LSC Coaches Code of Conduct
The position of coach is an important responsibility. Players look up to the coach and respect the coach’s position. The behavior of the coach is constantly under observation by his/her players and they will strive to imitate the coach’s actions. Spectators will often follow the coach’s example as the coach sets the tone for competitions. With that in mind, the Lewistown Soccer Club sets forth the following CODE OF CONDUCT for our coaches.
I WILL:
In line with SafeSport guidelines, coaches are asked to avoid being alone with a player in a coaching or other capacity where others cannot observe (e.g. giving a player a ride home, texting an individual player). Be aware that improper conduct, including inappropriate relationships with players and/or other abuses of power, inappropriate comments or physical contact with players will be grounds for dismissal and may result in legal action.
All coaches are subject to the policies, rules and sanctions, set forth in the MYSA Policy Manual which can be found at: https://www.montanayouthsoccer.com/assets/57/6/current_mysa_policy_manual_1.31.2021.pdf
I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any/all of the following actions may be taken by my Club / League:
By signing, I also acknowledge I have read and agree with the Player Code of Conduct.
Coach’s Signature: ________________________________________ Date:_____________
LSC Director: ____________________________________________ Date: _____________
Please contact a Board Member or Senior Coach if you have questions or need support. Thank you for coaching! We look forward to a great season!
The position of coach is an important responsibility. Players look up to the coach and respect the coach’s position. The behavior of the coach is constantly under observation by his/her players and they will strive to imitate the coach’s actions. Spectators will often follow the coach’s example as the coach sets the tone for competitions. With that in mind, the Lewistown Soccer Club sets forth the following CODE OF CONDUCT for our coaches.
I WILL:
- Set a positive example and promote good sportsmanship among players, foster team camaraderie, and help participants have fun while teaching players the technical skills and rules of soccer.
- Place the emotional and physical well-being of players ahead of a personal desire to win, refraining from displaying a “win at all costs” attitude. Emphasize playing hard to win, over winning itself.
- Treat each player as an individual, remembering the large range of emotional and physical development for the same age group. Coach higher skilled and lower skilled players with equal vigor. Make corrections calmly and positively, remembering to also tell the player what he/she is doing well.
- Refrain from loud, negatively-toned coaching from the sidelines during games. While brief directions serve a purpose at times, the better approach is to call the player to you and give instructions, or sub the player out, give instructions, and then return the player to the game.
- Treat the referee with respect, no matter what the call, and teach players to do the same. The coach shall not indulge in conduct which would incite players or spectators against the officials. (See MYSA Policy 2-800). If there is a clear need to ask a question or impart information to a referee, the team captain may politely approach the referee.
- Respect the players and coaches of the opposing team and demonstrate appropriate gestures of sportsmanship at the conclusion of game. Take appropriate steps to minimize scoring during runaway games, using the opportunity to work on tactics and skills. View the other team as an opponent, not an enemy.
- Provide a sports environment for the team that is free from alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and illegal drugs and refrain from their use during youth soccer practices, games, and events (MYSA Policy 2-100).
- Provide an emotionally safe environment for players. Coaches will maintain control of their emotions, refrain from yelling or otherwise taking out frustration on players, and refrain from physically aggressive behaviors (e.g. kicking a chair, throwing sports equipment). Coaches will not allow players to bully or haze another player in any form. Coaches will refrain from talking negatively about a player in front of other players.
- Coaches will not allow spectators to make demeaning comments to players, referees, or members of the opposing team, and will engage the help of the field marshal when necessary.
- Provide a physically safe environment for players. Never pressure an athlete to play through an injury. Provide prompt first aid for injuries. Allow necessary water and rest. If an athlete receives a blow to the head, remove the player from the field and evaluate for concussion. Remember that I am a youth soccer coach, and that the game is for children and not adults.
- Coach clean, skillful, honest and sportsmanlike soccer. Teach each player to be humble and generous in victory, and proud and courteous in defeat.
In line with SafeSport guidelines, coaches are asked to avoid being alone with a player in a coaching or other capacity where others cannot observe (e.g. giving a player a ride home, texting an individual player). Be aware that improper conduct, including inappropriate relationships with players and/or other abuses of power, inappropriate comments or physical contact with players will be grounds for dismissal and may result in legal action.
All coaches are subject to the policies, rules and sanctions, set forth in the MYSA Policy Manual which can be found at: https://www.montanayouthsoccer.com/assets/57/6/current_mysa_policy_manual_1.31.2021.pdf
I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any/all of the following actions may be taken by my Club / League:
- Required to meet with LSC Board of Directors, or representatives from the Board.
- Monitoring by another Club coach or Board representative.
- Required to attend a MYSA education course.
- Suspension by the Club from coaching duties and /or attending matches.
- Suspension or fined by the League.
- Legal action in cases when a law has been broken / gross misconduct and endangerment of youth.
By signing, I also acknowledge I have read and agree with the Player Code of Conduct.
Coach’s Signature: ________________________________________ Date:_____________
LSC Director: ____________________________________________ Date: _____________
Please contact a Board Member or Senior Coach if you have questions or need support. Thank you for coaching! We look forward to a great season!