Zero Tolerance Policy on Misconduct Toward Referees

In alignment with ENYYSA and U.S. Soccer Policy 531-9, effective March 1, 2025, the Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League enforces a strict Zero Tolerance Policy for all misconduct directed at referees. This policy applies to coaches, players, bench personnel, team staff, spectators, and parents. The goal is to protect the integrity of the game and ensure a safe, respectful environment for all match officials.

Misconduct by Coaches, Players, Bench Personnel, and Team Staff

Non Physical Abuse

CJSL may impose additional penalties or fines beyond ENYYSA guidelines, including for behavior between parents, coaches, and players not covered under Policy 531-9.

Misconduct by Parents, Spectators, and Fans

If team officials fail to control the sidelines—especially after a referee’s instruction—the coach will receive a mandatory 3-game suspension. CJSL reserves the right to apply additional sanctions, including forfeits or point deductions.

Definition of Gross Mistreatment (USSF)

Gross mistreatment includes serious non-contact behavior causing harm to referees. Examples include:

  • Discrimination (race, gender, religion, etc.)

  • Harassment, taunting, or threats

  • Cyberbullying or doxing

  • Undermining a referee’s integrity or authority

  • Aggressive conduct before or after games

Referee Abuse Levels

Level Description Examples Minimum Penalty Jurisdiction
Level 1: Verbal Taunting Speech or gestures that belittle the referee, damage credibility, or undermine authority.
  • "Do you even know the rules?"
  • "Did you forget your glasses?"
  • "What's the other team paying you?"
 2-game suspension ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing
Level 2: Harassment/Intimidation Language or body language meant to make a referee feel unsafe, without explicit threats of violence.
  • Using expletives ("That call was complete $h-t!")
  • Personal attacks ("You're a F-ing joke!")
  • Getting in the referee’s face
 4-game suspension ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing
Level 3: Threats/Derogatory Language Aggressive, attacking, derogatory language, cyberbullying, doxing, or threats of violence.
  • "I'll see you in the parking lot."
  • "You better watch your back!"
  • Social media posts attacking the referee
 6-game suspension and/or 6–24 months ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing
Level 4: Offensive or Discriminatory Act Discriminatory or derogatory words or actions based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, disability, sexual orientation, language, or religion.
  • Racial/ethnic slurs
  • Offensive gestures
  • Homophobic or sexist language
 10-game suspension and/or 12–24 months ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing

Referee Physical Contact Levels

Level Description Examples Minimum Penalty Jurisdiction
Level 1: Minor or Slight Touching Unwanted but minor physical contact with the referee.
  • Tapping the referee’s shoulder to get their attention
  • Touching the referee’s chest with a finger
  • Lightly bumping into the referee
 3-game suspension and/or 1–6 months ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing
Level 2: Intentional Confrontation Using physical contact to intimidate or provoke a confrontation, or causing property damage.
  • Shoving the referee
  • Forcefully grabbing the referee’s arm or jersey
  • Throwing a water bottle near the referee
  • Dumping the referee’s bag into a trash can
 10-game suspension and/or 6–24 months ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing
Level 3: Violent Contact Malicious, violent physical contact meant to cause harm.
  • Punching, kicking, elbowing, or spitting on the referee
  • Choking the referee
  • Throwing objects at the referee with intent to hit
  • Intentionally tackling the referee
 12-game suspension up to a lifetime ban ENYYSA Arbitration Hearing
Verbal Abuse Penalties (Per Incident)
Offense Adult Referee Minor Referee
1st Offense $250 $750
2nd Offense $500 $1,500
3rd Offense Referred to ENYYSA
Physical Abuse Penalties
Target Fine Reporting
Adult Referee $500 All incidents reported to ENYYSA
Minor Referee $1,500