Roles

The Coach

Roles & Duties
The function of the coach is to promote the physical and intellectual growth of the players through participation in the game of soccer. As a member and representative of the Yarmouth Dennis Soccer Club, the coach is expected to support and participate in the Association's decisions, policies and regulations.

It is necessary for the coach to know and understand the laws of the game of soccer. The coach must attempt to follow both the spirit and the letter of the laws. The coach must respect the authority of the referee.

Each coach is expected to run a well-organized practice session, which include specific goals set by the Association. Remember that the players come to play, not to listen to the coach talk. The game is the best teacher. Each coach is expected to attend any clinics set up by the Association. Coaches are also encouraged to attend any State license programs (refunded by the Association).

The coach is expected to be a role model for the players and parents, and be a positive representative for the Association. Coaches are accountable during games for the actions of their players, families and friends. Respecting other players, coaches and referee is a requirement.

Each coach should have open communication with the parents. They should provide each parent with a team roster, schedule and keep them posted on up-coming events. The coach should be open to constructive criticism. At the conclusion of the season, the coach will be expected to complete an evaluation form provided by the Association.

The main objective of the coach is to achieve an enjoyable and competitive experience for all players. The success of the coach and the Association is not measured by wins and losses, but by the improvement in play achieved by each team member during the season.

The Player

Practice
The coach, who is a volunteer, is expected to be at practice promptly. The same is expected of all the players, as practices are as important as the games. This is the time when existing techniques are enhanced and new ones are introduced and developed. It is also the time that is used to teach and practice tactics.

Players are expected to attend practice with a positive, enthusiastic attitude and a willingness to learn from the coach. When attending practice, players are expected to dress properly, i.e.: soccer shoes, shin pads. Each player should bring water or juice, rather than a carbonated beverage.

Matches
It is the player's responsibility to know the time of the scheduled games. If the player does not have this information the day before the game, the player should contact the coach. The player should have a schedule at home.

Players are required to dress in the uniform provided by the Association. Soccer shoes are required and a player must wear shin pads or they will not be allowed to play. The wearing of earrings or other jewelry is not allowed. Shirts should be tucked in and socks covering shin pads.

Absences
Most coaches will spend time in preparing for practices and games. If a player is unable to attend, the coach should be notified as soon as it is known that the player will be absent.

The Referee

Coaches, players and parents must realize that during the game, the referee is the authority. Referee calls and decisions are to be accepted as right, even if they are technically wrong. Players, parents and coaches should concentrate on the game, rather than disputing a referee's decision.

Parents

The Association expects parents to follow the same rules and regulations as the players and coaches and abide by the spirit and the laws of the game. Parents should refrain from instructing a player on what to do. Only positive re-enforcement is expected.