SYSA Coaches Code of Conduct

This code of conduct has been developed to clarify and distinguish approved and accepted professional, ethical and moral behavior from that which is detrimental to the development of soccer within the Washington State Youth Soccer Association and Seattle Youth Soccer Association.

Responsibility to Players

1. The coach shall never place the value of winning over the safety and welfare of players.

2. Coaches shall instruct players to play within the written laws of the game and within the spirit of the game at all times. Coaches shall not seek unfair advantage by teaching deliberate unsportsmanlike behavior and should not tolerate inappropriate behavior from players regardless of the situation.

3. Demands on players’ time should never be so extensive as to interfere with academic goals or progress.

4. Coaches should direct players to seek proper medical attention for injuries and to follow the physician’s instructions regarding treatment and recovery.

Responsibility to WSYSA and SYSA

1. Adherence to all WSYSA and SYSA rules and policies, especially those regarding eligibility, team formation and recruiting are mandatory and should never be violated. It is the responsibility of each coach to know and understand these rules.

2. Any coach who knowingly uses a player not registered with his/her team shall be suspended for the balance of the season and for one year thereafter.

Responsibility to the Laws of the Game

1. Coaches should be thoroughly acquainted with and demonstrate a working knowledge of the Laws of the Game.

2. Coaches are responsible to assure their players understand the intent as well as the application of the Laws.

3. Coaches are responsible for their players’ actions on the field and must not permit them to perform with intent of causing injury to opposing players.

Responsibility to Officials

1. Officials must have the support of coaches, players and spectators. Coaches must always refrain from criticizing officials in the presence of players or spectators. Professional respect, before, during and after the game, should be mutual.

2. Comments regarding an official should be made in writing to the appropriate organization assigning the official.

Your behavior as coach must be such as to bring credit to yourself, our organization and the sport of soccer. You must use your influence on your spectators that demonstrate intimidating and/or unacceptable behavior towards officials, player(s) and opposing team members.

I the undersigned, have read, understand and agree to abide by the above guidelines. I agree to accept actions taken for failure to abide by these guidelines.

Dated ____________ Coach Signature _______________________________