Code of Conduct

It is the objective of Milton Soccer to ensure that programs remain a fun and safe environment in which our children can learn and enjoy the game of soccer. Our programs are accessible to children with a wide range of abilities, and our goal is to promote the development of skills, not total wins or other statistics. Coaches, players, parents, and referees should all work together to create a positive learning and playing environment. An emphasis on fair play and respect for all participants is a primary element of our mission. To better achieve that mission, we provide the following Codes of Conduct for all Milton players, parents and coaches.

These Codes of Conduct are a covenant between Milton players, parents, and coaches to abide by the rules and regulations of the game, as well as to maintain a cooperative attitude and uphold the ideals of fair play and sportsmanship. These Codes express our core values and goals. It is essential they be honored and followed.

The Codes of Conduct can be summarized in the following three principles:

1. Demonstrate a Positive Attitude

Players, parents, and coaches are expected to show a positive, respectful attitude for everyone involved in the sport. Criticism and disrespect for officials, opponents, coaches or fans undermine the purpose of sport and encourage behavior contrary to the spirit of the game and the mission of Milton Soccer.

2. Set a Good Example

Each person associated with Milton Soccer is accountable for his/her own behavior at all times on or off the field of play. Parents, coaches and other adults should remember that children learn by example - it is up to the adults to set good examples. Milton Soccer will not tolerate conduct that is detrimental to the sport, the participants, or the community. Such conduct includes: Vulgarity by coaches, players or parents; harassment or belittling of officials, coaches or players; verbal abuse, threats or physical violence toward anyone before, during or after a match; and the taunting of opposing players, coaches and parents. We require thorough self-restraint by all participants - both players and adults. Teams must exercise appropriate control over those who fail to control themselves.

3. Maintain Good Relationships

Officials - The referee's job is a difficult one. All referees are human and they do make mistakes. Parents or players who believe their team has been treated unfairly or has been assigned an unqualified referee should speak to their coach after the game. Coaches should inform the appropriate league officials about blatant officiating problems. Managers should make reports through appropriate channels, including written evaluations where available. In accordance with FIFA laws, verbal abuse toward a referee can result in a red card and ejection for the player, coach or parent. Referees have the authority to suspend play if a coach does not control his players and parents/supporters.

Opponents - Players and coaches are required to maintain a sense of fair play and be respectful of opposing players, coaches and fans at all times. Sportsmanship begins with respect. Without it, the positive competitive environment, which should be a perfect classroom for learning the values of soccer, is completely undermined. Occasionally we will encounter opponents who do not share our values and high standards. If we allow ourselves to be drawn down to their level, we will have lost regardless of the final score.

Our Own Team - In an environment where our children are competing not only against other teams but also frequently against each other, it can be difficult to control jealousies and rivalries. A successful team resembles a family in that members put their own needs second, behind the greater good of the team. Great care must be taken not to undermine the coaches’ authority. As in most cases, parental example is all-important.

COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT

As a coach participating in Milton Soccer I will:

Place the emotional and physical well being of my players ahead of a personal desire to win.
Provide a safe playing environment for my players.
Promise to review and practice basic first-aid principles needed to treat injuries to my players.
Strive to keep abreast of current learning techniques and knowledge of the game. I will listen and learn from my players and other coaches.
Do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging to my players.
Lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all my players.
Maintain control of my emotions and I will avoid actions, language and/or gestures that may be interpreted as hostile or humiliating.
Take appropriate steps to minimize scoring in runaway games.
Treat parents, players, fans, other coaches and officials with respect and I will expect to be treated accordingly.
Remember that as a Coach, I represent Milton Soccer and the community. I understand poor behavior during practices, games, or tournaments may result in disciplinary actions, including game suspensions.
Before, during and after games be an example of dignity, patience and positive spirit:

Before a game, introduce yourself to the opposing coach and to the referee.

During 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.

During the game, you are also responsible for the conduct of the parents of your players. It is imperative to explain acceptable player and parent behavior in a preseason meeting. Encourage them to applaud and cheer for good plays by either team. Discourage them (and you may need to be forceful and direct) from yelling at the players and the referee.

During the game, you are also responsible for the conduct of spectators rooting for your team.

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.

Milton Soccer's Codes of Conduct are consistent with those of BAYS and of the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (MYSA). For more information please visit MYSA's Codes of Conduct via the links below.