CODE of CONDUCT

As a parent, you play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of youngsters.

Through your encouragement and good example, you can help all the boys and girls learn good sportsmanship and self-discipline. In GSL, 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.

Note that throughout this agreement, the term ‘parent’ refers to any players’ parents, guardian, grandparents, or other family members. As a parent, you are responsible to make sure that those at a game with you follow this same code of conduct. Parents (guardians) should read, understand, and agree to this code before their child plays in GSL - The Dalles program.

Any parent who violates this Code of Conduct at any game or practice will be asked to leave the sports facility and may be suspended from the following game. Repeat violations may cause a multiple game suspension, or the season ending forfeiture of the privilege of attending all games.

Support Your Child 

Supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team is very important.

Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach your 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. Be aware of this fact 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.

Remember: 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.

Don't put too heavy a burden on your child to win games. Surveys reveal that 72% of children would rather play for a losing team than ride the bench for a winning team.

Children play for the fun of playing.

Reinforce Positive Behavior 

Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their goals and overcome 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 Referee 

GSL coaches are usually parents just like you. They volunteer their time to help make your child's soccer experience a positive one. They need your support, too. Most of our referees are volunteers as well, particularly the high school students used on Sundays.

That means refrain from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. In a volunteer organization like GSL there's always an opportunity to take your interest in coaching or refereeing to the next level and become one yourself!

At no time during any game shall a parent engage in yelling at the referees, or try to distract them from the game. A violation will result in ejection from the game / facility.

Other 

NO dogs are allowed on the fields during the season, either during practices or games – this is a Northern Wasco County Parks & Rec. and GSL insurance requirement – no exceptions

All spectators are to remain off of the field during games
No drinking of alcoholic beverages at any field during practices or games
No use of any drugs at any field during practices or games
No physical confrontations or fights of any kind will be tolerated