Parents are vital to the development of young athletes. Whether sitting in the stands or helping out as a volunteer, parents must set a positive example. Parents and adults involved in youth sports should be models of good sportsmanship and lead by example on and off the playing field.

USA Football recommends the following Parent Code of Conduct:

• Give constructive criticism during a private moment, never in front of other parents, players, officials, spectators, etc.
• Support your coach and refrain from excessive “sideline coaching” from the stands.
• Refrain from using profanity.
• Abide by a doctor’s decision in all matters of players health and injuries and physical ability to play.
• Accept the decisions of officials on the field as being fair and called to the best ability of the officials. Parents must stay off the field and remain under control in order to set a good example for players and other spectators.
• Do not criticize an opposing team, its players, fans, coaches or team by words or gestures.
• Support the coaches, players and officials and help teach the value of commitment to the teams, sportsmanship, ethical conduct and fair play.
• Inappropriate behavior is cause for immediate ejection from the stands. Repeat offenses will result in being barred from future games and league sponsored activities.
• Parents will not encourage their child or any other person to engage in unsportmanshiplike conduct with any coach, parent, player, participants, officials or any other attendee.