Code of Conduct


⚽ Maryland Developmental Soccer League (MDSL) Code of Conduct

Overview

The MDSL Code of Conduct applies to all league and tournament events.

The Maryland Developmental Soccer League has established a code of conduct for all players, coaches, parents, and spectators. Adherence to this code ensures that every child’s experience is positive, safe, and focused on fun, learning, and sportsmanship.

All participants must read, understand, and agree to follow this code. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including reprimand, suspension, or expulsion from MDSL leagues, tournaments, or events, as determined by the Board of Directors.

The purpose of the MDSL is to encourage youth participation in soccer while teaching the game in a way that balances discipline, teamwork, and enjoyment. Every adult—coach, parent, or spectator—plays a crucial role in modeling good behavior and ensuring that all players learn sportsmanship, fair play, respect, and dignity both in victory and defeat.

👧Players’ Code of Conduct

  1. Play by the rules.
  2. Play fairly and exercise good sportsmanship.
  3. Work equally hard for yourself and your team.
  4. Cooperate with coaches, teammates, opponents, and officials—without them there would be no game.
  5. Show respect to opponents at all times.
  6. Be gracious in defeat and dignified in victory.
  7. After each game, offer congratulations or say “good game” to the opposing team.
  8. Play for the fun of soccer!

👟Coaches’ Code of Conduct

  1. Promote fun, friendships, and learning new skills on and off the field.
  2. Treat referees, coaches, administrators, and opponents with respect and dignity.
  3. Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement — remember, it’s only a game.
  4. Ensure equipment and facilities meet appropriate safety standards.
  5. Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every player, regardless of ability, culture, or religion.
  6. Recognize that your attitude influences players, coaches, and spectators.
  7. Accept official decisions, even when they seem unfair.
  8. Always act for the good of the game, your team, and your program.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Parents & Spectators Code of Conduct

  1. Be your child’s best fan! Support your child unconditionally.
  2. Remember children play for their enjoyment, not yours.
  3. Encourage participation — do not force it.
  4. Focus on effort and performance, not just winning or losing.
  5. Encourage fair play and conflict resolution without hostility or violence.
  6. Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing.
  7. Set a good example — appreciate good performances by all players.
  8. Support efforts to eliminate verbal and physical abuse in youth sports.
  9. Be kind and respectful to coaches, referees, and administrators who volunteer their time.
  10. Inform the coach of any injuries, medical conditions, or special circumstances.
  11. Send your child ready to play — on time, in uniform, with proper safety gear.
  12. Respect the dignity and worth of every participant, regardless of gender, ability, background, or religion.
  13. Never question the referee’s honesty or judgment — especially when referees are youth officials.
  14. Accept game results gracefully and encourage your child to do the same.
  15. Let the coaches coach. Avoid shouting instructions from the sidelines; it confuses players and undermines the coaching staff.

✍️Acknowledgment

By participating as a player, coach, manager, parent, or spectator in any MDSL event, I affirm that I have read and understood the MDSL Code of Conduct and agree to abide by it.

I commit to practicing good sportsmanship and helping enforce these standards to ensure a positive, respectful soccer experience for everyone involved.