Code of Conduct for Soccer Spectators/Parents & Players
PARENT'S CODE OF CONDUCT
The essential elements of character-building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and six core principles: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. The highest potential of sports is achieved when competition reflects these Pillars of Character. I therefore agree:
I will not force my child to participate in sports.
I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for youth, not adults.
I will communicate with my child's coach about any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others. I will make every effort to have my child attend practices and games and will communicate with my child's coach if my child will be late or absent. Good communication between parents and coaches leads to a more positive experience for all involved.
I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league. Knowing the rules of the game will help with development and will help to minimize disagreements.
I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players (on both teams), coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or other sporting event. I (and my guests) will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; refusing to shake hands; or using profane language or gestures. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well being of the athletes.
I will explain to my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
I will explain to my child to treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.
I will explain to my child that doing one's best is more important than winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance.
I will not ridicule or yell at my child or other participant for making a mistake or losing a competition.
I will emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit my child over winning. I will also de-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups. I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire I may have for my child to win.
I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.
I will demand a playing environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will refrain from their use at VSO Soccer games..
I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of the official coaches of the team.
I acknowledge that the coach of my child's team is responsible for my behavior and I will therefore respect the coach's authority. I also acknowledge that the coach is a volunteer.
Work hard to improve your results.
Be a team player- get along with your teammates.
Learn teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline.
Be on time for practices and games.
Learn the rules, and play by them. Always be a good sport.
Respect your coach, your teammates, your parents, opponents and officials.
Never argue with the official. Know the Zero Tolerance Policy!