CODE OF CONDUCT

A.  RESPONSIBILITIES TO PLAYERS

1.   The coach must never place the value of winning over the safety and welfare of players. Winning should be the result of preparation and discipline with emphasis placed on the highest ideals and character traits.

2.   Coaches shall instruct players to play within the written laws of the game and within the spirit of the game at all times.

3.   Coaches shall not seek unfair advantage by teaching deliberate unsportsmanlike behavior to players.

4.   Coaches should not tolerate inappropriate behavior from players regardless of the situation.

5.   Demands on player’s time should never be so extensive as to interfere with academic goals and progress. Motivation for excellence should include academics as well as athletics.

6.   Coaches must never encourage players to violate HBYS recruitment, eligibility, or guest player rules and policies.

B.  RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE LAWS OF THE GAME

1.   Coaches should be thoroughly acquainted with and demonstrate a working knowledge of the laws of the game of soccer.  Coaches are also responsible to ensure that their players understand the intent as well as the application of the laws.

2.   Coaches must adhere to the letter and spirit of the laws of the game. Those coaches who circumvent the rules to gain advantage have no place in soccer. 

3.   Coaches are responsible for their players’ actions on the field and must not permit them to perform with the intent of causing injury to opposing players.

4.   If coaches permit, encourage, or condone performance which is not in the letter or spirit of the laws, they are derelict in their responsibility to players, Member Associations, HBYS and the sport worldwide. The coach must strive constantly to teach good sporting behavior.

C.  RESPONSIBILITIES TO OFFICIALS

1.      Officials must have the support of coaches, players, and spectators. Criticism of officials undermines their purpose in the game. Coaches must always refrain from criticizing officials in the presence of players.

2.      Coaches should strive to develop a line of communication with officials, giving each an opportunity to better understand the problems relating to their specific area. This section shall not be taken as an encouragement to debate referee decisions during the match.

3.      On game day, officials should be treated with respect before, during, and after the game. Officials should be addressed as “Referee” or “Mr. or Ms. Referee” and not by name. Professional respect should be mutual and there should be no demeaning dialogue or gesture between official, coach, and player. Coaches must not incite players or spectators or attempt to disrupt the flow of play.

4.   Comments regarding an official should be made in writing to HBYS at info@hbyouthsoccer.org.

D.  GAME DAY AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

1.   A coach’s behavior must be such as to bring credit to himself, his organization and the sport of soccer. This is never more evident than on the day of the contest.

2.   Rival coaches should meet prior to the game and exchange friendly or professional greetings. While the concept of rivalry is wholly embraced, it cannot take precedence over exemplary professional conduct.

3.   Coaches shall exhibit a respectful attitude towards players. The coach must confine himself / herself to the coaching area. The attitude of the coach towards officials, spectators, opposing players and coaches should be controlled and undemonstrative.

4.   It shall be unethical for a coach to have any verbal altercation with an opposing coach, officials, or bench personnel during the game. Hostile physical contact with a player is considered highly unethical.

5.   The coach’s foremost post game responsibility is his/her team.

6.   Coaches should use their influence on unfriendly spectators that demonstrate intimidating behavior towards officials and opposing teams.

7.   All Member Associations are advised to monitor their own members to ensure they comply with HBYS.

E. RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS:

1.      Children have more need for example than for criticism.

2.      Attempt to relieve the pressure of the competition, not increase it. A child is easily affected by outside influences.

3.      Show respect to your child’s coaches and officials.  Many coaches are volunteers giving of personal time and money to provide a recreational activity for your child.

4.      Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.

5.      Do not openly question an official’s judgment and honesty. Officials are symbols of fair play, integrity, and sportsmanship.

6.      Accept the results of each game.  Encourage your child to be gracious in victory and to turn defeat into victory by working towards improvement.

7.      Remember, your children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment, NOT YOURS!  Encourage your child to always play by the rules.

8.      Teach your child that honest effort is as important as victory so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.

9.      On game day, officials should be treated with respect before, during, and after the game. Officials should be addressed as “Referee” or “Mr. or Ms. Referee” and not by name. Professional respect should be mutual and there should be no demeaning dialogue or gesture between the official and the parent.

10.   Parents / visitors should not be within the bench area, except at half time, unless they have an official pass.

11.   Alcohol and tobacco are not permitted at any HBYS game.

F.   PENALTIES / VIOLATIONS

1. Any coaches, players, parents or administrators found guilty of violating the intent, the spirit, or rules of the HBYS Code of Ethics and Conduct, may be subject to expulsion from the league, probation and/or suspension.  

 

info@hbyouthsoccer.org