Zero Tolerance Policy

Officials call the game. Coaches coach the game. Players play the game.

MA Youth Soccer Association Zero Tolerance Policy

NGS has adopted the Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy issued by the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (MYSA) in February of 2023. These policies reflect an effort to decrease the abuse of soccer Officials. All participants, including parents, coaches, players, and officials are expected to abide by these policies when engaged in NGS / MA Youth Soccer activities, regardless of league affiliation.

Consequences for violating the Zero Tolerance Policy may be imposed by the lead official, league, club, and/or MYSA depending on the severity of the offence. The NGS Sportsmanship Committee will take action to ensure a safe and positive environment for our extended soccer community, including referees, players, coaches, spectators, opponents, and others.

NGS Sportsmanship Committee

The driving belief behind the Zero Tolerance Policy is that all participants and spectators shall support the referee. Failure to do so undermines the referee’s authority and has the potential of creating a hostile environment. Remember –

  1. No one, except the players, is to speak to the referee during or after the game. Exceptions: Coaches may ask questions before the game, call for substitutions and point out emergencies during the game, or respond to the referee if addressed.
  2. Absolutely no disputing calls, during or after the game, no remarks to the referee to watch certain players or attend to rough play. NO YELLING at the referee, EVER, and no criticism, sarcasm, harassment, intimidation, or feedback of any kind during or after the game. If coaches or spectators have questions regarding particular calls, rules, or a referee, or wish to give feedback regarding a referee, please complete a game feedback form.

Violators may be ejected from a game and are subject to disciplinary action by the NGS Sportsmanship Committee (NGS-SC).

NGS-SC Complaint Review Process

Upon notification that the Zero Tolerance Policy has been violated the NGS Sportsmanship Committee will initiate the following mandatory process:

  1. Within a period of one week, the NGS-SC will investigate the complaint through interviews with all involved individuals, and witnesses.
  2. During the week-long period of investigation, the individual or individuals at the center of the complaint will not be permitted to attend any NGS related activity.

This time period allows the NGS-SC to determine fair and appropriate action without distraction.

  1.  If the NGS-SC determines that disciplinary action is appropriate, the recommendation will be communicated to all involved parties. Disciplinary actions are most likely to occur in the form of game suspensions.
  2. During the above outlined process, the individual(s) at the center of the complaint should bring questions and concerns to the NGS-SC only. Attempts to contact referees, coaches, or other spectators during this process are not appropriate and will negatively impact the disciplinary recommendation.
  3. All actions of the NGS-SC are driven by the desire to create a safe and positive environment for NGS players to thrive as players and as people.

Codes of Conducts and Good Sportsmanship

All participants in the NGS program shall adhere to the following principals of good sportsmanship:

  • Respect the decision of coaches and officials.
  • No expletives, disparaging comments or derogatory remarks.
  • Treat opponents with respect.
  • Whatever the outcome of the game is, be respectful. At the conclusion of the game, congratulate and shake hands with officials, coaches and opponents.
  • Do not encourage or participate in conduct that violates the rules or spirit of the game.

The Coach

Coaches are role models for youth and will make an impression of the players for years to come. Coaches must demonstrate good sportsmanship on and off the field. “Coach” represents and symbolizes a leadership role in the community and a representative of NGS. Coaches are expected to:

  • Adhere to the MYSA Coach’s Code of Conduct
  • Insure and promote safety of the participants.
  • Control the behavior of the parents/fans during.
  • Show respect to all players, parents, officials, and opponents.
  • Teach fair play.
  • Lead by example.
  • Know the rules of the game.

The Player

It is a privilege to play on a team and to be a part of Newton Girls Soccer. Therefore, players must follow the NGS rules during all NGS activities including practices, games, tournaments and other organized NGS activities. In order to remain in good standing, a player must follow these guidelines:

  • Adhere to the MYSA Player’s Code of Conduct
  • Treat opponents, officials and spectators with respect.
  • Adhere to NGS and league policies.
  • Show good sportsmanship before, during and after training and games.
  • Respect officials and accept their decisions.
  • Win without boasting, lose without excuses.
  • Encourage parents and spectators to show respect and good sportsmanship.

The Spectators

NGS is honored to have incredible and supportive parents and spectators. It is important to remember that the players respond to the actions and behaviors of the spectators. Spectators are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and show respect to all of the players and officials by adhering to the following:

  • Follow the MYSA Spectator’s Code of Conduct.
  • Do not coach players from the sidelines during the game.
  • Do not criticize the officials or coaches.
  • Cheer and support all players regardless of the outcome.
  • Communicate with the coach and create a supportive relationship.
  • Understand and respect the different roles of parents and coaches.
  • Understand that improper behavior at an event may result in a parent being asked to leave field or event by a referee or other official and respect that action.
  • At all times show empathy for the young developing soccer player.

Everyone

NGS provides an enjoyable learning environment for the physical, social and personal development of youngsters. The values of youth sports programs include:

  • Promoting fitness
  • Developing new skills
  • Instilling a desire to succeed
  • Teaching responsibility and commitment
  • Teaching cooperation
  • Preparing one to deal with success and failure
  • Providing an outlet for the release of energy
  • Building character through discipline
  • Teaching how to cope with the realities of life
  • Instilling positive attitudes toward authority
  • Providing a fun and enriching experience

The likelihood that youngsters will realize positive sports value is enhanced when everyone shows good sportsmanship.