Parents, players, coaches and spectators represent the Southcentral Soccer Alliance Allaska. The actions of each one of us affect the image of all of us and the Club. This Code of Conduct encourages good sportsmanship, which means in part, treating opponents, coaches and referees with respect regardless of the situation. Parents must set an example for the children by exemplifying the highest standards of sportsmanship. The game is for the children and their participation in and enjoyment of the game is important.

1. At all games, parents and spectators are to stand back at least three feet from the sideline. This allows the players to play the sidelines and everyone to see the game. No parent or spectator may stand behind either goal line. Parents and spectators should be on the opposite side of the field from the coaches and players (except where there is only one side available).

2. Parents coaching from the sidelines is unacceptable conduct. It is counterproductive because it distracts the players from their decision making on the field and their enjoyment of the game. While cheering and positive encouragement is a natural part of soccer, parents must not coach their child from the sidelines during matches and training.

3. Parents and spectators may not criticize their own players and coaches nor the opposing players, coaches and parents.. Only positive comments are permitted. Cheer in a way to reward the good play of both teams and promote fair play. Applaud good plays by your team AND by members of the opposing team.

4. Parents should show respect for the coach and his or her assistants. Parents should never criticize a coach in a public manner. If a parent has an issue with their child’s coach, the issue should be raised in a setting away from the field, the players and game. It should be raised in a private manner.

5. Parents are expected to respect the authority of the referee and his or her assistants. Parents should not harass, abuse, or berate the referee during or after the match. Parents should not disagree with, question or criticize the referee. This applies even if the referee makes a mistake. Be tolerant of the referee’s calls, whether you agree with them or not. Parents should not enter the field of play without the center referee’s permission.

6. Do not make negative comments about the game, the coaches, the referees or teammates in your child’s presence. This can negatively influence your child’s motivation and overall experience.

7. Redefine what it means to be a “Winner” in conversations with your child. A Winner is someone who exerts maximum effort, continues to learn and improve, and does not let mistakes, or fear of making mistakes, stop them. Mistakes are an inevitable part of any game. Children learn from their mistakes. If you only judge the success of a game by whether your child’s team wins, you should expect to be unhappy about half of the time.

8. The enjoyment of the children playing the sport they love is much more important than the outcome of the game. Encourage your child to play hard, to play fair, to respect the referees and other officials and to congratulate their opponent at each and every game. 9. Parents should learn the laws of the game and appreciate the spirit of the game. Soccer is the world’s #1 sport!