MANORHAMILTON RANGERS FOOTBALL CLUB

PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

As a parent, you play a special role in the development of your son or daughter, and of his/her team mates. Your encouragement and good example will do more to ensure good sportsmanship and self-discipline than any other influence. The other team is the opponent, not the enemy, and should be treated with respect. While winning is important, playing well and fairly is the essence of the game.

Support Your Child

Support your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in his/her team. Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach you child that hard work and an honest effort is more often more important than victory.

Always Be Positive

Children learn more by example than by criticism. Work to be a positive role model, and reinforce positive behaviour in others. Applaud good play by others on your child's team as well as good play by the opposing team. Do not criticise any child's performance from the sidelines. Accept the results of each game. Teach your child to be gracious in victory and to turn defeat into learning and working toward improvement.

Don't Be A Sideline Coach or Referee

Refrain from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. Parents who shout or scream from the sidelines often give inappropriate advice at the wrong time. The coach should be the only sideline voice. Remain well back from the sidelines and within the supporter's area. You and your child will both enjoy the game more if you put some emotional distance between yourself and the field of play. Officials are symbols of fair play, integrity and sportsmanship Do not openly question their judgement or honesty.

Positive Attitude

Demonstrate a positive attitude towards your opponents and their families.

Opponents Are Not Enemies

Take care to show good hospitality at home and to represent Manorhamilton Rangers F.C. in a positive way when visiting other clubs. Never allow yourself to be drawn into a verbal disagreement with opposing parents or coaches. No one has ever regretted letting "cooler heads prevail".

Remember That Your Child Wants To Have Fun

Your child is the one playing soccer, not you. Children must establish their own goals to play the game for themselves. Take care not to impose unreasonable demands on your child. Let your children experience the fun of playing as well as the challenge of excelling.

The Team Manager / Coach / Trainer Is In Charge Of The Team

Any decision made (concerning team/players) is the responsibility of the manager/coach/trainer, (Manorhamilton Rangers F.C. committee have the authority to over rule any such decisions). Any discrepancies by any person(s) should be made civilly and privately, or brought to the attention of a committee member for further investigation.

Offer Your Support

Offer any support/help you can to the team coach/trainer and Manorhamilton Rangers F.C. officials.