Code of Conduct

CODE OF CONDUCT 

We, the Eastside Youth Soccer Association (EYSA) believe our members as well as paid and volunteer staff (henceforth referred to as “members”), first and foremost, have a duty to assure that their sports programs promote important life skills and the development of good character through participation in our programming. 

The essential elements of character-building are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and six core ethical values: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship (the "Six Pillars of Character"). 

The highest potential of sports is achieved when our members consciously Teach, Enforce, Advocate and Model (T.E.A.M.) these values and are committed to the ideal of pursuing victory with honor. 

This Code of Conduct applies to all members of Eastside Youth Soccer Association. 

• Accept the reality that they serve as role models; as such, their actions must live up to their words. 
• Provide a physically and emotionally safe environment for athletes during practice, as well as competition. 
• Exemplify ethical behaviors, including honesty, integrity, fair play and sportsmanship. These are life-long lessons that take precedence over any emphasis on winning. 
• Maintain a professional demeanor in their relationships with athletes, officials, colleagues, administrators and the community. 
• Recognize the power and influence of their position with respect to athletes. Therefore, coaches are careful to avoid and refrain from exhibiting behaviors that could develop into interpersonal relationships, or even create the perception of intimacy - or the desire for intimacy - with athletes. 
• Refrain from direct physical contact with players (i.e., pats on the buttocks) that could be construed as sexual in nature. Work toward the best interests of their athletes by understanding issues of confidentiality and avoiding situations that could create conflicts of interest or could exploit any athlete. 
• Commit themselves to their athletes’ academic achievement. 
• Be knowledgeable about nutrition, hydration, safe and healthy weight loss or gain, and healthy eating behaviors. When a situation exceeds a coach’s scope of knowledge, he or she should refer the athlete to an appropriate medical professional for the most current and accurate information. 
• Practice safe training and conditioning techniques that are current. 
• Exhibit sound injury- and risk-management practices. 
• Adhere to the EYSA Social Media Policies