This code is designed:

• To emphasise the elements of enjoyment and satisfaction to players and coaches involved in soccer.

• To make adults including parents and coaches aware that young players play soccer to satisfy themselves and not necessarily to satisfy adults or member’s of their own peer group.

• To improve the overall health and fitness of Australia’s youth by encouraging participation in soccer and making it attractive, safe and enjoyable for all to play.

• To remind administrators, coaches, referees and parents that soccer must be administered, taught and provided, for the good of those young people who wish to play soccer, as ultimately “It is their game”.

Play by the rules.

• Never argue with an official. If you disagree, have your captain, coach or manager approach the official during a break or after the competition.

• Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials, sledging other players or deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent are not acceptable or permitted behaviours in any sport.

• Work equally hard for yourself and/or your team. Your team’s performance will benefit and so will you.

• Be a good sport. Applaud all good plays whether they are made by your team or the opposition.

• Treat all participants in your sport as you like to be treated.

• Do not bully or take unfair advantage of another competitor.

• Cooperate with your coach, team-mates and opponents. Without them, there would be no competition.

• Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please your parents and coaches.

• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion

• I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all players and ensure that everyone is treated equally.

• I will ensure that the players are involved in a positive environment, and that the game and training is a positive and enjoyable experience.

• I will respect all players’ individuality and help them reach their own full potential.

• I will be fair, considerate and honest with all players.

• I will be professional and accept responsibility for my actions and encourage players to demonstrate the same qualities.

• I will make a commitment to my team, and myself that I will continue to improve my own knowledge of the game through coach education and various training programs.

• I will coach my players to play within the rules and in the spirit of the game of soccer.

• I will avoid any physical contact with the players and should it be required it would be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the player’s skill development.

• I will refrain from any form of personal abuse towards my players. Also be aware to any forms of abuse directed towards my players from other sources whilst they are in my care.

• I will refrain from any from of harassment towards my players.

• I will provide a safe environment for training and competition, by ensuring the equipment and facilities meet safety standards.

• I will show concern and caution towards sick and injured players and allow for further participation in training and competition only when appropriate.

• I will not engage in the use of crude, foul or abusive language that may be determined offensive or engage in any conduct detrimental to the image of the game when on or off the field.

• I will refrain from arguing with the referee and/or assistant referees regarding decisions they make.

I will treat participants, officials and spectators with courtesy and respect.

I will always encourage my team to play within the laws of the game.

I will not consent to the use of any banned substance or drugs of dependence by my players.

I will act in a responsible manner and accept responsibility for my actions.

• Remember that children participate in sport for their enjoyment, not yours.

• Encourage children to participate, do not force them.

• Focus on your child’s efforts and performance rather than whether they win or lose.

• Encourage children to play according to the rules and to settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or violence.

• Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing a competition.

• Remember that children learn best by example. Appreciate good performance and skilful plays by all participants.

• Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.

• Respect officials’ decisions and teach children to do likewise.

• Show appreciation for volunteer coaches, officials and administrators. Without them, your child could not participate.

• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.