SC Norfolk Zero Tolerance Policy

SC Norfolk has adopted the BAYS Zero Tolerance Policy (see below) for all age groups and teams. Coaches, players, parents and all members of the SC Norfolk community are expected to uphold this policy and respect the referee regardless of their age or experience.

Zero tolerance violations will be taken very seriously by SC Norfolk and BAYS and will result in warnings, suspensions, or removal from SC Norfolk whenever deemed warranted by SC Norfolk's Board of Directors.

Coaches, please read the following policy and review with all players and parents at the start of each season and whenever else it seems needed.

Parents, please read the policy and review this policy with your children.

Many referees are young and just starting their careers as soccer referees. Please be respectful and support the referees, and report any Zero Tolerance violations to the SC Norfolk Field Marshall or any SC Norfolk board member.

BAYS Zero Tolerance Policy

All individuals responsible for a team and all spectators shall support the referee. Failure to do so will undermine the referee’s authority and has the potential of creating a hostile environment for the players, the referee, and all the other participants and spectators.

Consequently, BAYS has adopted and modified the following rule:

  1. No one, except the players, is to speak to the referee during or after the game. Exceptions: Coaches may ask questions before the game, call for substitutions and point out emergencies during the game, or respond to the referee if addressed.
  2. 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.
  3. Violators may be ejected and are subject to disciplinary action by the BAYS Sportsmanship Review Committee.
  4. If coaches or spectators have questions regarding particular calls, rules, or a referee, or wish to give feedback regarding a referee, please contact the town soccer club referee’s coordinator for the game in question, or contact the BAYS Referees Representative at http://www.bays.org.