DC STODDERT SOCCER SIDELINE ETHICS

DC Stoddert Soccer is a youth athletic program and we encourage you, the coaches, parents and spectators to enjoy youth soccer for what it is-children having fun. Help create a positive soccer atmosphere on the sidelines by being a role model of good behavior and sportsmanship. Follow these "Soccer Sideline Ethics".

1. THE FUN IS IN THE PLAYING

Encourage players in skill development, teamwork, self-esteem and good sportsmanship. Winning is not their motivation, fun is. Lighten up and decrease the competitive pressures.

2. KNOW THE GAME AND THE LAWS

Soccer looks simple but is complex to play, coach and officiate.

3. SUPPORT THE TEAM, NOT JUST YOUR YOUNGSTER

Give encouragement to the entire team

4. PRACTICE GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP

Children learn best by example. Encourage your players to play by the rules. Cheer good play by both teams. Ask your child: "did you have fun and try your best?" rather than "why didn’t you win?" Win gracefully, not boastfully. Lose without being negative. Make sure end of the game rituals like handshakes reflect good sportsmanship.

5. LET THE PLAYERS PLAY

Soccer is a player’s game.

6. LET THE COACHES COACH

Your coach, paid or volunteer, provides guidance, skill instruction and supervised fun for your children

7. LET THE REFEREE JUDGE THE GAME

Soccer referees control the game the moment they enter the grounds.

8. BE A SUPPORTIVE SOCCER PARENT

Volunteer to help your coach, your team

9. THEY’RE ONLY KIDS.IT’S ONLY A GAME

Allow your child to be a child by being an adult on the sidelines.

DC STODDERT SOCCER IS ADMINISTERED FOR THE BENEFIT OF PLAYERS AND IS GOVERNED BY THE RULES ENACTED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AS PUBLISHED IN THE "RECREATIONAL LEAGUE HANDBOOK AND OFFICIAL RULES" AS AMENDED BY THE BOARD. PLAYERS AND PARENTS, OR GUARDIANS, WHO REGISTER PLAYERS, AGREE TO ABIDE BY THE RULES OF DC STODDERT SOCCER.