Coach code of conduct

Before any training or game

All coaches, every season. None of these can wait until after the first practice.

• SafeSport certification

  Required by federal law.

• STYSA background check

  Approved, not just submitted.

• Concussion training

  Completed before you take the field.

Practice and game conduct

• Coaches are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes prior to practices and 30 minutes prior to games to prepare fields as needed (lining, setting up nets, etc.) and should not leave any practice or game field until all players have been released to their parents.
• Keep your sessions fun, engaging and challenging to ensure players are setting soccer activities as a priority.
• Coaches are responsible and will be held accountable for the behavior of the players, spectators, and themselves.
• Keep all interactions with the opposing team’s coaches, players and spectators as positive as possible. The opposing team is not the enemy. Treat everyone with respect and courtesy and awareness that both teams want to win. Avoid making any negative comments and keep any negative feelings to yourself.
• Respect the referees. Chat with the referees prior to your game to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding game policies. Avoid criticizing the referees. Your parents and players will follow your lead.
• Do not encourage your team to run up the score on another team. Unbalanced games happen, but there are creative ways to challenge a superior team that can potentially even the playing field.
• Frequently, due to low referee availability, younger teams’ coaches may be asked to referee their games. Even at this age, kids may need to be reminded of soccer etiquette.

Coaching protocol

• Soccer is the players’ game. The paramount concern of coaches is the holistic development, welfare, enjoyment and safety of their players.
• Coaches bear responsibility for teaching their players to strive for success while playing fairly, observing the Laws of the Game and the highest levels of sportsmanship.
• Players at the Academy and Recreational level should receive equal playing time during games regardless of player skill or game score.
• Make sure each player understands their role and every once in a while, put them in a role they are not accustomed to playing and make a mental note of how they deal with the situation. Keep the game challenging to keep your players engaged.
• All coaching questions should be directed to the Recreational Commissioner. If they are unavailable, please communicate with the Registrar or Vice President. At least one of these individuals should be available on the fields during game days.