AYSO Region 769 Code of Conduct

Sports offer children the opportunity to learn sportsmanship, teamwork, fair play, perseverance, self-confidence, and determination. Sports help players understand the importance of effort, skill improvement, life lessons, and to develop the courage to learn from and overcome mistakes.

Inappropriate behavior by parents, coaches, and players can create a hostile youth soccer atmosphere. It has been shown that a Code of Conduct plays a crucial role in promoting a more positive and fun playing environment.

There are a few things we would like to highlight:

• Healthy competition is instructive. However, an excessive “win-at-all-costs” mentality can be detrimental to children.
•  The winning team is not always the team with the most goals.
•  Our referees and coaches are all volunteers generously donating their time.
  •  Recognize that they are all volunteers doing the best they can to ensure that the game is played fairly and safely, and that the children are having a good time.
•  The expertise and experience levels of our volunteers vary:
  •  Some of our referees are teenagers engaging in community service while acquiring valuable skills.
  •  Some of our coaches are brand new to the sport but have graciously stepped up to assist – we provide them with training, but your patience is appreciated as they gain knowledge and experience.
  •  Many of our board members, like age group coordinators, are also newcomers. They will greatly benefit from your cooperation as they navigate overseeing an age group.

• Respect for All: I will treat all players, coaches, referees, and parents with respect, courtesy, and kindness.
•  Positive Support: I will provide positive encouragement to my child and their teammates, emphasizing effort, improvement, and enjoyment of the game over winning at all costs.
•  Coach and Referee Respect: I will respect the authority and decisions of the coaches and referees, understanding that they are committed to the safety and development of the players.
•  Conflict Resolution: If I have concerns or disagreements, I will address them through appropriate channels, such as discussing them with the coach privately or contacting the age group coordinator or region commissioner.
•  Sideline Behavior:
  •  I will maintain a positive and sportsmanlike demeanor while watching games, refraining from negative comments, gestures, or behavior that can undermine the players' experience.
  •  I will stand at least ten feet from the sideline so I will not endanger the safety of the players or the sideline referee.
  •  I will stay on my team's side of the field at all times before, during and after the games.  Only coaches, players and referees are allowed on the field.
•  Fair Play and Sportsmanship: I will encourage my child to play with integrity, adhering to the rules of the game, and displaying good sportsmanship at all times.
•  Communication: I will maintain open and constructive communication with my child about their soccer experience, emphasizing enjoyment, self-improvement, and teamwork. I will not use profanity at any time.
• Kids Zone Parents Pledge:  I will abide by the Kids Zone Parents Pledge set out below.

• Laws of the Game: I know the importance of understanding the Laws of the Game and the disciplinary actions that may be taken if not followed.
•  Respect for Teammates: I will treat my teammates with kindness, respect, and cooperation. We are a team, and together we work toward a common goal.
•  Respect for Opponents: I will treat opponents with fairness and respect, recognizing that they are here to enjoy the game, just like me. I will compete fiercely but with integrity.
•  Respect for Coaches: I will listen to and respect my coaches’ instructions, recognizing their expertise and guidance. I will ask questions and seek clarification when needed.
•  Respect for Referees: I will respect the decisions made by the referees, even if I may not agree with them. I understand that they are responsible for ensuring a safe and fair game.
•  Fair Play: I will always play by the rules of the game and not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct.