At Seaway Valley Soccer Club, we pride ourselves on creating a positive, development-focused environment for our players, families, and coaches. Soccer is a passionate sport, and it's natural for emotions to run high—especially after a close game, a tough loss, or a disagreement over decisions on the field. To help manage these situations with respect and perspective, SVSC encourages all families and staff to follow the 24-hour rule: a guideline that asks parents and coaches to wait at least 24 hours before discussing emotionally charged issues.

For our coaches in particular, the 24-hour rule plays an essential role in protecting the culture we strive to build across all programs.

1. Allows Time for Perspective and Emotional Regulation

Whether it's about playing time, tactics, or a referee's call, concerns raised in the heat of the moment often stem from frustration. By waiting 24 hours, coaches can approach the issue with a cooler head, better judgment, and a mindset focused on problem-solving—not reaction.

2. Maintains Professionalism and Sets an Example

At SVSC, our coaches are not just instructors—they are mentors and leaders. How a coach handles conflict or criticism teaches our players how to respond in their own lives. Waiting to engage in sensitive discussions until after emotions have cooled demonstrates maturity, professionalism, and respect for everyone involved.

3. Ensures Clear and Productive Communication

When difficult conversations happen too soon, they can be clouded by emotion and miscommunication. Taking a day to reflect allows both sides—parents and coaches—to better understand the issue, prepare their thoughts, and come to the table ready to listen and resolve.

4. Protects the Game-Day Environment

The field and the sideline should be safe, supportive places for our athletes. By following the 24-hour rule, SVSC ensures that coaches can stay focused on their players immediately after a game, free from the pressure of confrontations or debates. This lets our players walk off the pitch feeling supported—not caught in the middle of adult conflict.

5. Builds Trust Between Coaches, Players, and Families

When coaches and families honor the 24-hour rule, it builds mutual respect and trust. Parents know that their concerns will be heard when the time is right, and coaches know they can respond thoughtfully and constructively. That mutual understanding strengthens the coach-parent-player relationship and helps our club function as a unified team.

SVSC’s Commitment to Respectful Dialogue

At SVSC, we are committed to fostering a club culture that values growth, communication, and mutual respect. The 24-hour rule isn’t about avoiding tough conversations—it’s about making sure those conversations happen at the right time, in the right way. It’s one of the many ways we keep our focus on what matters most: developing confident, respectful, and resilient young athletes.