Code Of Conduct
As a parent, you play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of youngsters.
Through
your encouragement and good example, you can help all the boys and
girls learn good sportsmanship and self-discipline. In AYSO, young
people learn to work together, to sacrifice for the good of the team,
to enjoy winning and deal appropriately with defeat - all while
becoming physically fit and healthy. Best of all, they have fun.
Support Your Child
Supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team is very important.
Help
your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in
every game. Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are
often more important than victory - that way your child will always be a
winner despite the outcome of the game!
Always Be Positive
Parents serve as role models for their children. Be aware of this fact
and work to be a positive role model. Applaud good plays by your
child's team as well as good plays by the opposing team.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sports.
Remember: Your Child Wants To Have Fun
Remember that your child is the one playing soccer, not you. It's very
important to let children establish their own goals - to play the game
for themselves. Take care not to impose your own standards and goals on
them.
Don't put too heavy a burden on your child to win games.
Surveys reveal that 72% of children would rather play for a losing
team than ride the bench for a winning team.
Children play for the fun of playing.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their
goals and overcome their natural fear of failure. Nobody likes to make
mistakes. If your child does make one, remember it's all part of
learning, so encourage your child's efforts and point out the good
things your child accomplished.
Don't Be A Sideline Coach Or Referee
AYSO coaches and referees are usually parents just like you. They
volunteer their time to help make your child's soccer experience a
positive one. They need your support, too.
That means refrain
from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. In a volunteer
organization like AYSO there's always an opportunity to take your
interest in coaching or refereeing to the next level and become one
yourself!