We as parents, spectators, coaches and referees alike have responsibilities and obligations to keep our "all volunteer" soccer program a fun sport for all. It cannot be ovestressed that the AYSO program is for the players. The emphasis is placed on AYSO's objectives and good sportsmanship by exhibiting the qualities of fairness and self-control and having a good time. Overzealous parents and officials are discouraged from participating.

The size of the soccer field and the continuous nature of the game diminish the effectiveness of sideline coaching. Often in our spectator enthusiasm, we are prone to yell several instructions at the players. This often confuses them and may even be contrary to the instructions of their coach. Please allow them to play the game to the best of their abilities and Leave Sideline Coaching to the Coach. This is not intended to lessen spectator enthusiasm. On the contrary, positive cheering of players is very much part of the game of soccer.

In soccer, the referee is law. His or her decisions are final. Some of our coaches and referees are new to the game of soccer. Each is volunteering to do a difficult task and mistakes will occur. No useful purpose is served by shouting disagreement or derogatory remarks. Such action will be sufficient cause for requesting a spectator to leave the field or even for terminating a game. Additional disciplinary actions can also be taken as determined by the Palos AYSO Regional Board including suspension or expulsion from the program.

• Do not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.
• Remember children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment, not yours.
• Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than a victory.
• Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Your child will then be a winner, even in defeat.
• Do not ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a game.
• Set a good example. Children learn best by example.
• Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.
• Do not publicly question referee judgment and never their honesty.
• Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches, referees and officials and give them their due respect. Without them, there would be no AYSO soccer.
• Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sporting activities.