The following rules have been modified from the FIFA Laws of the Game (1998) to suit the ages of the players and the available facilities. In the absence of a rule to deal with a specific issue it is the direction of the Clubs that the decision will be based on what is best for the children rather than finding a decision that only establishes 'who was right'. The emphasis is on safety, sporting behaviour, participation, skill development and having a good time.
The authority of the Referee must be preserved. Without the proper respect being paid to these officials a negative example is given to the young players. In addition, since many of the referees at these age levels are our own children, we must be supportive of the responsibility we have delegated to them.
If a coach is not in agreement with a decision that was made, coaches are to follow the appeal process illustrated below:
Note: During any stage of the appeal process conduct yourself in an orderly manner. Begin by requesting an explanation of the decision. Do not begin the process by telling officials that they are wrong.
The involvement of parents in the appeal process is discouraged unless they were directly involved in the incident and are able to provide valuable, relevant, objective, first hand input. Simply having a child on the team does not constitute involvement. If parents who should not be involved in the process insist on participating, the matter should be referred to the convener.