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Club Code of Conduct

ICSF's Club Code of Conduct

ICSF Columbus FC has established a set of guidelines for all individuals who represent the club in any fashion be it players, coaches, parents and guardians, officials or spectators. The purpose of these guidelines are to ensure that the soccer experience at ICSF Columbus FC is a fun and positive experience for all those involved.

Code of Conduct to Protect Children (151 kb)

Guidelines for Appropriate/Inappropriate Conduct between Adults/Adolescents and Children (126 kb)


Players must...

  • Play by the rules of the game;
  • Respect & encourage your teammates and help them to succeed;
  • Respect the referees and officials and accept their decision without criticism;
  • Respect and be fair to your opponent and in all situations;
  • Respect your coaches/managers with respect and listen to their instructions;
  • Be an ambassador of good sportsmanship and gracious in victory or loss;
  • Speak respectfully, openly and honestly in private to your coach should a dispute arise;
  • Accept zero tolerance for profanity, violent behaviour, inappropriate gestures, racism, bullying or intolerance on the field of play or sidelines during practice or games;
  • Support your team by attending all practices and games with a positive and supportive spirit;
  • Be respectful of the facilities and equipment supplied for your enjoyment;
  • Be aware ICSF Columbus FC has a zero tolerance policy of abuse of a game official, opposing players, spectators or coaches.

Parents & Guardians must…

  • Parents, guardians and spectators must set an example for the players. Good sportsmanship is not just for players and coaches.
  • Always respect the match officials' decisions and never criticize the officials - (Note: referees can have an offensive parent/spectator on the sideline removed from the field, and have the ability to red card the coach (which will result in suspension) or forfeit the game if the person refuses to leave or the abuse of the official continues).
  • Accept zero tolerance for offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour or physical threats.
  • Remain outside the field of play and within the designated spectator area (where provided) unless asked by a Match or Team Official.
  • Avoid conflicts with other teams’ parents
  • Let the coach do their job, and avoid yelling out instructions from the sidelines, no exceptions.
  • Support the team and players by cheering for all the players and offer encouragement.
  • Communicate with your coach if you have ideas or problems.
  • Encourage the players to respect the opposition and the match officials; and never criticize a player for making a mistake - mistakes are part of learning.
  • Communicate feedback to one of the team officials (Head Coach, Assistant Coach or Manager) first. If not satisfied then contact the club to raise concerns. Such contact should be away from other players/parents and in a location away from training or game facilities.
  • Employ the 24hr rule when approaching and discussing concerns with the Team Officials.
  • Speak out and intervene in instances of unacceptable behaviour without using abusive language or violence to prevent bullying.
  • Not adhering to these guidelines is a breach of the code of conduct could result in a requirement to complete a 1-2 hour online education program, Respect in Sport at the person's own expense prior to being permitted to attend any ICSF Columbus FC games, practices, functions or events. If breaches are chronic or serious enough in the eyes of the  Head Coach or Board of Directors a child may be removed from all team activities. 

Coaches must…

  • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
  • Place the well-being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
  • Adhere to all guidelines laid down within the Constitution and the Rules of Vancouver Youth Soccer Association, BC Soccer, Canada Soccer Association and FIFA.
  • Develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
  • NOT exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
  • Encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behavior and performance.
  • Ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience, and ability of players.
  • At the outset, clarify with the player (and, where appropriate, their parents) exactly what is expected of them and what they are entitled to expect from their coach.
  • Cooperate fully with other specialists (e.g., other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the game and the player.
  • Always promote the appropriate Code of Conduct and positive aspects of the sport (e.g., fair play) to players, parents, and spectators alike. Never condone violations of the Laws of the Game, behavior contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant rules and regulations or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
  • Consistently display high standards of behavior and experience and be a role model for players, parents, and spectators.