To all SSA teams,

There has been an increase over the last few seasons of inappropriate behavior by coaches, players and, most especially, parents of many teams from many clubs. This is true in all leagues. Some of these incidents have been minor but some have been major problems with threats and actions being made that have no place in youth soccer.

In an effort to reinforce in everyone’s mind the need for proper behavior both in the games and on the sidelines, the Seneca Soccer Association is instituting an official club policy that all club members must follow. We require that all team officials, players and parents read, sign and submit a Code of Conduct to the club prior to each season.

You will find the appropriate forms available below. There is one form for the coaches, assistant coaches and managers; one form for the players; and one form for the parents or guardians. We expect at least one parent from each family to read and sign the form.

The forms, when completed, should be mailed to our club address. The club will keep them on file for the season in the event that any of our teams are involved in cases requiring action by the league R&D committees of NCSL, WAGS, OBSL, BBSL, MSI, etc.

It is my hope that you will not view this as a punishment or chore, but as an action designed to keep our club members safe. If we are acting properly and showing good behavior at our games, then hopefully our opponents will do the same. Sometimes we just need a reminder that this is youth soccer and not war and all of our actions contribute to either a good experience or a bad experience for our children.

Please read the forms carefully. I want everyone to know what is expected of them.

Obviously, we as a club cannot monitor each game and it’s up to each of you to control yourselves and each other. If situations come up during games that you feel are wrong, I hope that you will think about the words on these forms and control your anger and response.

I want to set an example to all of the leagues that the Seneca Soccer Association is serious about our efforts toward fair play and sportsmanship by our coaches, players and parents.

I will expect to receive them no later than the first game of each season.

Thank you for your help in this effort to make youth soccer a safer, better place for your children.

Lance Van Winter, President SSA