Coaches and assistant coaches are expected to maintain a higher level of sportsmanship, professionalism, and integrity both off and on the field. A coach's primary responsibility is for his/her players to have fun, to develop soccer players, and to instill a passion for the game. The performance of coaches is not measured in wins and losses, but rather in what is taught to players in terms of technique, sportsmanship, and fair play. Coaches must maintain respect for the game as well as the referees. Coaches are charged with the responsibility of controlling their players and parents at all times during a match. Coaches lead and teach by example; players will be a reflection upon each individual coach.
Coaches and assistant coaches are expected to:
- Have a basic knowledge of the game and to pursue coaching education allowing you to better develop your players.
- Use positive reinforcement when dealing with players, never use foul or abusive language, and never abuse a player mentally, verbally, or physically.
- Have respect for the authority of the referee and his/her assistants. You should not harass, abuse, or berate the referee during or after the match. You should not enter the field of play without the referee's permission.
- Exhibit good sportsmanship both off and on the field. You should teach your players the rules of the game, fair play, and proper game behavior.
- Attend training and/or certification classes.
- Comply with club and CJSA standards.
Players:
Play soccer to have fun, to learn and develop a passion for the game as well as to improve their skills. Players have a responsibility to their team, coach, and soccer organization. They are representatives of the club as well as the team, coach, parents, and the community. Players must maintain a high level of sportsmanship and fair play.
Players should:
- Play within the laws of the game and spirit of the game.
- Be on time and prepared for matches and training sessions.
- Display self-control in all situations and should not use foul or abusive language at any time-- before, during, or after a game, or training session.
- Train and play to the best of their ability, have a positive attitude and encourage others to do the same.
- Show respect towards the referee and his/her assistants as well as toward the opponents.
- Not harass, abuse, or berate a referee for any reason.
Parents/Spectators:
Parents/Spectators must set the example for the children by exemplifying the highest standards of sportsmanship. Parents/Spectators participate in a game by watching, cheering, and supporting the efforts of all participants of the game. Soccer must be fun! The game is for the children. Their participation and enjoyment of the game is the most important element.
Parents have responsibilities to the coach, team, and soccer organization they are a part of. Parents/Spectators should have respect for their coach, all children on the team, and the authority of the referee and his/her assistants.
Parents/Spectators are expected to:
- Have respect for the authority of the referee and his/her assistants. They should not harass, abuse, or berate the referee during or after the game. They should not enter the field of play.
- Have respect for the coach and his/her assistants; they should never criticize a coach in a public manner. Do not coach from the sideline; let the coach do his/her job no matter how much you may disagree. If there is a problem, talk to the coach or the Coaching Director of your organization at a later point in time.
- Have respect for all players. Cheer in a positive manner, not negative. Encourage your team and don't berate the other team. Cheer in a way to reward the good play of both teams and promote fair play.
- Not to use foul or abusive language toward anyone for any reason.
- Have a responsibility to learn the rules of the game and the spirit of the game.
- Get involved with the organization and promote the game in a positive way.
- Demonstrate the utmost in sportsmanship and integrity; they are the role models for their children.