Ponoka Minor Soccer Association (PMSA) has approved a new code of conduct for parents and guardians of players on the rosters of their teams as well for all spectators who watch the teams as they play for their league fixtures or during the tournaments.
The newly adopted code requires all spectators and parents/guardians to refrain from interfering in the decisions made by referees or coaches, to adopt a sportsmanlike approach to the game, to the opposing teams and their players, and to categorically reject bullying in any form. The code also says that parents/guardians or spectators failing to abide by this code could be banned from further soccer games.
“We wanted people to be aware that we are not just enforcing a rule put upon us by the higher governing body, but rather are adopting a standard from within,” said Rob Mc Arthur, President of the PMSA.
“The code has always existed,” he added. “However, we felt some in house standards might be appropriate. Our hope is that PMSA will be the flagship association within CASA. We hold ourselves to a high standard.”
“I can’t overstate how hard we are trying to develop a strong club,…almost like a family. Not everyone will see eye to eye, but our leadership is united and that’s what matters.”