Red Isn't Your Color

THERE ARE TOO MANY RED CARDS IN YOUTH SOCCER

We think that's a problem...and not just because your team is more likely to lose after earning one.

Even after the whistle blows, red cards (and the behavior that warrants them) contribute to an atmosphere of negativity that leaves kids wanting to drop out, pushes refs to quit, and ruins the game-day fun for everyone.

So we're doing something about it. And we need your help.

Because Red Isn’t Your Color™

PLEDGE TO DISCOURAGE RED CARD BEHAVIORS

When we accept negative and hostile behavior in our league, we allow it to continue.

Sign the pledge and join us in bringing positive change to youth sports.

SIGN THE PLEDGE

WHY IS SPORTSMANSHIP IMPORTANT?

Sometimes, red cards are used to discourage the kind of player contact that can lead to someone getting hurt. It happens...then we try to do better.

But far too often, red cards have to be used to reprimand unsportsmanlike conduct: vulgarity, racism, or insulting language that puts everyone on edge.

Research shows countless short- and long-term benefits to participating in youth sports, but how can we expect to reap them all if we're contending with an atmosphere of negativity?

So let's lead by example. Let's maintain composure, encourage respect, and help foster a positive youth soccer experience that benefits all of us.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Red cards are issued for serious misconduct or unsportsmanlike behavior during a match. Sometimes they happen for denying goal-scoring opportunities, sometimes for 2 hard fouls - learning moments that arise from competing hard.
However, too often red cards happen because of violent, abusive, offensive or insulting language, or actions that have no place in the sport like spitting. These types of actions, verbal and physical, need to stop. Any player who receives a red card is automatically suspended from the remainder of that game and at least the next day of competition. Sometimes the suspensions can be even longer if the offense is serious enough or has happened multiple times in the past.
In any high-level sport, aggressive competition is part of what it takes to be successful. But there is a clear line between aggressive mistakes and unacceptable behavior. There is no place in sport for insulting, abusive, or racist language or actions. There is no place in soccer for violence.
The vast majority of players and spectators on the sideline are respectful and supportive. But all of us need to be aware of moments where we may become frustrated or heated, and take a breath. Even more, we need to help those around us take a breath when you see them getting angry, rude, or inappropriate.
To support the goal of the Red Is Not Your Color campaign, you can share a link to our videos, social channels, or this page on your social accounts. You can also talk to your child, friends, teammates, and coaches about the importance of being respectful while competing and supporting.
Our referee partners track the data on rule violations including yellow and red cards. They share that data back with the ECNL as a way to monitor the state of the game and find ways to improve the experience for our players, coaches and families.