Social Media Policy

Participating in social media networks such as blogs, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be a positive way for players, parents, and coaches to interact with teammates, other parents, fans and/or media. However, all players, parents and coaches are still expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and understand what are considered acceptable when engaging directly with fans and/or media via social media.

The Boca United FC and GBYSA Technical Department and Board of Directors has outlined the following guidelines regarding social media networks that players, parents and coaches are expected to follow, along with some overall tips to consider. Please note, any player, parent or coach breaking these guidelines will be subject to an Boca United FC and GBYSA disciplinary committee and can be suspended or expelled from the club.

• Do not discuss confidential team information through social media content.
• Do not discuss other players and coaches on your team or other teams through social media.
• Do not post information that has not yet been announced publicly by the Boca United FC and GBYSA. Members are expected to limit family members from posting, contributing, and/or writing any Boca United FC and GBYSA-related information on a blog, forum or other web-based news, social networking, or informational source.
• Do not post pictures via social media that could put yourself, coaches, parents, teammates or staff in poor light or reveal confidential and private individual or team information.
• Any questions as to what you can/cannot share and when that information is allowed to be shared should be directed to Boca United FC and GBYSA.

Social Media Tips

• Engaging in social media is just like being interviewed – you are personally responsible for the content you publish on social media. Be mindful that what you publish will be public for a long time so do not say anything online that you wouldn’t say in person.
• Assume that everything you write can and will be viewed by any coach, parent, teammate, opponent, etc.
• The ability to engage in social media with hand-held devices (cell phones, PDAs, etc.) has improved the accessibility and increased the speed in which you can interact or respond online. However, just because you can respond immediately, does not mean you should. Before writing something and having it go out to the world for all to see, take a moment to think about the possible repercussions of your words.
• While it is fine to interact via social media with supporters, teammates, opponents, and parents, avoid engaging in negative dialogue about the organization, performances or respond negatively to criticism.
• Along with being cognizant of the photos you post, make sure the photos other people post of you via social media do not put you in unflattering or compromising positions. Photos can easily be shared on the internet, increasing the chances for people to see them. Be diligent to remove any unbecoming photos as soon as possible.
• Be extremely careful about allowing anyone else to engage in social media with your name, such as allowing someone to send tweets from your Twitter account. Set up a password and guard it as closely as possible.
• Respect the privacy of your teammates, parents, coaches, and staff members. While it is fine to discuss general topics about training, team events etc., be careful not to provide information about others without their knowledge or approval.
• Make sure to respect your audience. Do not use foul language, personal insults, racial slurs, and stay away from topics that may be considered inflammatory – such as religion or politics.
• Within all these suggestions, keep in mind that social media should be a fun and entertaining way to interact with each other. ALWAYS BE POSITIVE!