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American Youth Soccer Organization Providing world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives.

Region 85 (Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, Portola Hills)

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY

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 refereeā€™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.

Disciplinary Sanctions for Youth Referee Abuse

Any Board member, upon receipt of any reported abuse of a youth referee shall report the incident to the Disciplinary Board which shall consist of the appropriate Divisional Coordinator, the Regional Commissioner, and the Regional Coach and Referee Administrators, who shall implement appropriate discipline, immediately or before the next game if possible.

At a minimum, sanctions include the suspension of one game. They will be increased in the event of serious verbal abuse, confronting and/or threatening the youth referee.

REGION 85 has adopted and modified the following rules:
  • No one, except the players, is to speak to the referee during or after the game. Exceptions: Coaches may ask questions before the game, point out emergencies during the game, or respond to the referee if addressed.
  • Absolutely no disputing calls, during or after the game, no remarks to the referee to watch certain players or attend to rough play. NO YELLING at the referee, EVER, and no criticism, sarcasm, harassment, intimidation, or feedback of any kind during or after the game.
  • Violators may be ejected and are subject to disciplinary action by the Region 85 Misconduct/Disciplinary Board.
If coaches or spectators have questions regarding particular calls, rules, or a referee, or wish to give feedback regarding a referee, please contact the referee administrator or board member at the referee tent on the game day.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE REGION 85 A SAFE, FAIR, AND FUN EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE!

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AYSO Region 85 - Lake Forest

PO Box 1059 
Lake Forest, California 92609

Email Us: [email protected]
Phone : 949-445-0850
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