Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Core Values and Ethical Standards

The Code of Conduct has been developed to clarify and distinguish approved and accepted professional, ethical and moral behavior from that which is detrimental to the development of the sport of soccer.  The term “coach” shall include, but is not limited to Head Coach, Assistant Coaches, Manager/Trainers, Team representative.

  • The coach must never place the value of winning over the safety and welfare of players. Winning should be the result of preparation and discipline with the emphasis placed on the highest ideal and character traits.
  • Coaches shall instruct players to play within the written laws of the game and within the sprit of the game at all times.
  • Coaches shall not seek unfair advantage by teaching deliberate unsportsmanlike behavior to players.
  • Coaches are responsible for their player’s actions on the field and must not permit them to perform with the intent of causing injury to opposing players.
  • If coaches permit, encourage, or condone performance that is not in the letter or spirit of the laws, they are derelict in their responsibilities to players, Member Associations, TN Soccer and the sport worldwide. The coach must strive constantly to teach good sporting behavior.
  • Demands on players’ time should never be extensive as to interfere with academic goals and progress. Motivation for excellence should include academics as well as athletics.
  • Coaches must never encourage players to violate TN Soccer recruitment eligibility or guest player rules and policies.
  • Under no circumstances should coaches authorize or encourage the use of medical or performance enhancing drugs. Player should be directed to see proper medical attention for injuries and to follow physician’s instructions regarding treatments and recovery. At no time should a player be put at risk by returning from injury prematurely or being forced to play while injured.
  • Criticism of officials undermines their purpose in the game. Coaches must always try to refrain from criticizing officials in the presence of their players.
  • Coaches should know and understand the laws of the game and instruct players to play within the laws and the spirit of the game at all times.
  • Coaches should continue their own education in the sport in order to be able to educate the player in technical, tactical, physical and psychological demands of the game for their level.
  • Coaches should be sensitive to each child’s developmental needs, strive to have each player reach his/her full potential and be prepared to move to the next stage of development.
  • Coaches and team representatives shall strictly adhere to TN Soccer and league rules pertaining to recruitment.
  • It is illegal recruitment to promise any kind of compensation or inducement to a player. It is unethical for a coach or team representative to provide compensation or inducement to a player. It is unethical for any coach to make a statement to a prospective athlete, which cannot be fulfilled.
  • The coach has an ethical obligation to be forthright and refrain from making derogatory remarks regarding other coaches, teams, players or organizations when discussing the advantages of his/her organization.

Code of Conduct for Players

  • To encourage good sportsmanship from fellow players, coaches, officials and parents at all times.
  • To do the best I can each day, remember that all players have talents and weaknesses the same as I do.
  • To treat my coaches, other players and coaches, game officials, other administrators, and fans with respect at all times: regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability, and I will expect to be treated accordingly.
  • I will exercise self-control and control my temper, resisting the temptation of retaliation.
  • While traveling, shall conduct oneself so as to being credit to themselves, their team, their family and TUSC.
  • Alcohol, illegal drugs and unauthorized prescription drugs shall not be possessed, consumed or distributed before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex.
  • To know and respect the rules of soccer and TUSC and abide by them at all times.
  • Show respect and courtesy to officials and coaches by following their instructions and direction.
  • Respect the game officials and refrain from addressing them or commenting on their decisions during or after the game.
  • Avoiding the use of abusive or profane language, taunting or humiliating remarks, and/or gestures and physical assault upon another player at any time.
  • Respect the coaches and players of the opposing team and display sportsmanship at the conclusion of a game and be humble and generous to victory and courteous in defeat.
  • Follow all Association rules, respecting at all times the property of others.
  • Attendance at training and all games is mandatory for development. Make up sessions will be pre-approved by the team coach and attendance will be expected.
  • Players should bring cleats, running shoes, shin guards, water, and properly inflated soccer ball to practice.
  • Players are expected to show respect for all coaches and adhere to all instructions.
  • Players shall be on time and prepared for all practices and games as outline by their coach. All team practices, meetings and activities are essential for player development; the coach or team representative must be notified in each instance in which a player is unable to attend a scheduled team activity or will be late.
  • Players are expected to wear the approved and club uniform during practices and games.
  • Playing time is not automatic; it is earned. Players normally will receive enough playing time for their continued development. However, the coach will determine an individual player's actual playing time. Playing may not be equal in a game or weekend. Playing time should be measured over the course of the season.
  • Players should strive constantly for high academic achievement and scholastic standing. Players need to know that in order to participate in high school athletics, TSSAA requirements state that five (5) subjects must be passed in the semester prior to player participation in any high school sport.
  • TUSC’s select program is a full year commitment, running nine to ten months, depending upon the team. Players may not switch teams in the middle of the season unless exceptional circumstances occur. The switch will require DOC approval. Team rosters are updated annually through a tryout process.

Code of Conduct for Parents

The parent’s role is one of support to the players, coaches and club. Parents should not engage in “coaching” from the sidelines, criticize players, coaches or game officials or try to influence the makeup of the team at any time. Please set the example by exemplifying the highest standards of sportsmanship. Parents participate in a game by watching, cheering and supporting the efforts of ALL participants. Every parent is expected to abide by the following code of conduct.

Parents are not permitted to approach the coach about playing time or on-field issues directly after the completion of any game.  Parents are permitted to contact the coach 24 hours after the last game to discuss their child’s playing time or other issues.  If the matter cannot be resolved between the coach and the parent, then the DOC can be brought in to help resolve any concerns or issues.

Parents will follow all TUSC rules; respecting at all times the property of others. Parents shall stay current on all financial obligations to TUSC and the team. TUSC’s select program is a full year commitment, running eight to ten months depending on the team.

  • When communicating with the coach parents shall avoid “reply all” email chains with concerns and shall call the coach or TUSC directly to discuss such concerns.
  • At no time should a parent approach the coach during a game. All parents should stay on the opposite side of the field at all times. No parent should come onto the field for any reason during the game.
  • Players have more need for good examples than for criticism. Attempt to relieve the pressure of the competitions, not increase it.
  • Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.
  • Do not openly question an official’s judgments or honesty. Officials are symbols of fair player, integrity and sportsmanship. Officials are not to be approached or confronted during or after the game
  • Accept the results of each game. Encourage your child to be gracious in victory, and to see defeat as a learning experience by working towards improvement. Losing is part of a player’s development and can be useful for players to learn about character and discipline among other things.
  • The game is for the players not the adults and their participation and enjoyment is the most important element
  • Understand that players win and lose games and not coaches. Soccer is a player’s game and always will be. Unlike many sports such as football, baseball and basketball where coaches can have a direct influence on the game with their decisions, soccer is a free-flowing game where the ball and the situation changes frequently. Consequently, soccer coaches have very little influence on the game and the players are the ones that determine the outcome.
  • Encourage your players to always play by the rules.
  • Parents are expected to have their child on time for training and games.
  • They are expected to notify the coach or team representative in each instance in which a player is unable to attend a scheduled team activity or arrive on time.
  • Treat coaches, other players and game officials, administrators and opposing fans with respect at all times; regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability.
  • Allow the coach to be the only coach. You might be telling your child to do the exact opposite of what the coach has told him or her to do, and this will only frustrate the player and can have a negative affect on their performance.
  • Refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon TUSC or its members or programs. Please do not use alcohol, tobacco, or drugs on or near the playing or practice field.