general information · no jewelry, friendship bracelets, watches, necklaces, decorative tape,...

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2 AYSO REGION 254 BURBANK General Information Welcome Team Managers! On behalf of AYSO Region 254, we thank you for volunteering your time and energy to help us get all the news and information to your team! Whether you’re a 1 st time Team Manager or joining the ranks again this year, welcome. Here is all the information you’ll need to be an effective Team Manager. Team Manager Responsibilities As Team Manager, you are responsible for managing the team as outlined in this packet. You are to assist the coach with parent communication regarding AYSO, practices, games schedules and all team information. The team manager allows the coach to focus on “coaching”. Be proactive and ask your coach what you can do to help. Questions - Most questions can be answered in this packet, or on the www.burbankayso254.com website, the blue tents on Saturdays, or emailing a board member (see emails on the website). We also have a twitter and Facebook account “Burbank AYSO”. Website - Visit our website regularly for answers to your questions and information that you may be looking for. It includes Board Member’s contact numbers, calendar, general rules and information and updates on important region information such (i.e. Picture day, trophy day, volunteer opportunities, etc.). Conduct Policy - Region 254 has zero tolerance for inappropriate coaching, behavior, or unsportsmanlike conduct. Sanctions will include game and season suspensions. Please read the enclosed Conduct Policy and Code of Ethics carefully. Please inform your parents that zero tolerance also applies to their sideline behavior. No abusive, insulting, or obscene language or conduct will be allowed. PLEASE discuss and have your parents read and sign the code of conduct policy in this packet. Turn the form in at the blue tent during your team’s first game. (You can pass copies out at practices if it’s easier for you). Team Communication Please make a Team Roster of all of the children’s and parent’s names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses so everyone on your team can stay in touch. Include a team snack schedule so everyone has a turn to bring treats to the game as well as field monitor schedule (see field monitor section below). All of this can be done via Shutterfly, Team Snap or any other choice and set up your “Team Page” – this is a great place for everyone to have full visibility to game schedule, snack schedule, and player availability. Please be sure everyone knows to call the Coach or Team Manager if they are unable to attend a game or practice. It’s a courtesy everyone appreciates, and the coach can make any necessary adjustments. Roster Changes - If a player drops from your roster, you or your coach notify the division coordinator & the treasurer. The AYSO Membership Fee is not refundable. Players withdrawing prior to 08/12/2018 will be issued a full refund minus a $40 processing fee (including the $17.50 AYSO membership fee). After 8/13/2018 no refunds will be given. All requests for cancellation must be submitted via email to [email protected]. YOU MAY NOT ASSIGN A PLAYER TO YOUR TEAM ON YOUR OWN.

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AYSO

REGION 254 BURBANK

General Information Welcome Team Managers! On behalf of AYSO Region 254, we thank you for volunteering your time and energy

to help us get all the news and information to your team! Whether you’re a 1st time Team Manager or joining the

ranks again this year, welcome. Here is all the information you’ll need to be an effective Team Manager.

Team Manager Responsibilities – As Team Manager, you are responsible for managing the team as outlined in

this packet. You are to assist the coach with parent communication regarding AYSO, practices, games schedules

and all team information. The team manager allows the coach to focus on “coaching”. Be proactive and ask your

coach what you can do to help.

Questions - Most questions can be answered in this packet, or on the www.burbankayso254.com website, the

blue tents on Saturdays, or emailing a board member (see emails on the website). We also have a twitter and

Facebook account “Burbank AYSO”.

Website - Visit our website regularly for answers to your questions and information that you may be looking for.

It includes Board Member’s contact numbers, calendar, general rules and information and updates on important

region information such (i.e. Picture day, trophy day, volunteer opportunities, etc.).

Conduct Policy - Region 254 has zero tolerance for inappropriate coaching, behavior, or unsportsmanlike

conduct. Sanctions will include game and season suspensions. Please read the enclosed Conduct Policy and Code

of Ethics carefully. Please inform your parents that zero tolerance also applies to their sideline behavior. No

abusive, insulting, or obscene language or conduct will be allowed. PLEASE discuss and have your parents read

and sign the code of conduct policy in this packet. Turn the form in at the blue tent during your team’s first game.

(You can pass copies out at practices if it’s easier for you).

Team Communication – Please make a Team Roster of all of the children’s and parent’s names, telephone

numbers, and e-mail addresses so everyone on your team can stay in touch. Include a team snack schedule so

everyone has a turn to bring treats to the game as well as field monitor schedule (see field monitor section below).

All of this can be done via Shutterfly, Team Snap or any other choice and set up your “Team Page” – this is a

great place for everyone to have full visibility to game schedule, snack schedule, and player availability. Please

be sure everyone knows to call the Coach or Team Manager if they are unable to attend a game or practice. It’s

a courtesy everyone appreciates, and the coach can make any necessary adjustments.

Roster Changes - If a player drops from your roster, you or your coach notify the division coordinator & the

treasurer. The AYSO Membership Fee is not refundable. Players withdrawing prior to 08/12/2018 will be

issued a full refund minus a $40 processing fee (including the $17.50 AYSO membership fee). After 8/13/2018

no refunds will be given. All requests for cancellation must be submitted via email to

[email protected]. YOU MAY NOT ASSIGN A PLAYER TO YOUR TEAM ON YOUR

OWN.

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****MOST QUESTIONS CAN BE ANSWERED ON THE www.burbankayso254.com

Team Manager information will be relayed from commissioners, to the coaches and they will need to forward

any info to you. For example: point opportunities, picture day details etc. Please make sure you check in often

with your coach to have them to fwd any necessary emails to you.

THE STUFF OF TEAM MANAGERS THINGS THEY (OR OTHER PARENTS) ARE KNOWN TO HAUL AROUND

• First aid kit, including ice or instant-ice packs • List of other parents to accompany same- sex players to the restroom • Extra hair ties for replacement and an extra baggie for storing jewelry • Extra water and sun block, DEET bug spray, and, later, jackets and an umbrella • Code of Conduct for parents to sign • Extra hard copy rosters • Season schedule • Players’ medical release forms (you should have a copy for yourself) • On extra Hot Days, a cooler of cold wet washcloths and/or spray bottle to cool off players • Game card • Trash bags • Handouts or giveaways from the Tent • Elastic bands around the shoe to secure shoelaces • Sleeve ties, scrunchies or hair bands • Pens, pencils, permanent marking pen (dark) for uniform parts and balls • Cell phone, camera • Ball, ball pump and needle • Extra pair or two of team socks

TEAM MANAGER TO DO (OR GET SOMEONE ELSE TO DO!) LIST

When What

By second practice Have all parents sign the Parent Code of Conduct

When uniforms are distributed Help divide and size the jerseys and teach new parents where and how to get proper gear.

At least one week before first game

• Create and distribute team roster (may need to be updated as players arrive and

info changes) . • Create and distribute game and practice schedules, also snack schedule. Include

arrival time and contact info.

Every week Remind players and families of practice times, game times, and who has “snack duty” via Shutterfly Page or email

ASAP Order Team Banner and stand if needed.

Picture Day Make sure your players are there at the appointed time (times will be listed on our website.)

Middle of the Season

Check your points and make sure everything is covered so that your team won’t be held back if they make championship. Start end-of year party scheduling (assign tasks). Start thinking about end of year gift for coach.

Trophy Day Make arrangements to pick up trophies. The coach may want to present trophies at the end of the year party

Often Thank the coach, the referee, and your parent volunteers. It will come right back to you!

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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Q. What is AYSO?

A. AYSO stands for "American Youth Soccer Organization". AYSO is a national association 501 (c) (3)

nonprofit corporation Incorporated, State of California, 1964.

Q. Who is Burbank AYSO?

A. We are the community-based league (called a Region) and a member of AYSO National. We are Region

254, located in Area 10, Section V. In staying with National's Policy, our goal is to provide world class

soccer youth soccer programs that enrich children’s lives. Our Mission is to develop and deliver quality youth

soccer program (ages 5 to 18, male and female) which promote a fun, family environment based on AYSO’S

Six Philosophies: Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good

Sportsmanship, and Player Development.

Q. Who supervises the Region?

A. An elected Regional Commissioner, Board and Staff Members. These people are ALL volunteers and are

NOT paid for their time and dedication.

Q. What does the Region provide?

A. A uniform, including one jersey, one short and one pair of socks. Coaches will need to pick up the team

uniforms by the end of August. THE TEAM MANAGER SHOULD CONTROL THE PASSING OUT OF

THE UNIFORMS (the children should be lined from shortest to tallest and distributed that way). The Region

will provide playing and practice facilities. The Region will also provide limited insurance coverage for

player accidents and injuries. The Region will also provide a trophy and a basic team and individual player

picture.

Q. Do I need to order a team banner?

A. No, it’s not a requirement - but fun for the kids! If your team decides to have a banner --- don’t forget the

Banner Stand. You can purchase it from the banner company or make your own.

Q. What about Picture Day?

A. Picture day- October 8th, 7:30-3:30! Individual and team pictures will be taken and the cost is covered by

your registration fee. The picture schedule will be posted one or two weeks in advance so you will know when

your team needs to arrive. Payment for extra items ordered must be made on picture day. When pictures are

ready to be picked up, the coaches rating forms (8U – 18U) must be submitted before pictures will be

released. Please remind your coach of this. (MAKE UP DAY October 13th)

Q. What other equipment will I need?

A. An appropriately-sized ball, soccer cleats and shin guards. Baseball cleats are not acceptable.

Age groups will play with the following ball sizes:

Size 3 ball: U5 – 8U

Size 4 ball: 10U - 12U

Size 5 ball: 14U – 18U

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Q. Can my player wear earrings? They were just pierced and I can't take them out! (Sound familiar??)

A. Earrings may never be worn, even if taped or padded in practice or games. No jewelry, friendship bracelets,

watches, necklaces, decorative tape, plastic or metal hair barrettes or "hair wraps" may be worn during practices

or games as well. Only soft knee braces may be worn upon inspection and approval of the referee prior to the

match. No casts, soft or hard, are permitted. MedicAlert bracelets may be covered by tape to keep them snug

against the wrist and completely hidden.

Q. Where do I get the equipment not supplied by the Region?

A. Any sports store can supply you with a starter package of cleats, shin guards and a ball.

Q. When are practices held?

A. During the week at assigned locations. Your coach will provide you details. Practices are one-hour in length.

Q. When are league games?

A. Typically on Saturdays. However, older divisions, all-star teams and tournament teams may play on Sundays.

Q. When will I receive a game schedule?

A. Usually 3-5 days before the season starts, but maybe even 1 week AFTER the season starts! The first game

starts August 25th. The schedules will also be posted on our website. Don't panic - simply call your coach and

check the site regularly.

Q. How early should I show up for games?

A. Generally, 1 hour prior to kickoff.

Q. Can I request a coach or team?

A. No. We do not honor requests made by parents or players to be placed on certain teams or with other players.

Q. When does the season start?

A. The season runs from late August through November. Older division teams may start and end early.

Playoff, all-star teams and tournament teams may play through Jan and Feb, and beyond.

Q. How is the best way to stay informed about Regional Events or issues?

A. Stay in touch with your coach or team manager or check the website. We also have a twitter account, and

our Facebook page “Burbank AYSO” is a great resource for information.

Q. Who are the coaches?

A. The coaches in Region 254 are the foundation of our program. They are all unpaid volunteers. They are also

mentors and role models to our children. As a result of this important role, they have a responsibility in regard

to their behavior as well as deserving of our respect for the time and effort they give to our children. Your coach

is not a babysitter. Be prompt for practices and games and support the person who is teaching your child the

most popular sport in the world. Don't be late in picking up your child from practice. The coach is instructed to

never leave until the entire team is accounted for and is picked up by a parent or guardian.

Q. How are the coaches 'certified' to coach?

A. All Coaches are required to submit a volunteer form, which is then turned in for a background check. Once

we are notified that the Coach is “cleared” then they are notified of the certifications that are required to Coach

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the specific division they are interested in. They must complete the certification and must also do the Safe

Haven training every two years and concussion training.

Q. How are the referees 'certified' to referee matches?

A. All referees must complete a classroom-style Regional Referee Program/Certification Course. Referees must

submit a volunteer form and complete Safe Haven. New and returning referees should check the "Referee Page"

on our website frequently - especially before the season commences.

NOTE: It is expected that each team - regardless of age group - have 2 – 3 parents volunteer to become a Program Certified Referee. Understand that if your team does not provide at least 2 practicing referees, your team may not be allowed to participate in the Post Season!

Q. How do I volunteer?

A. Region 254 is run for our kids by parents and other dedicated volunteers like you. Unlike other youth sport

organizations, AYSO has NO paid staff on the local (regional) level. All Board Members, Coaches, Referees

and support staff contribute their time without monetary compensation. Because of this regulation, we must

limit the number of players and playing opportunities to match the number of volunteers. Quite literally, it

requires one volunteer at each level for every child in the program. Parents who enroll their children without a

volunteer commitment constitute a burden on other parents and may jeopardize the program. There is always

work to be done. AGAIN: Let us know how you want to help by simply reaching out to the Volunteer

Coordinator (information listed on website)

Q. May I bring alcoholic beverages or consume tobacco at AYSO events?

A. NO! AYSO National Rules, Burbank Parks and Recreation and Burbank Unified School District Rules

dictate that NO persons may consume alcoholic beverages or use tobacco products while engaged in AYSO

activities or on BUSD property. This includes at practices in the parks as well as at the schools. Coaches are

asked to request parents that do smoke to do so off of school property and completely out of the presence of any

child. Again, this also includes the parks. Individual who violate these rules will be asked to leave the premises,

escorted if necessary. The same policy holds true if an individual is showing signs of being under the influence

of alcohol/drugs.

Q. May I bring my pet to the practices or games?

A. NO! Players, parents or spectators will be asked to leave the grounds if they have a pet.

EVEN IF YOU HAVE THE ANIMAL IN A BAG OR PURSE!!! BUSD only allows sightseeing dogs, no other

service dog is allowed.

Q. Are bikes and skateboards permitted on campus or on the field?

A. NO!

Q. How do we handle the issue of Blood Safety?

A. Per AYSO guidelines, the following is required to occur if a player is injured and bleeding is present during

practice or a game: 1. The player must be removed from the activity immediately and the nature of the bleeding

stopped. 2. The wound must be covered/bandaged. All coaches have been provided basic first-aid kits and

should supplement them with their own supplies. 3. Any article of a players clothing containing blood must be

removed or neutralized with a solution of hydrogen peroxide.

Q. What are “Field Monitors”?

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A. To ensure everyone has a positive experience at AYSO, EVERY team is required to provide one field

monitor each week. It is a good idea to assign parents Field Monitor Duty such as the same day as when a

parent has snack duty. All teams will monitor the hour BEFORE their game. Sign-in at the Tent closest to your

game day field. Wear the bright orange field monitor vest. Patrol the field area. The presence of your vest will

inspire others to follow the Kids Zone policy. Field Monitors are to walk around the field. Observe that the

rules are being observed by all coaches, players, and spectators.

FIELD MONITORS should remind those who need to remember that:

• It’s for the kids – make sure they are having fun

• Let the coaches do the coaching

• Referees are to be treated with respect, regardless of the calls!

• Parents are not permitted to “run the sidelines” during match play.

• Parents must stay between the penalty lines, one yard back from the sidelines.

• Coaches must stay within 10 yards of the centerline or in the coaches box.

• Parents cannot “camp” around the goal area – behind or to the side – regardless of the age division.

• NO PETS ARE PERMITTED AT PRACTICE OR GAMES – you may be cited!

• No smoking or alcohol is permitted at any game or practice facility

• Kids are not allowed to assemble or take down goals

• Coaches and parents who have first-of-the-day-games must arrive one (1) hour prior to game time for

goal set up.

• Each team is required to “police” their sidelines for trash and other debris after each match.

Q. How can we keep the children safe?

A. No child may be left unsupervised after practice or game. It is the responsibility of the Team Manager and

Coach to monitor that every child leaves practice with a family member or authorized adult. Please do not drop

off your child. Additionally, if both the coach and assistant coach are male, the Team Manager must be female,

and must stay through each practice and game.

Q. Who is responsible for erecting or taking down the goals on game days?

A. Teams that have the first game of the day are responsible for setting up the goals. COACHES OR TEAM

MANAGERS SHOULD REQUEST THAT PARENTS BE ON HAND AT LEAST 45 MINUTES PRIOR TO

THE GAME TO ASSIST IN SETTING UP THE GOALS.

Goal Take-down - Teams that have the last game of the day are responsible for taking down the goals. Goals

should be carefully lowered to the ground, NOT DROPPED. At all fields, all goal pieces must be carried – not

dragged – to the shed or container where the equipment is kept. Any questions please find a Board Member to

help. Certain goal pieces are duct taped together for a specific reason and labeled DO NOT REMOVE. Those

taped pieces are not to be tampered with, under any circumstance! NO EQUIPMENT IS TO BE DRAGGED

ON THE GROUND. Please DO NOT remove the Velcro straps that holds the nets to the goals. We need them

the following week. Sand bags are very valuable and are a key piece to keep our children safe. Make sure all

sand bags are properly stored.

*** Players are not to assist in setting up or taking down goals. The major source of injury or death of

players is caused by goal-related accidents.

*** Field Sidelines need to be left in clean condition. All snack wrappers, bottles, cans, and trash need to be

picked up before you leave.

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Q. Does Region 254 offer Summer Camps?

A. Yes. Please check the Camps link off the Home Page

Q. What is my role as a parent?

A. AYSO is an organization devoted to child development in a soccer environment that is safe, fair, and fun.

The kids are the focus of our program, and the program depends on the efforts of all involved adults for its

success. We require that as a Parent, Coach, Referee, Volunteer or Casual Observer you maintain a positive

attitude when dealing with the children under all circumstances without exceptions. This also includes your

attitude when dealing with other parents in the presence of children. Understand that we maintain a

'zerotolerance' stand on 'abusive behavior' and violators will be suspended for one full year without appeal or

exception.

Q. How can I help monetarily?

A. Individual and corporate sponsorship provides our Region with much-needed funds to provide scholarships,

new equipment, modern apparel, technology and many other items which attribute to our success. As a

nonprofit organization, we rely on the generosity from individuals and corporate entities. These

funds and grants help us promote and reinforce the environment for which we strive to provide! $10-$20-

$30$40-$50 or more, Region 254 needs your financial generosity! All those donating will listed under our Key

Sponsors Section of the website.

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AYSO Philosophies are:

Everyone Plays! Our program's goal is for kids to play soccer so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least 50 percent of every game. It's no fun to spend the game on the bench...and that's no way to learn soccer!

Balanced Teams! Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as possible because it's more fun and a better learning experience when teams of similar ability play. It allows for each player to gain the experience of a wide variety of teammates of different skill levels.

Open Registration! Our program is open to all children who want to register and play soccer. Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing. There are no elimination try-outs and nobody gets cut.

Positive Coaching! Encouragement of player effort provides for greater enjoyment for the players and leads to better-skilled and better-motivated players. A coach can be one of the most influential people in a child's life, so AYSO requires they create a positive experience for every boy and girl.

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Good Sportsmanship! We strive to create a positive environment based on mutual respect rather than a winat-all-costs attitude, and our program is designed to instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO.

Player Development! We believe that all players should be able to develop their soccer skills and knowledge to the best of their abilities, both individually and as members of a team, in order to maximize their enjoyment of the game.

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2018 VOLUNTEER POINT PROGRAM

Volunteer Point Program

The volunteer program is designed to increase parent participation while maintaining sportsmanship

ideals and reward referee and coach training and participation. To meet our goal of having all games

covered with one center and two assistant referees, every team should provide two adult referees for

the season. Teams may have unlimited youth referees.

Every team in 6U through 8U is responsible for earning a total of 10 points by parents before the

close of the season. Any team that has a parent both complete referee training and referee at least one

game will have completed their point obligation.

Every team in 10U through 14U will play and enjoy their regular season games. However, in order to

qualify for post season play the following requirements must be met:

All teams must earn a minimum of 60 points to participate in post season regional playoffs. 30 points

must be earned by week #5 (including a minimum of 15 referee points). A minimum of 60 points

must be earned by the last week of the regular season.

Volunteer points must be earned in the following 3 areas:

1. Season Volunteers (Minimum of 15 Points)

Volunteer points are accumulated as follows:

Coaches: 10 points

Assistant Coach: 5 points

Team Manager: 5 points

Board Member: 10 points

Newly Certified Referee: 5 points (must referee at least one game to earn points)

Newly Upgraded Intermediate or Advanced Referee: 5 points

To receive volunteer points, Coaches, ACs, Team Managers & Board Members must complete all

required courses and paperwork prior to the start of the season. New Referees or upgraded referees

will receive points when they have completed their coursework & paperwork + referee at least 1 game

in their new capacity.

2. Referee Assignments (Minimum of 30 Points)

Center Referee (10U and 12U): 4 points per game

Center Referee (14U and older): 5 points per game

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Assistant Referee (10U-12U): 3 points per game

Assistant Referee (14U and older): 4 points per game

10U – 14U Referee Signups:

• Each 10U – 14U team needs to provide a referee to cover at least 1 referee opening EACH

SATURDAY!

Referees can sign up for their volunteer positions on the weekly signup sheet. If you are a certified

referee and you are not receiving the signup sheet, email the referee administrator Mark Johnson at

[email protected].

• Usual volunteer points will also be available for any additional referee service provided for

additional games.

• The referee schedule will officially designate the center referee assignment as well as the two

assistant referees.

3. Weekly Assignments/Special Event Participation (Minimum of 10 Points)

*Each team should provide at least 1 field monitor for the hour preceding their game

• Field Monitors: 1 point

Field Monitors must be at least 18 years old. This assignment does not qualify for school

volunteer hours.

• Field Set Up/Take Down: 3 points

This is for helping set up the referee tents and tables at each field, NOT goal set up or goal

take down. The teams who are assigned the first and last games of the day are responsible for

setting up their own goals. Teams do not receive points for setting up or taking down their

own goals.

• Ice (1 point per bag) / Water Donations (1 point per case)

• Volunteer 2 hour shifts for various onetime events (picture day, trophy pick up, etc.): 5 points

• To volunteer for ice / water donations, Field Set up / Take Down or special event participation,

email the Volunteer Points Director Heather DaVault at [email protected]. Points

will only be awarded to volunteers on the official signup sheet (your team will not receive

volunteer points for dropping off ice or water if not scheduled in advance).

In your email to the Volunteer Points Coordinator, please include the following information:

• Division & Team Number

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• Name of Volunteer

• Task (water, ice, tent set up, parking lot monitor, picture day, trophy day, etc) • Field (Luther,

Jordan, Providencia)

• Time (if necessary – picture day, trophy day, parking lot monitor)

4. VOLUNTEER POINT DEDUCTIONS

• Failure to turn in Player Ratings by Picture/Trophy Pick Up Day: 10 point deduction

• Any occurrence of a Coach or Assistant Coach being removed from a game for failure to

adhere to AYSO rules or conduct policies: 10 point deduction per occurrence

Minimum points required to qualify for playoffs: 60

POINTS ARE NOT TRANSFERABLE. Points must be allocated at the time earned.

Volunteer support is needed for a successful season. If you are available to volunteer on any of the

weekends or for an executive board position, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more

details.

Volunteer points will be posted weekly on the website. Any disputes must be made in writing to the

Volunteer Point Recorder within 1 (one) week of posting, no exceptions.

ALL volunteer points must be completed by the last game of the regular season. If your team has not

completed ALL of the requirements, they will not be permitted to participate in regional playoffs.

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CODE OF CONDUCT

As a parent, you play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of youngsters.

Through your encouragement and good example, you can help assure that all the boys and girls learn

good sportsmanship and self-discipline. In AYSO, young people learn to work together, to sacrifice for

the good of the team, to enjoy winning and deal appropriately with defeat - all while becoming

physically fit and healthy. Best of all, they have fun.

Support Your Child

Supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team is very important.

Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach your

child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than victory - that way your child

will always be a winner despite the outcome of the game!

Always Be Positive

Parents serve as role models for their children. Become aware of this and work to be a positive role

model. Applaud good plays by your child's team as well as good plays by the opposing team.

Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sports activities.

Remember: Your Child Wants To Have Fun

Remember that your child is the one playing soccer, not you. It's very important to let children

establish their own goals - to play the game for themselves. Take care not to impose your own

standards and goals on them.

Don't put too heavy a burden on your child to win games. Surveys reveal that 72% of children would

rather play for a losing team than ride the bench for a winning team.

Children play for the fun of playing.

Reinforce Positive Behavior

Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their goals and their natural fear of

failure. Nobody likes to make mistakes. If your child does make one, remember it's all part of learning,

so encourage your child's efforts and point out the good things your child accomplished.

Don't Be a Sideline Coach or Referee

Coaches and referees are usually parents just like you. They volunteer their time to help make your

child’s youth soccer experiences a positive one. They need your support too.

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That means refraining from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. As a volunteer organization,

there's usually always an opportunity for you to take your interest in coaching or refereeing to the next

level and become one yourself

Parents Pledge:

1. I pledge to be on time or early when dropping off my child for a practice or game. I understand that it is embarrassing for my child to be

late to a game or practice and that I am putting him/her at physical risk

by not providing adequate time for warm up. I understand the importance

of picking up my child on time for all games and practices. This shows

respect for the coach, who has other time commitments, and it tells my

child that he or she is my top priority.

2. I understand that the top three reasons kids play sports are to have fun, make new friends and learn new skills. I understand that the game is

for the kids, and that I will encourage my child to have fun and keep

sport in its proper perspective. I understand that athletes do their best

when they are emotionally healthy, so I will be positive and supportive.

3. I will redefine what it is to be a "Winner" in my conversations with my child. A Winner is someone who makes maximum effort, continues to

learn and improve, and does not let mistakes, or fear of making mistakes,

stop them. I understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of any game

and that people learn from their mistakes. I understand that all children

are born with different abilities and that the true measure is not how my

child compares to others but how he/she is doing in comparison to his/her

best self.

4. I understand the importance of setting a good example of sportsmanship to my child. No matter what others may do, I will show respect for all

involved in the game including coaches, players, opponents, opposing

fans, and referees. I understand that officials, coaches, and players

make mistakes. If the referee makes a "questionable" call, I will

continue to respect the individual and be silent!

5. I understand that games can be exciting times for my child who is trying to deal with the fast-paced action of the game, respond to

opponents, referees, teammates and listen to coaches. I will not add

confusion by yelling out instructions. During the game, I will limit my

comments to encouraging my child and other players for both teams.

6. I will not make negative comments about the game, coaches, referees or teammates in my child's presence. I understand that this plants a seed,

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which can negatively influence my child's motivation and overall

experience.

I agree to honor the AYSO Parent Pledge in my words and actions.

AYSO – Region 254

Parent Pledge and CONDUCT POLICY AGREEMENT

Everyone on your team needs to sign the Conduct Policy Agreement. Please turn into the

mailbox at your first game.

I have thoroughly read, understand, and agree to abide by the AYSO Region 254 Conduct

Policy Code of Ethics and AYSO’s Kids Zone Parent Pledge.

Team #: _______________ Team Name: ____________________________

Division: _______________ Girls / Boys (Circle One)

1. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name

2. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

Print Name

3. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

17

Name:

Print Name

4. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

Team #: _______________ Team Name: ____________________________

Division: _______________ Girls / Boys (Circle One)

5. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

6. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

7. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

8. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

9. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

18

10. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name Signature/Date

Team #: _______________ Team Name: ____________________________

Division: _______________ Girls / Boys (Circle One)

11. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Name:

Print Name

12. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

Print Name 13. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

Print Name

14. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

Print Name

15. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

19

Print Name

16. Coach/Parent (Circle One)

Signature/Date

Name:

PHOTO/VIDEO RELEASE

I, the undersigned, hereby give permission for images of me, or if applicable, of my minor child(ren) named below, captured during

regular and special activities of the American Youth Soccer Organization (“AYSO”) through any means, to be used by AYSO

and/or its affiliates for promotional purposes in any media whatsoever, without restriction as to alterations, and in conjunction with

my own or a fictitious, or no, name. I consent to such uses and hereby waive all rights to compensation and any right to inspect or

approve the finished product or image, regardless of format.

1. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

2. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

20

Date:

3. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

4. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

5. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

6. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

21

(please print) Signature:

Date:

7. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

8. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

9. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

22

Date:

10. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

11. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

12. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

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13. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

14. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

15. Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

Date:

Name of child:

(please print)

Adult or Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

(please print)

Signature:

24

Date: