport for All at ÍSÍ talks about the important role of parents in Sports.

Foreign coaches in Iceland are encouraged to understand the key role of parental involvement in children's sports. Parents support clubs by taking on various responsibilities such as organizing events, guiding tours, and fundraising. Their positive involvement is crucial for a child's continued participation and enjoyment in sports, as well as for fostering a cohesive and supportive environment.

Coaches should collaborate with parents while maintaining their professional authority, ensuring parents respect their expertise. Setting clear expectations during the season's start, through meetings and communication, helps avoid misunderstandings and promotes smooth operations.

Children's sports participation extends beyond skill development; it is about learning life skills such as respect, resilience, and teamwork. Coaches play a vital role as role models, creating an inclusive and positive environment where children feel safe and motivated. Additionally, they should foster camaraderie through social events and build strong relationships with players and parents.

To succeed in this role, coaches must establish clear agreements regarding employment terms and maintain professional boundaries while remaining approachable and supportive.

The Icelandic School System

Guðlaugur Baldursson, teacher and a coach talks about the Education system in Iceland.

Education in Iceland includes primary (ages 6–16), secondary, and upper levels. Primary school operates for at least 180 days annually with a continuous schedule. Schools are divided into junior (grades 1–4), middle (grades 5–7), and lower secondary (grades 8–10). Community centres and after-school programs offer additional activities and support. Physical education and swimming are mandatory, regardless of external sports participation. Sports clubs often collaborate with schools to schedule practices around school hours. Parents or guardians handle school absence requests. Clubs may request group permissions, but parental confirmation is required. Secondary education, though optional, offers academic, vocational, or sports-focused tracks. Sports performance lines allow students to combine academics with organized training, without requiring elite performance levels.

Key Policies: Coaches must respect school hours, as education is compulsory. Sports participation is inclusive, with all students having equal rights to training. Municipal leisure grants help reduce costs for parents.

Iceland emphasizes the integration of sports and education, fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and balanced personal development.

Ethical Guidelines for Icelandic Sports Clubs

All sports clubs in Iceland follow codes that outline appropriate behavior for employees and volunteers. Coaches should familiarize themselves with these rules, available at their club or through ÍSÍ.

Individuals with a history of sexual offenses or recent drug-related convictions (past five years) cannot work or volunteer in children’s sports. Clubs may check criminal records.

Coaches must treat all participants equally and maintain discipline without humiliation, yelling, or punishment. Conflicts or bullying among participants must be addressed immediately. Promote respect for everyone, including teammates, opponents, and referees.

Coaches must maintain professional boundaries, avoid personal relationships with participants, and use approved tools for communication. Personal social media contact is prohibited

All forms of harassment or violence—verbal, physical, or sexual—are prohibited. Physical contact is allowed only when necessary for training and must be explained. Violators face immediate termination.

Coaches should watch for signs of abuse and report concerns to supervisors, club authorities, or a Communications Counselor immediately.

By following these principles, Icelandic sports clubs ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants.