Appleseed Youth Soccer Association
(AYSA)
Sideline Behavior Policy
03/31/03
Introduction
In the 1950’s this discussion would rarely happen. Personal controls on behavior, genuine concern for the wellbeing of the children of others, a gentler time may be the reasons. It is NOT that we are hearing more about it, it is that the incidence of poor, even violent behavior is on the rise.
Philosophy
The purpose of the AYSA is to provide a positive environment for children to learn and play soccer, while developing positive character traits. AYSA defines “positive environment” as including all aspects of our activities, from playable, safe fields, to referee and coach development, to a constantly positive atmosphere of sportsmanship.
• The mission for players in AYSA is to enjoy learning and playing the game of soccer, while learning teamwork and fair play.
• The mission for coaches in AYSA is to learn how to coach, to teach players using the methods which are age and level appropriate, to lead the team with the highest standards of fair play, and to provide a positive adult role model to the players.
• The mission for referees in AYSA is to adhere to the highest standards of officiating as defined by the USSF.
• The mission for the parents is to remember that all the players of AYSA are children and to adhere to the standards for sideline behavior as developed by the league, and to support the coach and the league in their mission.
• The mission for the leadership of the league is to respect each player and adult associated with the league, to deal fairly with all, and to encourage and support the volunteers who make our league strong.
• The mission for all in this league is to respect ourselves, respect the opponent, respect the official, and respect the game of soccer.
All activities with the children are to be done in a way to develop their character, and to provide fun and learning. There will be one winner and one loser per game. Competition is a vehicle to do what we do, not the purpose.
Standards
Attending, playing and coaching in the AYSA league is a privilege, not a right. Everyone attending an AYSA game or practice must conduct themselves within the highest standards of behavior. The following will not be tolerated: yelling anything at referees, touching a referee or her or his equipment or property, yelling at opposing players or coaches, yelling anything but encouragement at own players or coaches. Yelling instructions for play from the sidelines in soccer is inappropriate. Anyone violating this policy will be asked to leave for a period of time to be determined by the Executive Board or Disciplinary Committee. Parents and spectators can be banned from the sidelines by the Executive Board or Disciplinary Committee and have no right of appeal. Individual or groups of parents/spectators/participants may be required to attend classes in proper behavior at their own financial expense. Parents/Spectators exhibiting unacceptable behavior can be banned from games in the subsequent years as a condition of the registration of the player. Please keep the following in mind:
• Children play organized sports for the own fun. They are not there to entertain YOU and they are not miniature pro athletes!
• Applaud good plays by your own team AND the visiting team.
• Be on your best behavior. There will not be profane language. Do not harass players, coaches or officials.
• Show respect for your team’s opponents. Without them there would be no games.
• Never ridicule or scold a child for making a mistake during a competition.
• Condemn the use of violence in all forms.
• Respect the officials’ decisions.
• Encourage players to always play according to the rules.
Parents, spectators, players and coaches will be held responsible for their actions. A parents’ attendance at games is dependent on compliance with behavior standards. Parents are guests at AYSA games. AYSA is not public body but a private league. Even though we use public parks, your ability to attend our games is dependent on your entertainment as a primary goal. Failure to comply may result in being suspended from attending games.
Coaches are selected and approved by the league and can be removed if necessary.
Procedures for Reporting Unacceptable Behavior:
When it is reported (or observed by and Executive Board Member) that parent(s)/spectator(s) are in violation of the Sideline Behavior Policy, the President will contact the club of the team to explain the Sideline Behavior Policy. This will constitute the first warning. A follow-up letter will be mailed to the offender(s). If the parent/spectator repeats the behavior as observed by any Board Member within the same seasonal year the person will receive disciplinary action, a hearing does not have to be held. (*See procedures and fines as outlined in the AYSA Coaching Manual.) If, in the opinion of the President the entire group of parents/spectators are in violation, the entire Board of Directors (BOR’s) can vote-passed by a 2/3 majority-or the Disciplinary Committee can hold a hearing ban all of the parents/spectators of the game for a specified period of time.
NOTE: If at any time a parent/spectator enters the field during a match without being directed to do so by the referee, that parent/spectator will be suspended from future games, at the discretion of the Executive Board.