GGFSC Rec Spectator Code of Conduct

Children participate in GGFSC Rec Soccer for enjoyment as well as soccer development. Children learn from example, so parent(s)/guardians must demonstrate positive behavior and good sportsmanship to all players, referees, coaches, GGFSC volunteers and staff, and other parents. 

Here are some guidelines to help maintain a safe, fun rec soccer environment:

• Any person in attendance or transiting the general playing areas and sidelines who is not a GGFSC representative or designee, or directly participating in a game is considered a spectator. Registered parents and guardians of participants are responsible for notifying other spectating family members and friends of these rules and will be held accountable for any transgressions thereof.

• Spectators must behave respectfully and responsibly. Inappropriate behavior includes but is not limited to: public display of anger towards others, any verbal or textual abuse (via text, social media, email, in person, phone call, etc.), threats of violence, actual physical violence, or any other misconduct that is detrimental to GGFSC and/or its athletes.

• Understand that rec coaches are volunteers and the rec program is considered a training ground for young referees. Spectators must leave the coaching to the coach and the referring to the referees. Do not yell at or display negativity toward coaches, referees, or players from the sidelines. Do not override coaching instructions - avoid using “verbs” (“boot it,” “get it,” etc) as they might be detrimental to how the players are learning the game. Be encouraging and positive - celebrate the good, get over the bad. A coach, referee, or GGFSC representative may require you to leave the game if your behavior is problematic.

• Safety and soccer etiquette is important. Spectators of 2nd-6th grade games must spectate from designated areas on the opposite side of the field from the team bench/technical area (see the park map). Spectators for all divisions must leave at least 6' of clear space from the sideline and may not sit or loiter along goal lines or goal areas.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Other games, practices, or warmups may be ongoing and soccer balls are moving all over the place. The ground can be uneven and/or slippery. GGFSC and/or GF Parks are not responsible for injuries that occur while spectating. Please keep an eye on young ones so they don’t wander away or onto playing surfaces.

• If weather is inclement, activities may be suspended, postponed, or cancelled. Please check emails & social media for updates. Do not leave participants unattended at facilities if inclement weather conditions are forecast or apparent.

• Treat facilities with respect. Spectators must park in designated areas and follow any parking signage. There is no parking in grass areas. Spectators and participants should haul out whatever trash brought in. Do not hang on goals. 

• Pets must not act in a disruptive or threatening manner. Pet waste must be cleaned up and hauled away by the owner. Pets are further subject to city and Park District ordinances.

• Spectators must not attend GGFSC functions (games, practices, etc.) while under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol. Spectators will refrain from using tobacco products and/or vaping in the presence of GGFSC athletes and/or at facilities where it is restricted.

• Violation of the spectator code of conduct may result in disciplinary action ranging from a verbal warning to removal and suspension of a parent/guardian from a facility and/or GGFSC functions. Continued abuse of the spectator code of conduct may result in permanent removal from GGFSC.

Concerns or inquiries should be directed to the Rec Program Director at [email protected]