Valley Soccer Club Code of Conduct for Coaches, Players and Parents

EXPECTATIONS OF COACHES:

A. Always set a good example for players and parents to follow, exemplifying high moral and ethical behavior. B. Instruct players in proper sportsmanship and practice responsibilities and demand that they make sportsmanship and teamwork their #1 and #2 priorities.
C. Respect judgment of referees, abide by rules of the game and display no behavior that could incite players or parents (ex. questioning calls, gestures, etc.

D. Treat opposing coach, players and fans and with respect. Shake hands with officials and opposing coach before and after each game.
E. Develop and enforce penalties/ramifications for players who do not abide by sportsmanship and practice standards.

F. Develop each player to his fullest potential, giving candid feedback on strengths as well as opportunities to improve.
G. Develop creative, structured and FUN practice sessions.
H. Keep parents informed on practices, games, directions, etc.

EXPECTATIONS OF PLAYERS:

A. Accept seriously the responsibility and privilege of representing Valley Soccer Club and display positive public action at all times.
B. Demonstrate respect for opponents, coaches and referees before, during and after games.
C. Live up to high standards of sportsmanship.

D. Treat opponents with respect: shake hands after games and take a knee quickly when they are injured. Clap when they leave the field.
E. Respect judgment of referees, abide by rules of the games and display no behavior that could incite fans (ex. questioning calls, gestures, taunting, "show-boating" etc.).

F. Cooperate with referees, coaches and fellow participants to conduct a fair game.
G. Accept favorable and unfavorable decisions, as well as victory and defeat, with equal grace. H. Come prepared each week to practice (ball, water, shin guards and cleats

EXPECTATIONS OF PARENTS AND OTHER FANS:

A. Support the team and coaches
B. Respect decisions made by referees- do not speak to them.
C. Respect opposing fans, coaches and participants.
D. We have coaches on the sidelines. Please try not to confuse kids on the field by yelling out instructions.

COMMUNICATION PARENTS SHOULD EXPECT FOR THE COACH:

A. Philosophy and goals of the program
B. Coach expectations for individual players and the team
C. Location and times of practices and games
D. Team rules and guidelines
E. Procedures to be followed if a player is injured during participation (Note: Any child exhibiting signs of a concussion- nausea, dizziness, etc.- will not be put back into the game and will require a note from his doctor clearing him for participation in future practices and games. No exceptions!)

COMMUNICATION PARENTS SHOULD EXPECT FROM PLAYERS AND PARENTS:

A. Concerns expressed directly to the Head Coach and Assistant Coach B. Notification of any schedule conflicts in advance
C. Notification of illness or injury as soon as possible

APPROPRIATE CONCERNS FOR DISCUSSION WITH COACHES

A. The treatment of your child
B. Methods to help your child improve his/her skills C. Concerns about a player’s behavior

ISSUES NOT APPROPRIATE FOR DISCUSSION WITH COACHES:

While the coaches are committed to open communication with parents, there is a certain process that should be observed. In particular, the time before and during a game is dedicated to the players. It is not appropriate for a parent to approach a coach to discuss game or individual player concerns at this time. The coach will be happy to set up a meeting/phone call to address parent concerns at a time that will not interfere with the attention required by the players. An exception to this request is an incident when a player is injured. The coaches will be available immediately after a game to discuss the situation and any concerns with parents.

Thank you
Valley Soccer Club