AYSO Region 211 Sportsmanship Program

Our division directors work with our referee staff to evaluate all of the teams for an award in good sportsmanship for divisions U8 thru U16-19 (U5 and U6 do participate as each player in these divisions receive an individual award). These will be presented both in the spring and the fall.

> New line-up cards: The new line-up cards will be the only ones used. Referees will ask coaches for cards at the beginning of each game. (see new and old cards below)

> Assigning of points: Referees will complete the back of the card at the end of the game and then hand them in at the concession stand as soon as possible, but by the end of division play that day.

> Tallying: A volunteer will place the totals in their respective divisions and then totals them for the spring and fall season.

> Awards: Awards will be presented immediately before the final game of each season. There will be an individual trophy for each player and coach of each winning team.

> The cards:

> Clarification: We are seeking to make this a better experience for your child. In keeping with our directive that coaches should coach, referees should referee and parents should cheer-our overview thoughts on sportsmanship are:

Respect all players and their volunteer coaches and staff;
Never chastise, always cooperate with the volunteer referees;
Spectators should cheer for not only an individual player, but for the entire team, and avoid "sideline" coaching or directing the players.

Example: If a goal is scored, parents can cheer, "good job blue" or whatever color or team name they might be-because not just that one player scored, it was a team effort to get to that point. Please remember, our desire is to see everyone cheering for not only one child but the entire team, while making it a positive and less confusing experience for your child on the field, the coach, the referee and spectators, as well.

> Guidelines: This is how the points will be awarded , so read carefully and discuss at the pre-season parents' meeting: Scoring for all categories is the same:

If all 6 items within the category are present, a 5+ will be awarded.

If 5 are present, 5 will be awarded.

If 4 are present, 4 will be awarded.

If 3 are present, 3 will be awarded.

The + will be used in the event of a tie.

NOTE:  Anyone filling out the score should remember to start the scoring from 3 and work out in either direction--NOT start at 5 and work down.  This just results in a default score of 25.

Conduct of Players

(0-5 points possible)

•  Abide by rules

•  Clean language

•  Positive attitude

•  Commend opponents during play

•  Considerate of other team players; i.e. "Help up from ground"

•  Thank referees at end of game

Conduct of Spectators

(0-5 points possible)

•  Avoid coaching players

•  Congratulate both teams

•  Stand in correct area and out of linesman's way

•  Thank referee

Conduct of Coaches

(0-5 points possible)

•  Demonstrate knowledge of rules

•  Show respect for players

•  Avoid warm-up in the goal area

•  Avoid constant coaching

•  Appropriate attitude to refs

•  Thank refs at end of game

Conduct Towards Referees

(0-5 points possible)

•  Most players thank referees

•  Coach(es) thank referees

•  Parents thank referees

•  No complaints from players

•  No complaints from coaches

•  No complaints from parents

A fourth category will be scored, but only used if a final tiebreaker is necessary:

Uniform Appearance

(0-5 points possible)

•  Shin guards inside socks

•  Correct color of socks and shorts

•  Keep shoes tied

•  All shirts tucked in

•  No inappropriate jewelry

•  Eye glasses correctly secured

> Coaches' responsibilities: It is the responsibility of the coaches to educate the parents and players of the new sportsmanship program. It is suggested that the parents are enlightened at the pre-season parents' meeting and reminded on several other occasions, perhaps at end of practices. If necessary we can produce an information sheet for parents that the coaches can duplicate for distribution. When preparing the line-up cards, coaches must make sure their team and division number are both clearly marked otherwise they may lose valuable points!

•  Coach your team and instruct your team parents about how to play and support in a sportsmanlike manner. Use the "sportsmanship guidelines" as a reference list.

•  Before each game, prepare your line-up card by writing in each child's name. Note the format on the back of the card. The cards must be used for your team to be eligible for sportsmanship points. The division and # of your team must be legible or points cannot be awarded.

•  At the beginning of each game, give your line-up card to the referee.

•  Set a great example to players and parents by coaching in a sportsmanlike manner. Again, check the "sportsmanship guidelines" if necessary.

•  At the end of the game, remember to thank the referee and allow him to complete the evaluation on the back of the card.

•  The referee will hand in the card to the usual place at the concession stand building.

•  Congratulate players and parents on their sportsmanlike behaviors.

With a positive attitude from all of us, we can help our kids to learn some important values. Let's show them what sportsmanship is all about! Enjoy!