Q: Can a volunteer sports program require volunteer coaches to not drink alcohol in between games?
A:
In New York, volunteer sports programs generally have the authority to set conduct standards for their volunteer coaches, including policies about alcohol consumption. These programs aim to ensure the safety and well-being of the participants, maintain a professional environment, and set a positive example for young athletes.
A policy requiring volunteer coaches to refrain from drinking alcohol between games would likely be seen as a reasonable measure to promote these goals. However, the enforceability and specifics of such a policy can depend on the organization’s bylaws, any applicable contracts or agreements, and state and local laws.
It’s important for the program to clearly communicate any such policies to the volunteers in advance, ideally in writing, and to apply these policies consistently. Additionally, the policy should respect volunteers' legal rights and be implemented in a way that is fair and reasonable.
If you are involved with such a program and are considering implementing this kind of policy, it would be wise to consult with a lawyer to ensure that the policy is compliant with relevant laws and is appropriately worded.
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