Soccer Parent Expectations

Practices

Practice is the most important element in soccer development. Parents/guardians and players are expected to ensure players:

• Notify the coach of an anticipated absence well in advanced of the practice, whenever possible;
• Are at the field ready for practice no less than 5 minutes before the start time;
• Are prepared (this includes proper training gear including shorts, t-shirt, soccer socks, shin pads, soccer shoes and appropriate apparel for colder weather, as well as a water bottle).

Games and Tournaments

The focus of the season is the team’s participation in games. It is important for the team to be present prior to the kick-off of the game. As such parents/guardians and players are expected to:

• Notify the coach of absence in advanced of the game in order that the proper adjustments to strategy and player roster can be made;
• Be at the field no less than 15 minutes, ready to play, and prior to kick-off. Note that the coach may ask you to be there earlier;
• Be prepared (this includes proper game gear including shorts, t-shirt, soccer socks, shin pads, soccer shoes and appropriate apparel for colder weather, as well as a water bottle).

Sideline Behavior

In particular, parents/guardians are expected to adhere to the following rules when attending a game or practice.

• DO encourage your child.
• DO encourage the team.
• DO treat the other team, the referee and other parents with respect.
• DO set a good example for the players. Refrain from smoking or other inappropriate activities in the vicinity of the field.
  
  
• DO NOT instruct the players.
• DO NOT speak to or question the referee.
• DO NOT use foul or abusive language.
• DO NOT question the player choice or tactics of the coach.
• DO NOT criticize the coach or the players.

On Field Behavior

Players are expected to:

• Treat their coaches, team mates, referees and parents/guardians with respect;
• Come prepared to play and learn;
• Refrain from using foul and abusive language; and
• Play as a team.

Concerns

Springfield Soccer has an open door policy for concerns. Problems should be identified and dealt with at the earliest possible time. Concerns should be voiced to the following:

• Coach
• Board Member (call the main soccer number, 419.350.0714)

Consequences

If parents/guardians or players cannot follow these guidelines, the coach or the League may take any one or all of the following steps:

• Warn the parent/guardian/player about their behavior; have them re-read the expectations and Fair Play Code;
• Ask the parent/guardian to no longer attend games and practices;
• Reduce the playing time of the player; and/or
• Remove the child from the team.