English-language guidelines from DGI and DIF encourage sports clubs to create environments where digital technology is used to support participation rather than replace human interaction
Smartphones have become part of everyday life, including in grassroots sport. They can support performance analysis, game strategy and communication with members. But they can also distract from one of sport’s greatest strengths: bringing people together.
Compiled by Denmark’s National Olympic Committee and Sports Confederation (DIF) and the Danish Gymnastics and Sports Associations (DGI), the recommendations are built on a simple principle. Rather than allowing unrestricted screen use or imposing blanket bans, the guidance encourages clubs to develop policies that reflect their own values and activities.
Among the main recommendations are that changing rooms and similar spaces are made screen-free zones. Clubs should not rely on social media for essential communication, and ensure that individuals and families are not excluded because they do not use a particular platform. Club leaders should discuss expectations with coaches, parents and members, and clearly communicate the rules.
Coaches set the tone
Coaches play an important role in shaping club culture. The guidance encourages them to use digital devices only when usage genuinely improves learning, such as in video analysis or training plans. At the same time, coaches are encourraged to minimise unnecessary screen time and create opportunities for athletes to interact before training through conversation, games or informal play rather than scrolling on their phones. They are also urged to set an example by avoiding personal phone usage themselves whenever possible.
Parents also have an important role in helping children develop healthy digital habits. The recommendations encourage parents to support the club’s policies, avoid contacting children unnecessarily during training, and be mindful when taking or sharing photographs and videos online.
Partnering with parents
Being fully present is another key message. Rather than looking at a screen while waiting for training or competitions to start, parents are encouraged to engage with their children and the wider club community The guidance recognises that creating a positive digital culture is everyone’s responsibility. Young athletes are encouraged to keep phones in their bags during activities, respect club rules and use smartphones only when required for training. If technology is needed, the guidance states, muting notifications can help reduce distractions.
The recommendations also encourage respectful online behaviour and inclusiveness and urge young people to speak up if they witness harmful behaviour online.
Safe, respectful and inclusive
Alongside practical advice, the new guidelines remind clubs of their responsibilities around privacy and consent. Changing rooms should remain camera-free, images should only be shared with permission, and clubs should have clear procedures for dealing with digital misconduct.
To help organisations put the recommendations into practice, DIF and DGI provide a template that clubs can use to develop their own screen policies, along with discussion questions covering communication, privacy, acceptable use and how to strengthen face-to-face interaction.
Ultimately, the recommendations are about ensuring that technology remains a tool rather than becoming the focus. By using smartphones purposefully while protecting opportunities for physical interaction and shared experiences, sports clubs can continue to create strong community bonds that help people thrive.
The guidelines are available here
