Spectators
We request that you cheer and support all players. Therefore, cheering for positive accomplishments (after a score, a save, or other action) is encouraged. However, spectators should not coach and/or direct comments to the players, referees, or coaches. This means spectators should not be yelling while the ball is in play. There are additional ways to cheer such as clapping, shaking a pom-pom, or twirling a rally towel. AYSO National policy does not allow for horns, whistles, or noise makers of any kind.
Coaches
Your coaching moments are before the game, half time, or with the players on the bench. For those on the bench, coaches should provide direction on playing strategies for when they enter the game. Coaches shall not provide any direction – verbal or non-verbal – to the players on the field. During active play, coaches should be evaluating the performance of their team and decide on coaching points to be discuss at halftime and for the next practice. When we allow the players on the field to communicate and make decisions, they learn from each other.
Players
While on the field, players are encouraged to communicate, to support and provide direction to each other. Thus, to improving their game play. Substitute players on the bench should communicate with their teammates on the field as well. Substitutes are the 12th players on the field, and they see the game from a different perspective. Learning to use your voice as a player from the touchline is a huge tool to help their team. IMPORTANT NOTE: This is not the coach telling the players what to say, this is the players watching the game and verbalizing what they are seeing to their teammates.
Referees
For this special day, the referee should give the coaches a friendly reminder before the game and ask the coach to handle their sidelines regarding the silent weekend.