The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (MYSA) Board of Directors approved the implementation of Codes of Conduct for Coaches, Parents, Players and Referees and a Zero Tolerance Policy by unanimous consent. MYSA has required all member organizations adopt the Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policies and that the same be effective as of February 1, 2023.
Codes of Conduct are located on the Safe Soccer section of the MYSA website found here.
As parents, adhering to the following guidelines will go a long way in making your child's soccer experience an enjoyable one:
- Encourage Your Child, Win or Lose:
- Support and motivate your child irrespective of the game's outcome.
- Realistic Goals:
- Avoid setting unrealistic goals. Be aware of your child's age and ability level.
- Respect Opponents:
- Show respect to your child's opponents. Refrain from addressing them directly, except to cheer for good play.
- Safety First:
- Provide a safe playing environment by ensuring your child has the correct equipment.
- All children must wear shin guards to play. No hats or jewelry, including watches, are allowed for the safety of the children.
- Positive Encouragement:
- Be the best fan and cheerleader for your child and their teammates. Encourage positive play.
- Positive Role Model:
- Avoid using foul or abusive language during games. Be a positive role model for all children.
- Respect Coaches:
- Leave coaching to the coaches. Refrain from coaching your child from the sideline.
- Communicate openly and kindly with coaches after the game if you have concerns. Remember, coaches are volunteers and may make mistakes.
- Field Etiquette:
- Stay away from goalkeepers during play. Parents should be on one side of the field, and players and coaches on the opposite side. No one should sit behind the nets.
- Respect Referees:
- Be respectful and supportive of referees and other game officials.
- Concussion Training:
- We strongly recommend parents and children take concussion training, such as EDC Concussion training.
- For children aged 3 to 10 years old, access another site [original link broken]. It is a cartoon site designed to hold their attention.
- Completing concussion training is mandatory for all youth involved in City of Boston activities.
- Field Issues:
- If you encounter any problems at the field, please seek assistance from one of the league officers.
- Remember, It's Just a Game:
- Always keep in mind that it is only a game. Have fun, and your child will too.
Thank you for your commitment to creating a positive and enjoyable soccer environment for all involved!