AYSO
REGION 29
AYSO Frequently Asked Questions
01
What makes AYSO different?
Our mission is to provide quality youth soccer programs where everyone builds positive character through participation in a safe, fun, family-oriented soccer environment. AYSO's six philosophies separate us from the pack:
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Everyone Plays
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Balanced Teams
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Open Registration
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Positive Coaching
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Good Sportsmanship
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Player Development
02
03
What other soccer expenses can i anticipate this year?
Not included in the registration fees are the required shin guards, appropriate shoes, and a strongly recommended practice ball. In addition, the team parents will possibly request a small amount to cover the expenses of a team banner, end of season team party, and a small gift for the coach. Also, each family is often requested to bring snacks for the team at one game during the season.
Is my child the right age for AYSO soccer?
Children between the ages of 3 and 18 as of July 31 of the year in which the fall season begins can play AYSO soccer. Please see the Fall 2009 Division Birth Date chart for specific age group eligibility.
In school, my child is with classmates who are [younger/older]. May my child "play down" in a younger division or "play up" in an older division to be on teams with kids with whom he/she goes to school?
No. AYSO is a national organization that determines the player divisions based on birth dates. The AYSO "year" runs from August 1st through July 31st. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players placed in their age appropriate divisions. Many children are in "different" divisions than their school classmates. We encourage you to view this as a positive experience - it will allow your child to broaden his/her relationships outside of school and enjoy making new friends.
What is the duration of the games?
For the younger divisions, the games take about 1 hour to complete. For the older divisions, the games take about 1.5 hours to complete.
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05
What should I bring to my child’s practices and games?
Shin guards (required), soccer shoes, a soccer ball, uniform (games only) and water. Also, bringing a well rested, well hydrated, nutritionally balanced child with a positive attitude and willingness to learn is highly recommended!
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07
Do I have to get soccer shoes for my child to play?
Soccer shoes are not mandatory but are highly recommended (regular athletic shoes with no cleats are the alternative). When buying soccer shoes, they cannot have a toe cleat (baseball shoes have a toe cleat). Generally speaking, nearly all players at all age levels use soccer shoes for practices and games.
What size soccer ball should I get for my child?
Divisions U5 through U8 use a Size 3 ball.
Divisions U10 and U12 use a Size 4 ball.
Divisions U14 and above use a Size 5 ball.
08
Why are the children required to wear their soccer socks over their shin guards?
Safety is the primary reason. Some types of shin guards are hard shell instead of soft, and may have sharp edges that could cut a player. By wearing their socks over the shin guards, players protect each other. Also, wearing the socks over the shin guards prevent the shin guards from shifting during running or when being kicked, which allow the shin guards to protect the areas they are supposed to.
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10
Is it OK for players to wear jewelry during practice and game?
No. Jewelry of any kind (necklaces, watches, earrings, rings, bracelets, etc.) cannot be worn during practice or games.
There is an exception for Med-Alert bracelets, but they must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band for the safety of your child and all the other players.
11
The doctor said that my child can play with his arm splint. Will AYSO allow him/her to play?
No. While the doctor may be representing your son's interest appropriately, the risk to other players mandates that he limit his participation to that of moral support on the sidelines. Players may not wear casts or splints which could possibly cause injury to himself/herself or another player. NO EXCEPTIONS. This applies at the games as well as at practices.
12
What about eyeglasses and hearing aids?
Glasses, hearing aids, and med-alerts may be worn to practices and games. The use of an eyeglass holder/strap or sports-glasses is recommended. As stated above, Med-Alerts must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band as a safety measure.
13
It can be cold during the early morning Fall season games. Can my child wear a sweatshirt during the games?
Any extra articles of clothing must be worn under the uniform (so you can still determine which team a player is associated with). It is recommended that any extra articles of clothing be limited to undershirts or turtle necks (under the uniform). Try to coordinate with your team’s colors if possible. Any extra articles cannot have any zippers or any plastic/metal components of any kind.
14
What kinds of hair accessories are acceptable?
Any hair accessories should not be made of metal or plastic, and should not be rigid. Soft hair accessories such as "scrunchies" and soft rubber bands are recommended and acceptable.
15
Should I volunteer to help?
OF COURSE!! Our AYSO program is a totally volunteer organization run by the parents of players (and often the parents of former players who have moved on but the parents still enjoy helping). There are projects you can help with that take two hours one time up to jobs that require a couple of hours each week. Something for everyone with no experience necessary. Additionally, there is a mandatory two-hour snack bar shift per team for the U10 – U14 divisions. Teams will be assigned times during the playing season and the shift will be posted in the newsletter. Please email ayso174@gmail.com if you are interested in volunteering.
16
Who will be my child’s coach?
AYSO teams are coached by volunteers from the community, many of them parents with children in the program. Coaches are required to complete age appropriate training, as well as safe haven training. Teams are reformed every season to keep them balanced, and coaches are randomly assigned to teams so that play will be safe, fair and fun.
17
What if my child wants to play for a different coach
In order to ensure teams are balanced and fair, we cannot allow players to request specific coaches or coaches to request specific players. The only exception is that coaches can coach their own kids if they wish. Therefore, if your child wants to play for a specific coach, that coach needs to be you (so volunteer! You’ll love it.