#SCYS Zero Tolerance Policy

Effective January 18, 2023 South Carolina Youth Soccer (“SCYS”) formally adopted its Zero Tolerance Policy. In large part, the policy seeks to eliminate the harassment of referees and other game officials at all SCYS events and competitions. The policy outlines the prohibited behavior and establishes penalties and fines for failure to adhere to the Zero Tolerance Policy.

SCYS Zero Tolerance Policy

While Bluffton Rush SC (“BRSC”) wholeheartedly endorses the SCYS Zero Tolerance Policy, we believe poor behavior on the part of parents and spectators at youth soccer games extends far beyond the mistreatment of referees. Harassing behavior, unsportsmanlike comments to opposing players, supporters and coaches and even directions and derogatory comments to one’s own team all lead to the erosion of youth sports. Such behavior is…

• Contrary to the basic precept that youth sports are intended to teach kids life lessons and how to be good teammates and good citizens. Adult behavior is modeled by children. It is incumbent upon all of us to be solid role models for all players.
• Detrimental to a fun and safe environment in which kids can learn and enjoy the game. Poor behavior often mushrooms on the sidelines and spills onto the field.
• Robs kids of the ability to develop in-game instincts. Unlike baseball or football, soccer is a dynamic sport. It is constantly moving. Kids don’t memorize plays or situations. They need to be creative and develop instincts. A constant barrage of instructions from numerous sources is confusing and counter productive.

"Do I listen to my Dad or do I do as the Coach told me to...?"

When a parent yells directions to a player in the midst of play…

• The direction is most often wrong,
• The parent is not allowing the player to solve the problem on their own,
• Often criticizes a player for making a mistake. We embrace and learn from mistakes,
• By the time the player can react to the instruction, the moment is gone and the player cannot perform the instruction, setting the player up for failure,
• Is often contrary to the Coach’s instructions and the player development philosophy of the Club.

"Boot it, Carl!"

Poor or disruptive sideline behavior by adults is the #1 reason kids leave youth sports. Kids play to have fun, but often such behavior destroys the very reason they are playing.