PARENT RESOURCES

Fans Cheer. Coaches Coach. Players Play.


The SLPFA is committed to creating a fun, supportive environment where every athlete, coach, official, and family feels welcome and respected.

Parents help set the tone. Keep comments positive and celebrate effort, teamwork, improvement, and sportsmanship.


Cheer for the team, encourage good sportsmanship, and leave instruction and strategy to the coaches. Shouting directions from the sidelines can confuse players and distract from coaching.


EXPECTATIONS FOR PARENT & GUARDIAN BEHAVIOR

Parents and guardians are expected to model the same sportsmanship and respect that we teach our athletes. 


This includes: 

  • Respecting coaches, officials, players, and other families at all times. 
  • Cheering positively and never criticizing or singling out a child. 
  • Allowing coaches to coach and officials to officiate. 
  • Keeping interactions calm and constructive, even when emotions run high. 
  • Following league rules, including sideline boundaries and communication guidelines. 
  • Supporting a positive and welcoming environment for all families. 


These expectations apply at all practices, games, tournaments, and team-related events. 


What Does Unruly Behavior Look Like? 

Unruly behavior includes actions that disrupt the game environment or negatively impact the safety, experience, or enjoyment of others. 


Examples include: 

  • Yelling at or verbally confronting officials, coaches, or players. 
  • Confronting coaches or officials during or immediately after games. 
  • Using disrespectful, aggressive, or threatening language. 
  • Entering the field of play without permission. 
  • Repeatedly challenging coaching decisions or playing-time choices in an inappropriate manner. 
  • Engaging in behavior that embarrasses, intimidates, or negatively impacts the team. 
  • Creating a hostile or disruptive environment for other families. 

HOW SLPFA ADDRESSES BEHAVIORAL CONCERNS 

Our goal is always to de-escalate situations, redirect behavior, and preserve a positive environment for everyone. When concerns arise, SLPFA will generally follow a progressive approach based on the severity and frequency of the behavior. 


SLPFA reserves the right to determine appropriate consequences based on the nature and severity of the incident. 

Step 1:

Friendly Reminder

The player or family will be reminded of SLPFA expectations and given an opportunity to correct the behavior.

Step 2:

Removal From Event 

Continued or serious behavior may result in removal from the current practice, game, or event.

Step 3:

Suspension From Events 

Repeated serious behavior may result in suspension from future events. SLPFA will determine the length of the suspension.

PLAYER BEHAVIOR & TEAM EXPECTATIONS

Being part of a team means treating teammates, coaches, opponents, and officials with respect, kindness, and encouragement.


Respect & Sportsmanship

Bullying, harassment, and hurtful language will not be tolerated. Players are expected to:

  • Encourage and support teammates.
  • Stay positive, especially when mistakes happen.
  • Communicate and work together on the field.
  • Celebrate teammates' successes.
  • Show respect to everyone.


Respect for Coaches

Players are expected to listen, follow instructions, and stay engaged during practices and games. This includes paying attention, following directions, and participating appropriately. Repeated disrespect, disruptive behavior, or failure to follow instructions may result in removal from a drill, practice, or game. Our goal is to teach, redirect, and help every player learn, grow, and succeed.