BAYS is launching the RESPECT Campaign this spring. We ask that all in the BAYS community join together to help us make the youth soccer experience the best it can be for all of our players, coaches, referees, clubs, parents, and fans. The philosophy of BAYS is to provide an atmosphere of good sportsmanship to encourage all to compete, learn, and enjoy the game of soccer. Unfortunately, BAYS is seeing more incidents of racially-charged, offensive, hurtful, and inappropriate language/actions than in the past. It has been observed that there is an increase in the overall level of hostility and disrespect during some BAYS games in recent seasons. This is concerning. 

It is the hope that by emphasizing RESPECT, we can improve the game environment by removing disrespectful and discriminatory language, boost the FUN quotient for the kids and all involved, and return to playing “The Beautiful Game." 

Here is the link to the entire REPECT Campaign on the BAYS website. In order for this campaign to be successful everyone needs to actively be involved. On the BAYS website we have outlined the RESPECT Campaign asks for:

• Clubs 
• Coaches
• Parents / Guardians 
• Players 
• Referees

The reading of the RESPECT statement prior to all BAYS games should assist in helping set the stage for each match. Thank you in advance for spreading the RESPECT Campaign message and expectations. 

BAYS RESPECT Statement:

BAYS expects the highest standards of sportsmanship from each of you.Players, coaches, parents, fans, and officials should be positive and respectful. Discrimination, criticism, or hurtful comments or actions of any kind have no place here. Enjoy the game, have fun, and show respect for each other.