I think you should have a full understanding of the rules your youth soccer league abides by. Each youth soccer program will have a parenting policy. It could be a Code of Conduct for parents or rules they must follow during games and practices. It’s your job to know these rules inside and out and to make sure all your parents know about them.

I would also check with board members to confirm that the rules and consequences will apply. It’s also a good idea to talk to past coaches and get their input on youth soccer league policies and enforcement.

It doesn’t do you any good if the administration doesn’t play by your rules or worse still don’t back you as a coach. It is his job to ask questions about any of the rules that are not clear to him. He must be in control and make sure he understands all the rules before meeting with the parents.

At the first parent meeting, hand out a copy of the rules and review them. Make it clear what will and will not be tolerated. Coaching youth soccer is challenging enough and you want to do what you can to avoid conflicts between parents. Be sure to maintain an open door policy that allows parents to feel comfortable asking you questions about league rules and regulations. Always make sure all game time questions are asked early and often, so there are no misunderstandings as the year progresses. If your league requires the same playing time, please stick to that rule and explain to parents how you plan to meet this requirement. Also, if there is no guaranteed playtime requirement, be up front and let the parents know. Over the years, this area has been the biggest problem I’ve had with parents. All parents believe that their child is the next “Walter Payton” and will be happy to let you know if they disagree with your assessment of their child’s ability.

My suggestion is to address the play time issue at the parent meeting at the beginning of the year and let them know that the topic is closed after the meeting. Sure, we know we’re still going to get questions, or should I say complaints, but I think this keeps it to a minimum.