Ipswich Soccer Assn
PO Box 334
Ipswich, SD  57451

Code of Conducts

For a Coaches Printable Copy - Click Here

For a Players Printable Copy - Click Here

soccer player kicking

Players Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct applies to all players, coaches, referees, board members, and any person involved in the operation of the League.  This Code of Conduct applies at all times, on and off the field of play.  Anyone found guilty of violating this code after a fair investigation by the Ipswich Soccer Association, based upon preponderance of the evidence, shall be subject to discipline at the discretion of the board.  All players, coaches, and board members shall be required to sign a copy of the Code of Conduct in order to be eligible to participate in Ipswich Soccer Association sanctioned events.  Each Participant Shall:

  1. Display good sportsmanship at all times, on and off the field.
  2. Control their temper at all times and help others to do the same.
  3. Continue to improve their skill or increase their knowledge required to perform the role they have assumed.
  4. Support the needs of the team, ahead of their own needs.
  5. Not to harass or argue with the game officials.
  6. Represent themselves, family, team, and community with honor and dignity.
  7. Refrain from using profanity or any other degrading language.
  8. Not abuse any drug or substance.  Players may not consume alcohol and tobacco at any time.
  9. Treat team mates and member of other teams with respect.
  10. Win with honor, and if they should lose, exhibit dignity and decorum.

coach talking to players

Coaches Code of Conduct

  1. All coaches must adhere to the rules of good sportsmanship.  You set the example for the team.  Control your temper and do not use inappropriate language, gestures, or expressions.
  2. All coaches shall conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the ISA and our community.
  3. All referee decisions are final.  No arguing of referee calls or protests are allowed.
  4. All referees are to receive respect, regardless of their age.
  5. The use of alcohol or tobacco is not allowed at practices or games.
  6. All coaches must follow the letter and spirit of the rules of their respective leagues.
  7. Violations and concerns about the conduct of coaches, players or fans should be brought to the attention of the ISA board.
  8. All coaches and assistants must complete a Risk Management form prior to having any contact with the players.

ISA Recommended Guidelines for Coaches

Playing Time/Positions

  1. Each player will play a minimum of time as follows:  U6, U7, and U8 = one quarter of each half.  U10-U19 = one third of each half, except for disciplinary reasons.
  2. It is the recommendation of ISA that coaches strive to give equal playing time to every player.
  3. Players should be given the opportunity to learn every position.

Player Development

  1. Coaches should place priority on player development as opposed to winning games.
  2. Set team goals and measure success based on improvement and player development.

Practices

  1. It is the coach's responsibility to make sure the field is safe to practice on.  Check for holes and broken glass and check that the goals are securely anchored.
  2. Never leave a player alone on the field after practice or games.  If the parent fails to pick up their child, the coach should stay with the player until the parents arrive.  It is a good idea to talk to parents before hand and find out where the child can be taken in case the parent doesn't show up.

Player Safety

  1. The coach has the authority to forfeit the game if he/she feels that the players' safety is in question.
  2. Injuries
    • Always inform parents if an injury occurs
    • Know the signs for heat stroke and heat exhaustion and watch for it.
    • Allow for adequate water breaks.  If you are playing with no subs on a hot day, ask the ref to allow for a water break during the game.  Most refs will agree to this.
    • Find out if any parents have medical knowledge or expertise so that you may call upon them in an emergency.
    • Bring a first-aid kit to practices and games.

Player Discipline

  1. Some forms of appropriate discipline include loss of playing time, extra practice time.
  2. Striking, name calling, or degrading the player is never acceptable.