Sporting West Florida Standards and Guidelines
At Sporting West Florida, we believe in clarity, consistency, and safety — on and off the field. This page outlines the key standards and guidelines that help us create a positive experience for every player, parent, and coach in our club.
If you ever have a question about how we operate, you’ll likely find the answer here


Lightning Safety Policy

Player safety is always our top priority at Sporting West Florida. In accordance with national safety guidelines and best practices, we have a zero-tolerance policy for lightning-related risk.

All training sessions, games, and club-sanctioned activities will be suspended immediately if lightning is detected within a 10-mile radius of our fields. This includes lightning detected visually or through weather monitoring apps used by staff or facility personnel.

Once a suspension is in effect, activities will not resume until 30 minutes have passed since the last visible lightning strike or audible thunder, and no new activity has been detected in that window. Players will be directed to shelter in vehicles or safe structures during delays. Coaches and staff are responsible for ensuring players are accounted for and supervised during all weather-related stoppages.



Families are encouraged to remain flexible during inclement weather and understand that delays or cancellations may occur at short notice in order to protect the health and safety of everyone involved.

If lightning activity persists or worsens, sessions may be canceled entirely at the discretion of club leadership.

Thank you for helping us maintain a safe environment for every player, family, and coach.

Refund Policy

At Sporting West Florida, registration represents a commitment — both from the club and the family — to a full season of growth, development, and team participation.

Refunds are not issued once a player has been officially registered and assigned to a team, as team formation, staffing, scheduling, and league fees are all based on those commitments.

We recognize that, in rare cases, circumstances beyond a family's control may arise. Exceptions may be considered in the event of a documented season-ending injury or a family relocation due to military orders.



All refund requests must be submitted in writing and are subject to approval by club leadership. Requests should be sent to  info@sportingwestflorida.com.


By registering, families agree to honor their commitment for the full duration of the program in which their player is enrolled.
Thank you for helping us create a player-first environment where growth, responsibility, and development come first.

Parent & Player Expectations

At Sporting West Florida, we believe in putting players first — focusing on effort, growth, and character development both on and off the field. Creating a positive environment takes a shared commitment between players, parents, and coaches.


For Players
Players are expected to bring consistent effort, stay coachable, and show respect to teammates, coaches, referees, and opponents. Whether at training, matches, or team events, we ask our players to represent the club with integrity and a growth mindset.


For Parents
We value the role parents play in a player's development. To support a healthy and focused environment, we ask that families encourage effort, learning, and teamwork over outcomes. Let coaches coach and referees officiate — avoid sideline instruction during practices or games. Communicate respectfully with coaches and team managers when needed, and help your child meet their commitment to practices and matches. Demonstrating sportsmanship, patience, and positivity from the sidelines goes a long way in reinforcing the values we teach on the field.


We’re proud to partner with families who value more than just wins — who support long-term growth, accountability, and the joy of the game.

Coach Expectations

Coaches at Sporting West Florida are more than instructors — they’re mentors, role models, and leaders in our player-first culture. Whether they are licensed professionals or dedicated volunteers, all coaches are held to high standards that align with our club’s values and long-term development model.


Coaches are expected to:

  • Prioritize player well-being and long-term growth over short-term results
  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with players and families
  • Deliver structured, age-appropriate training sessions
  • Model sportsmanship and professionalism on the sidelines
  • Uphold the club’s standards and serve as a positive example for players and families


All Sporting Select coaches are selected for their soccer knowledge, coaching experience, and alignment with our mission. All coaches — including those in Sporting Futures and Academy — complete required background checks and safety training, and receive ongoing support to ensure a positive environment for every player.