Code of Conduct

1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct establishes expectations for players, coaches, referees, and parents in the Final Third Foundation Recreation League. Clear expectations help create a safe, positive environment where children can have fun, grow, make mistakes, learn, and look forward to returning each week.

All coaches must read and sign this Code of Conduct before coaching each season. Parents and guardians must acknowledge the parent expectations during registration. Digital signatures and acknowledgments are acceptable.

2. Coach Behavior and Expectations

“They watch what we do, not what we say.” Coaches are role models and must demonstrate respect, patience, and positive leadership toward referees, opponents, players, families, and fellow coaches.

• Cursing or inappropriate language during a game: The coach will be required to leave the field and facility and will receive a one-game suspension.
• Insulting a referee or repeatedly questioning decisions disrespectfully: The coach will be required to leave the field and will receive a one-game suspension.
• A second occurrence of the same offense during the season will result in suspension for the remainder of that season.
• Verbal confrontations between coaches or continued sideline confrontations: The referee will issue a warning. If the behavior continues, the game may be abandoned, the coach will receive a one-game suspension, and the game will not be rescheduled.

3. Practice Expectations and Communication

• Communicate practice schedules and times as early as possible so families can plan.
• Arrive 15–20 minutes early to prepare for practice.
• If running late, notify the assistant coach or an approved substitute adult who can begin the warm-up.
• Make every effort to arrange coverage when unavailable. Substitute adults must meet F3’s applicable volunteer and supervision requirements.
• When possible, provide at least 24 hours’ notice of cancellation. If coverage is unavailable and practice is canceled, communicate a makeup date as soon as possible.

4. Parent Behavior and Expectations

• Remain on the opposite side of the field from players and coaching staff.
• Remain positive and encourage both teams. Treat players, coaches, officials, and other spectators respectfully.
• Verbal abuse toward parents, players, coaches, or referees will result in one warning. If the behavior continues, the parent or spectator will be required to leave the field.
• If the behavior continues after the warning and request to leave, the game will be abandoned and will not be rescheduled.
• The head coach must share and review these expectations with parents at the beginning of the season.
• Any physical altercation involving another person, or any threats, will result in the police being called.

5. Incident Reporting and Administration

F3 will identify the designated incident-reporting contact and person responsible for disciplinary decisions before implementation. Incidents, warnings, removals, and suspensions should be documented and communicated through that process.

6. Coach Acknowledgment

I have read and understand the Final Third Foundation Recreation League Code of Conduct. I agree to follow these expectations and understand that failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

7. Parent or Guardian Acknowledgment

I have read and understand the parent expectations in the Final Third Foundation Recreation League Code of Conduct. I agree to follow them and understand that failure to do so may result in removal from the field or other stated consequences.

8. Coaching Support and Resources

Seamus Reilly, Director of Soccer, is available to assist with session planning, coaching questions, and development resources.

Coaching Resources and Tools — Final Third Foundation