• Coaches (as with anyone) are not allowed on the field during the game in any age group. If there is an injury requiring coach attention, the referee will give the coach permission to enter the field.
• The coach will emphasize skills, good sportsmanship, and team spirit rather than winning at all costs.
• Coaches are expected to stay within their team’s “tactical” area, between the penalty box line (18 yard line) and within one-yard of the halfway line as well as one-yard away from the touch (side) line on their designated side of the field. The area from the 18-yard line to the goal line and behind the goal should always be clear of spectators, coaches and others. Referees have the authority to enforce location.
• Substitutes are to be at the half-line of the field prior to the substitution time and may be ignored if time is about to expire (last two minutes).
• In cases where a game is stopped for an injury and coaches are permitted to enter the field, the player is expected to leave the field. On injuries, when a player is replaced, the DSL allows all subs at the halfway mark to substitute for either team.
• A team may have a maximum of three adults in a coaching capacity on the sideline.
• Teams are to switch goals at the half.
• Teams are to be opposite from the parent’s side of the field.
• Coaches may relay tactical information and encouragement. They may not scream or berate players, officials or parents.
• Coaches are to line up with their team and “shake hands” following a game.
• Coaches, for U8 and up, should track their fall Win-Loss-Tie record so that teams may be sorted for spring play.
• No guest, sibling, unregistered or select (carded) player may play on your recreation team. Penalty includes forfeiture of all games and coach dismissal from league.
• The use of artificial noisemakers, i.e. air horns, tambourines, megaphones, bells, whistles, bugles, or other such devices during any DSL league or tournament game by players, coaches or spectators is prohibited.
• Coaches are expected to assist in maintaining proper sideline decorum by parents/spectators.