Susquehanna Soccer Club Code of Conduct
(Updated & Approved 8/22/24)

I, the parent/guardian of the registrant, a minor, or adult registrant of legal age, agree that I and the registrant will abide by the rules of the EPYSA, and its affiliated organizations and sponsors. Recognizing the possibility of physical injury associated with soccer and in consideration for the EPYSA accepting the registrant for its soccer programs and activities ('the Programs'), I hereby release, discharge and/or otherwise indemnify the EPYSA, its affiliated organizations and sponsors, their employees and associated personnel, including the owners of fields and facilities utilized for the Programs, against any claim by or on behalf of the registrant as a result of registrant’s participation in the Programs, and/or being transported to or from the same which transportation I hereby authorize.

The philosophy of the Susquehanna Soccer Club is exemplified by the Code of Conduct published by the US Soccer Federation, and the local leagues and state league in which the club is a member. Each player, coach, and parent/guardian will be instructed on the Club's Code of Conduct at the start of each new year and will be required to abide by this document. Spectators of matches shall also abide by this document. Checking this box affirms that I have read and will abide by the policies herein.

Failure to abide by this document could result in possible sanctions, up to and including dismissal from the Susquehanna Soccer Club, as determined by the Susquehanna Soccer Club Board of Directors. The Club Board of Directors shall always rule in favor of protecting the child/player.

PARENTS/GUARDIANS/SPECTATORS:

Perhaps the most important goal of the club is to make soccer an enjoyable experience for the players, their families, and spectators. Game emotions can easily run high, but remember it is only a game!

Be a great cheerleader; encourage the whole team, not just your child. Use positive language such as 'good ball', 'great hustle', or 'go team.'

Please do not coach from the sidelines or direct players, let the team and the coach communicate with each other. Too many mixed signals from parents on the sidelines to the players often leads to players becoming distracted and confused.

Do not ever abuse an official, either directly or indirectly, or respond to provocation from the opposing team. The club absolutely does not condone any behavior of this type including

inappropriate behavior by players, coaches, parents, spectators, or any league officials. Actions of this type will not be tolerated. Respect the rules, and above all accept the decision of the officials. Issues of conduct of the referee(s), official(s), and opposing teams, including spectators, should never be directly addressed to that individual, and should always be reported to the Susquehanna Soccer Club Board of Directors.

A league rule requires that parents/spectators stay on the opposite sides of the field, when possible, with their respective team; please adhere to this every game. Never attempt to enter the field of play during the game (unless called onto the field by a referee or other match official).

NO ALCOHOL, TOBACCO PRODUCTS (CIGARETTES, CHEWING TOBACCO, ETC.), VAPING PRODUCTS OR ILLEGAL DRUGS SHOULD EVER BE USED BY PLAYERS, PARENTS/GUARDIANS, SPECTATORS, COACHES, TEAM MANAGERS, OR TRAINERS WHEN THEY ARE ON THE SIDELINES, INSIDE THE CLUB FENCED AREAS, DURING A GAME OR AT PRACTICE.
(Observations of an individual or individuals violating this policy should be reported to a club staff member or board member.)

PLAYERS:

Treat teammates, coaches, parents, officials, and opposing players with respect. Respect the rules and accept the decisions of the officials. You need to give respect in order to gain respect.

Communicate openly with the coaching staff in a manner which is clear and constructive. If you have a question, get an answer, you will be helping yourself as well as other members of your team.

Encourage and cheer for your teammates. Lead by example. Demonstrate your hard work, good sportsmanship, discipline, and positive attitude.

Never use foul language. It is unnecessary, counterproductive, and unacceptable.

Never respond to provocation from opposing players, coaches, or parents. Be cool and confident. Be modest in victory and dignified in defeat.

Do not ever abuse an official, either directly or indirectly, or respond to provocation from the opposing team. The club absolutely does not condone any behavior of this type including inappropriate behavior by players, coaches, parents, spectators, or any league officials. Actions of this type will not be tolerated. Respect the rules, and above all accept the decision of the officials. Issues of conduct of the referee(s), official(s), and opposing teams, including spectators, should never be directly addressed to that individual, and should always be reported

to the Susquehanna Soccer Club Board of Directors.

TRAINERS, COACHES, AND TEAM MANAGERS:

Our trainers, coaches and team managers are ambassadors of our club and the face of our program, and as such share a philosophy of treating players, parents, other coaches, referees, league officials, and the game itself with dignity and respect.

All coaches and technical directors will conduct themselves in a way that demonstrates a positive role model to players, parents, and the club.

Do not ever abuse an official, either directly or indirectly, or respond to provocation from the opposing team. The club absolutely does not condone any behavior of this type including inappropriate behavior by players, coaches, parents, spectators, or any league officials. Actions of this type will not be tolerated. Respect the rules, and above all accept the decision of the officials. Issues of conduct of the referee(s), official(s), and opposing teams, including spectators, should never be directly addressed to that individual, and should always be reported to the Susquehanna Soccer Club Board of Directors.

I have read the Susquehanna Soccer Club Code of Conduct and acknowledge and agree to each of these principles. As a player, coach, trainer, team manager or family member I understand it is my responsibility to conduct myself at all times in a manner that will uphold the philosophy of the club.

Refund Policy:

Payment must be received before the uniform will be distributed to the player.

We will only consider refunds due to military, moving, or injury prior to the start of the season. After the season starts no refunds will be offered. In the case of any injury in lieu of a refund, a prorated credit may be offered for the next season. Your request for refund must be given in writing and has to be approved by the Susquehanna Soccer Club Board of Directors.