Hondo Youth Soccer Association

Code of Ethics

Parent's Code of Ethics

Preamble
As a parent, I play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of children.
Through my encouragement and good example, I can help assure that all the boys and girls learn
good sportsmanship, and self-discipline. In soccer young people learn to work together, to sacrifice for
the good of the team, to enjoy winning and deal appropriately with defeat – all while becoming
physically fit and healthy. Best of all, they have fun.

Support Your Child
Supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team is very
important. Help my child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach
my child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than victory – that way your
child will always be a winner despite the outcome of the game!

Always Be Positive
Parents serve as role models for their children. Become aware of this and work to be a positive
role model. Applaud good plays by your child’s team as well as good plays by the opposing team.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sports activities. Remember That
Your Child Wants to Have Fun Remember that your child is the one playing soccer, not you. It’s very
important to let children establish their own goals – to play the game for themselves. Take care not to
impose your own standards and goals on them. Children play for the fun of playing.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their goals and their natural
fear of failure. Nobody likes to make mistakes. If your child does make one, remember it's all part of
learning, so encourage your child’s efforts and point out the good things your child accomplished.

Don’t Be a Sideline Coach or Ref
Coaches and referees are usually parents just like you and they volunteer their time to help
make your child’s youth soccer experience a positive one. They need your support too. That means
refraining from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. As a volunteer organization, there’s usually
always an opportunity for you to take your interest in coaching or refereeing to the next level and
become one yourself!

Adopted as HYSA Policy by the HYSA Governing Board, October 23, 2023.