Code of Ethics

Adherence to all Club rules and policies and those of the NLSA especially those regarding eligibility, team formation, and player participation may never be violated. It is the responsibility of every coach to know and understand these rules.

Player development and the improvement of the player through coaching and participation is essential to the growth of the sport. The coach must always behave in such a manner that the principles, integrity, and dignity of the sport are maintained.

Any problems that cannot be resolved between coaches, assistant coaches, members, or other individuals regarding matters of the Club must be referred to the Club Executive as soon as possible and must never interfere with any Club activities or in any way be conducted in a manner that is not in keeping with the express philosophies and purposes of the Club.

Coaches should be knowledgeable with the laws of the game of soccer. Coaches are also responsible to ensure that their players understand the intent as well as the application of the rules.

Coaches must always adhere to the letter and spirit of the laws of the game.

Coaches are responsible for their player's actions on the field and must not permit them to violate this Code of Ethics or the philosophies of this Club.

The coach must strive constantly to teach good sporting behaviour.

Officials must always have the support of coaches, players, members, and spectators. Criticism of officials undermines the purpose of the game. Coaches must always refrain from and encourage all others to refrain from criticizing officials in the presence of players.

Coaches should strive to develop communication with officials giving each party an opportunity to better understand the problems relating to their specific area and provide an example to players of the benefits of cooperation.

On game day, officials should be treated with respect before, during, and after the game. Officials should be addressed politely and courteously. Professional respect should be mutual and there should be no demeaning dialogue or gesture between official, coach, member, or player. Coaches may never incite players or spectators or attempt to disrupt the flow of play.

Constructive comments or appropriate feedback regarding any official should be made in writing and submitted to the club referee-in-chief.

A coach's behaviour must be such as to bring credit to him/herself, the team, our Club, and the sport of soccer. This is never more evident than on the day of the contest.

Rival coaches should meet prior to the game and exchange friendly or professional greetings. While the concept of competition is recognized, it cannot take precedence over exemplary professional conduct.

During play, coaches have a responsibility to be as inconspicuous as possible. Coaches shall exhibit a respectful attitude towards all players. The coach must confine him/herself to an area not closer than ten feet to the mid-point of the playing field nor closer than twenty feet to the end line. The attitude of the coach towards officials, spectators, members, and all players should be controlled and undemonstrative.

It shall be unethical and subject to discipline for a coach to have a verbal altercation with an opposing coach, bench, official, or player during the game. Physical contact in any form is considered highly unethical and subject to the disciplinary processes of the Club.

Coaches shall cooperate to provide for the adequate preparation and maintenance of all fields and playing surfaces as assigned or requested.

I believe that true essence of sport is to strive for personal achievement and excellence through full and honest effort.

I am committed to participating in sport with integrity, and to striving to win only by legitimate means.

I pledge to learn, understand, and adhere to both the written rules of my sport and the accepted rules of fair play.

I believe that violence and physical intimidation are harmful to sport, and I refuse to use such tactics.

I understand that officials, teammates, and opponents are all integral to sport and are worthy of my respect.

All spectators will recognize the authority of the referees, coaches, and assistant coaches in maintaining the spirit of the game on the field of play prior to, during, and immediately following a game.

Parents/guardians watching on the sideline should sit quietly on the side and not raise their voices in anything but positive encouragement.

Foul or abusive language as well as derogatory acts and comments that are directed towards the referee, coaches, players, or any other spectators will not be tolerated.

Parents/Guardians/Spectators will not argue or dissent with referee decisions. Furthermore, they will not make statements or engage in other actions that could incite others.

All non-playing participants to any soccer game shall remain at least five feet back from the touchline and no closer than 10 yards to either goal line.

The referee, coach, or any Board Member has the authority to dismiss from the field of play anyone, including spectators, parents, or guardians, who do not adhere to these rules or other reasonable expectations of good behavior.