Player Code of Conduct
At United Futbol Academy, we believe the game is a classroom. What we teach here goes far beyond soccer. These standards exist to protect our players, support our families, and build the kind of environment every kid deserves to grow up in.
Every player who joins UFA becomes part of something bigger than a team. We expect a lot — because we believe in a lot. These expectations are not punishments. They are the foundation of everything we are building together. By registering with UFA, players and their families agree to uphold these standards at all times, on and off the field.
Approach the game with enthusiasm, determination, and a genuine love for soccer. Show up ready to compete and ready to grow every single session.
Commit wholeheartedly to your team, your training, and your development. Excellence is not an accident — it is the result of showing up and giving your best every day.
Respect your teammates, opponents, coaches, referees, and spectators at all times. Win with grace, lose with dignity, and always put the team above yourself.
Hard work and perseverance are non-negotiable. Demonstrate a strong work ethic in training, in games, and in every aspect of your development as a player and a person.
Attendance Policy
- If the group practices three times a week, players must attend a minimum of two practices to be eligible to play in matches.
- If there are two practices scheduled in a week, players must attend at least one.
- If there is one practice scheduled in a week, players must attend that practice.
- Players are only excused from attendance due to school, faith, or health reasons, and must provide documentation or notification to the coaching staff in advance.
- Any player who misses 10 or more activities in a given season without valid reasons will be subject to expulsion from the club. Registration fees remain the responsibility of the family.
Academic Expectations
- High school players are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher throughout the season.
- This standard exists to protect players' eligibility for college soccer programs and to reinforce that success in the classroom is just as important as success on the field.
- Players falling below this standard may be subject to reduced playing time or temporary suspension from matches until academic standing is restored.
Behavior and Sportsmanship
- Players must treat all coaches, teammates, opponents, referees, and spectators with respect at all times.
- Bullying, harassment, discriminatory language, or any form of disrespect will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
- Players represent UFA at all times, including on social media. Any conduct that reflects poorly on the organization may result in disciplinary action.
- Players are expected to arrive on time, in proper gear, and mentally prepared for every training session and match.
Parent Code of Conduct
- Support your player with encouragement from the sidelines. Negative comments directed at players, coaches, or referees will not be tolerated.
- Trust the coaching staff. If you have a concern, address it respectfully through the proper channels — not during or immediately after a game.
- Do not coach your child from the sidelines during matches or training sessions. Mixed messages undermine the coaching process and confuse players.
- Model the behavior you want your child to display. Children take their cues from the adults around them.
- Disputes or grievances should be directed to UFA leadership in writing. Confrontations at the field will result in immediate removal and potential suspension from future events.
- Social media posts that disparage players, coaches, referees, or the organization are subject to disciplinary review.
Our Commitment to You
These standards are not one-sided. UFA and its coaching staff are equally committed to the players and families we serve. You can expect our coaches to:
- Treat every player with dignity, respect, and fairness regardless of skill level or playing time.
- Communicate openly and honestly with players and families about expectations, progress, and concerns.
- Create a safe, inclusive, and positive training environment where every player feels they belong.
- Prioritize the long-term development and wellbeing of each player over short-term results.
- Lead by example in sportsmanship, professionalism, and character both on and off the field.
Consequences of Non-Adherence
Failure to adhere to the UFA Player Code of Conduct may result in the following disciplinary actions, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense:
- Verbal warning issued by the coaching staff or club leadership.
- Temporary suspension from matches or training sessions.
- Required meeting with the player, parent, and UFA leadership before reinstatement.
- Suspension or expulsion from the club, as determined by the UFA Board of Directors.
- All violations will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Families will be notified in writing of any formal disciplinary action. Registration fees remain non-refundable in the event of expulsion due to conduct violations.
By registering with United Futbol Academy, all players and their families acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to uphold this Code of Conduct. UFA reserves the right to update these standards at any time. Families will be notified of any significant changes. Questions or concerns can be directed to ufa@ufaiowa.com.