The purpose of this Policy is to ensure a safe and positive environment within RYSA sanctioned programs, activities, and events by making all Individuals aware that there is an expectation, at all times, of appropriate behavior consistent with the values of RYSA.
Rutland Youth Soccer Association believes soccer is a perfect game to develop fitness, sportsmanship and fellowship among its participants. To help promote those qualities, we have developed a Code of Conduct which outlines our expectations of coaches, parents and players. We believe these are critical to the success of our program. At the beginning of each season, coaches, parents and players will be required to sign a copy of the Code of Conduct signifying their agreement to abide by these guidelines.
Coaches:
- follow the
fair play philosophy of coaching that emphasizes the concept of equal
participation for equal commitment; respect both the rules and the spirit
of the game
- respect the
opposition players and coaches, and actively encourage their players to do
the same
- respect the
game officials, and refrain from criticism of their efforts and rulings
- treat all
players with respect and dignity, and appreciate that every player is
unique
- emphasize the
importance of active participation and doing one's best over the
importance of winning or losing--focus on the quality of the experience,
not just the outcome
- promote
positive teammate interaction, and intervene where negative behaviors are
demonstrated
- show zero
tolerance for profanity, violent behavior, bullying, abuse, and the use of
drugs/alcohol
- communicate
openly and clearly with parents and players to ensure all expectations and
feedback are understood
- are receptive to ideas and suggestions from players and parents in developing goals and programs for the team
Parents:
- model good
sportsmanship for your child in all interactions with their own teammates,
opponents and game officials
- refrain from
any criticism of game officials; they, like your children, are
learning the game, and need support and encouragement from all; referees
can order an offending parent from the field, and if they refuse to
comply, can forfeit the game to the opposing team
- provide
positive feedback to all players from both teams, and offer encouragement
when they try something creative, or demonstrate good skills
- avoid
conflicts with parents from your team, and from the opposing team
- let the coach
do his/her job i.e. coach; avoid yelling instructions to players from
the sidelines, as it can be confusing and/or frustrating for them
- communicate
openly with your coach if you have ideas or concerns; choose a time away
from a game situation; treat the coach with respect, and work with him/her
for the betterment of the team
- ensure your child is interacting consistent with the player provisions in the Code of Conduct, and is abiding by the Letter of Commitment
Players:
- play by the
rules of the game
- respect the
game officials, and accept their decisions without criticism
- are fair and
positive in your interactions with opponents; without them, there is no
game
- encourage and
respect all your teammates, and help them and the team to succeed
- treat your
coach with respect, and work with the coach for the betterment of the
team;
- accept
coaching decisions as part of the game; speak respectfully, openly and
honestly in private with your coach should a disagreement arise
- avoid the use
of profanity, violent behavior, bullying, abuse, and use of drugs/alcohol;
- are generous
when you win, and gracious when you lose
- demonstrate commitment to the team by attending all practices and games, unless necessary to miss one, and by working hard and cooperatively at all team events
10. Good
communications are the key to success in our program. Where issues arise
between coaches, parents, and/or players, the first step to solving them is for
the parties concerned to engage in open; respectful and constructive
dialogue. If genuine attempts to resolve concerns re Code of Conduct
violations are not successful, mediation may be sought by completing the
Code of Conduct Violation Report and following the process outlined therein.