The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association Board of Directors approved the implementation of Codes of Conduct for Coaches, Parents, Players and Referees and a Zero Tolerance Policy by unanimous consent in January 2023.
The Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Contact and Zero Tolerance Policy were developed over a number of months of consultation and collaboration with League and Member Organization leaders, Massachusetts State Referee Committee and other State Associations utilizing best practices from other Leagues, States and US Soccer appropriate for our programs.
The adoption of the Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy linked below is a requirement for all member organizations effective February 1, 2023.
Additions have been made to Mass Youth Soccer’s existing required registration language detailing that the registrant has read, understands and agrees to uphold the Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy.
It is a requirement that all member organizations reference the Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy in registration language for players, coaches, referees and volunteers beginning with the Fall 2023 season.
Codes of Conduct
Next Steps for Member Organizations
- Prior to March 1 - Add PDF documents or links to the Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conducts and Zero Tolerance Policy to your website.
- Immediately but no later than opening your Fall 2023 Registration – Add the Required Registration Language to registration forms for all programs and registrations for membership.
Should your member organization have Codes of Conduct currently referenced or embedded in the organization’s Constitution, Bylaws or other governance documents, it is expected that those existing Codes of Conduct will be replaced with the updated Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy by appropriate action presented and approved at the next available opportunity as defined and required by the organization’s governing documents. (Typically, an AGM or Special Meeting)
(Note: It is NOT considered best practice to include Policy and Operational items – such as these updated Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy – in an organization’s Constitution and Bylaws as that often requires a membership vote to make any changes to these items. The better/best practice is to include these items in your policies or handbooks and only require board approval to amend same. Mass Youth Soccer is happy to assist members with Governance Questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.)
We appreciate your support in creating safe and enjoyable playing environments for youth players in Massachusetts. The updated Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy will be vital references and tools to train and educate coaches, parents, players and referees, set uniformity and consistency of expected behaviors across the commonwealth, and ensure violations of expected conduct are addressed appropriately.
Thanks for your timely and full attention to these important matters.