Hattiesburg Futbol Club (HFC) Division I (Select) Policy

Transcription

1 Hattiesburg Futbol Club (HFC) Division I (Select) Policy This manual describes the rules and regulations for HFC Division I soccer. This document was adopted and approved by the HYSA/HFC Board of Directors on April 9, /11/ :40 AM pg. 1

2 Mission... 5 Club General Information... 5 Family Participation... 5 Financial Commitment... 5 Corporate Sponsorships/Funding... 5 Fundraising... 6 HFC Classic Tournament Participation... 6 Scholarships... 6 Tournament Play... 6 A. Team Participation... 6 B. Player Participation... 7 Hattiesburg Youth Soccer Association General Rules Introduction Teams Team Organization Team Names The Club and the Team The Team and the Individual Team Travel and Conduct Players Player Commitment and Dedication Behavior and Conduct Health Parents Parent Commitment Parent Responsibility for Player Pickup Sideline Coaching and Parent Behavior Parent Disciplinary Actions Communications Tryouts Tryout Requirements Tryout Gender and Ages Players Playing Up in Age Tryout Dates Tryout Meeting Player Evaluation Player Selection Selection Rules National Team and ODP Players Multiple Teams Multiple Teams per Age Group Management of Multiple Teams Recruitment Recruiting Rostered Players Recruiting Unrostered Players Recruiting Other Clubs /11/ :40 AM pg. 2

3 8.4 Unregistered Player Player Play-Up Policy Guest Player Policy Guest Player Recruitment Guest Player Within the Club (DI, DII, or DIII) Guest Player for another Club Registration HFC Commitment Refunds Player Leaves/Quits (Inactive Player) Player is Dropped Delinquent Payments Player Transfers Team Fees Playing Seasons Games US Club Soccer Games Game Day Protocol Before, During, and After the Games Practices Player Participation Other Sports School Events Playing Time Dropping Players Inactive Players Notification Uniform Policy Uniform Purchase Uniform Selection Uniform Specs Team Name and Sponsors Team Tournaments Uniform Vendor Uniform Ownership Uniform Reimbursement Referees Referee Request Referee Payment Coach Selection Potential Coaches Coach Profile Coach Approval Coach s Licensing Conflicts of Rules Complaints and Disputes and Complaints Process Club Discipline /11/ :40 AM pg. 3

4 26.0 Amendment of General Rules /11/ :40 AM pg. 4

5 Overview Mission The Select Soccer Program is about creating opportunity for young players to be introduced to soccer, to enjoy soccer and to flourish. It is about every player getting the opportunity to be the best they can be. It is about creating a safe, enjoyable learning environment by providing facilities, trained coaches and development programs which suit each individual player. It is about finding and developing players and providing these players with the skills and tools to reach the highest levels of the game in which they so desire. The Hattiesburg Futbol Club is about high standards and quality. It is about learning to play attractive, highly skillful, successful soccer It is about developing technique and understanding. It is a joy to watch, exciting and entertaining, it is fun to play. It is about aspiration and achievement. It prepares players to play in any system, any strategy and understand any tactics organized with the objective to provide youth soccer players the opportunity to compete and develop to their highest playing potential. Club General Information Family Participation All non-profit organizations have a continuous need for volunteer workers and HFC is no exception. HFC consists of volunteers who dedicate a considerable amount of their time to fill roles as Board members, coaches, managers, commissioners, tournament workers, and other positions within the Club. HFC strongly encourages all parents to become involved in the organization at the Club or Team level. Financial Commitment The financial commitment to play DI soccer for HFC consists of the following fees: a. HFC Registration fee b. Gulf States Premier League (GSPL) fees If selected to play. c. Team fees d. Uniform purchase e. US Club fees f. Mississippi Soccer Association (under USYS) fees If selected to play. g. Other Teams are responsible for tournament expenses including application/registration fee, coach s accommodations, coach s meal, mileage expense, and other miscellaneous fees. These expenses constitute the Team fee. Corporate Sponsorships/Funding 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 5

6 Parents are encouraged to solicit corporate sponsorships for either HFC or their child s team. Any monetary donations for an individual team must be processed through HFC for the sponsoring organization to receive a tax credit. Fundraising Individual teams are encouraged and allowed to hold fundraising events to assist teams with the payment of Club and team dues. HFC Classic Tournament Participation The HFC Classic Tournament usually held in the spring is the primary fundraiser for the Club. The tournaments proceeds are used in the general operation of the Club helping to lower fees paid by all members and provide monies for scholarships. Since this event is critical to the financial health of HFC, it is expected that all HFC teams will participate in the tournament unless the DOC approves their absence. Participation means that teams will play in the tournament and provide parent volunteers during the tournament weekend to serve as field marshals, score keepers, and other tournament duties as specified by the tournament director. HFC teams that participate and provide volunteers may have all or a portion of their tournament registration fee waived. However, if a team refuses to play, and/or provide volunteers, they will be required to pay the entire tournament registration fee unless the DOC waives the requirement. The requirements and guidelines above apply to ALL Club sponsored tournaments. Scholarships Some scholarship money is available for families who need assistance with payment of the HFC registration fee. Full and partial scholarships can be awarded to players. The decision to grant or reject the scholarship request and, if approved, the amount of the scholarship will be made by a Committee of volunteers appointed by the Chairman of the Board. ANY player awarded a full or partial scholarship is required to have their parent/guardian volunteer for the HFC Classic or other Club sponsored tournament or apply for other volunteer options within the Club. Failure to do so could put the player in bad standing with the Club and could cause the player to be dropped from the team or prevent them from obtaining future scholarship money. Tournament Play Teams should seek to play in quality tournaments taking into consideration the financial obligations, the dates of play, the availability of the coaches, strength of opposition, and the tournaments prestige. A. Team Participation All teams are expected to play at least four to six quality tournaments each year usually split evenly between the Fall and Spring seasons. Teams may not always have their assigned coach at every tournament game but their replacement will be a qualified HFC coach. The DOC will decide on who the guest coach will be. One of the tournaments that teams are required to attend is the HFC Classic which is currently held in the spring. The DOC has the option of releasing a team from 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 6

7 their HFC Classic tournament commitment. B. Player Participation All players are expected to play in the tournaments in which their team participates, just as each player is expected to play in all scheduled league games. If a player cannot participate, for whatever reason, then they should let the Coach/Manager know in a reasonable amount of time before tournament play. Hattiesburg Youth Soccer Association General Rules 1.0 Introduction The following rules where written to provide clear, consistent communication between the HYSA/HFC Board of Directors, Select Executive Committee, the coaches and assistant coaches, the players, and the parents. The following rules are hence set forth, adopted, and approved by the HYSA/HFC Board of Directors. 2.0 Teams 2.1 Team Organization Teams will be organized in accordance with FIFA (Federacion Internationale de Futbol Associacion), USSF (United States Soccer Federation), US Club Soccer, and Gulf States Premier League (GSPL) rules and regulations. Team rosters will not exceed guidelines for the appropriate age as established and defined by USSF/US Club/GSPL policy. Team members will be selected via a tryout process as defined in section 5.0 Tryouts below. 2.2 Team Names The names of all teams will be based on a standard name for girls and a standard name for boys along with the playing year of the team. ALL girls teams will be named the Storm and ALL boys teams will be named the Thunder. An example of a team name is HFC Storm 98. If more than one team exists in a gender and age group, a color will be used to denote the difference between the teams. The colors used for each team will be in the following hierarchy: Blue, White, and Red. An example would be HFC Storm 98 Blue 2.3 The Club and the Team Members of HFC agree to put the Club ahead of the team. When decisions are made regarding conflicts between the Club and a particular team, the Club will come first. Club decisions will be made by the DOC. 2.4 The Team and the Individual In most cases, members of HFC agree to put their team s interests and needs ahead of the individual player. If conflicts arise between the team and a player or parent, the team coach under the direction of the respective DOC will be responsible to make decisions for the good of the team. 2.5 Team Travel and Conduct 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 7

8 When attending tournaments out of town/state, team members should stay together unless otherwise agreed upon by the Coach and/or Manager. Decisions regarding team travel, including arrival and departure time to and from fields, hotels, restaurants, etc., will be handled and approved by the team Coach and/or Manager. Players should always try to travel the night before tournament play to attend team meetings and to ensure all team members are present in case of any last minute tournament schedule changes and to get proper rest. If a player travels, and a parent does not, then the parent is responsible for organizing player supervision with the team Coach/Manager. Because players represent the Club, they should always dress appropriately and act in a responsible manner. 3.0 Players 3.1 Player Commitment and Dedication Every competitive player and their family are committed in developing his/her potential to its maximum in order to set and achieve the highest goals as a team. At a minimum, each player must do the following: a. Attend all training sessions. Even if players are injured, they should attend in order to remain familiar with team tactics and progress. b. Arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of each session to begin warm-up activities. c. Train and compete with 100 percent effort and intensity. d. Attend all Club, league and tournament games. e. Attend all team meetings and events. f. Lead a healthy lifestyle and refrain from the use of illegal social and sports enhancing drugs. 3.2 Behavior and Conduct All players should compete with toughness and intensity within the rules of the game. Sportsmanship toward teammates, opponents and officials is expected at all times. All HFC players, parents, guests and staff must demonstrate good sportsmanship, honesty, integrity, respect for others, dedication and commitment. We will instruct players to ignore adverse conditions such as poor calls made by referees, name calling, foul language, rough play, cheating, poor weather, negative behavior by parents or opponents, etc. Our parents and other guests should have this same approach. The failure of a HFC member to behave in an appropriate manner consistent with the Club s expectations, follow Club rules, or meet his/her financial obligations may result in his/her being disciplined up to and including dismissal from the Club. The DOC shall review and approve any disciplinary actions that involve temporary suspension. The Select Executive Committee shall review and approve any disciplinary actions that involve dismissal from the Club. 3.3 Health Players should maintain a healthy lifestyle. Any use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is unacceptable and will result in discipline and possibly dismissal from the Club. Nutrition and rest are also part of the players personal responsibility. Players should eat nutritious, healthy food in a timely fashion so as not to interfere with performance. If a player has questions about which foods are best for performing athletes, please ask the team coach. 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 8

9 4.0 Parents 4.1 Parent Commitment Parental support and involvement in the club is essential. If a player is selected and commits himself/herself to HFC, the parent s commitment is also necessary. Parents should make every effort to ensure that players attend all possible Club and team functions. At times, conflicts cannot be avoided and other more important events will take precedence. The Club requires your communication, planning, and understanding so we can minimize conflicts. 4.2 Parent Responsibility for Player Pickup Parents are responsible for ensuring that players are picked up immediately upon the conclusion of any HFC events in which the player participated (e.g., games, practices, try-outs, tournaments, etc.). HFC cannot monitor players upon the conclusion of an event and cannot be responsible for the safety of a player once that player has been dismissed by his/her coach/manager. Please understand some sessions may run over the scheduled time. 4.3 Sideline Coaching and Parent Behavior Coaching by parents is NOT allowed. No matter how good a parent s intentions, instructions should not be shouted to players. Vocal support and positive encouragement are welcome after a good play. Parents are not allowed on the sideline of the coaching staff and team bench at any time. After all events please allow coaches to address team and players without interference before they are dismissed. If a player is injured, the coaching staff will evaluate the injury. If a parent s presence is needed, the coach will ask for the parent at that time. No smoking in areas where players are present, and where fields are designated as Smoke Free. 4.4 Parent Disciplinary Actions The Club has the right to discipline the parent of a player when their behavior or actions are deemed detrimental to the team or Club. Below or some, but not all, of the reasons for disciplinary action: a. Approach a coach to discuss soccer matters directly after a game or practice. b. Failure to comply with the manager s or coach s directives. c. Failure to comply with the guidelines and rules within this document. d. Insubordination. e. Inappropriate sideline behavior. f. Failure to comply with Club directives. Some disciplinary actions the Club can institute are: a. Remove their kid from the team. b. Ask that they not attend games or practices for an allotted period of time. c. Ask that they keep a reasonable distance from the sidelines of games and practices for an allotted period of time. d. Remove them from the Club. 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 9

10 e. Reframe from any communication with the coach, the manager, or other team parents 4.5 Communications Please be cautious in your discussions with your son/daughter in regards to the team and their teammates. Comments should be constructive. The professional coaching staff is always willing to respond to any concerns and to answer questions regarding a player. It is very important, however, that these discussions occur at the proper place and during the proper time. If parents have issues or concerns regarding the technical aspect of their child s game, they should contact their team s manager to schedule an appointment with the coach. All Communications should begin with the manager of the team. Parents should not approach coaching staff either at the training field or game site to discuss concerns. In addition, parents should wait 24 hours prior to making contact with their team coach should an issue arise from game play or practice sessions. If you need to take your issues to a higher chain of command, then HFC has a system in place. Please follow the following system: a. Manager b. Head Coach c. DOC d. Select Commissioner(s) e. HFC President f. HFC Select Executive Committee If parents have administrative issues or concerns, they should contact their team manager. Should further assistance be required, they should contact the Select Commissioner. 5.0 Tryouts 5.1 Tryout Requirements Tryouts for Division I Select teams will be held in May/June of each calendar year. All new and returning players will be required to try out for their respected gender and age. Players playing up in age are required to tryout on age first and then progress through each age group through desired age. The tryout dates for each gender and age group will be set by the DOC. Exceptions may be as follows: a. A team may have tryouts at any time during the year to fill vacancies on the team. This could be done by having the player(s) attend a practice session. b. A team competing at Regionals, GSPL Final Four, or other late season tournament may cause the tryout dates for that gender and age group to be altered to a date when that team s players can attend. This date will be set by the DOC. c. Multiple tryouts may be necessary and requested by the coach/doc and can be scheduled at any time during the tryout period. 5.2 Tryout Gender and Ages 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 10

11 Tryouts for the gender and age groups below will be open to all youths interested in playing soccer at the Division I level: U-11 Girls and Boys U-12 Girls and Boys U-13 Girls and Boys U-14 Girls and Boys U-15 Girls and Boys U-16 Girls and Boys U-17 Girls and Boys U-18 Girls and Boys The tryouts will be conducted under the direction of the DOC with assistance from the Select Commissioner and other members of the HFC Select Executive Committee, and Club coaches including the appointed team coaches and other appointed HFC staff members as designated by the DOC. Team coaches have the final decision on players for their respective team. HFC will work with parents, community leaders, players, coaches, and any other individual(s) to field a team in the age groups identified above. If a team does not form in an age group, HFC will work with any players to find an appropriate place for them to play. 5.3 Players Playing Up in Age If a player is interested in playing up, they MUST tryout on-age first and then attend all tryouts for other age groups after that including the one they wish to play on. Refer to section 9.0 Player Play-Up Policy. 5.4 Tryout Dates Tryouts will be announced at least two weeks in advance of the tryout dates. 5.5 Tryout Meeting As decided by the DOC, a meeting will be held before the start of the tryouts (for each gender and age) with prospective players and their parents/guardians for the purpose of explaining Club philosophy, goals, policies, rules, etc. This will be presented by some combination of the DOC, Select Commissioner, and any other appropriate HFC staff member. This meeting is not a requirement of HFC and may or may not be held. 5.6 Player Evaluation Players will be evaluated primarily in the following areas: Technical (dribbling, shooting, heading, ball handling skills, etc.) Tactical (runs, reading the game, decision making, etc.) Physical dimensions (endurance, strength, and speed, etc.) Psychological dimensions (attitude, character, discipline, leadership, etc.) The players for each team will be evaluated by a combination of the following individuals: a. The DOC 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 11

12 b. Club Coaches c. Technical Director d. The Team Coach (as selected by the DOC) e. Other qualified HFC staff as selected by the DOC 5.7 Player Selection Final player selection shall be made by the team Coach after receiving feedback from other evaluators. The coach will make roster decisions within two weeks of the final tryout date. A coach reserves the right to notify certain players of their selection prior to the full team. The coach will furnish the Manager the names and contact information of the players selected and the Manager will contact those players and give to the Select Commissioner(s) for posting on the Club website. Once contacted, the Manager will provide all information needed to initiate the registration process (e.g., uniforms, practice schedule, registration fee collection, etc.). In extenuating circumstances (e.g., lack of players), the DOC will apply this rule as they see fit. And while we may not always agree on issues as sensitive as player evaluation and selection, it is important that our professional decisions in these matters be respected. 5.8 Selection Rules The following is applicable to the selection process: a. The number of players selected will not cause the team roster to exceed US Club/GSPL/HFC roster limits for the age group unless approved by the DOC. b. Alternates or developmental players will not be identified nor will commitments be made to players not selected. c. Player selection will be made solely on those areas identified above in section 5.6 Player Evaluation. 6.0 National Team and ODP Players Olympic Development Program (ODP) players and National Team players shall always have priority unless the DOC states otherwise. 7.0 Multiple Teams 7.1 Multiple Teams per Age Group For the growth and success of the Club, HFC will try to have multiple teams in all age groups if there are sufficient numbers of quality players and adequate, qualified coaches to coach those teams. HFC will especially concentrate on forming multiple teams in the U-10 U-14 age groups. 7.2 Management of Multiple Teams It is anticipated that multiple teams in the same age group will operate independently of each other. However, if agreeable to the Managers and the Coaches, multiple teams in an age group may decide to adopt joint operation. Meaning that they can decide to practice together, attend the same tournaments, share coaches, etc. 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 12

13 8.0 Recruitment 8.1 Recruiting Rostered Players During the soccer year, HFC teams and Coaches are prohibited from recruiting players from other established and registered teams within the Club. No player will be allowed to transfer after rosters have been finalized with the exceptions below: a. If it is determined that a team will not qualify for GSPL Final Four, MSA State Cup, or some other State/Regional play, then a player will be allowed to transfer to another HFC team, if both team s coaches agree along with the approval of the DOC. b. It is determined that in the best interest of the player, the team, and/or the Club, a player will be granted permission to transfer to another HFC team. 8.2 Recruiting Unrostered Players During the soccer year, teams are allowed to recruit Division II and Division III HYSA players. The Division I Coach should contact the DII or DIII coach about the recruitment of said player and follow proper coaching etiquette before any attempt is made to recruit that player. If both coaches believe it is in the best interest of that player to play DI, and with the approval of the DOC, then the player will be allowed to be added to the DI team. 8.3 Recruiting Other Clubs It is agreeable that Coaches can recruit players who are not a member of HFC but belong to other Clubs/organizations as long as those players are free agents (U14 and above). 8.4 Unregistered Player In the event a player not currently registered with HFC expresses an interest in playing Division I soccer in HFC, they will be referred to the DOC or Select Commissioner who then shall refer the player to the appropriate Coach and Manager for the players gender and age group. The Coach shall then invite the player to practice sessions to determine if they meet the technical, tactical, psychological, and physical dimensions of a Select player. NOTE: If multiple teams, then the player shall be referred to all team Coaches and Managers within the players gender and age group. If both Coaches wish to roster the player, then the DOC will have the final decision on the team the player is rostered. 9.0 Player Play-Up Policy HFC will evaluate each case on its own merits based on the player s abilities, the level of play of the teams the player may play with and common sense. The DOC will make the final decision in moving a player up after consultation with the Head Coach of both teams. Some of the guidelines that will affect the decision are: a. Will the player start or play at least 50% of each game b. Is the player physically able to compete c. Is the player emotionally and psychologically ready for the upper age group d. What is the attitude of the new team toward the player e. What negative impact, if any, will this have on the team of players age 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 13

14 This evaluation to play-up will ONLY occur during the tryout process. It is prohibited for a player to transfer and play-up after rosters have been finalized. See section 8.1 Recruiting Rostered Players Guest Player Policy 10.1 Guest Player Recruitment Guest players may be selected from HFC teams or from teams outside of HFC. Recruitment of guest players from inside HFC is disallowed and a Coach caught in violation of this rule will be reprimanded as determined by the DOC. A coach CANNOT directly discuss with parents or players guest playing opportunities with their teams. A parent can, however, notify a coach that they are interested in guest playing with their team if the opportunity arises. Players are not allowed to play as a guest player on another team when their primary team has a tournament/game scheduled unless approved by the coach of the guest player s team. No player may be on two rosters in the same day Guest Player Within the Club (DI, DII, or DIII) The proper procedure for requesting a guest player from another HFC team is as follows: If the request is initiated by the manager: 1. The manager of the team requesting the guest player needs to contact the manager of the team the guest player is rostered and discuss the details (tournament, friendly, date, times, etc.). 2. The manager of the guest player s team will discuss with the team s coach and if the coach approves, the manger will then contact the requesting manager with the decision. The COACH of the rostered player, unless the request is raised to the DOC, has the final decision. 3. Upon approval of the coach, either manager, at that point, can contact the guest player and their parents to ask if their child would be interested in playing. If the request is initiated by the coach: 1. The coach of the team requesting the guest player needs to contact the coach of the team the guest player is rostered and discuss the details (details (tournament, friendly, date, times, etc.). 2. The coaches will notify the managers of their respective teams of the decision. The COACH of the rostered player, unless the request is raised to the DOC, has the final decision. 3. Upon approval, either manager, at that point, can contact the guest player and their parents to ask if their child would be interested in playing. If the coach disapproves the request, then the coach or manager of the requesting team can submit the request to the DOC for a final decision. ANY guest player that will be playing two or more years up will need to get the approval of the DOC regardless of any decisions made by the coaches. 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 14

15 10.3 Guest Player for another Club The Club has no problems with a HFC player guest playing with another Club as long as the HFC coach approves of the opportunity. Another Club can contact the coach, manager, or parent of the HFC player regarding guest playing with their team. If the parent is contacted, the parent needs to explain the HFC guest playing process and give the other Club s manager their team manager s contact information and then the process in 10.2 above is followed. The coach has the FINAL say in the decision Registration The method of player registration will be the responsibility of the DOC and announced at tryouts. All players must complete payment of the HFC registration fee in order to be in good standing with the Club. Any player not in good standing with the Club will NOT be allowed to participate in any team activities. Once all fees have been paid, then the player will be placed in good standing with the Club and allowed to participate in team activities. a. Players will need to provide a copy of their birth record, a HFC registration form, a notarized medical release form, and their initial registration fee at registration. b. Only one initial registration will be conducted a year. Additional and individual player registrations will be handled by the HFC Registrar at their discretion in conjunction with the team manager HFC Commitment Once a player has signed the HFC Player Release Form and have paid any portion of the Registration fee or been awarded scholarship money, they are committed to playing under HFC for the full soccer year (August June). They are not allowed to sign with another club unless a player release has been signed by the appropriate HFC staff Refunds Once a player has accepted and signed the HFC Registration Form and signed the Player Release Form, that player/family is responsible for the total Registration fee amount. If a team is disbanded by HFC for any reason besides team disciplinary reasons, the player/family will be refunded a prorated amount (broken down to a per month charge) of the Registration fee. If a player is injured during the playing season and is not able to return to as a result of the injury, then a refund may be allowed. There will not be any refund of registration fee due to relocation or other reasons not mentioned. It is up to the DOC and Select Commissioner to decide if a refund is applicable and how much should be refunded Player Leaves/Quits (Inactive Player) If an individual player elects to leave their team with or without HFC approval, NO refund of any portion of the Registration fee paid to date will be given. This player will also be suspended from participating in HFC for the rest of the soccer year. This player is also not allowed to be released until the soccer year is complete unless otherwise decided by the DOC. This is to prevent the player from playing for another Club Player is Dropped 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 15

16 Any player that is dropped based on the criteria in Section 18.0 Dropping Players, the player is not entitled to any refund of any Club or Team fees Delinquent Payments Players who have not completed payment of fees by January 1 or May 1 of the seasonal year (depending on the payment options for those players), the player can be suspended from the team and may not be permitted to train or play until arrangements are made to bring the account up to date unless otherwise decided by the DOC. Once the fees have been paid, then the player will be in good standing with the Club Player Transfers Any player who wishes to transfer will need to submit the request to the DOC and Select Commissioner. The DOC, Select Commissioner, President, and Registrar are the only HFC staff authorized to grant a player s release. Any player not in good standing with the Club, for whatever reason, will not be allowed to transfer unless otherwise approved by the President. No refund is allowed for a transferred player Team Fees Each player or parent/guardian is responsible for paying the team fee as set forth by the Manger to pay for tournament fees, coaches per diem, and other team costs. If a player has not paid their team fees, then the coach and manager have the authority to suspend the player until such time as their fees are paid. If this occurs, the Club will consider the player as not in good standing and can prevent the player from participating in team activities. A player will not be allowed to transfer from the Club to another Club until all team fees have been paid Playing Seasons There will be two playing seasons within HFC. A Fall season (August December) and a Spring season (February June) 14.0 Games The Coach and Manager are responsible for scheduling a sufficient number of games and tournaments each season with a minimum of 4 to 6 tournaments for the Fall and Spring seasons. Games to be played may include "friendlies" between other US Club Soccer or USYS teams US Club Soccer Games Teams may play games or participate in tournaments that are registered with US Club Soccer or USYS and do not need to be approved by the DOC Game Day Protocol a. Players must be at the field of play dressed and ready to play according to your coach s game day protocol. b. The team or staff coach has in his/her discretion the ability to start a game with a reduced number of players should a large number of players fail to follow the game day playing time protocol. c. Each team is encouraged to provide a tent for their team bench. 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 16

17 d. Players must bring their own water and/or sports drink(s) to the game. To avoid disruption, we ask that parents not bring these items to the players during the game. Water and sports drinks should never be shared with fellow players as this is not hygienic and can spread germs. e. Players must continually re-hydrate their bodies before and after games, especially during tournament play. Soda or other caffeinated drinks should be avoided as they dehydrate the body further. f. Players should eat a post-match meal/snack within 30 minutes of the conclusion of the game. Again, junk food should be avoided. g. Players are responsible for cleaning team bench area following each game. h. A post-match stretching and cool down session will be held to help the players prepare for the next game. i. Players should rest and relax when not playing a game Before, During, and After the Games Before, during and after the games the players are under the supervision and guidance of the coach. Parents must refrain from coming over to the team side of the field until the coach dismisses the team. Players need to come prepared with everything they need for the game. In case of injury, if the coach needs a parent s assistance, he/she will ask the parent over to assist their child. a. Players are responsible for bringing all of their equipment. b. No soccer balls can be kicked inside hotel lobbies, hallways or rooms. c. Players should act in a manner that will reflect positively on the team. There will be no running through the hallways or excessive noise at any time. In addition, there will be no misconduct in the elevators. d. Players will be held responsible for any items that are damaged on the hotel property and responsible for notifying the team manager/coach and hotel management. e. Players are expected to follow all team curfews and attend team meetings on time. f. No member of the opposite sex that is not an immediate family member shall be allowed in a player s room. g. All telephone charges will be the responsibility of the player or parent. Playing time will be adjusted based on players following the above points within the coach s discretion Practices Organized practices will normally be limited to three a week, not to exceed three hours per practice, unless otherwise authorized or conducted as part of a team camp by the Coach, DOC, or other HFC staff Player Participation 16.1 Other Sports 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 17

18 Players are encouraged to participate in other sports, but must not do so to the detriment of the team and Club. The player s first commitment is to the team and Club, its practices and games School Events Scheduled school athletic events (practices/games) are an exception to rule For school events, the player will furnish the Coach and team Manager a complete schedule (when possible) and must notify the Coach of the intent to miss practice/games in advance of each occasion Playing Time It is in the best interest of the Club and its team to afford each player as much playing time as possible. This will provide the opportunity for player development and advancement in the Club. However, a minimum playing time for each player is not prescribed or demanded. The team coach will determine playing time on game day. If the team coach is not present on game day, the team assistant coach or other HFC coach attending the game is responsible for dictating playing time. Playing time may be regulated by the Coach for reasons such as: a. Unexcused absence. b. Lack of participation in practices and/or poor physical condition. c. Player attitude. d. Unsportsmanlike conduct. e. General lack of skills or low potential for development. f. Failure to pay team, HFC, or other fees Dropping Players A player may be dropped from the Club during the year as determined by the team Coach. If the player wishes to appeal the coach s decision, they may do so by appearing before a panel consisting of the Select Commissioner, HFC President, and DOC. A player may be dropped for any (not all inclusive) of the following reasons: a. Repeated acts of unsportsmanlike conduct that may occur during practice sessions or game play. b. False registration. c. Failure to pay team fees. d. Unexcused absences from regular scheduled practices and/or games. Players are responsible for notifying the Coach when scheduled events must be missed. A legitimate excuse is generally considered to be a cause over which the player or parent has no control. e. Acts or conduct of parent/guardians that reflect unfavorably on the Club, that do not promote Club policy and objectives, and that create dissension and disharmony within the Club Inactive Players 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 18

19 An inactive player is a registered and rostered player that voluntarily withdraws from the team. There is NO refund of registration fees for inactive players. The following reasons are just a few of why a player would become inactive: a. Does not like the Coach b. Does not like the Team c. Does not like the Club d. Financial difficulties e. Not skilled enough f. Would rather do something else g. Other 19.1 Notification A team Coach must immediately notify the DOC in writing of any registered players on their team that become inactive. The HFC President will perform an exit interview with the parents by phone or in person and give a detail report to the DOC, Select Commissioner and Board of Directors Uniform Policy 20.1 Uniform Purchase Each player will be required to purchase a new uniform once the team has been selected. In the event the same Club uniforms are repeated from the previous year, the purchase of new uniforms will not be required. Teams will not be allowed to purchase and wear a uniform other than the Club uniform unless approved by the DOC Uniform Selection The HYSA/HFC President and/or Select Commissioner(s) will appoint HFC staff/members to assist in selecting a uniform which must be approved by the DOC and Board President. The uniform selected should have a life cycle greater than one year, preferably three Uniform Specs The colors of HFC are the following: Home Kit - Navy blue as the primary, dominate color with the option of additional alternate colors of Red and White Away Kit White or Red as primary color with the option of additional alternate colors of Navy Blue and/or White/Red. The Club may provide multiple options or one option for each kit Uniforms are required to have the club approved HFC Crest on the upper left side of the jersey. Uniform numbers range from Team Name and Sponsors Individual team names will not be permitted to be printed or sown on uniforms, which include shirts, shorts and socks. However, sponsors can be recognized with their name placed on uniform apparel with the approval of the Select Commissioner(s). 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 19

20 20.5 Team Tournaments All teams are required to wear club approved uniforms in all tournament games Uniform Vendor The Select Executive Committee will select a vendor from which approved uniforms are to be purchased, the club approved uniform vendor Uniform Ownership The player shall retain ownership of the uniform after the season Uniform Reimbursement Players will not be reimbursed for their uniforms Referees 21.1 Referee Request All referees will be requested as needed through the Club designated referee assignor by the Coach or Manager of each team Referee Payment HFC is not responsible for payment of referees for friendlies or League games as this is handled by each team and included in their team fees Coach Selection 22.1 Potential Coaches Club members and HFC staff will identify potential coaches and submit their names to the DOC Coach Profile Potential coaches will complete a profile form covering employment, available time commitment, team age group preference, soccer background, etc. and submit to the DOC Coach Approval The DOC will be responsible for the final appointments and removals of Coaches Coach s Licensing HFC is NOT required to offer assistance to any coach seeking a higher licensure. As determined by the budget, HFC will monetarily assist their Division I coaches who wish to advance their coaching career by seeking a higher licensure. Any coach wishing to seek a higher license will need to advise the DOC and Select Commissioner(s) before May 1 of the current playing year. Any license request by a coach after May 1 may or may not result in monetary assistance. IF a coach receives any amount of monetary assistance from HFC, they are required to complete their coaching obligation for the current playing season the license is obtained. If they do not complete that obligation, then they are mandated to reimburse HFC twice the amount of what they were given. After a coach completes their obligation, and they wish to dissolve their relationship with 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 20

21 HFC, they CANNOT assume any paid or unpaid position for another Club within 150 miles of the boundary of HFC for one seasonal year (NOTE: A seasonal year is defined as August June). The pay for licensure (as allowed by the budget) is detailed below: 1. D or National D Full amount of license reimbursed. 2. C, B, or A Half amount of license reimbursed. If HFC cannot offer the reimbursement described above, HFC will try to assist as much as the budget allows. The amount of reimbursement can exceed the amounts above if approved by the Board. The DOC and Select Commissioner(s) will decide how much a coach should receive and present that amount to the Board. The Board will approve all payments Conflicts of Rules When any HFC rule is contrary to GSPL, USSF, US Club Soccer, or FIFA rule, the HFC rule shall be void and the applicable GSPL, USSF, US Club Soccer, or FIFA rule shall apply Complaints and Disputes and Complaints Process Please refer to the HYSA By-Laws, Section 21 HYSA COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES PROCEDURE. It is not the function of the complaint and dispute process to hear or make any decisions on protests of game play or referees. This type of action shall go through the normal procedures of USSF or other appropriate Club affiliated organizations Club Discipline Teams, coaches, managers, parents or players who do not abide by the intent and letter of HYSA/HFC By-Laws, Constitution, Division 1 Policy, and General Rules are subject to club sanctions. Sanctions can range from reprimands to suspension of participation to exclusion Amendment of General Rules These General Rules may be amended by a majority of the Directors present at any meeting of the Board of Directors. 8/11/ :40 AM pg. 21