Youth development is the central focus of the AYSO program. This includes development of youth whether they are soccer players or soccer referees. All AYSO guidelines and policies are directed toward providing a "Safe, Fair and Fun" environment for all of us, including our children. As such, please remember that only "Positive, Instructive, and Encouraging" comments are allowed to be directed at youth players and referees. The purpose of this policy is to make clear that verbal abuse or negative criticism of ANY player or referee is unacceptable and subject to immediate sanctions for improper conduct.

Too often many of us forget the reasons for being out on the field: encouraging and supporting our children, promoting fair play and good sportsmanship, teaching the kids how to have fun while competing and learning that there is more to winning and losing than just the final score.

Our referees are unpaid adult and youth volunteers who are doing their best to ensure our children's safety while upholding the spirit of the laws of soccer. The referees cannot and will not tolerate any abusive behavior. In addition to setting a poor example for the children, derogatory comments or constant complaining about the referee’s calls or non-calls jeopardizes our ability to attract and retain volunteers, without whom we cannot play. In instances where parents or coaches cannot control their comments or behavior, they will be asked to leave the game area and in extreme situations could be banned from watching further games.