Why do we register 2 to 3 months before the start of the season?
By having registration open for this period of time, it gives us time to get all of the player information entered and properly organized, built out our teams, recruit volunteers for coaching based on the number of players registered, get these coaches certified and trained, recruit referees and get them certified and trained, recruit our other volunteers such as team parent and field crew, place uniform orders, get the area/region schedule finalized based on the number of teams available in each region, and prep all of the fields. Preparing for the soccer season takes at least three months and since everyone helping is a volunteer with jobs and families outside of soccer we need registration to start as early as possible to get as much done on our schedule.   

How long is the AYSO season?
The AYSO fall season starts in August with practices. Most coaches usually run 2 practices a week. The younger groups may go down to 1 practice a week later in the season. Games start in September and end in November before Thanksgiving. The spring season starts in February for practices. Games start in March and end in May before memorial day weekend. Most teams will play between 8-11 games a season depending on schedules and weather.

When do practices start?
Practices are officially allowed to start August 1st. Coaches usually start practices in early August depending on their schedule and the weather. Coaches will be reaching out through an introductory email or text message to the team. If you do not hear from a coach by August 8th, please reach out to us incase there was a mistake on the contact information. 
We will try to offer special clinics on Saturdays in August for older division skills such as Goalie, Offense, Defense, and a refresher on skills/rules depending on coach availability.  

What if it is really hot outside?
During the start of the season when temperatures are at their peak, practices and even sometimes games may be cancelled for safety. When temperatures are over 100 degrees, coaches are not allowed to conduct any practices. When temperatures are above 90 degrees, coaches may cancel practice if they wish or run lighter practices with additional water breaks to ensure players are training safely. If it is above 80 degrees, we recommend sending your player with extra water.

When do games start?
In Fall games typically start late August or early September depending on the league schedule. In Spring, games typically start early March depending on the league schedule.

When does the game schedule come out?
The schedule usually comes out the weekend before the first set of games but sometimes can be as late as the Tuesday before games start. Please bear with us but as soon as we receive the finalized schedule, we will get it out ASAP! There are a lot of moving parts to get the schedule set for our area with all of the different regions. Each region is getting their finalized team count submitted, then they organize all the teams into playing groups and divvy up home/away games and work with coaches who coach multiple teams to ensure they have the best chance at being at each game on time and account for other conflicts. 

What is Opening Day/Picture Day?
Opening Day/Picture day is a time we get together as an organization to celebrate the start of the season, get individual and team photos while all of our uniforms are clean, and have a small ceremony to thank our volunteers and officially kick off the season. 

Are the make ups for Picture Day if we are unable to attend?
We try to coordinate a make up picture day if the photographer is available to come back. We will send out a general email with this information so anyone who missed can sign up.  

How long are games?
6U - 2 x 15 min halves
8U - 2 x 20 min halves
10U - 2 x 25 min halves
12U - 2 x 30 min halves
14U - 2 x 35 min halves
For 6U-8U, coaches may ask their players to be there 20-30 minutes before game time for warm ups. 
For 10U-14U, coaches may ask their players to be there 30-45 minutes before game time for warm ups.

What size ball does my child need?
6U and 8U - Size 3
10U and 12U - Size 4
14 and 16U - Size 5

When it is a cold morning, can my child wear a sweatshirt during the game?
No. Any extra articles of clothing must be worn under the uniform so that their uniform and player number is visible to the referee. We recommend wearing a long sleeve underneath their uniform. Color should be the same as the uniform or a neutral color such as black or white.

Are pets allowed at the fields?
Pets are not allowed on the premises during games/practices. Liability wise, we would hate for there to be an accident between a player and a pet. Some fields, the school district or owners do not allow pets on the premise. Players may be allergic to animals. Some owners do not clean up after their pets and the last thing we need is a player stepping/sliding in poop left on the field. 

Who runs my AYSO Region?
The AYSO region is run by volunteers who are parents just like you.  These volunteers attend training and conferences to provide the best possible soccer experience for families in the community.  Volunteers within AYSO are here because it's their passion...not their paycheck.

What are the registration fees used for?
Registration fees are used for players national fees, insurance, field rental, equipment (corner flags, referee flags, game balls, etc.), end of season medals, standard league picture package, program development, and other needs of the region and players.  None of the region board members, coaches, referees, or other volunteers receive payment for their time.

Are scholarships available for my child?
Limited scholarships are available for children who wish to play and may have a hard time affording the league fees. We are thankful to have some sponsors who cover these fees. Please email us at [email protected] and let us know you are interested in the scholarship program. 

Do you take sponsors?
YES! We love sponsors and greatly appreciate them. Your support helps us keep registration costs down, our fields in good condition, and allow us to provide scholarships to families who need some help getting their fees paid. Please download and fill out our sponsor form below and mail it with any donations to our P.O. Box on the form.
ayso sponsorship letter.pdf

   

 


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