Mass Youth Soccer and BAYS require that the Sportsmanship Statement listed below be read prior to ALL games. This is intended to REPLACE the post-game handshake line. There were too many unfortunate incidents when teams interacted after heated games so the intention is to avoid that post-game interaction.

Procedure

After all pre-game activities are complete, both teams and the referee crew will line up at the Half Way Line of the Coaches Sideline.

Led by officials, all players and coaches will walk across the field and line up facing spectators, 5 yard from the sideline.

The Sportsmanship Statement will be read by a representative of the Home team to all coaches, players and spectators.

Following the reading of the script, players will perform a pre-game handshake. (Home team to walk down the line of Away Team).

After the pre-game handshake, all players and coaches will return to benches and starting players will assume positions on the field of play.

Sportsmanship Statement

Mass Youth Soccer and BAYS share a mission to provide a safe, fun, and inclusive soccer experience for all participants.

All participants deserve the right to play in an environment free from hostile and distracting behavior. Please do your part to create a positive soccer experience for all.

Poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated, and sanctions may be applied for violations of policy or codes of conduct.

It is the referee's discretion to terminate the game if any threatening or discriminatory statements are made or for anyone entering the field of play without permission.