We ONLY want to be POSITIVE with our players.
#ForRespect
The Fair Play & Respect program was launched in 2017-18 built on the groundbreaking direction and research of the English Football Association.
The research provided clear evidence why positive comments directed to players was so important in the youth game. The research highlighted the negative experiences of children and the adverse effects of their soccer ability and more widely to their enjoyment of playing soccer.
The Fair Play & Respect Program of Eastern Pennsylvania aims to promote and educate coaches and parents on their roles in creating a fun, safe and inclusive environment for all the players, ensuring positive experiences throughout their soccer journey.
What is Fair Play & Respect?
Parents, players and coaches remain positive through matches and training. Clubs should assume responsibility to keep the season positive and the game enjoyable. Find leaders from your club to recognize the negative behaviors occurring and develop an action plan to combat and improve those behaviors.
Negative incidents (minimal or serious) should be reported to those leaders and appropriate recommendations provided or worst-case, removal of the individuals from the opportunity to attend future games.
I’m involved with a local club and I’ve seen some poor behavior and I’d like to report it, what should I do next?
Within your club you will have a board member you can gain his or her details from your club secretary (if you’re not aware who this is). Please speak to them ASAP after the incident and they will be able to action the next steps, depending on the seriousness of the incident.
Is funding available to help promote Fair Play & Respect at my club?
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer will cover the costs of the patches as well as shipping.
Interested clubs can order patches—either Fair Play, Respect or both.
Whose responsibility is it to lead on Fair Play & Respect?
Everyone is responsible and should play their part in creating safe, fun and inclusive environments. No matter what your role is, let’s work together to unite the game.
What is the Patch Program?
To help remind us of the values of good sportsmanship, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is introducing a patch program for all its clubs. Clubs can choose “Fair Play” or “Respect” patches to display on their uniforms or shorts. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer will cover the costs of the patches as well as shipping.
How can I engage with the state office to promote good practice for Respect via social media?
Tag us in all social media posts regarding Fair Play and Respect as well as use the hashtag #ForRespect
Are you interested in the program?
Interested clubs can order patches—either Fair Play, Respect, or both—below. There is no limit to the number of patches a club can request, although Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer kindly requests that all patches get used. Orders will be collected throughout the fall schedule.
fair play & respect online form
