FYSA Code of Ethics

FYSA CODE OF ETHICS

This code of ethics has been developed to clarify and distinguish approved and accepted professional, ethical, and moral behavior from that which is detrimental to the development of the sport of soccer.

Players

1. I will encourage good sportsmanship from fellow players, coaches, officials and parents at all times.

2. I will remember that soccer is an opportunity to learn and have fun.

3. I deserve to play in an environment that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol; and expect everyone to refrain from their use at all soccer games.

4. I will do the best I can each day, remembering that all players have talents and weaknesses the same as I do.

5. I will treat my coaches, other players and coaches, game officials, other administrators, and fans with respect

at all times; regardless of race, sex, creed, or abilities, and I will expect to be treated accordingly.

6. I will concentrate on playing soccer. Always giving my best effort.

7. I will play by the rules at all times.

8. I will at all times control my temper, resisting the temptation of retaliation.

9. I will always exercise self-control.

10. My conduct during competition towards play of the game and all officials shall be in accordance with appropriate behavior and in accordance with FIFA’s “Laws of the Game,” and in adherence to FYSA rules.

11. I will not engage in hate speech.

12. While traveling, I shall conduct myself so as to bring credit to myself and my team.

13. I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs.

14. I will never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity.

Coaches/Volunteers

1. I will never place the value of winning before the safety and welfare of all players.

2. I will always show respect for players, other coaches, and game officials.

3. I will lead by example, demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship at all times.

4. I will demonstrate knowledge of the rules of the game and teach these rules to my players.

5. I will never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity.

6. I will not tolerate inappropriate behavior, regardless of the situation.

7. I will not allow the use of anabolic agents or stimulants, drugs, tobacco, or alcohol by any of my players.

8. I will never knowingly jeopardize the eligibility and participation of a student-athlete.

9. Youth have a greater need for example than criticism. I will be the primary soccer role model.

10. I will at all times conduct myself in a positive manner.

11. Coaching is motivating players to produce their best effort, inspiring players to learn, and encouraging players to be winners.

12. My actions on sidelines during games shall be in the spirit of “good sportsmanship” at all times. Profanity, profane gestures, arguing, inciting disruptive behavior by spectators and/or players, or any conduct not in the spirit of good sportsmanship, shall require disciplinary action from the affiliate.

13. I will not engage in hate speech.

14. I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs.

15. I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon FYSA, its members or its programs.

16. I will accurately and completely complete the coach/volunteer application form and by application attest to the accuracy of the information submitted.

Failure to comply with any part of the above Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) Code of Ethics may result in ethics charges being filed and may result in suspension from participation in FYSA sanctioned events, for the following periods:

1st offense -- suspension for a minimum of thirty (30) days to a maximum of five (5) years.

2nd offense -- suspension for a minimum of one (1) year to a maximum of ten (10) years.

3rd offense -- suspension for a minimum of five (5) years to a maximum of fifty (50) years.

NOTE: Allegations of a violation of the FYSA Code of Ethics shall afford the individual due process as defined in FYSA’s Rule Section 600 before the implementation of any suspension. Suspensions arising from Code of Ethics violations are to be imposed from the decision of the hearing panel, not retroactive.

Code of Ethics violations are separate and apart from game suspensions assessed by the referee for caution, ejection/send off, or post-game reports.

FYSA has established the following code of conduct for parent/spectators based on accepted professional, ethical, and moral behavior from that which is detrimental to the development of the sport of soccer.

Parents/Spectators

1. I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, game officials, and administrators at all times.

2. I will place the emotional and physical wellbeing of all players ahead of any personal desire to win.

3. I will support the coaches, officials, and administrators working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

4. I will remember that the game is for the players, not for the adults.

5. I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, game officials, administrators, and fans with respect.

6. I will always be positive.

7. I will always allow the coach to be the only coach.

8. I will not get into arguments with the opposing team’s parents, players, or coaches.

9. I will not come onto the field for any reason during the game.

10. I will not criticize game officials.

11. I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs.

12. I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon FYSA, its members or its programs.

13. I will not engage in hate speech.