Fair Play Code for Parents
- I will not force my child to participate in sport.
- I will remember that my child plays soccer for his or her enjoyment, not for mine.
- I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
- I will teach my child that doing one’s best is as important as winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of the game or event.
- I will teach my child to feel like a winner every time by offering praise for competing fairly and trying hard.
- I will never ridicule or yell at my child for making a mistake or losing a competition.
- I will remember that children learn best by example. I will applaud good plays/performances by both my child’s team and their opponents.
- I will never question the officials’ judgment or honesty in public.
- I will support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children’s sporting activities.
- I will respect and show appreciation for the volunteer coaches who give their time to provide sport activities for my child.
Fair Play Code for Players
- I will participate because I want to, not just because my parents or coaches want me to.
- I will play by the rules and in the spirit of the game.
- I will control my temper – fighting and “mouthing off” can spoil the activity for everybody.
- I will respect my opponents.
- I will do my best to try and be a true team player.
- I will remember that winning isn’t everything – that having fun, improving my skills, making friends and doing my best are also important.
- I will acknowledge all good plays/performances –those of my team and my opponents.
- I will remember that coaches and officials are there to help me. I will accept their decisions and show them respect.
Fair Play Code for Coaches
- I will be reasonable when scheduling games and practices, remembering that young players have other interest and obligations.
- I will teach my players to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials and opponents.
- I will ensure that all players get equal instruction, and support.
- I will not ridicule or yell at the players for making mistakes or for performing poorly.
- I will remember that children play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves.
- I will ensure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the player’s ages and abilities.
- I will remember that children need a coach they can respect. I will be generous with praise and set a good example.
- I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my coaching skills.
Taken from First Steps Kicks Publication by the Canadian Soccer Association.