Parent's And Fans Code of Conduct
As a parent, you play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of youngsters. Through your encouragement and good example, you can help assure that all the boys and girls learn good sportsmanship and self-discipline. In the United FC young people learn to work together, to sacrifice for the good of the team, to enjoy winning and deal appropriately with defeat
SUPPORT YOUR CHILD supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team is very important. Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than victory - that way your child will always be a winner despite the outcome of the game!
ALWAYS BE POSITIVE Become aware of this and work to be a positive role model. Applaud good plays by your child's team as well as good plays by the opposing team. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sports activities. Cheer instead of jeers for all players participating in the game and not just for your Team.
REMEMBER: YOUR CHILD WANTS TO HAVE FUN Remember that your child is the one playing soccer, not you. It's very important to let children establish their own goals - to play the game for themselves. Take care not to impose your own standards and goals on them. Don't put too heavy a burden on your child to win games. Surveys reveal that 72% of children would rather play for a losing team than ride the bench for a winning team. Children play for the fun of playing.
REINFORCE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their goals and their natural fear of failure. Nobody likes to make mistakes. If your child does make one, remember it's all part of learning, so encourage your child's efforts and point out the good things your child accomplished.
·DON'T BE A SIDELINE COACH OR REFEREE Coaches and referees are usually parents just like you. They volunteer their time to help make your child's youth soccer experience a positive one. They need your support too. That means refraining from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. As a volunteer organization, there's usually always an opportunity for you to take your interest in coaching or refereeing to the next level and become one yourself!
Be reasonable in your demands on a young player's time, energy, enthusiasm and performance on the field.
Impress on your players that they must abide by the Laws of the Game at all times.
Develop team respect for the ability of opponents and for the judgement of referees and opposing coaches.
Ensure that your players' soccer experience is one of fun and enjoyment (winning is only part of it). Players should never be yelled at or ridiculed for making mistakes or losing a game.
Set a good example and be generous with your praise when it is deserved. Children need a coach they can respect.
Keep informed of sound principles of coaching, growth and child development.
Check your equipment and playing facilities. They should meet safety standards and be appropriate for the age and ability of your players.
Follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured child is ready to play again.
Always remember that the game is for the players. Player safety and fair play come first.
Study and learn the laws of the Game and understand the "spirit" of the Laws. Help fellow referees do the same.
Respect other referees' decisions and do not publicly criticize another official.
Wear the proper uniform and keep it in good condition.
Maintain good physical condition so you can keep up with the action.
Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches and parents.
Honor accepted game assignments. In an emergency, find a replacement.
Support good sportsmanship with a kind word to players, coaches and parents of both teams when deserved.
Always be fair and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest. Decisions based on personal bias are dishonest and unacceptable