The roles that players play on and off the field have tremendous impact on themselves as individuals, the team, FDSA and the players that look up to them as role models. Here are some helpful reminders for all of us. If you should have any questions about these thoughts, please feel free to discuss your concerns with your parent, coach, or contact any of the FDSA Executive.
PLAYER RESPONSIBILITY
Being a player requires that you take on another level of responsibility for yourself as an athlete. We expect that you will invest in your own development in addition to the formal training time set aside with your coach. What follows are some practical suggestions that you can adhere to in order to make the most out of your individual or team training times. It is lots of fun playing the game, so you should do everything in your power to make sure you are ready.
READY TO PLAY
Players should bring the following with them to every session:
- Their own cool water (cool water is absorbed faster)
- Shin guards
- Cleats
- Extra shoe laces
- Emergency phone #’s
- A complete change of clothes (especially socks, be prepared for the weather)
In short, you should be ready for anything! Put these items in your bag the night before your session so that you do not have to hunt them down and thus be late for the practice or game! Be at practice 10 – 15 minutes early, in time to get your gear on so that you are ready to start on time.
PRACTICING ON YOUR OWN
The best thing that you can do is get your friends together, set up a field, choose teams and play. Sometimes, invite players that are older and better than you. The most important thing is that you play, whether it is 1 v 1, 2 v 2, 4 v 4, or even 2 v 3, it doesn’t matter, just play! Above all, realize that it is not up to your coach or your parents for you to get better. You have to claim responsibility for your own development.
CONDUCT
Players are expected to be punctual, always give their best effort and are required to follow the instructions of the coaches. Players must maintain a positive TEAM attitude at all times. Proper conduct and language is expected of all players both on and off the field. All players are required to show respect for coaches, parents, other FDSA authorities, teammates, opponents, officials, fans, and all others.
Poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated. Players are expected to play the game and let the officials officiate the game. In addition, players are to respect their opponents regardless of the score.
