PLAYERS

• Give maximum effort at practices and games, no matter what the score is. Hustle and work hard from start to finish.

• Be a good teammate. Support others, don't criticize. Help teammates improve their skills.

• Show respect for opponents before, during and after games. Don't trash talk or showboat.

• Accept referee calls without argument. Don't dispute or complain about officiating.

• Control emotions and avoid displays of anger and frustration. Compose yourself even when things don't go your way.

• Play by the rules at all times. Don't bend or break rules even if you think you won't get caught.

• Maintain self-discipline on and off the field. Make smart choices and represent the team well.

• Congratulate opponents after each game, win or lose. Be humble and gracious.

• Thank coaches, officials and others who contribute to the game. Appreciate their effort and time.

• Set personal goals focused on development, not just scoring or stats. Measure progress and take pride in improvement.

• Have fun! Enjoy being part of a team and playing the sport you love. Keep a positive attitude.

The bottom line is demonstrating integrity, selflessness and strong character. Uphold the team above your individual interests.

02

PARENTS

• Emphasize effort and learning over wins and losses. Praise values like teamwork rather than just goals scored.

• Avoid putting pressure on your child to succeed. Offer encouragement and avoid critiquing their performance.

• Respect coaches' decisions about playing time, positions, substitutions, etc. Avoid questioning their judgment.

• Model good sportsmanship in the stands. Cheer both teams and don't yell at referees, coaches or players.

• Make sure your child follows the rules and displays good behavior. Hold them accountable off the field.

• Help your child manage emotions. Provide perspective and encourage composure in difficult moments.

• Volunteer to assist with the program or team in any way you can. Offer rides, snacks, etc.

• Get to know the other parents. Build a supportive community around the team.

• Thank coaches, officials and other volunteers for their time and effort. Recognize their contributions.

• Keep winning and losing in perspective. Remind your child that it's just a game and the focus is on fun and learning.

• Ensure your child attends all practices and games. Help them honor their commitments.

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The key is reinforcing the program's values and helping your child grow on and off the field. Keep competitions low-pressure and focus on life lessons learned.

03

COACHES

• Emphasize effort and improvement over wins and losses. Praise players for hustling, good sportsmanship, teamwork, etc. rather than just the scoreboard.

• Give equal playing time to all players, regardless of skill level. Avoid overplaying the most talented kids.

• Teach the fundamentals of the game. Focus on building skills not just X's and O's.

• Foster good communication between players. Encourage them to support each other and work together.

• Model respectful behavior towards officials, other coaches, parents and opponents. Set a good example.

• Maintain perspective - it's just a game. Keep competitions friendly and low-pressure, especially in practice.

• Bench players who display poor sportsmanship, break rules, bully, etc. Stress that character matters more than talent.

• Be approachable. Welcome player feedback and discuss ways to improve together.

• Build players' confidence. Praise effort and progress. Reframe setbacks positively.

• Encourage goal-setting, self-reflection and personal growth. Help players realize their potential on and off the field.

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The key is emphasizing life lessons and values as much as football skills. Coaches should lead by example and make sportsmanship the top priority.