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Code of Conduct for Coaches and Assistant Coaches

 

The goal of the Hammonton Youth Soccer Association (HYSA) Recreational League is to provide a fun recreational soccer environment for children in grades 1 thru 8. We seek to develop soccer players… not only in terms of their soccer skills, but also in terms of their self-esteem and self-confidence. Players should learn to be competitive and try hard, and also learn to win and lose with good sportsmanship.

We want to ensure that our Recreational League games are fair, positive and enjoyable experiences for all of the children and adults involved. A soccer game should be friendly and unifying - a spirited social and athletic occasion for players, coaches, referees and spectators.

In keeping with those goals, we expect all coaches and their assistants to conform to this Code of Conduct:

  • Before, during and after the game, be an example of dignity, patience and positive spirit.
  • Remember that children participate in sports for fun and that winning is only part of the game.
  • You are responsible for the sportsmanship of your players. If one of your players is disrespectful, irresponsible or overly aggressive, take the player out of the game at least long enough for him/her to calm down.
  • Do not allow your players to play with intent to cause injury to opposing players.
  • Teach each player to be a good loser and a gracious winner.
  • Encourage your players and spectators to applaud and cheer for good plays by either team.
  • The score of a game is secondary to the safety, welfare and athletic growth of the players.
  • During the game, do not address the referee at all. If you have a small issue, discuss it with the referee calmly and patiently after the game.
  • If you have a major complaint, or if you think the referee was unfair, biased, unfit or incompetent, report your opinion to your League. Your reactions will be taken seriously if they are presented objectively and formally.
  • After the game, thank the referee and ask your players to do the same.
  • After the game, win or lose, congratulate your opponents and their coaches and tell them they played a good game.
  • Learn and understand the Laws of the Game, and coach your players to play within the letter and spirit of those Laws.

No alcoholic beverages of any kind are allowed at youth sporting events.

Support the League's efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sporting activities.