“It’s for the kids”

The following Codes of Conduct (sourced from the American Youth Soccer Organization) should be read, understood, and followed by all parents:

The AYSO Team

AYSO is an organization dedicated to child development in a soccer environment that is safe, fair and fun. The kids are the focus of the AYSO program, and the success of the program depends on the efforts of everyone involved. Three groups of people, working together, form the AYSO team, which creates the environment in which our children develop.

The coaches are the foundation of the AYSO team. They spend hours with the players every week, at practices and at the games, teaching them how to win, how to lose, how to work for an objective, and how to be a team, all through the vehicle of the game of soccer. In this way they become role models for the players and influence the players’ values and behavior.

The referees watch over the game, helping younger players with the rules, and making sure that the game is safe and fair for all. The referees set the tone of the competition, protect the players throughout the match, and provide the necessary authority on game day.

The spectators support the players’ activities in a positive and encouraging way. They create the environment in which the players, coaches and referees work. They also help to interpret the lessons of the game for the players after the match.

When these three groups work together, they create the necessary environment for our children to develop through soccer. The triangle created by these three groups represents that environment. It protects that players only as long as the three sides are firmly linked. If it comes apart at any corner, the triangle collapses, and it is the players inside who get hurt. Whatever role you play, keep the AYSO team in mind. Remember, it’s for the kids.