We want to remind all of our coaches, parents, and players that youth sports are supposed to be fun – for the children.   Actions by parents, fans and coaches, whether verbal or nonverbal, can have a lasting emotional effect on children. Too many of today’s youth are leaving sports activities because the fun is unfairly taken away by adults.   I believe that sports teach our youth valuable lessons that can be applied to all aspects of life.   Competition and winning are important, but even more important is teaching kids "How" to be competitive, and "How" to win or lose.  Kids see our coaches and parents as role models and examples of how to act.   Therefore, I wanted to remind everyone of our Code of Conduct.   

Code of Conduct
When attending Mudsock Youth Athletics sponsored events, I therefore agree:

1. I will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or other sporting event.
2. I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player or parent such as booing, taunting or using profane language or gestures, etc.
3. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well being of the athletes.
4. I will teach my child to play by the spirit of the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
5. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect regardless of race, gender or ability.
6. I will never ridicule or yell at my child or other participant for making a mistake or losing a competition.
7. I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches or referees at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.
8. I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of the official coaches of the team.
9. I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others.

I also agree that if I fail to abide by the aforementioned rules and guidelines, I will be subject to disciplinary action that could include, but is not limited to the following:

• Verbal warning by official, head coach, and/or member of league organization
• Written warning
• Coach/Parent game suspension with written documentation of incident
• Coach/Parent season suspension

Justin Burtner
President, Mudsock Youth Soccer