When spectators are permitted to watch games from the sidelines, they are obviously very close to the field and in a position to influence a game in ways which they could not if they were in stands in a stadium setting.  Further, since teams and team management personnel are on the opposite side of the field, there has been no effective way to control disruptive spectator sideline behavior.

To address this problem, NCSL and WAGS teams are required to designate an individual on the parents' sideline as a Team Sportsmanship Liaison (TSL). Following are their duties and responsibilities:: 

• Prior to each game the TSL from both teams should identify themselves to each other and to the referee.  The TSLs should discuss with the referee and coaches what role the TSL will take in the event the sidelines begin to negatively impact the match or the referee’s ability to do his/her job, including:
  • Ensure the team spectators/parents observe the spectator line.
  • Be the "cooler head" should sideline behavior become extreme..
  • Be the first point of contact should the referee feel he/she needs help due to inappropriate sideline behavior.
• If sideline behavior results in an R&D hearing, the TSL will be expected to attend the hearing.