The primary responsibility of the youth soccer coach is to provide a safe and enjoyable learning environment for all the players while upholding the spirit of the game. Therefore, I agree to support the following: As leader of the team, I am responsible to the referee for the sportsmanlike conduct of my spectators. I will encourage them to cheer good plays by either team. I understand that spectator misconduct may result in game suspension, termination and eventual forfeiture (per FIFA Law V).

SPECTATORS:  As leader of the team, I am responsible to the referee for the sportsmanlike conduct of my spectators. I will encourage them to cheer good plays by either team. I understand that spectator misconduct may result in game suspension, termination and eventual forfeiture (per FIFA Law V).

REFEREES:  I recognize the difficult nature of the referee's job and that even the best referees make mistakes. Therefore, I will not allow comments from players, assistant coaches, or myself. I recognize that negative comments undermine the referee's authority in the eyes of the players and that I will work with the referee and support all FIFA Laws to help ensure the safety of all players and maintain the spirit of fair play. (Dissent or use of foul or abusive language is punishable under FIFA Law XII)

FELLOW COACHES:  I will treat all my fellow coaches in a friendly, dignified and sportsmanlike manner. I recognize the need to work with them to create a fair, enjoyable and safe game environment for the players and spectators.

PLAYER TREATMENT:  I will treat all players with dignity and respect at all times. I will not humiliate or intimidate them in any way. Further, I will respect their intelligence, their need to develop their own decision-making ability, and my own ability to effectively coach during practices. I will demonstrate this respect by refraining from continuously giving instructions from the sidelines during the game (per FIFA Law V, defined by decision 12 of the International F.A. Board).

PLAYING TIME:  I will ensure that all players who attend 1 practice in the week leading up to the game play a minimum of one half of the total elapsed time of the game.GOAL MARGIN:  Recognizing that it is part of my job to keep the game fun for all players I will try not to defeat another team by more than a 5-goal margin.DISCIPLINARY REVIEW:  If a coach is red or yellow carded or if a complaint is made to the FYS Board regarding the conduct of a coach, player or spectator, then that person will be notified and will be requested to explain their actions in writing in a timely manned. I understand that if I am found to be in violation of the Code, or of committing other misconduct that brings disrespect upon myself, my team or the Association, that the FYS Board, by a majority vote, may take appropriate measures to prevent such reoccurrence.

CONCLUSION:  It is expected that all participants in FYS will take the time to read and understand the FIFA Laws, the rules appropriate to the league in which they will be playing, and strive to obey them. Further, it is the responsibility of the coach to learn, teach and adhere to the subtle points that differentiate the spirit of the game of soccer from accepted behavior in some other sports.