As we all head out for another weekend of USA Soccer we want to share two important points.
First, we want to continue to thank all of you for your efforts in supporting your players, teams, and the Club. We recognize the challenges of playing soccer in an environment constrained by COVID-driven restrictions. Further, we know the frustration and anxiety that is being managed by our players and families. It is because of this that we are so appreciative of the patience, grace, and support that you all show.
This being said, the same is not true across the league. This is our second point. As we head out onto the pitch this weekend and for the balance of the season, please redouble your efforts to support the USA Family Code of Conduct, Family Canon, and Club policies, as a whole. More to the point, continue to conduct yourselves (and help to hold each other accountable, too) in a manner that is universally respectful, of high character, and positively supportive of the players and teams.
This is being shared because, during the first full week of play, the league has witnessed an unprecedented number of reports of remarkably poor behavior. Dozens of issues have been reported ranging from spectators and teams failing to comply with COVID safety measures, to spectators verbally attacking game officials, to outright physical altercations. It must be understood that any sort of negative, disrespectful, or aggressive behavior will not be tolerated on any level from anyone associated with United Soccer Athletes.
We are completely confident that the spectators, coaches, and players that wear the USA colors will not engage in overtly negative behavior. However, we have had internal issues of our own - namely, resistance to the face covering requirement and use of disrespectful language to game officials. Although these issues have been addressed, we want to ensure that the behavior does not escalate and become more problematic. Furthermore, we want to make sure that no one that represents USA falls prey to ideas like: "but, what about them?" ... "if they can do it, so can I" ... "they were being jerks so I defended our players" ... "it is my personal belief/opinion that allows me to do what I want".
To this end, help your players and coaches by recognizing and managing the points below (in addition to other expectations that are not included here but have been shared with you at other times):
- Be the positive example.
- Support your team coaches and team families, by supporting each other to do what is right.
- Everyone must wear a face covering, worn properly, 100% of the time.
- Spectators must maintain social distancing (while wearing face coverings).
- Spectators are limited to 2 per player.
- Spectators must sit only on the same side of the pitch as their team.
- Spectators must sit no closer than 10 feet from the middle line.
- Spectators must sit no closer than 10 feet from the touch (side) line (unless space between fields does not support this).
- Spectators must not address/approach any game official, opposing team coach, player, or spectator.
- Complaints about game occurrences are to be provided to the USA Team Head Coach in writing (not by phone or personal conversation (unless invited by the coach)). There is a process-driven approach within the club and league to address issues. It must be followed - do not contact the league or state organization directly.
Again, please know that these are just words of caution based on the level of angst that appears to be spread widely across the league. We are so pleased with the patience, grace, and control that is shown by the entire USA family. We fully expect that we will all continue to reflect a positive attitude and universal respect. Above all, enjoy the beautiful game, be proud to be part of a tremendous soccer club, and cheer loud for our USA players,
Play On! USA All The Way!