CODE OF CONDUCT

Our governing principles for the Code of Conduct are derived from the Canada Soccer Code of Conduct and Ethics. This code is a relatively detailed and the full CSA code can be reviewed here.

All staff, coaches, parents, volunteers, and players of ALL ages must sign and agree to the Club Code of Conduct prior to each season. The Club Code of Conduct is the backbone of the Club Discipline Policy. The Club Code of Conduct is available on the club website. Copies are also available at registration

Coaching Staff

All members of the coaching staff are sport leaders and will maintain a high level of sportsmanship, professionalism and integrity both off and on the field of play. Managers and trainers are considered part of the coaching staff.
All members of the coaching staff will maintain and model the highest degree of respect for game officials, all members of the opposition, and the laws of the game of soccer.
The coaching staff will be reasonable when scheduling games and training sessions, remembering that young athletes have other needs and obligations.
All members of the coaching staff will obtain proper training and endeavour to improve their skills through educational opportunities in their respective coaching field.
The coaching staff will ensure that all players receive equal instruction, discipline and support.
The coaching staff will ensure that all players receive playing time in accordance with the level of play, the nature of the competition and the developmental stages of the athlete. Reasons for reductions in playing time must be clearly explained to the player.
The coaching staff will ensure that equipment and facilities are safe and appropriate to the players’ ages and abilities.
All members of the coaching staff will refrain from the use of alcohol or drugs, including tobacco/vaping products, in the presence of players.
All members of the coaching staff will refrain from using foul or abusive language and, furthermore, will not accept foul or abusive language from other members of the coaching staff, from parents or from players.
The coaching staff is responsible for ensuring that all coaches, players and parents involved with the team adhere to the Club Code of Conduct.
The coaching staff must deal with any violation of the Club Code of Conduct in a responsible and prudent manner. This includes reporting serious violations to the Club Technical Director or Club President with written facts.

Players

Players will play the game of soccer of their own accord, not because coaches or others want them to.
Players will maintain self-control and model the highest degree of respect for teammates, coaches, opposing players, game officials, and the laws of the game.
Players will fulfill their team commitments, be on time for games and training sessions, and will notify the coach or manager of any foreseen absences.
Players acknowledge that the coaching staff and officials are there to help them. Players must accept and respect their decisions.
Players will remember that “winning isn’t everything” – that having fun, improving skills, making friends and giving a complete effort are also important.
Players will not publicly remove their club jersey in anger or frustration, or disrespect their club name, club shield, and club crest or club logo at any time during any match or competition.
Players will demonstrate a healthy soccer lifestyle by avoiding the use of alcohol or drugs, including tobacco, at any team competition or training activity.
Players have a responsibility to their coach, team, club and community and will conduct and represent themselves accordingly by demonstrating the highest levels of sportsmanship, integrity and respect both off and on the field of play.
Players may receive reduced playing time, suspensions or removal from the team for breaches to the Club Code of Conduct.

Parents

Parents will not force their child to participate in soccer.
Parents will do their best to help their child fulfill their team commitments.
Parents will encourage their child to play by the rules, in the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship, and to respect the decisions of game officials.
Parents will never question the official’s judgment or honesty in public or in front of their child, recognizing that officials are being developed in the same manner as players.
Parents will not coach, give instruction to, or ridicule any player from the sideline, no matter what the situation.
Parents should give praise to players, including the opposition, for good performances, hard work and fair play so that players see other beneficial outcomes to sport besides winning.
Parents will support all efforts to remove all forms of abuse and neglect from our game.
Parents will respect and show appreciation for the volunteers and paid personnel who work on behalf of the sport.
Parents will adhere to all team initiatives that includes tournaments, fundraising and any other initiatives to best support their child and their experience.
Parents will adhere to a 24-48 hour cooling off period before discussing any grievance or concern.
Parents will first approach the team manager if they have an issue or concern. Failing resolution from this point, the chain of inquiry shall be Coach, then the Technical Director and then the Club President.