DC Youth Soccer Team Hosts ‘Silent Sunday’ Focused on Creating a Positive Environment

Daviess County Youth Soccer Association (DCYSA) will host its first ever ‘Silent Sunday’ on September 29 in a bid to reduce pressure on the touchline and improve player decision making.

The move comes in response to recent incidents at DCYSA games where parents, fans and coaches displayed inappropriate behavior, according to DCYSA leadership.

“Silent days have been successfully implemented in leagues across the country for years,” the DCYSA board of directors said in an emailed statement. “We hope this will allow players to focus on the game, trust their own abilities and make independent decisions.”

While cheering and clapping are encouraged, parents and supporters are asked not to shout or advise from the sidelines this Sunday. The aim is to create a supportive environment that allows players to enjoy the game without unnecessary pressure.

“Many leagues are using days of silence to address issues such as referee abuse and the emphasis on winning,” the statement said. “It’s about making the game fun again, like it was when kids played on the playground.”

The association also reminded spectators that referees, many of whom are aged 13 to 17, should not be approached or talked to during or after matches.

Guidelines have been established for spectators, coaches and players. While younger teams can still receive guidance, players under 10 and above will be encouraged to make their own decisions during play. Coaches are advised to limit their instructions to those before the game, at half-time and from the bench.

DCYSA’s direct guidelines are detailed below.

Guidelines for spectators (U6-U15M)

We ask all spectators to support and cheer for all players. Positive cheers after goals or saves are encouraged. However, please refrain from coaching or yelling instructions to players, officials, or coaches. Specifically, avoid yelling while the ball is in play. Instead, consider other ways to show your support, such as clapping, shaking pom poms, or twirling rally towels.

Guidelines for Coaches

U6 and under: These age groups still require significant guidance from their coaches, so these guidelines do not apply.

U8: Although these players have some experience, they still need guidance. Coaches should limit their instructions and use short, positional phrases such as “spread out,” “move back,” or “advance.” Avoid direct instructions such as “shoot,” “pass,” or “dribble,” as we want players to make these decisions themselves.

U10 and up: Training should take place before the game, during halftime or with players on the bench. Coaches can provide tactical advice to substitute players as they come on, but during active play, avoid giving verbal or non-verbal instructions to those on the field. Instead, use this time to evaluate the team’s performance and identify training points for halftime or the next practice. Allowing players to communicate and make decisions on the field helps them learn from each other.

Guidelines for players

On the pitch, players are encouraged to communicate, support each other and give direction to improve their game. Substitutes are also expected to engage from the bench by communicating with their teammates on the pitch as they provide a different perspective. Speaking up from the sidelines is a valuable skill that helps the team.

Important note: Coaches should not dictate what players say. This communication should come from the players themselves as they watch the game and relay what they see to their teammates.

Guidelines for Referees

On Silent Sunday, referees are asked to give a friendly reminder to coaches before the game, asking them to manage their touchlines in accordance with the Silent Weekend guidelines.

DCYSA leaders expressed hope that Silent Sunday would foster leadership among players and give parents a new perspective on the game.