Newtown Soccer Club Code of Conduct

Coaches

Coaches are responsible for the conduct of themselves, their players and spectators as they relate to referees, and players, spectators and coaches from the opposing team. We expect that our coaches adhere to the spirit of this Code of Conduct, and specifically, agree to:

Never berate, yell at or ridicule players for making a mistake or not winning
Operate within the rules and spirit of the game and teach players to do the same.
Understand that development of the players in the longer term is more important than winning in the short term, and that children's confidence and enjoyment of the game is a major driver towards that.
Ensure that the players time spent with a coach is a positive experience, and ensure that all players are deserving of equal attention and opportunities.
Display control, respect and professionalism to all involved with soccer, including referees, parents and players.
Show respect for opponents whether winning or losing, and ensure that scoring differentials are no more than an absolute maximum of 5 goals (Recreational) and 6 goals (Travel).
Show concern and caution towards sick or injured players, and follow the advice of a physician when determining whether or not a player is ready to practice or play.
Endeavor to be a positive role model for all players, knowing that children follow our example, and understand that the coaches attitude and behavior can influence the players, parents and spectators.
Ensure that any physical contact with a player is appropriate to soccer situations, and is witnessed by at least one non related adult.
Believe that referees, like players and coaches, are making an honest attempt to do the best job they can.
Continue to develop personal coaching skills by keeping up to date with the latest coaching practices and techniques, and methods of development for young players.
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person, irrespective of their gender, ability, cultural background, ethnicity, or religion.
Demand an athletic environment which is free from drugs, tobacco and alcohol.
Believe that the role as coach is to contribute to the overall success, and physical and athletic growth of players through soccer.
Professionally represent Newtown Soccer Club, and apply it's policies and procedures at all levels and in any situation.

Parents

It is often difficult for parents to distinguish between what they want for their children (often based on what they did not accomplish themselves), and what their children want and enjoy. We expect that the parents of our players adhere to the spirit of this Code of Conduct, and specifically, agree to:

Remember that children participate in sport for their enjoyment, not their parents'.
Understand that the child's effort and performance are more important than winning or losing.
Never ridicule or yell at a child, whether or not it is their own, for making a mistake or losing a game, and to keep all comments positive
Remember that children learn best by example, therefore good performances and skillful plays should be appreciated and commended by everyone.
Encourage children to play within the rules and settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or violence.
Avoid coaching from the sidelines or engaging in open criticism of the coach, and to address any coaching issues directly with the coach, respectfully and in private.
Respect the decisions of officials and teach children to do the same.
Show appreciation and respect for volunteer coaches, officials and administrators, without whom our children could not participate.
Believe that referees, in addition to coaches and players, are attempting to do the best they can, and should not be verbally or otherwise abused whether or not the decisions they make are believed to be correct.
Understand that parents attitude and behavior can influence the players, coaches and other spectators
Demand a sports environment which is free from drugs, alcohol or tobacco
Be a positive role model for your children and the children around them, knowing that they will follow your example, and to make them as proud of you as you are of them.
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, ethnicity or religion.
Ensure children are available for most practices and games and arrive on time, and provide the coach with advance notice if that is not going to be the case.
Report to the coach any injuries or sicknesses which may affect players
Send children ready to play in the correct uniform, and without being fearful that making a mistake will let down their parents.
Understand that in car lectures on the way to the game are usually counterproductive, and that brief but positive words of encouragement which result in children actually enjoying playing the game usually result in better performances.
Respect the facilities in our town, and at our opponents grounds
Be your children's best fan and support them unconditionally. During the drive home, focus on the positive aspects of the child's performance.

Players

We are all involved in Soccer for the benefit of you, the players. In return, we expect all players to adhere to the spirit of this Code of Conduct, and specifically agree to:

Play by the rules
Never argue with any referee or coach, even if you disagree with them.
Control your temper and emotions, and not aggravate opponents by using foul play, or negative comments or gestures.
Work hard not only for yourself, but also for the benefit of team mates who may not be as skilled as you.
Show good sportsmanship, and appreciate all good plays, even by the opposing team.
Treat all participants the way you like to be treated, and not bully or take advantage of another competitor.
Not deliberately try to hurt another competitor.
Understand that your attitude and behavior can influence others
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, ethnicity or religion.
Remember that practices are just as important as games and your attendance helps your team.
Understand that Soccer is a team sport, and being a team member is as important as being a strong individual.

Spectators

Parents and players are responsible for the conduct of their guests. Spectators at practices or games are expected to:

Remember that young people participate in soccer for their enjoyment, not yours.
Applaud good performance and efforts from all individuals and teams, irrespective of the games outcome.
Respect and support the decisions of coaches or referees, even if you disagree with them.
Never ridicule or comment on a player making a mistake, and keep all comments positive and motivational.
Condemn verbal abuse or violence in any form, whether it is by spectators, coaches, officials or players.
Show respect for your teams opponents and their supporters
Understand that your attitude and behavior can influence others.
Never use foul language, or harass players, referees, coaches or other spectators.
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, ethnicity or religion.
Demand a sports environment for the children that is free from drugs, tobacco and alcohol.

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Newtown, CT