Disciplinary Action Policy

GoSoccer is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all players. As a recreational league, we expect all participants to treat opponents, teammates, referees, and league staff with respect both on and off the field. Unsportsmanlike conduct, threats, and violence will not be tolerated.

This policy outlines a 3-tier disciplinary framework used to address player misconduct, ranging from verbal consultation to permanent removal from the league. Disciplinary decisions are based on the severity of the incident, intent, and any prior history of misconduct.

All incidents are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by league leadership, and the tiers below serve as guidelines rather than rigid mandates, allowing for judgment based on the specific circumstances of each situation.

Tier 0 – Verbal Consultation

First time, low-severity, no injury or lasting harm

·        Dissent toward a referee’s call (continuous argument, but not aggressive)

·        Minor trash talk during play

·        Excessive celebration that mocks the opposing team (not directed at a specific player)

·        A hard but not reckless tackle that may or may not result in a caution

Tier 1 – Written Warning

Escalated unsportsmanlike conduct, aggressive escalation/threats, or with/without moderate physical conduct

·        Repeated offense of Tier 0 behavior

·        Verbal confrontation between players that may or may not result in physical contact

·        Physical confrontation or shoving that stops short of a strike/punch

·        Directed taunting/mocking of a specific player (gestures, personal insults)

·        Confronting a referee aggressively (i.e., getting in a referee’s face)

·        Bench players engaging in unsportsmanlike sideline behavior

·        A reckless tackle (not malicious) that may or may not have caused an injury

Tier 2 – In-Season/Next-Season Suspension

Malicious intent, injury, or serious safety violations

·        Repeated offense of Tier 1 behavior

·        Targeting a referee, opposing bench player, or spectator with aggressive physical conduct

·        Discriminatory language or conduct (racial, homophobic, etc)

·        A tackle with malicious intent that may or may not have caused an injury

Tier 3 – Ban from GoSoccer

Severe violence, repeat major offenses, or conduct threatening league viability

·        Repeated offense of Tier 2 behavior

·        Throwing a punch (connecting or not)

·        Physical altercation involving multiple blows/an actual fight

·        Threats or violence directed at referees, GoSoccer admin, or spectators

·        Any weapon involvement or threat of using a weapon

·        Any other conduct that creates legal / liability exposure for the league