REGISTRATION FAQ'S
Is my child the right age for AYSO soccer?
The effective date of age determination for registration shall be the player's age as of December 31 looking ahead of the Membership Year. Example: For MY2024 the division the child will be placed in will be determined based on their age on December 31st
In which age group or division will my child play?
Players are placed in age divisions 5U, 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 19U (U stands for Under that age. For example: 12U means children that are 12 years of age and under as of December 31, 20xx.) Here is the birthdate chart.pdf to help you determine what age group.
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:
- Everyone Plays
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
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, hair pieces (for the girls), 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. Soccer supplies can be purchased at many locations.
My child does not meet the minimum age range for the AYSO Fall season, but he/she is very [big/strong/athletic/coordinated] for his/her age. Can we still sign up for the upcoming Fall season?
No. AYSO is a national organization with very strict guidelines regarding age requirements. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players being the proper age to play and being placed in their age appropriate divisions. Children who do not meet the age requirement are not permitted to play. Be patient – they’ll grow up before you know it!
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 January 1st through December 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.
FALL FAQ's
When do the players get called?
Teams may typically begin practice August 1st. Coaches will contact the players/parents at least 1 week prior to their first scheduled practice. At this time, the coaches will provide all the information you will need in regards to practice times and location. If you have not heard from a coach, please contact the Division Director for your child(s) age group.
What uniform will my child receive?
Each player will receive a team uniform which should be worn at all games and will include a team jersey, soccer shorts, and soccer socks.
How often are practices and games?
Practices are held once or twice a week and games are played Saturday. Location of games and practices will be determined by the region administration with schedules provided to you by your child's coach. 5U/6U and 8U cannot practice after 7:30 pm. 10U and older cannot practice after 9:00 pm. Players are restricted to the following hours of soccer per week, which includes practice, warm-up, and game time: 6U – 3 hours (3), 8U - five (5) hours, 10U and older – six (6) hours.
When is Opening Day / Picture day?
Opening Day / Picture Day usually takes place in September.
When does the Season Begin?
The season begins late August or early September. However, it may change from time to time and always best to confirm by visiting our calendar of events.
GAME AND PLAYER FAQ'S
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Where do the parents sit during the game?
Parents need to stay on their team’s side line between the top of each penalty box. The 'home' team sits on the west or north side of the field, and the 'visitor' team site on the opposite side. Parents 'coaching' all the way down the lines, behind the goals, and/or on the other team's side of the field is not allowed. There is a ZERO TOLERANCE policy towards the youth referees. They are learning and are children. Also, no yelling at the referees. They are volunteers.
