Code of Conduct


⚽ Maryland Developmental Soccer League (MDSL) Code of Conduct

The MDSL Code of Conduct applies to all league and tournament events.
It is designed to ensure that every participant—players, coaches, parents, and spectators—contributes to a positive, respectful, and enjoyable soccer experience for all.

📜 Introduction

The Maryland Developmental Soccer League (MDSL) has established in its by-laws a Code of Conduct that outlines the responsibilities and expectations of everyone involved in our programs.
It is essential that this code be followed to promote sportsmanship, safety, and respect throughout all leagues, tournaments, and events.

All participants—players, coaches, parents, and spectators—are required to read, understand, and agree to abide by the MDSL Code of Conduct.
Failure to comply may result in sanctions including reprimand, suspension, or expulsion from MDSL events, as determined by the MDSL Board of Directors.

🎯 Our Purpose

The mission of the MDSL is to encourage youth participation in soccer and to teach the game in a way that balances discipline, achievement, and enjoyment.
We recognize that adults—coaches, parents, and fans—play a major role in shaping a child’s experience.
Our conduct directly impacts how children perceive competition, teamwork, and personal growth.

By modeling good sportsmanship, fair play, dignity in victory, and graciousness in defeat, we help our players grow into young adults of strong character.

👧 Code of Conduct: Players

  1. Play by the rules.
  2. Play fairly and demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times.
  3. Work hard for yourself and your team—everyone benefits from your effort.
  4. Cooperate with coaches, teammates, opponents, and officials. Without them, there would be no game.
  5. Always show respect toward opponents.
  6. Be gracious in defeat and dignified in victory.
  7. After each game, congratulate the opposing team or say “good game.”
  8. Most importantly—play for the fun of soccer!

👨‍🏫 Code of Conduct: Coaches

  1. Promote fun, friendships, and skill development both on and off the field.
  2. Treat referees, coaches, administrators, and opponents with respect and dignity.
  3. Provide only positive reinforcement and encouragement. Remember, it’s a game—enjoy it!
  4. Ensure all equipment and facilities meet age-appropriate safety standards.
  5. Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every player, regardless of ability, background, or religion.
  6. Recognize that your attitude and behavior influence players, parents, and spectators.
  7. Accept all official decisions, even when you disagree.
  8. Conduct yourself for the good of the game, your team, and the MDSL program.

👨‍👩‍👧 Code of Conduct: Parents & Spectators

  1. Be your child’s biggest fan—support them unconditionally and make them feel like a winner every time.
  2. Remember, children play sports for their enjoyment, not yours.
  3. Encourage participation; never force it.
  4. Focus on effort and improvement, not just winning or losing.
  5. Encourage players to follow the rules and resolve conflicts calmly and respectfully.
  6. Never ridicule or yell at a child for mistakes or losses.
  7. Be a positive example—appreciate good play from all participants.
  8. Support efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from all soccer activities.
  9. Treat coaches, referees, and administrators with kindness and respect—they volunteer their time to support your child’s development.
  10. Inform the coach of any injuries, medical conditions, or special circumstances affecting your child.
  11. Ensure your child arrives on time, in uniform, and properly equipped.
  12. Respect every participant regardless of gender, ability, background, or religion.
  13. Do not question the referee’s judgment or honesty—remember, some referees are youth players learning to officiate.
  14. Accept the results of each game and teach your child to be gracious in victory and resilient in defeat.
  15. Allow the coaches to coach—avoid shouting instructions from the sidelines. Enjoy the game and trust the process.

🏅 Acknowledgment

By participating in any MDSL league, tournament, or event, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to the Maryland Developmental Soccer League Code of Conduct.

You commit to:

Helping to enforce this Code to ensure a positive soccer experience for everyone.

Practicing good sportsmanship at all times,

Respecting all participants, and

Helping to enforce this Code to ensure a positive soccer experience for everyone.