Some factors in sanctions for unsportsmanlike behavior of players and coaches in youth soccer

Percept Mot Skills. 2009 Jun;108(3):764-74. doi: 10.2466/PMS.108.3.764-774.

Abstract

Reasons and motives for sanctions imposed on players and coaches in youth soccer were examined to evaluate frequency and type of infraction by competition category (Under 12, 13-14, 15-16, and 17-18 years). Analysis of the first 30% of competitions yielded 1,202 sanctions of 340 teams with 6,120 players and 340 coaches. For older groups, the number of sanctions for aggressive conduct by the players was significantly higher; frequency of sanctions imposed on the coaches for disrespect also was significantly higher, and those for aggression were higher although not significantly so; the number of sanctions for disrespect by players was not different. Transgressions of the game rules recorded by officials are a valid representation of a pedagogical factor important for coaches and players. Implementing informative programs for knowledge and conduct of rules is suggested.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aggression / ethics*
  • Humans
  • Knee Injuries / epidemiology
  • Soccer / standards*