Zia Youth Soccer Code of Conduct
(Updated 10/20/2023)
Children's sports are supposed to be fun - for the children. Unfortunately, many parents, fans and coaches don't realize that their actions, whether verbal or nonverbal, can have a lasting emotional effect on children. Too many children are leaving sports activities because the fun is unfairly taken away by adults. Parents, fans and coaches who follow this simple code can help reinforce what sports are all about... BEING FUN FOR EVERYONE. The essential elements of character-building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and its six core principles:
TRUSTWORTHINESS, RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, FAIRNESS, CARING, AND GOOD CITIZENSHIP
The highest potential of sports is achieved when athletic practice and play reflect these "six pillars of character."
Therefore, as a requirement to register a child to participate in any Zia Youth Soccer program, I agree:
~ TO HONOR THE RECREATIONAL, NON-COMPETITIVE NATURE OF ZIA SOCCER PROGRAMS AT ALL TIMES.~
FURTHER, I will not force my child to participate in sports.
I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the program is designed for the benefit and enjoyment of the participating youth, not adults.
I understand that my child's coach is my league point of contact during the active season.
I will inform the coach directly of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others.
I will fully read and understand the rules and policies of the organization posted on this website prior to registering my child for participation.
I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage good sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating support for all players, coaches, and other participants and supporters.
I (and my guests) will protect the right of the players to enjoy their activity in a positive environment. As such, I shall not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any participant, supporter or observer, at any time.
I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the athletes.
I will teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, and supporters with respect regardless of race, creed, nationality, religion, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, or ability.
I will teach my child the value of doing one's best, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of his or her efforts or performance.
I will praise my child for participating fairly and trying hard.
I will never ridicule or yell at my child or any other participant for making a mistake.
I will emphasize the many benefits of skill development and practices, and with de-emphasize games and competition.
I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes at all times.
I will respect the coaches, administrators, and other volunteers and their respective authority, and will never question, discuss, harass or confront them aggressively or inappropriately. I will handle any concerns that arise in a respectful and professional manner. Foul language and/or any abbreviation or acronym thereof will NOT be tolerated under any circumstances and will result in immediate disciplinary action for the protection of the organization and its participants. Verbal (including written) abuse, harassment, threats, and/or assault of ANY participant with this organization will NOT be taken lightly.
I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, alcohol, and all forms of tobacco, including e-cigarettes, and I will refrain from their use at all sports events. This includes both on the field and in parking areas.
I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during organized sessions, unless I am a registered coach of the team.
By registering your child to participate in any Zia Soccer program you also agree that if you fail to abide by the aforementioned rules and guidelines, the parent/guardian and/or guest will be subject to disciplinary action that could include, but is not limited to the following:
A SINGLE verbal and/or written warning by coach, field volunteer, administrator, or other representative of the organization, a copy of which any written form will be kept on file by administration. Conduct violations are not given second warnings.*
Suspension from the remainder of the session, with written documentation of the incident(s) and suspension kept on file by league administration. Such suspension may be extended to the entire remainder of the season, if necessary, as deemed appropriate by league administration.
Permanent suspension from any and all of the organization's activities, with written documentation of incident(s) and suspension to be kept on file by administration. Any credits existing on a registrant's account at the time of permanent suspension shall be forfeited.
*Warnings are a courtesy, not a requirement. ALL registrants, participants, and their guests are subject to any level of the above disciplinary action for any infraction of this Code of Conduct at any time, at the full discretion of administration.
NOTE: ANY confirmed physical confrontation, or threatening verbal (including written) confrontation, by a parent, coach, or other participant or spectator, will be grounds for IMMEDIATE seasonal or permanent suspension of the offending party.
We thank you for your cooperation with this code of conduct, and for doing your part to ensure that all of Zia Soccer's athletes are able to enjoy a positive and encouraging recreational soccer experience.
*Note: The Zia Soccer Code of Conduct is subject to revision as deemed necessary by the Board of Directors at any time with or without notice.