Question Number: 29327

League Specific 4/17/2015

RE: Intermediate Under 13

Phil of Tarzana, CA United States asks...

This question is a follow up to question 29323

In AYSO, the policy IS for officials to get involved. Parents are told they can cheer only...not coach (even nicely). This is also in the 'Parents Handbook' for AYSO. So first we tell the coach to advise the parent (which the coaches usually appreciate, as it takes the heat off them), then we ask the parent, & then tell them we can't continue the game if they continue to coach. If need be, a Board member or other senior AYSO official is summoned & deals with it.

Additionally, coaches are told before the season starts that in their meeting with parents, they are to tell them of the official policy. Generally, this prevents problems, as long as the referees are consistent.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Phil
Thanks for the information. AYSOs approach is to be welcomed. Unfortunately their policies are not widely nor universally adopted.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Phil ,
as I said abuse can not be tolerated, although referees around the world may have to deal with it in different ways! Given the AYSO often has mini matches and smaller venues, it is easier to deal with a recreational mob of ten to twenty parents much more difficult when in the hundreds or thousands lol Good for them to set a high standard of accountability and support!
Cheers