PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN (U6) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION V3 7 TH -9 TH GRADE (U16) 10 TH -12 TH GRADE COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION... 10

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1 Table of Contents Lightning Safety Tips... 1 PHONE NUMBERS AND S... 3 INCLUSION..3 PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN (U6) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION ST & 2 ND GRADE (U8) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION RD & 4 TH GRADE (U10) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION TH & 6 TH GRADE (U12) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION TH 9 TH GRADE (U16) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION TH -12 TH GRADE (U19) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION V3 7 TH -9 TH GRADE (U16) 10 TH -12 TH GRADE COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION CREED POINTS OF EMPHASIS COACHES CODE OF ETHICS PLAYERS CODE OF ETHICS PARENTS CODE OF ETHICS TEN COMMANDMENTS OF SPORTSMANSHIP ASSET BUILDING IDEAS FOR COACHES PRE K & KINDERGARTEN (U6) MODIFIED RULES ST & 2 ND GRADE (U8) MODIFIED RULES RD & 4 TH GRADE (U10) MODIFIED RULES TH & 6 TH GRADE (U12) MODIFIED RULES TH -9 TH GRADE (U16) MODIFIED RULES TH -12 TH GRADE (U19) MODIFIED RULES V3 MODIFIED RULES RULE 1 THE GAME, FIELD AND EQUIPMENT RULE 2 THE PLAYERS RULE 3 THE HEAD COACH AND ASSISTANTS RULE 4 DEFINITIONS RULE 5 - THE PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTIONS RULE 6 OFFSIDE RULE 7 DURATION OF THE GAME AND LENGTH OF PERIODS... 31

2 RULE 8 PRE-GAME CONFERENCE AND THE START OF PLAY RULE 9 SCORING RULE 10 FOULS AND MISCONDUCT RULE 11 KICKS AND THROW-INS HEADS UP CONCUSSION FACT SHEET FOR COACHES HEADS UP CONCUSSION QUIZ FOR COACHES, ATHLETES, AND PARENTS PROACTIVE STEPS FOR POSITIVE COACHING WAYS TO SHOW KIDS YOU CARE COACHING TIPS PRACTICE PLAN DEALING WITH PARENTS THE ROLE OF THE SOCCER PARENT PARENTS: YOU ARE PART OF THE TEAM TOO! HOW PARENTS CAN HELP! SIDELINE BEHAVIOR DURING GAMES HEY COACH! ARE WE GOING TO SCRIMMAGE TODAY? FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS SAMPLE SOCCER TEAM LETTER Kids Zone Parent Pledge EMERGENCY AUTHORIZATION CONCUSSION RELEASE FORM PARTICIPATION RELEASE FORM ACCIDENT REPORT FORM MAJOR INCIDENT REPORT FORM SAMPLE PARTICIPANT HISTORY SHEET SAMPLE PARTICIPANT HISTORY SHEET U6 & U8 Field Diagram U10 & U12 Field Diagram U16 & U19 Field Diagram... 57

3 Lightning Safety Tips Live by this safety slogan: If you can see it (Lightning) flee it; if you can hear it (Thunder) clear it. 1. PLAN in advance your evacuation and safety measures. When you first see lightning or hear thunder, activate your emergency plan. Now is the time to go to a building or a vehicle. Lightning often precedes rain, so don't wait for the rain to begin before suspending activities. Typically, the distance from Strike A to Strike B to Strike C can be.5 to 2.5 miles. Plan in advance your evacuation and safety measures. You must clear the area if lightning is within six (6) miles of your facility. Flash to bang at 30 seconds = 6 miles. Activities should remain suspended for minutes after last thunder is heard. 2. IF OUTDOORS...Avoid water. Avoid the high ground. Avoid open spaces. Avoid all metal objects including electric wires, fences, machinery, motors, power tools, etc. Unsafe places include underneath canopies, small picnic or rain shelters, or near trees. Where possible, find shelter in a substantial building or in a fully enclosed metal vehicle such as a car, truck or a van with the windows completely shut. If lightning is striking nearby when you are outside, you should: A. Crouch down. Put feet together. Place hands over ears to minimize hearing damage from thunder. B. Avoid proximity (minimum of 15 ft.) to other people. 3. IF INDOORS... Avoid water. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone. Take off head sets. Turn off, unplug, and stay away from appliances, computers, power tools, & TV sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric and phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment. 4. SUSPEND ACTIVITIES for 30 minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder. 5. INJURED PERSONS do not carry an electrical charge and can be handled safely. Apply First Aid procedures to a lightning victim if you are qualified to do so. Call 911 or send for help immediately. 6. KNOW YOUR EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS. Prepared by the National Lightning Safety Institute, Louisville, CO. SOCCER TIMELINE AND TRAINING INFORMATION Practice Begins: Week of March 13 Games Begin: Week of April 3 Games End: Week of May 13 (some games may end earlier) 1

4 AYSO Online Coach Training Volunteers are the lifeblood of our youth programs. To ensure the safety of both children and volunteers, each volunteer is required to take an online training session called Safe Haven. It focuses on safety and appropriate behavior with children as well as first aid and other on-field issues. Safe Haven is both a child and volunteer protection program. The child protection aspect is intended to prevent child abuse, promote education and awareness, enforce policies and screen and train volunteers. It includes proactive steps that promote a positive, healthy environment for children. Volunteer protection comes into play as a result of volunteer training, certification and continuing education. The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 provides certain legal protections for volunteers who have been trained and certified and act in accordance with a written job description. Safe Haven includes these three elements, giving volunteers the highest degree of protection available under the law. Age Specific Coach Training: This course presents information on skills that are relevant to the specific age group and the game of soccer. U6, U8, U10, U12, U16 & U19 Online certification and training available to all AYSO registered volunteers at Please use this link to access the AYSO online trainings. Current online courses available are: Safe Haven Coach, U-6, U-8 and U-10 Coach and Heads up Concussion Course. All online trainings must be completed by Wednesday, March 10th. AYSO Safe Haven & Age Specific Coach Clinic If you have already completed the AYSO Safe Haven and Age Specific Coach Training, you do not need to attend the sessions offered. However, please remember to stop by at the designated time frame to pick-up your coaching information. Age Specific Coaches Clinic This course presents information on skills that are relevant to the specific age group and the game of soccer. A hands-on approach will be conducted to introducing, demonstrating, and explanations of basic soccer skills and tactics. Dress ready to play the game. Coaches will receive general information and guidelines and their team roster, coaching manual and equipment. Training will take place at the SoccerHaus 4845 List Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80919, near Centennial and Garden of the Gods. Coach Clinic Sessions Pre K & Kindergarten(U6) Saturday, March 11 9:00-10:30 am 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) Saturday, March 11 9:00-10:30 am 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10) Saturday, March 11 11:00 am-12:30 pm 5 th - 12 th Grade (U12, U16, U19) Saturday, March 11 1:00-5 pm SoccerHaus 4845 List Dr, Colorado Springs, Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports is a free, online course available to coaches, parents, and others helping to keep athletes safe from concussion. It features interviews with leading experts, dynamic graphics and interactive exercises, and compelling storytelling to help you recognize a concussion and know how to respond if you think that your athlete might have a concussion. This course will help you: Understand a concussion and the potential consequences of this injury, Recognize concussion signs and symptoms and how to respond, Learn about steps for returning to activity (play and school) after a concussion, and Focus on prevention and preparedness to help keep athletes safe season-to-season. We can help athletes stay active and healthy by knowing the facts about concussion and when it is safe for athletes to return to play. 2

5 Rules Meetings Designed to acclimate the coach with the general rules of soccer as well as the specific modified rules made for each division. Coaches will receive uniforms and schedules. NOTE: City Auditorium, 221 Kiowa St. (located in the southwest side of Kiowa St. and Weber St.) Divisions Date Time Meeting Location Pre K & Kindergarten (U6) Tuesday, March :30 p.m. City Auditorium 221 Kiowa St. 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) Tuesday, March :30 p.m. 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10) Tuesday, March :30 p.m. 5 th & 6 th Grade (U12) Tuesday, March :30 p.m. 7 th - 9 th Grade (U16) Tuesday, March :30 p.m. Please enter on the West side of the building In the parking lot area. We will be in The Space on the West side. The main floor is in use so please avoid walking through the main floor. 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) Tuesday, March :30 p.m. On street parking is free after 6:00 pm Get prepared and informed in less than 30 minutes - PHONE NUMBERS AND S Sports Office, Main Number sportsoffice@springsgov.com Chris Moore, Recreation Assistant cdmoore@springsgov.com Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator sbraun@springsgov.com Adrian Barbour, Youth Assistant youthsports@springsgov.com Inclusion As a coach, you have the opportunity to make children of all abilities feel included in sports. It s a powerful position, but we know you can do it! The Youth Sports Program supports engaging all children in recreation and play, and provides inclusion services in partnership with the Therapeutic Recreation Program, a recognized partner with the National Inclusion Project. Through this partnership, they build inclusive play for all children, so no one sits on the sidelines. If you would like additional information regarding trainings, resources, tips for communicating with parents, or auxiliary aids (e. g. sign language interpreter services, braille formats, adaptive equipment), please call (719)

6 PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN (U6) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach for Pre K & Kindergarten (U6) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys and girls in Pre-K & Kindergarten Grades playing in the U6 Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Some players may have minimal previous experience, while others will be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between 8-10 players. League games are played on Mondays and Wednesdays (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season, each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to one hour. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U6), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently within the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices, at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training, and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" shirt and whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 4

7 1 ST & 2 ND GRADE (U8) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach for 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys and girls in 1 st & 2 nd Grade playing in the U8 Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Some players may have minimal previous experience, while others will be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between players. League games are played on Tuesdays and Thursdays (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season, each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to one hour. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U8), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently with the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games, and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" T-shirt, a whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 5

8 3 RD & 4 TH GRADE (U10) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach for 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys or girls in 3 rd & 4 th Grade playing in the U10 Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Some players may have minimal previous experience, while others will be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between players. League games are played on Mondays and Wednesdays (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season, each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to two hours. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U10), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently within the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games, and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" T-shirt, a whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 6

9 5 TH & 6 TH GRADE (U12) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach for 5 th & 6 th Grade (U12) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys or girls in 5 th & 6th Grade playing in the U12 Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Some players may have minimal previous experience, while others will be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between players. League games are played on Mondays and Wednesdays (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season, each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to two hours. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U10, U12), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently with the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games, and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" T-shirt, a whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 7

10 7 TH 9 TH GRADE (U16) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach 7 th -9 th Grade (U16) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys or girls in 7 th -9 th Grade playing in the (U16) Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Most of the players will have previous experience, but others may be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between players. Boys league games are played on Mondays and Wednesdays (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. Girls league games are played on Tuesday and Thursday (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season, each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to two hours. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U10, U12), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently with the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games, and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" T-shirt, a whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 8

11 10 TH -12 TH GRADE (U19) COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys or girls in 10 th -12 th Grade playing in the U18 Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Most of the players will have previous experience, but others may be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between players. League games are played on Tuesday and Thursday (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season, each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to two hours. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U10, U12), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently with the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games, and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" T-shirt, a whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 9

12 3V3 7 TH -9 TH GRADE (U16) 10 TH -12 TH GRADE COACHES JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Head Youth Soccer Coach for 3 v 3 Division 7 th -9 th Grade (U16), 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) Position Description: Volunteer head coach for boys or girls in 7 th -9 th Grade and 10 th -12 th Grade playing in the 3 v 3 B Division of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department - Recreation Services - Sports Section. The head coach is responsible for all aspects of directing the team's play in practices and in games, and will supervise assistant coaches. Most of the players will have previous experience, but others may be playing in organized soccer for the first time. The team will have between 6-8 players. Boys league games are played on Mondays and Wednesdays (and Fridays only if necessary) or on Tuesday and Thursday (and Fridays only if necessary) at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. at the assigned park location. The season begins early April and continues through end of May. Coaches are requested to hold one or two practices during the designated practice weeks, which are the three weeks prior to the season start. During the season each team may meet (a meeting includes practices, games or parent meetings ) up to four times a week. Practices may last up to two hours. Activities and Responsibilities: o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently with the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games, and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Qualifications: o Must complete the AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Basic Training and Safe Haven Training. o Must complete Heads Up Concussion Training. o Must be of sound mind and good character without a criminal record or criminal action pending. Benefits: Coaches will receive a coupon for 50% off a future registration for a youth sports team. Coupon is valid for one calendar year from the time of issue. Coaches also receive a team COACH" T-shirt, a whistle, a free "Coaching Youth Soccer" Reference Book, and a free admission pass to Sertich Ice Center. Your leadership and guidance will have a positive impact on the lives of the young people you coach, and your service to the community will be an intangible reward, impossible to value. Dates of Service: Mid-March to end of May. Supervisor: Sarah Braun, Program Coordinator 10

13 CREED Good sportsmanship creates an atmosphere of courtesy and fair play toward game officials, contestants and spectators at all sports activities. All spectators, regardless of their personal feelings or loyalty to a team, should reflect this attitude of sportsmanship. Your cooperation is appreciated. POINTS OF EMPHASIS Recreation Services Points of Emphasis are based on participation and sportsmanship. Participation is the primary objective of all of our Youth Sports Programs. Coaches are expected to know and follow the substitution rule for the division he or she is coaching. Sportsmanship has been defined as simply treating others with common decency and civility. In general, sportsmanship refers to the behavior of athletes, coaches and spectators in game settings. As a coach, you are directly accountable for eliminating unsportsmanlike behavior at practices and games. A responsible coach will not allow unacceptable behavior and will react swiftly when it occurs. Allowing players to commit acts of taunting or baiting without a reprimand or removal from the game is the same as telling the players that it is okay to act unsportsmanlike toward competitors. Likewise, if a coach behaves in an unsportsmanlike way, he or she is sending mixed messages. Remember... players will mirror the actions of their coach. It is imperative that coaches establish a rule prohibiting team parents from making critical remarks about the players, the coaches or the officials. The rule should be made clear to parents from the first meeting. Parents should be encouraged to yell supportive comments. Speak privately with parents who do not obey this rule. Be firm and fair with parents and emphasize that this behavior is not and will not be tolerated. Colorado Springs Parks Recreation & Cultural Services is striving to restore, promote and emphasize the value of sportsmanship. Please take a few minutes to read the Code of Ethics for Coaches, Players and Parents, and pledge to yourself to that you will set the example by demonstrating positive sportsmanship at all times. COACHES CODE OF ETHICS I hereby pledge to live up to my responsibilities as a coach by following the Coaches Code of Ethics: I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my players ahead of a personal desire to win. I will treat each player as an individual, remembering the large range of emotional and physical development for the same age group. I will do my best to provide a safe playing situation for my players. I promise to review and practice basic first aid principles needed to treat injuries of my players. I will do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging for all my players. I will lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all my players. I will provide a sports environment for my team that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, and I will refrain from their use at all youth sports events. I will be knowledgeable in the rules of each sport that I coach, and I will teach these rules to my players. I will use those coaching techniques appropriate for all of the skills that I teach. I will remember that I am a youth sports coach, and that the game is for children and not adults. 11

14 PLAYERS CODE OF ETHICS I hereby pledge to be positive about my youth sports experience responsibility for my participation by following this Player s Code of Ethics Pledge: I will encourage good sportsmanship from fellow players, coaches, officials, and parents at every game and practice by demonstrating good sportsmanship. I will attend every practice and game that I can, and will notify my coach if I cannot. I will expect to receive fair and equal amount of playing time. I will do my very best to listen and learn from my coaches. I will treat my coaches, other players, officials and fans with respect regardless of race, sex, creed, or abilities and I will expect to be treated accordingly. I deserve to have fun during my sports experience and will alert parents or coaches if it stops being fun! I deserve to play in an environment that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and expect adults to refrain from their use at all youth sports events. I will encourage my parents to be involved with my team in some capacity because it s important to me. I will do my very best in school. I will remember that sports are an opportunity to learn and have fun. PARENTS CODE OF ETHICS I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care, and encouragement for my child participating in youth sports by following this Parents Code of Ethics Pledge: I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game, practice, or other youth sports event. I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of a personal desire to win. I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment. I will require that my child s coach be trained in the responsibilities of being a youth sports coach and that the coach upholds the Coaches Code of Ethics. I will support coaches and officials working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all. I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and will refrain from their use at all youth sports events. I will remember that the game is for youth - not adults. I will do my very best to make youth sports fun for my child. I will help my child enjoy the youth sports experience by doing whatever I can, such as being a respectful fan, assisting with coaching, or providing transportation. I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, fans, and officials with respect regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability. I will encourage my child at all times and teach them that honest effort is as important (maybe even more important) than winning. I will remain in the spectator area during competitions. I will support my child s coach and let him/her coach during the game. I will accept that officials are doing the best job they can. I will keep my emotions under control. I will help when asked by a coach or official. I will remember that my child will get the most out of sports with my love and positive support. NOTE: The Players and Parents Code of Ethics was developed by The National Alliance for Youth Sports, a program of The Academy For Youth Sports Administrators. 12

15 TEN COMMANDMENTS OF SPORTSMANSHIP 1. Golden Rule Do unto others as you would have others do unto you. 2. Enjoy yourself and promote enjoyment for others. 3. Be responsible for your actions. 4. Have an open mind to others weaknesses and have a forgiving attitude. 5. Have pride in one s performance and one s school. 6. Be a friend, not an enemy, and create a positive environment. 7. Encourage others to do or be their best. 8. Sportsmanship should be contagious. 9. Remember it is a privilege to participate. 10. Practice sportsmanship in all situations at all costs. ASSET BUILDING IDEAS FOR COACHES Coaches teach young people not only the rules and strategies of the game, but important lessons about life. You can help young people develop confidence and self-esteem, help them learn to resolve conflicts peacefully, teach them ways to take care of their health and well-being, and help them develop skills for communicating with others. Here are a few ways coaches can be asset builders: o o o o o o Learn the names of all the players on your team and call them by name. Make a point to talk at least once with each player every time you practice or play. Create and maintain a positive atmosphere. Two of the top reasons young people participate in sports are to have fun and to spend time with their friends. Winning is not one of their top reasons. Focus on helping players get better, not be the best. Encouraging players to improve will reduce their fear of failure and give them permission to try new things and stretch their skills. Know that highly competitive sports can often cause great deal of stress for young people. The intense pressure that accompanies trying to be the best can sometimes lead to unhealthy outcomes, such as substance abuse and/or eating disorders. Be careful not to push young people too hard, and learn about the warning signs of possible problems. Care about your teaching style and use age-appropriate language. Young children do not always know sports terms. Use words and concepts they understand. On the other hand, older youth may be more successful when they understand the big picture of what they are trying to accomplish as well the specific skills or strategies needed. Set goals both for individuals and for the team. Include the players in setting these goals. 13

16 PRE K & KINDERGARTEN (U6) MODIFIED RULES Developmental (Coed) *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: Four 10-minute periods. Half-time break of five minutes. Substitution Rule: Between periods, at half-time and for injuries. Playing Time: All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Minimum of two periods per game and no player should play four periods until everyone has played three. Field Coach: This rule is to assist players in improving their basic soccer strategies. Head coaches may be on the field on the periphery (outside) of the action. Only positive verbal instruction may be used. Negative comments to either team s players or to other coaches will result in a warning for the first offense and removal to the bench area for subsequent offenses. Warning applies to the entire coaching staff. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to eight players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster. During play, each team consists of four players. There is no goalkeeper. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Official: One or both coaches should officiate. The games are intended to be an opportunity for the very youngest of our players to experience the fun of playing. The barest of minimum rules are needed and should be applied with a generous amount of flexibility. Scoring: The entire ball must pass between the pylons and cross over the goal line, no more than six feet high. Penalty Line: Attackers/defenders must remain in front of the penalty line until the opposing team crosses the mid-line. The ball must precede the attacker/attack team across the penalty line. The defender must be in front of the penalty line when the ball is on the attacking team s half. Once the ball crosses mid-line, the defender may be positioned anywhere on the half. Attackers can not cherry pick in front of penalty line. (Cherry picking means waiting in front of a goal or parking in front of goal attacker/defender.) Friendship Line: Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter Points of Emphasis: o Goal Width: 6 feet o Ball Size: Number 3 o Penalty Kick Distance: No penalty kicks o Field Dimensions: 45 yd. X 20 yd. o Slide tackles are illegal. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o There are no goalkeepers, no off sides o Second chances allowed for technical infractions (i.e., throw-ins, kicking ball twice, etc.) o Cherry picking is not allowed. o Good sportsmanship is required. 14

17 1 ST & 2 ND GRADE (U8) MODIFIED RULES Developmental (Coed) *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: Four 10-minute periods. Half-time break of five minutes Substitution Rule: Between periods, at half-time and for injuries. Playing Time: All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Minimum of two periods per game and no player should play four periods until everyone has played three. Field Coach: This rule is to assist players in improving their basic soccer strategies. Head coaches may be on the field on the periphery (outside) of the action. Only positive verbal instruction may be used. Negative comments to either team s players or to other coaches will result in a warning for the first offense and removal to the bench area for subsequent offenses. Warning applies to the entire coaching staff. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to ten players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster. During play, each team consists of five players, including the goalkeeper. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Official: One or both coaches should officiate. Each team coach is required to provide an official for their game. The volunteer official should briefly explain any infringements to the player(s) and encourage proper play and sporting behavior. Every effort should be made to keep the game moving and free from stoppages for doubtful infractions. Let them play and enjoy. Scoring: The entire ball must pass between the pylons and cross over the goal line no more than six feet high. Penalty Line: Attackers/defenders must remain in front of the penalty line until the opposing team crosses the mid-line. The ball must precede the attacker/attack team across the penalty line. The defender must be in front of the penalty line when the ball is on the attacking team s half. Once the ball crosses mid-line, the defender may be positioned anywhere on the half. Attackers can not cherry pick in front of penalty line. (Cherry picking means waiting in front of a goal or parking in front of goal attacker/defender.) 12 yards from goal line, goalkeepers may not pick up the ball past this line. Friendship Line: Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during the late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter Points of Emphasis: o Goal Width: 6 feet o Ball Size: Number 3 o Penalty Kick Distance: No penalty kicks o Field Dimensions: 45 yd. x 20 yd. o Slide tackles are illegal. Cherry picking is not allowed. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o No off sides. Goalkeepers may handle the ball anywhere behind penalty line. o Second chances allowed for technical infractions (i.e., throw-ins, kicking ball twice, etc.) o Good sportsmanship is required. 15

18 3 RD & 4 TH GRADE (U10) MODIFIED RULES Instructional *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: 2 twenty-five-minute halves Half-time break of five minutes Substitution Rule: Open substitution applies. Either team may substitute an unlimited number of players. Substitutions may be made between periods, on a goal kick, when a goal is scored, when an injured player(s) is attended to on the field, when a player is cautioned, or when the team gaining the ball has a throw-in. All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. The coach must request a substitution from the official. All substitutions must be made from the centerline. Playing Time: All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to fourteen players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster. During play, each team consists of nine players, including the goalkeeper. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Scoring: The entire ball must pass over the goal line between the goal posts. Friendship Line Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during the late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter Points of Emphasis: o Number of players of field: 9 v 9 o Goal Width and Height: 21 feet in width by 7 feet in height o Ball Size: Number 4 o Duration of Play: Two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute half-time session. o Penalty Kick Distance: 10 yards o Field Dimensions: 240 feet in length by 150 feet in width. NOTE: Fields may vary from park to park. o Two officials are assigned per game. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o Good sportsmanship is required. 16

19 5 TH & 6 TH GRADE (U12) MODIFIED RULES Instructional *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: 2 twenty-five-minute halves Half-time break of five minutes Substitution Rule: Open substitution applies. Either team may substitute an unlimited number of players. Substitutions may occur between periods, on a goal kick, when a goal is scored, when an injured player(s) is attended to on the field, when a player is cautioned or when the team gaining the ball has a throw-in. All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. The coach must request a substitution from the official. All substitutions must be made from the centerline. Playing Time: All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to sixteen players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players to be added to the official roster. During play, each team consists of eleven players, including the goalkeeper. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Scoring: The entire ball must pass over the goal line between the goal posts. Friendship Line: Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during the late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter Points of Emphasis: o Number of players on field: 11 v 11 o Goal Width and Height: 21 feet in width by 7 feet in height. o Ball Size: Number 4. o Duration of Play: Two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute Half-time session. o Penalty Kick Distance: 10 yards. o Field Dimensions: 240 feet in length by 150 feet in width. NOTE: Fields may vary from park to park. o Two officials are assigned per game. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o Good sportsmanship is required. 17

20 7 TH -9 TH GRADE (U16) MODIFIED RULES Instructional *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: 2 twenty-five-minute halves Half-time break of five minutes Substitution Rule: Open substitution applies. Either team may substitute an unlimited number of players. Substitutions may occur between periods, on a goal kick, when a goal is scored, when an injured player(s) is attended to on the field, when a player is cautioned or when the team gaining the ball has a throw-in. All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. The coach must request a substitution from the official. All substitutions must be made from the centerline. Playing Time: All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to sixteen players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster. During play, each team consists of eleven players, including the goalkeeper. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Scoring: The entire ball must pass over the goal line between the goal posts. Friendship Line: Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during the late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter Points of Emphasis: o Number of players on field: 11 v 11 o Goal Width and Height: 24 feet in width by 8 feet in height. o Ball Size: Number 5 o Duration of Play: Two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute half-time session. o Penalty Kick Distance: 12 yards o Field Dimensions: 300 feet in length by 240 feet in width. NOTE: Fields may vary from park to park. o Two officials are assigned per game. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o Good sportsmanship is required. 18

21 10 TH -12 TH GRADE (U19) MODIFIED RULES Instructional (Coed) *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: 2 twenty-five-minute halves Half-time break of five minutes Substitution Rule: Open substitution applies. Either team may substitute an unlimited number of players. Substitutions may occur between periods, on a goal kick, when a goal is scored, when an injured player(s) is attended to on the field, when a player is cautioned or when the team gaining the ball has a throw-in. All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. The coach must request a substitution from the official. All substitutions must be made from the centerline. Playing Time: All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to sixteen players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster. During play, each team consists of eleven players, including the goalkeeper. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Scoring: The entire ball must pass over the goal line between the goal posts. Friendship Line: Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during the late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter Points of Emphasis: o Number of players on field: 11 v 11 o Goal Width and Height: 24 feet in width by 8 feet in height. o Ball Size: Number 5 o Duration of Play: Two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute half-time session. o Penalty Kick Distance: 12 yards o Field Dimensions: 300 feet in length by 240 feet in width. NOTE: Fields may vary from park to park. o Two officials are assigned per game. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o Good sportsmanship is required. 19

22 3V3 MODIFIED RULES 5 th & 6 th Grade, 7 th -9 th Grade and 10 th -12 th Grade (U12, U16 & U19) Instructional *Divisions are determined by the child s grade level Duration of Play: Four 10-minute periods. Half-time break of five minutes Substitution Rule: Open substitution applies. Either team may substitute an unlimited number of players. Substitutions may occur between periods, on a goal kick, when a goal is scored, when an injured player(s) is attended to on the field, when a player is cautioned or when the team gaining the ball has a throw-in or corner kick. All players must play one-half (50%) of the game. Roster Size: Roster size is limited to six players. During registration, the Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster. During play, each team consists of three players. There are no goalkeepers. Players Equipment: Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended Shinguards: Mandatory, must be covered entirely by socks. Jewelry: No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Start of Play: A kickoff at the center of the halfway line starts each period or restarts the game after a goal is scored. The ball may be passed back. All players must remain on their own side on the halfway line until the ball is kicked. All opposing players must be at least 3 yards from the ball prior to the kick. The player taking the kick may not touch the ball a second time until it has been played by ANY other player. Ball In and Out of Play: When the ball goes out of play, the game is restarted as follows: o The ball is out of play when the whole ball crosses the entire touchline or goal line, whether on the ground or in the air. The ball is in play at all other times. o Restart with a kick-in if the ball goes out of play over the touchline. A member of the opposing team that last touched the ball will take the kick-in. The ball shall be placed on the touchline or outside the field within a yard from the place where the ball went out. o When play is stopped due to an injury, bad weather or other reason not covered elsewhere in these rules, the games is started with a dropped ball at the place where the ball was located when play was stopped. Method of Scoring: The entire ball must pass over the goal line between the goal posts. o Goals can be scored from anywhere on the attacking half of the field. o Goals cannot be scored directly by a team from their half of the field. o Goals cannot be scored directly from kick-offs, free kicks, kick-ins, goal kicks or corner kicks. Once the kick is taken, if any player (attacker or defender) touches the ball and the ball goes in the goal, a goal is awarded to the attacking team. o Players may enter the goal box at any time. Off-side: There is NO off-side in 3 v 3 soccer. Slide Tackling: Players must stay upright and on their feet when challenging an opponent. This does not prevent sliding to stop and/or intercept a ball, but NO contact can be made with opponents. Fouls and Misconduct: The game official may award a team a Free Kick for intentional tripping, pushing, hitting, holding or ball handling by an opponent. Free kicks are all indirect (goals cannot be scored directly from a free kick). Playing is the Goal Area Box While the ball is in play, the players are not allowed inside the goal area box except when the ball enters into it. As soon as the ball departs from the goal area, the players in the goal area are expected to immediately depart from it also. Indirect free kick is awarded opposing team for violating of the goal area. Free-Kick: o The kick is taken where the foul was committed or 5 yards out in front of the edge of the goal area of the defending team, whichever is greater. All opposing players must be situated at least 3 yards away from the ball. The kicker cannot touch the ball twice in a row; the ball must be touched by another player. o Double Touch If the player taking the free kick (kick-in, goal kick, corner kick or kick-off) touches the ball twice in a row, prior to being played by any other player, a free kick is awarded to the opposing team. o The team taking the free kick may take a quick kick prior to the opponents being 3 yards from the ball. If the kicking team requests 3 yards, they must wait until the defensive team is ready before taking the kick. Kick-In: When the whole of the ball crosses the touch-line, a kick-in will be taken at the point where the ball left the field (within 1 yard either way). Opponents must be positioned at least 3 yards from the ball. NOTE: There are no throw-ins in 3 v 3 soccer. 20

23 Goal Kicks: Restart a goal kick if the ball goes out of play over the goal line, last touched by a member of the attacking team. The ball is placed anywhere on the front edge of the goal area or inside the goal area. Opponents must be positioned at least 3 yards from the ball. Corner Kicks: Restart with a corner kick if the ball goes out of play over the goal line, last touched by a member of the defending team. The ball is placed on the corner of the field closest to the place where the ball went out or inside the field within a yard from that corner. Opponents must be positioned at least 3 yards from the ball. Friendship Line: Opposing coaches and players should meet in the center of the field and shake hands after each game. Player Addition Forms: Do not allow children to play on your team if they are not on your roster or do not have a player addition form. This form will be given to the player when they register during the late registration. Players Arriving Late: Shall be substituted as follows: o If the player arrives during the first quarter, the player must play a minimum of two (2) of the remaining three (3) quarters. o If the player arrives during the second or third quarter, the player must play a minimum of one (1) quarter. Points of Emphasis: o Goal Width and Height: 6 feet in width by 4 feet in height. o Ball Size: Number 5 o Duration of Play: Four 10-minute periods. Allow a 2-minute break at the end of periods 1 and 3, and a 5-minute break at half-time. Teams change sides only at half time. o Penalty Kick Distance: There are no penalty kicks. o Field Dimensions: Length-45 yards, Width-20 yards. o One official is assigned per game. o Slide tackles are illegal. o Teams will have ten scheduled games. Canceled games will not be rescheduled. o There are no forfeits! If Team A is short players, Team B will sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. o Good sportsmanship is required. 21

24 RULE 1 THE GAME, FIELD AND EQUIPMENT SECTION 1: THE GAME The game is played between two teams on a rectangular field with a goal line at each end. The object is to legally put the ball through the goal posts. Current National Federation of High School Association Soccer (NF) rules apply to all situations not specifically covered by Recreation Services rules and guidelines. Article 1...Philosophy The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department Youth Sports Program philosophy is to instill a positive attitude, sportsmanship, basic fundamentals, confidence, and high moral standards. Youth Sports Programs develop the physical, psychological, and social aspects for youth. Our programs emphasize participation, fun, sportsmanship, and promotes a non-competitive, recreational approach to sports. Participants, parents, and coaches are expected to support this value system. The U6 and U8 Divisions are developmental coed programs in which the participants learn basic soccer fundamentals and apply these skills in game situations. The U10, U12, U16 & U19, Divisions are progressive and developmental programs in which the girls and boys compete separately in a recreational setting. Article 2...Purpose and Objectives The purpose of the Youth Sports Programs is to provide an enjoyable learning experience for children through a wide variety of team and individual sports. The physical, psychological and emotional well-being of the participant is of paramount concern. As a coach it is important that you subscribe to a philosophy that acknowledges the role of athletics in developing children as complete individuals. Remembering that Recreation Services, Youth Sports purpose is to provide programs that enrich children s lives. The objectives of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Youth Sports Program are as follows: To offer these programs to fulfill the recreation needs and wants as a service to the community. To offer an equal amount of participation opportunities to both young men and women regardless of race, creed, religion, or socioeconomic status. To make these programs safe and enjoyable in an atmosphere that promotes learning and participation first and competition second. To have the best possible people volunteer as coaches and to thoroughly train them to do the best that they can. To expect that good sportsmanship and fair play are standard behaviors. To demand from our parents to respect our volunteer coaches by being supportive of their coaching strategies and philosophies. To ensure that the child s participation in youth sports is a positive and worthwhile experience. It is our focus to support player development as both athletes and individuals. The players will enjoy themselves more and want to continue playing. We must help them understand that the objective of any game is to win, but the overall goal is to enjoy the game and strive to do their best! Article 3...Warning Statement to Parents, Participants and Guardians Although participation is supervised athletics and activities is one of the least hazardous in which any person will engage, and serious injuries are not common, it is impossible to eliminate all risk. Participants have a responsibility to help reduce the chance of injury. Players must obey safety rules, report all physical problems to their coaches, follow a proper conditioning program and inspect their own equipment daily. By registering, you acknowledge you have read and understand this warning. Those who do not wish to accept the risk described in this warning should not register or participate. Article 4...Injuries and Insurance The City of Colorado Springs carries no insurance for players, coaches or spectators. The Emergency Medical Service will be called for any medical emergencies. Parents are responsible for any and all charges resulting from a medical emergency. Article 5...Game Days Pre K & Kindergarten (U6) Monday, Wednesday evenings and Saturdays 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10) Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings 5 th & 6 th Grade (U12) Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings 7 th - 9 th Grade (U16) Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings (Boys) Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings (Girls) 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) TBD nes Coaches are given the option of moving the practice location within a 2-mile radius of the chosen practice site. 22

25 Teams may start practicing three weeks prior to scheduled games. Teams may participate four times per week. Participation is defined as a game, a controlled scrimmage, a practice session, chalk-talks... in short; anytime a team meets it is considered participation. Participation may last up to 1 hour for U6 & U8 and 2 hours for U10, U12, U16, and U19. Do not keep players out after dark or leave players alone while they wait for a ride. Article 7...Game Location Game sites are located throughout the Colorado Springs area. Article 8...Severe Weather Policy Weather conditions vary greatly throughout the city. For program cancellation, like us on Facebook and Colorado-Springs- Sports-Office to receive the latest updates. If weather conditions do require cancellations the Sports Office will update the phone line by 3:30 pm. Call ; select 5. After 3:30 pm you are to go to the designated game location and the officials, coaches, and staff members will determine if games will be played. The Sports Office will make every reasonable effort to inform coaches, parents and participants of scheduled program cancellations. Coaches are responsible for the safety of their respective teams during practices and games. If severe weather is around the area, remove your team from the field. Article 9...Advertising Advertising on uniforms and on game fields is prohibited unless approved and governed by Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services. Article 10...Game Officials The game is administered by the use of one or three game officials. All decisions by the officials are final in all matters pertaining to the game. Officials may immediately stop play if and/or when an immediate danger exists. U6 and U8 Divisions: There are no game officials for these divisions; both the coaches should officiate. U10, U12 one (1) official, U16 and U19 (3) officials for each game. Playthewhistle trains and assigns game officials for these divisions. Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services contracts and pays Playthewhistle based on the number of officials who are present. If a game official does not show up to a scheduled game or if a major incident occurs during the game, coaches should contact the Sports Office the following business day. An incident report must be written on all serious occurrences and turned into the Sports Office the next business day. A blank copy of the report can be found in back of the coaches manual. SECTION 2: THE FIELD Article 1...Field Dimensions and Diagram Division Dimensions Penalty Kick Distance Pre K & Kindergarten (U6) 135 feet in length by 60 feet in width NA 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) 135 feet in length by 60 feet in width NA 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10) 240 feet in length by 150 feet in width 10 -yard penalty kick 5 th & 6 th Grade (U12) 240 feet in length by 150 feet in width 10 -yard penalty kick 7 th - 9 th Grade (U16) 300 feet in length by 240 feet in width 12 -yard penalty kick 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) 300 feet in length by 240 feet in width 12 -yard penalty kick 3 V 3 (U12, U16 & U19) 120 feet in length by 90 feet in width NA Note: Field dimensions may vary from park to park. Article 2...Goal Posts Pylons are used in the Pre K & Kindergarten (U6) and 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) divisions. Goal posts are used in the 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10), 5 th & 6 th Grade (U12), 7 th - 9 th Grade (U16), 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) divisions. Portable goals are used for 3 V 3 (U12, U16 & U19) divisions. Division Width Height Pre K & Kindergarten (U6) 6 feet 4 feet 1 st & 2 nd Grade (U8) 6 feet 4 feet 3 rd & 4 th Grade (U10) 21 feet 7 feet 5 th & 6 th Grade (U12) 21 feet 7 feet 7 th - 9 th Grade (U16) 24 feet 8 feet 10 th -12 th Grade (U19) 24 feet 8 feet 3 V 3 (U12, U16 & U 19) 6 feet 4 feet Article 3...Pylons 23

26 Pylons are used to mark the corner area of the field for all divisions. Article 4...Team Benches Team benches are on the same side of the field. Team benches are from penalty area to penalty area. Players and coaches are required to stay in their respective team bench area. In the U8 divisions, a goalkeeper coach may be used. Goalkeeper coaches may positively encourage the goalkeeper and are to stand beside the goal, not directly behind the goal. Derogatory comments will result in the removal of the goalkeeper coach. Article 5...Spectators Spectators are required to stay in the area designated for them. Teams are responsible for assisting Recreation Services staff and game officials in moving spectators to the correct area. SECTION 3: EQUIPMENT Article 1...Players are responsible for: Shin guards Shoes Socks (Socks must cover shin guards.) Jewelry - No player will be allowed to wear earrings, watches, I.D. bracelets, necklaces or hard objects. Medical identification bracelets or chains are allowed if taped down. Article 2...the following equipment will be issued to the Head Coach: Four(4) soccer balls (U6, U8) Eight (8) soccer balls (U10, U12, U16, U19) One(1) Pop up goal (U6, U8) One(1) goal net (U10, U12, U16 and U19 divisions) Four (4) stakes (10,U12, U16) to secure soccer net Eight (1) Velcro strips (U10, U12, U16 and U19 divisions) Four (4) pylons (all divisions) Five(5) Goalie vest (U6, U8) Nine (9) Goalie vest (U10, U12) Eleven (11) Goalie vest (U16, U19) One (1) First Aid Kit Note: Head coaches in the U10, U12, U16 and U19 divisions will set up one net for on the goal frame and two corner areas on the soccer field before the start of the game. U6 and U8 division coaches will set up two pylons for the corners and one pop up net for the goal. Article 3...The Ball Ball Specifications: Division Size U6 Division Number 3 U8 Division Number 3 U10 Division Number 4 U12 Division Number 4 U16 Division Number 5 U19 Division Number 5 Note: The ball issued by Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services is the official game ball of the program. Article 4...Casts Hard casts or hard splints of any material, even if padded, are not allowed. Article 5...Knee Braces Knee braces may be worn if the hinges are covered on both sides and all edges of the brace are covered by the pants. Any portion of the brace made of hard material must be covered. Article 6...Protesting Equipment Legality Questions concerning the legality of equipment must be resolved prior to the start of the game, or before the participant can return to the game. Article 7... Each player shall properly wear the required equipment while the ball is live. 24

27 Article 8... Electronic communication equipment shall not be used for any coaching purposes during the game. Article 9... Shoes: Athletic shoes or tennis shoes are recommended footwear. Metal cleats are illegal. RULE 2 THE PLAYERS SECTION 1: THE PLAYER Article 1...Roster A maximum of eight (8) players for the U6 division, ten (10) players for U8 division, fourteen (14) for the U10 division, sixteen (16) for the U12 division, sixteen (16) for the U16 division, sixteen (16) for the U19 division and six (6) for the U12, U16, and U19 (3 v 3) divisions can be placed on an active team. Head coaches must contact the Sports Office when players quit. Players from the waiting list have the first right of refusal for any open spaces. The Sports Office may allow up to two additional players on the official roster in any division. Head coaches attempting to alter their team roster (i.e., playing a participant who has registered on a different team or playing a participant who is not registered) will be released from their coaching duties without recourse. Players may not transfer from one team to another after the first scheduled practice. Article 2...Waiting List The Sports Office will begin a waiting list after all available spaces are filled. Players may not be placed on a waiting list if they are placed on an active team. Players from the waiting list have the first right of refusal on available spaces from any active team for which they are eligible. There is no fee to be placed on a waiting list. Players called from the waiting list must pay the full registration fee prior to practicing. Article 3...Fill-in (Late) Registration Fill-in registration will be on a walk-in basis only for openings on active teams. Fill-in registration will be on a first come first served basis. Player requests are not available. Article 4...Player Addition Form Players using the fill-in registration period must provide the head coach with a Player Addition Form. This form will be given to the player when they register. Players may not participate with their team until the head coach receives this form. Article 5...Player Conduct Players ejected by a game official for unsportsmanlike conduct will be suspended for the remainder of that game plus the next scheduled game. The player s head coach and ejecting game official are responsible for reporting the ejection to the Sports Office. Head coaches who choose to play an ejected player during the player s suspension jeopardize their coaching privileges. SECTION 2: PLAYER GRADE LEVEL AND AGE Article 1...Divisions The following table indicates the age for player eligibility. Division Grade Level Age U6 Division (coed) Pre K & Kindergarten 4 and 5-year-olds U8 Division (coed) 1 st & 2 nd Grade 6 and 7-year-olds U10 Division (separate) 3 rd & 4 th Grade 8 and 9-year-olds U12 Division (separate) 5 th & 6 th Grade 10 and 11-year-olds U16 Division (separate) 7 th -9 th Grade year-olds U19 Division (separate) 10 th -12 th grade 15 to 18-year-olds o o o o Division is determined by the participant s age as of October 1 of the current school year. Players must participate in the division in which they belong. Waivers to move participants up one division are accepted provided the child is within one grade level of the higher division. Players may participate in a lower grade level division by providing to the Sports Office a written explanation by a family physician describing the player s developmental challenges. This request must accompany their registration. If a child is held back a grade, a letter from the school will need to be provided with the registration. 25

28 RULE 3 THE HEAD COACH AND ASSISTANTS SECTION 1: HEAD COACH The head soccer coach is in a position to set high standards of sportsmanship. Positive role modeling is the single most important factor when coaching young athletes. Head coaches must make sure every athlete receives personal growth and development, while maximizing participation for every player. Article 1...Head Coach s Responsibilities o Attend and participate in scheduled Soccer Trainings, Clinics and Rules Meetings. o Complete required online trainings; Safe Haven, Age Specific Coach Training (U6, U8, U10), Concussion in Youth Sports. o Follow Recreation Services policies and procedures, the sports specific guidelines and rules, and communicate with the program coordinator on all matters of policy. o Conduct yourself in a professional manner, accomplish your responsibilities, and remember that your behavior will influence the children you coach. o Serve as a positive role model for the players, parents, officials, and fellow coaches by following all rules, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and coaching consistently within the Recreation Services sports philosophy. o Conduct a preseason parent orientation program and postseason meeting with the players parents. o Encourage parent involvement and coordinate their assistance. o Communicate to players and parents the purpose and objectives of the program as established by Recreation Services, and strive to achieve these goals. o Communicate game and practice schedules with team families. o Organize appropriate practices (field, time and content). o Teach soccer skills and rules of the game through effectively planned practices, at a level appropriate for each team member. o Prepare the players to participate in games and coach them during the games. o Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, giving each child an equal opportunity to participate. o Distribute team uniforms, and ensure every team member is fully and properly equipped during practices and games. o Supervise the players before, during and immediately after practices and games. o Control the conduct of your players, team parents and assistant coaches, and encourage good sportsmanship at all times. o Use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs during practices and/or games is prohibited. o Treat all equipment with the utmost of care and return issued equipment to the Sports Office s Equipment Room as soon as the season is over. Article 2...Head Coaches Conduct Head coaches are in a position to set a high example of good sportsmanship and leadership. Head coaches are responsible for the conduct of their team on or off the field. o Head coaches using profanity, tobacco or alcohol in the presence of their team shall be subject to suspension. o Limit criticism and use praise for the athletes efforts. o Refrain from running-up the score. o Play every member of your team according to the substitution rule. o Accept the decisions of game officials without criticizing or contesting the calls. o Do not criticize the opposing team or their fans, or use abusive words or obscene gesture. Do not intimidate the opposing team by chants and gestures before, during and after the game. o Apply good common sense to decisions during practices, games and injuries. Head coaches disqualified from a game shall be subject to the following: 1. First Offense: A meeting with the Sports Office staff will be scheduled prior to the team s next game. The head coach will be placed on probation for the remainder of the year. (Calendar year is August to July.) 2. Second Offense: Automatic suspension from the program for one year. (365 days from the point of suspension.) Coaches who are suspended must attend all training workshops and clinics offered by the Sports Office before being assigned to coach in any Parks, Recreation & Cultural Service sponsored youth sports program. Article 3...Participation Players must play the required number of minutes. Head coaches are solely responsible for making sure all players play their mandatory time. Refer to the substitution rules for required number of minutes per division. If you are approached during practice by a parent or a child wanting to play on your team, do not promise them a spot. Ask them to contact the Sports Office for registration information. Fill-in registration is on a first-come first-serve basis. 26

29 Article 4...Game Day Coaching Head or assistant coaches shall not act in an unsportsmanlike manner. Examples are, but not limited to: o Use of insults, profanity or vulgar language or gestures. o Use of tobacco or alcohol in the presence of the players. o Attempts to influence a decision by an official. o Addressing an official in a disrespectful or unprofessional manner. o Indicating objections to an official s decision. o Using any illegal communication equipment. o Holding an unauthorized conference. o Failing to have the team ready at the start of either half of the game. o Failing, after verification, to ensure player(s) wear legal and/or required equipment. o Being outside the team box. Note: Penalty for unsportsmanlike behavior is a yellow card for the first infraction. The second infraction is considered flagrant, and the offending coach shall be ejected from the game. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated. Head coaches may be asked to assist Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services staff or game officials in controlling parents and spectators. Article 5...Practice Responsibilities Developing good working relationships with the parents of your athletes is almost as important as the relationship you develop with the athletes. With little effort you can have parents working with you and appreciating your efforts. It has been proven that many of the problems between parents and a coach can be avoided if the coach holds a Parent Orientation meeting prior to the first practice. This meeting can serve a number of useful purposes, including: o Enables parents to understand the objectives of the program. o Allows parents to become acquainted with you. o Informs parents about the nature of the sport. o Informs parents about what is expected of their child and what is expected of them. o Enables you to understand parents concerns. o Establishes clear line of communication between you and the parents. Conducting a Parent Orientation meeting is important and valuable in having a successful and enjoyable season. Call 911 in the event of emergencies during practice. Ask the operator to dispatch the fire department for assistance. Several teams will be assigned the same practice location. All designated teams have the right to practice at the same site. A cooperative effort among all teams is needed to give every team the same opportunity to conduct a quality practice. All parks are considered "shared, meaning that all teams must share equal portions of the park with other teams. Coaches may move their practices to another site within a two-mile radius of the same vicinity. For your park locations, go to All coaches are responsible for instructing players on the hazards, rules, techniques and strategies involved in participating in soccer. To coach youth soccer, head coaches must understand the basic rules, skills and strategies of the sport. However, all the soccer knowledge in the world will do little good unless you present the information effectively. The American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Coaching Program is designed to develop good soccer players, who have a positive image of themselves, their teammates, coaches, game officials and opponents. The soccer skills and techniques that you will receive at the training sessions are age appropriate for the level of the players. Applying those techniques will ensure proper skill development and a satisfying experience for the coach and players. SECTION 2: THE ASSISTANT COACH Article 1...Coaching Staff Head coaches are encouraged to obtain a reliable coaching staff. Friends, parents and other interested individuals are a good resource in developing an efficient coaching staff. Examples of duties assigned to assistant coaches may include: o Conducting practice. o Organizing Team/Parent: pictures, trophies, team party (optional). o Developing a telephone tree. o Game day management. Article 2...Volunteer Application Form All coaches (head and assistants) must fill out a volunteer application form prior to participating. Applicants are screened through a National Bureau Investigation background check. 27

30 Article 3...Training Assistant coaches are welcome and encouraged to attend all training sessions available to the head coach. SECTION 3: QUALITIES OF A GOOD COACH Article 1...Role Model Coaches wear several hat;: teacher, parent and friend, just to name a few. Your interaction with the team may be the only positive reinforcement some children receive. Having a good character means modeling appropriate behavior for sports and life. What you say and what you do must be consistent. Be in control of yourself before, during and after all practices and games. Article 2...Patience Your players are children first, then athletes. Yes, they may make the same mistakes over and over, but they are trying to please you and do better. Below are several useful suggestions: o Get to know your players names quickly, and use them. o Empathize with players who are trying to learn a new skill. o Be in control of your emotions. o Keep an up-beat and positive outlook when communicating with your team. Article 3...Sense of Humor It is all right to laugh with your players. Both coaches and players should enjoy themselves while participating in sports. Be careful, do not laugh at your players, rather, laugh with your players. Article 4...Organization You must plan and organize your practices. An organized practice gives your players the proper guidance in physical stamina and skill development. Do not try to wing your practices or games... it will result in failure. Good organizational skills result in a smooth game plan. Know who starts and what substitution patterns to use prior to the game. It will take a lot of pressure off of you. Article 5...Fairness Watch for all undue favoritism with your own children; you will quickly lose creditability with parents and players if it shows. Ask yourself, Am I only playing the good players to rack up another victory? Article 6...Communication Be clear and concise when talking to your players. When you give instructions to your team, make sure you are talking on their level not an adult level. Communication to parents is just as important. Explain your coaching motto and outlook for the season. Talking to parents eliminates any barriers that might occur during the season. RULE 4 DEFINITIONS SECTION 1: RECREATION SERVICES MODIFIED RULES Article 1...Substitution Rule All players must play one-half (1/2) of the total amount of time per game. For the safety of all players, rotate substitutes frequently throughout the game. In the U6 and U8 divisions only... at the ten minute mark of each half there will be an official time-out to allow substitutes to enter the game. Any substitutions outside of the 10-minute period can be done when ball is out of play. In the U10, U12, U16 and U19 divisions, the coach must request a substitution. Substitutions must be made from the centerline. Note: Head coaches who do not carry-out the full substitution rule will be subject to disciplinary action stated in Rule 3, Section 1, Article 2. Article 2...Length of Game Games are regulated by time. The game clock is operated by the game official. Division Game Time U6 Division (coed) Four-10 minute quarters U8 Division (coed) Four-10 minute quarters U10 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U12 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U16 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U19 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves 3 V 3 (separate) Four-10 minute quarters Note: Half-time sessions lasts 5-minutes in all divisions. 28

31 Article 3...Goalkeeper Control A finger on the ball constitutes control. Control also includes air dribbling and bouncing the ball on the ground. The safety of the goalkeeper is of paramount concern when interpreting this rule. Players may not attempt to kick the ball when the goalkeeper has control. SECTION 2: NATIONAL FEDERATION DEFINITIONS Here is a brief list of common definitions that head coaches must know. Article 1...Advantage A discretionary judgment which allows an official to permit play to continue rather than stopping play to administer the foul. This concept is based on the premise that the foul did not put the offended team at a disadvantage, or the foul, if called, may take away a favorable opportunity from the offended team. Article 2...Cautioned Player A player notified by an official that his/her actions are not in the best interest of the contest. Such player must be shown a yellow card. Article 3...Charge An act by a defensive player employing bodily contact to an offensive player, which is intended to cause the offensive player to lose or give up possession of the ball. A fair charge must have all the elements present, which are set down in the rules. An unfair charge has one or more of those elements absent. A player cannot legally charge an opponent from behind, although he/she may legally challenge from behind, provided the contact is not violent or dangerous and the ball is within playing distance. Article 4...Deliberate Foul An extreme and purposely planned act. A deliberate foul is done to disrupt the game through willful and repeated acts, and done to gain an advantage through the unfair act. Article 5...Direct Free Kick A free kick may result in a goal scored against an opponent, without a second player touching the ball. Article 6...Foul A rule infraction for which a penalty is prescribed. Article 7...Free Kick A method by which a dead ball becomes live. The ball is placed on the ground and while motionless, it is kicked unchallenged in any direction, so that it travels forward prior to being touched by another player. Article 8...Hand Ball Intentionally playing the ball with one s hand or arm. The hand or arm must move toward the ball or the hand or arm must be carried in an unnatural position before an infraction of the rule can be charged. Article 9...Indirect Free Kick A free kick may not result in a goal scored, unless the ball is played or touched by another player of either team. Article 10...Offside An infraction occurs when an official determines that a player in an offside position is seeking to gain an advantage. Article 11...Penalty Kick A kick awarded to a team because an opponent was charged with one of the major offenses, within his/her own penalty area, which requires a direct free kick. Article 12...Sliding Tackle A maneuver in which one or both feet slide on the ground in an attempt to tackle the ball while it is in the possession of an opponent. Note: Sliding tackles are illegal in the U6, U8 and 3 v 3 divisions. Article 13...Throw-In A method by which a dead ball becomes live. A player throws the ball using both hands with equal force. The ball must be delivered from behind and over the head in one continuous movement, while both feet are on the ground, or behind the sideline and the player must be facing the field. Article 14...Warning A verbal admonition to a coach or player for conduct not in the best interest of the game. Repeated warnings necessitate an official caution. Article 15 Taunting To approach in a mocking or insulting manner. Taunting will not be tolerated by coaches, players, or spectators. 29

32 RULE 5 - THE PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTIONS SECTION 1: NUMBER OF PLAYERS FOR THE U6 AND U8 DIVISIONS Article 1...U6 Division The game shall be played by two teams, each consisting of not more than four (4) players, with no goalkeeper. Article 2...U8 Division The game shall be played by two teams, each consisting of not more than five (5) players, one of whom shall be the goalkeeper. Article 3...Playing with fewer players Games will not be forfeited due to lack of players. If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. Article 4...Substitutions At the 10-minute mark in each half, an official time-out will be called to allow for substitutes. For safety reasons, substitutions may occur at other times during the game. Substitutions for injured players may be made as soon as play is stopped. Note: All players must play one-half (50%) of each game. SECTION 2: NUMBER OF PLAYERS FOR THE U10, U12, U16 and U19 DIVISIONS Article 1...U10 Division The game shall be played by two teams, each consisting of not more than nine (9) players, one of whom shall be the goalkeeper. Each team shall designate a team captain on the field who: o Is the team s representative. o May address an official on matters of interpretation. o May address an official to obtain essential information. Article 2 U12, U16 and U19 Divisions The game shall be played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eleven (11)players, one of whom shall be the goalkeeper. Each team shall designate a team captain on the field who: o Is the team s representative. o May address an official on matters of interpretation. o May address an official to obtain essential information. Article 3 U12, U16 and U19 (3 v 3) Divisions The game shall be played by two teams, each consisting of not more than three (3) players, with no goalkeeper. Each team shall designate a team captain on the field who: o Is the team s representative. o May address an official on matters of interpretation. o May address an official to obtain essential information. Article 4...Playing with Less than Designated Players Teams with less than the appropriate number of players (see Rule 4, Section 2, Artilce1 and 2) will play with an equal amount of players. If Team A is short players, Team B will share players or sit-out players to equal the number of players on Team A. Games will not be forfeited due to the lack of players. Article 5...Substitutions Either team may substitute an unlimited number of players. Substitutions may occur: o Between periods. o On a goal kick. o When a goal is scored. o When an injured player or players is attended to on the field. o When a player is cautioned. o Only the team gaining possession of the ball may substitute on a throw-in. An injured player attended to on the field must be replaced until the next legal opportunity for substitution. Note: All players must play one-half (50%) of each game. Article 6...Cautioned and Disqualified Players A cautioned player must be replaced until the next legal opportunity for substitution. A disqualified player must leave the field immediately. A disqualified player shall not play the rest of that game nor in the next scheduled game. A written ejection report must be recorded by the head coach and ejecting game official and submitted to the Sports Office by the next business day. A team shall not substitute for a player who is disqualified during any period of play. 30

33 Article 7...Procedure for Substitution Incoming substitutes shall report directly to the nearest game official. A substitute may enter the field of play after a score or at the beginning of a period without permission by the official. When an entry is taking place on a throw-in, a goal kick or a corner kick, the substitute(s) must have reported to the game official prior to the dead ball situation. Entry onto the field of play by a substitute is prohibited without the approval of an official. The coach must request substitutions from the official in U10, U12, U16, and U19 divisions. Substitutions must be made from the centerline. RULE 6 OFFSIDE SECTION 1: OFFSIDE Article 1...Offside Ruling This rule is intended to prohibit players from taking up advanced attacking positions when his/her own team is defending. Briefly, an offensive player is offside unless: 1. There are at least two defenders between the receiver and the opponent s goal-line at the time the ball is played (passed, not received) forward by a teammate. 2. The receiver is in his/her own half of the field. 3. An opponent last intentionally touched the ball. (A deflection off the opponent does not count) 4. The receiver is behind the ball when it was passed. 5. A player is not offside when he/she is even with the second to last defender. The rule states you must see day light between the attacker and defender to be offside. Note: The position of the receiving player when the ball was kicked, not the position where the ball was received determines whether or not the receiver is offside. The referee must decide whether this attacking player is intentionally interfering with play or seeking to gain advantage by taking up this advanced position; therefore, the referee may not always make an offside ruling, even though a player may be in an offside position. PENALTY: Indirect free kick is awarded to the opponents at the spot of the foul. Article 2...When a Player is not Penalized for Being Offside A player shall not be penalized for an offside position, if he/she receives the ball direct from a: 1. Goal kick. 2. Corner kick. 3. Throw-in. 4. Drop by a game official. RULE 7 DURATION OF THE GAME AND LENGTH OF PERIODS SECTION 1: LENGTH OF PERIODS Article 1... Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Guidelines Two equal halves shall be played. Following are the guidelines established by Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services: Division Game Time U6 Division (coed) Four-10 minute quarters U8 Division (coed) Four-10 minute quarters U10 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U12 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U16 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U19 Division (separate) Two-25 minute halves U12, U16, U19 3 V 3 Four-10 minute quarters (separate) Note: The half-time interval shall be five minutes in length, unless both coaches agree to begin sooner. Between each half, teams shall exchange ends and alternate the kickoff. Article 2...Inclement Weather The Sports Office staff, coaches or game officials may shorten periods due to bad weather or in the event of an emergency. Game officials must consult with both head coaches prior to shortening the game. Article 3...End of Play A period shall end at the expiration of time, and the ball will be declared dead. Exception: Play shall be extended beyond the expiration of a period to permit a penalty kick to be completed. Regular season games, which are tied at the end of regulation, will be considered a complete game. 31

34 RULE 8 PRE-GAME CONFERENCE AND THE START OF PLAY SECTION 1: PRE-GAME CONFERENCE Article 1...Pre-game Conference The game official must ask the head coach if all of his/her players are properly equipped. Questions of equipment legality must be solved before the start of play. The game official s decision is final and protest will not be allowed regarding equipment. Prior to the start of play, both team captains should be summoned to the center of the field for a brief discussion. The captains should be told to inform their teammates of the following: o Do not argue with the referee s decision. o Do not charge the goalkeeper when the ball is clearly in the keeper s possession. o Refrain from using vulgar language. o Do not taunt or tease opponents. o All players must remove illegal equipment and jewelry. Article 2...Coin Toss The game officials should conduct a coin toss at least five minutes before the scheduled starting time of the game. The winner of the toss shall choose to defend a goal or to kick-off first. The loser of the toss shall take the opposite position. SECTION 2: THE START OF PLAY When the referee signals with a whistle, a kick-off shall initiate play at the start of each period and after goals. At the moment of the kick-off, all players shall be in their team s half of the field. Players opposing the kicker shall be at least ten yards from the ball until it is kicked. Article 1...Legal Kick-off The ball shall be kicked while it is stationary in the center of the field of play. A legal kick must move onto the opposing team s half of the field. If the kick-off is illegal, the ball shall be replaced on the center of the field and re-kicked by the same team. Article 2...After a Legal Kick-off Any player except the one who kicked off may play the ball. The kicker may not play the ball until another player has played it on either team. PENALTY: Indirect free kick is awarded to the opponent at the spot of the foul. RULE 9 SCORING SECTION 1: SCORING Article 1...Goals A goal is one point. A goal is scored when the entire ball passes legally beyond the goal line, between the goal posts or pylons and under the cross bar (in the U6 and U8 divisions, the ball may not be over six feet high as it crosses the goal line), provided it has not been intentionally thrown, carried or propelled by the hand or arm of a player of the attacking team. The winning team is the team scoring the greater number of goals during the game. A ball on the goal line is not considered to have crossed the goal line. Article 2...Ways to Score a Goal A goal may be scored during play directly from a: o Direct free kick o Penalty kick o Corner kick o Drop ball o Goalkeeper s throw, punt or drop-kick o Kick off o Goal kick Article 3...Ways Teams Can Not Score a Goal A goal may not be scored during play directly from a/an: o Indirect free kick o Throw-in o Free kick into a team s own goal 32

35 RULE 10 FOULS AND MISCONDUCT SECTION 1: FOULS Article 1...Kicking-Striking-Tripping-Jumping-Spitting A player shall not intentionally attempt to or succeed in kicking, striking, tripping or jumping at an opponent. A goalkeeper shall not intentionally strike an opponent by throwing or kicking the ball at an opponent or by pushing an opponent with the ball while holding it. PENALTY: Direct free kick Article 2...Handling A player shall be penalized for intentionally handling, carrying, striking or propelling the ball with a hand or arm. Exception: The goalkeeper may handle the ball within his/her own penalty area. PENALTY: Direct free kick Article 3...Holding or Pushing A player shall not hold or push an opponent with the hand(s) or arm(s) extended from the body. A player shall not place a hand(s) on an opponent in an effort to reach the ball. PENALTY: Direct free kick Article 4...Charging A fair charge is allowed when a player makes non-violent shoulder-to-shoulder contact with an opponent, with the arms and elbows close to the body, at least one foot on the ground and the ball within playing distance. A player having one or both feet on the ground shall not charge into an opponent who has both feet off the ground. A player shall not charge into the goalkeeper in the penalty area unless the goalkeeper is obstructing the player or dribbling the ball with the feet. The game officials shall disqualify, without caution, any player who flagrantly fouls the goalkeeper, who has possession of the ball. In any play, the opponent must contact the ball before the player. PENALTY: Direct free kick Note: When the goalkeeper puts the ball on the ground, outside the penalty area; they have relinquished their right as a goalkeeper and become a regular player. Article 5...Obstruction Obstruction is the intentional act by a player not in possession of the ball or not attempting to play the ball, of running between an opponent and the ball or using the body as an obstacle. A player not attempting to play the ball, but remaining between the ball and an opponent, may be legally charged from behind, provided the charge is not violent or dangerous and the ball is within playing distance. PENALTY: Indirect free kick Article 6...Dangerous Play A player shall not participate in dangerous play. Dangerous play is defined as an act the official considers likely to cause injury to any player. This includes playing in such a manner which could cause injury to self or another player. PENALTY: Indirect free kick Article 7...Restrictions on the Goalkeeper From the moment the goalkeeper takes control of the ball with the hands and is still within the penalty area, the goalkeeper may take up to four steps in any direction while holding, bouncing or throwing the ball in the air and catching it again, without releasing it into play. On any occasion when a player deliberately kicks the ball to their own goalkeeper, the goalkeeper is not permitted to touch the ball with their hands. On any occasion when a player throws the ball in to his/her own goalkeeper, the goalkeeper is not permitted to touch the ball with his/her hands. PENALTY: Indirect free kick 33

36 SECTION 2: MISCONDUCT Article 1...Yellow Cards A player or coach shall be cautioned for: o Entering the field of play without the permission of an official. o Leaving the field of play without the permission of an official. o Persistent infringement of any of the rules of the game. o Verbal objection or action to any decision given by an official (dissent). o Unsportsmanlike conduct. o Any incidental use of vulgar or profane language. o Using audio/visual equipment during the game. o Delaying the start or restart of the game. o Failing to respect the distance (10 yards) for a free kick or corner kick. o Taunting. PENALTY: A cautioned player shall be substituted immediately and shall not return until the next legal substitution opportunity. Article 2...Red Card A player or coach shall be disqualified for: Exhibiting violent conduct or committing serious foul play, such as: using insulting or abusive language, or any subsequent act of misconduct after having been cautioned, spitting at anyone, preventing a goal by using the hands (except for the goalkeeper), preventing a goal by any infraction that would warrant a free kick or penalty kick. PENALTY: Indirect free kick. However, if there was a foul involved as part of the Red Card, a direct free kick will be allowed. If the head coach is disqualified the game is taken over by an assistant. In addition; o The head coach must meet with the Sports Office staff prior to the next scheduled game. o If an assistant coach or player is disqualified, the offended person(s) may not continue to play in the game, nor in the next scheduled game. o Written reports must be completed by the head coach and ejecting game official and submitted to the Sports Office staff the next business day. o Disqualified players may not be replaced. An assistant coach who is disqualified shall leave the vicinity of the playing area immediately and is prohibited from any further contact, direct or indirect, with the team for the remainder of the game. Article 3...Team Caution A team caution is disciplinary action facing an entire team as a result of a violation by a player of that team. It is given at the discretion of the official when cautioning a player. A team caution may only be issued for persistent infringement of the following: o Encroachment on free kicks. o Intentional handballs by the defense to stop an attack. o Unnecessary delay (kicking/throwing the ball away on a free kick). RULE 11 KICKS AND THROW-INS SECTION 1: FREE KICK Article 1...Free Kicks When players do not play according to prescribed rules, the referee awards a free kick to the team the infraction was committed against. All of these kicks are taken from the point of the infraction with the exception of a penalty kick or an indirect kick awarded against the defending team while in the penalty area. Opponents must be at least ten yards away from the ball, unless they are standing on their own goal line between the goal posts or the pylons. If the free kick is awarded to the defending team in the penalty area, the opposing players shall be outside the penalty area, in addition to being ten yards from the ball, and must remain there until the ball clears the penalty area. The kicker may not play the ball a second time until another player from either team has touched the ball. Article 2...Types of Free Kicks There are two types of free kicks, a direct and an indirect kick. Each is determined by the seriousness of the foul. See Rule 10: Fouls and Misconduct for the types of free kicks. There will be no whistle to signal the kick, unless the referee feels play was stopped for an undue length of time. In this situation, the players are informed of a restart by the whistle. 34

37 SECTION 2: PENALTY KICK Article 1...Awarding a Penalty Kick A penalty kick shall be awarded when a foul, which ordinarily results in the awarding of a direct free kick, occurs within the offending team s penalty area. All players except the kicker and the opposing goalkeeper shall be within the field of play, but outside the penalty area and behind the penalty kick line. Until the ball is kicked, players must be at least ten yards from the penalty kick line. The opposing goalkeeper is allowed lateral movement on the goal line, between the goal posts, until the ball is kicked. PENALTY: If a goal is not scored on the penalty kick, it is not retaken. Article 2...Kicking a Penalty Kick The ball shall be kicked while it is stationary on the ground from the spot or any place on the penalty kick line. To be in play, the ball shall be moved forward. Failure to kick the ball as specified shall result in a re-kick. After the penalty kick, any player except the one who executed the penalty kick may play the ball. The kicker may not play the ball until another player has played it on either team. PENALTY: Indirect free kick awarded from the spot of the foul. Article 3...Penalty Kick at the End of Regulation If the ball touches the goalkeeper before passing between the goal posts, when a penalty kick is taken at or after the expiration of time, it does not nullify any goal. If necessary, play may be extended so that the penalty kick may be taken. If a penalty kick is taken after the expiration of time, only the kicker may play the ball (once) with the goalkeeper in place. SECTION 3: GOAL KICK Article 1...Awarding a Goal Kick A goal kick shall be awarded to the defending team when the entire ball crosses the goal line, without scoring a goal, either in the air or on the ground, having last been touched or played by the attacking team. Players opposing the kicker shall remain outside the penalty area until the ball has been cleared. A player of the defending team shall kick the ball from the ground from any point within the goal area. A goal kick shall clear the penalty area and enter the field of play. If the ball is not kicked beyond the penalty area, the goal kick shall be repeated. PENALTY: Indirect free kick awarded from the spot of the foul. Note: The goalkeeper cannot pick up the ball and play it. SECTION 4: CORNER KICK Article 1...Awarding a Corner Kick A corner kick shall be awarded to the attacking team when the entire ball passes over the goal line without scoring a goal; either in the air or on the ground, having last been touched or played by the defending team. Players of the defending team shall be at least ten yards from the ball until it has been kicked. The ball shall be kicked from the ground at the corner nearest where the ball left the field of play. The ball may be placed on the line for corner kicks. Failure to kick the ball as specified shall result in a re-kick. An offensive player who is not offside during the corner kick may be put in an offside position during a subsequent play. After the corner kick, any player except the one who executed the corner kick may play the ball. The kicker may not play the ball until it has been touched or played by another player. PENALTY: Indirect free kick awarded from the spot of the foul. SECTION 5: THROW-INS Article 1...Throw-ins from the Sideline A throw-in shall be awarded a team when the opposing team lasts touches or plays the ball before the entire ball passes beyond the sideline, either in the air or on the ground. 35

38 The ball shall be thrown in any direction from the point where it crossed the sideline by a player who is facing the field of play and has both feet on the ground, on or behind the sideline. The thrower shall use both hands with equal force and shall deliver the ball from behind and over the head in one continuous movement. If the ball fails to enter the field of play, it shall be re-thrown. PENALTY: In the U10, U12, U16 and U19 divisions a throw-in is awarded to the opponents from the spot of the foul. In the U6 and U8 divisions a re-throw is permitted. Note: The goalkeeper may not receive the throw-in of a teammate with his/her hands. PENALTY: Indirect free kick to the opponent from the spot of the infraction. Article 2...Interference An opponent shall not interfere with, nor in any way impede, the actions of the thrower while the throw-in is being taken. Article 3...During the Throw-in On a throw-in, the ball is playable when it has left the hands of the thrower and any part of the ball breaks the plane of the sideline. After the throw-in, either team may play the ball. The thrower may not play the ball until it has been touched or played by another player. PENALTY: Indirect free kick awarded to the opponent from the spot of the infractions. 36

39 HEADS UP CONCUSSION FACT SHEET FOR COACHES 37

40 HEADS UP CONCUSSION QUIZ FOR COACHES, ATHLETES, AND PARENTS 38

41 PROACTIVE STEPS FOR POSITIVE COACHING There are steps that provide the medium for positive, healthy child development. Foster Meaningful Relationships The coach-player relationship can be the one of the most influential relationship in a child s life. It is important for coaches and all volunteers to understand that they are role models for our youth. Make Kids Full Participants Kids want to be listened to, they want to be part of the decision making process. Most players feel that they have some good ideas and ways to improve their soccer experience. Solicit and validate the opinions of your players Promote Ethical Behavior Right versus wrong Teach kids that it really is about how they play the game and how they treat each other. It s not about winning. Be consistent. Say what you mean, mean what you say, and try to always say it kindly. Model and Teach Conflict Resolution There is a saying, If We Don t Model What We Teach, We Are Teaching Something Else. We set the example in how we interact with each other as adults. We may not agree with another coach s decision or a referee s call, but what matters most is how we handle ourselves at these times. We need children to see that all situations can be discussed calmly. Encourage Kids to Speak Out Keep in mind that all kids have different levels of confidence when it comes to speaking out or expressing their opinions. Try to find ways with kind words and genuine interest to draw kids out in a safe environment that is created by the adult in charge. Cultivate Kid s Self-Images Having a positive self-image is the first step towards a successful adulthood. Avoid expressing empty praises; kids know when we re telling the truth. For example: Praise kids for the qualities they bring to the field. Implant Excellence in Individual Achievement Help players set goals. There must be a reason for each action. If a child is given a task, the reason for that task must be clear in the mind of the adult and explained to the child. A coach should not have 6-year-olds run five laps for a bad play because it builds character and stamina. Having 6-year-olds dribble soccer balls once around the field at the start of practice might be justified as a means of warming up muscles, increasing cardiovascular activity, and building ball skills. Keep Things FUN Soccer should be fun for both players and volunteers. Focus on how players and volunteers interact. Make an effort to put a positive spin in all that we do. Resource: American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) soccer.org 39

42 10 WAYS TO SHOW KIDS YOU CARE 1. Smile a lot. 2. Acknowledge them. 3. Learn their names. 4. Look into their eyes when you talk to them. 5. Listen to them. 6. Listen to their stories.. 7. Share their excitement. 8. Laugh at their jokes. 9. Answer their questions. 10. Thank them. COACHING TIPS Pre-game & Half-time: o Bathrooms? o Drink? o Have fun! o Remember to pass to your teammates and shoot often. o Provide a long-sleeved shirt to protect the goalkeeper. o Provide the goalkeeper with a pair of gloves; this will serve as a reminder to use their hands. During Game: o Stay calm even if the other coach is not. Smell the flowers! o Praise and encourage players. Help them reach their potential. o Each player must play one-half (50%) of the game. o Switch goalkeepers o Provide snack at end of game, not at half-time. o For kick-off defense, set 1-2 temporary fullbacks. o For kick-off offense, kick ball beyond players and chase after it. Practices: Introduce new skills: Introduce Demonstrate Explain Focus on the players practicing o Keep practice pace moderate. Pause between activities (2 minutes). Allow kids to free play during pauses. o Don t set time limits on activities. Adapt activities to the mood of players. Use scrimmages to fill time. o Ask kids to take handouts to parents to ensure everyone receives one. PRACTICE PLAN PRACTICE 1: PRACTICE 2: 1. Opening meeting 1. Opening meeting A. Introductions B. Team goal is fun & sportsmanship 2. Personal equipment check 2. Personal equipment check 3. Warm-up 3. Warm-up 4. Evaluate skills A. Dribble B. Passing & trapping (pairs) C. Clearing (long passes) 4. NEW SKILL: Kicking the ball A. Short passes using side of foot B. Power passes using laces (instep) C. Look at ball while kicking D. Push through ball (follow through) 40

43 E. Body position (square to target, arms out for balance) F. Pass so teammate can control ball (speed, height, aim) Drill: Pass to hit the cone (or soccer bowling) 5. Scrimmage (no goalkeepers) 5. NEW SKILL: Trapping ground balls A. Use side of foot, or step on it B. Touch ball softly; don t hit it Drill: Trap coach s ground kicks; pass back to coach 6. Closing meeting 6. NEW SKILL: Trapping high balls A. Use thighs & chest B. Touch ball softly (like a pillow), so it falls to the feet, don t hit it. 7. Parent meeting (parent sign-up; give handout to kids) Drill: Trap high ball from coach; pass back to coach 7. Scrimmage (no goalkeepers) 8. Closing meeting PRACTICE 3: PRACTICE 4: 1. Opening meeting (very brief) 1. Opening meeting (very brief) 2. Warm-up 2. Warm-up (kids trap and return coach s high punts) (kids trap and return coach s high punts) 3. NEW SKILL: Dribbling 3. NEW SKILL: Goalkeeping A. Short steps A. Use hands in the Penalty Area B. Soft kicks (show diagram) C. Keep ball close to feet B. Dive for ball D. Be ready to pass C. Ball may not be kicked when hand is E. Look up as much as possible, on ball Look at ball as needed D. Sling throw (putting the ball in play) F. STAY CLOSE TO THE BALL E. Punting (putting the ball in play) F. Strategy (cutoff angles, meeting the ball) Drill: Dribble down field and back solo 2 times (concurrently) Drill: Dribble down field in pairs, passing every 3 touches or fewer, 2 times (concurrently) 4. NEW SKILL: Throw-in A. Stationary B. Both feet on ground; cross if necessary C. Both hands, over the head D. Aim to open space toward scoring goal Drill: Group goal-tends coach s slow shots using hands, punt or sling returns 4. NEW SKILL: Shooting A. Shoot often B. Stop when goalkeeper s hand is on ball C. Harder kick than when passing ( Fire! ) D. Center field is easiest to shoot from 5. Review: Trapping (ground and high ball) Drill: Trap coach s kicks, rolls and bounces, high and low Drill: Line-up half of team 15 from goal, give each player a ball, and have them shoot on command ready - aim - fire! Alternate with other half. No goalkeepers. 5. Review: Dribbling Drill: Dribble down field and back solo 2 times (concurrently) Drill: Throw-in and trapping in pairs Drill: Dribble down field in pairs, passing every 3 touches or less, 2 times (concurrently) 6. Scrimmage (no goalkeepers) 6. Half-scrimmage (Split team into 6 stronger players and 6 weaker players. Strong players play on one small field, 3-on-3 with goalkeepers, no offside. Six weaker players do the same on another small field. Two referees/coaches required. 7. Closing meeting 7. Full scrimmage (with goalkeepers) 8. Closing meeting More Topics 41

44 Game play: Position at kickoff Listening to referee Positions (spread out) Offense o Kickoff strategy o Offense approaches down sides o Centering ball Defense o Kickoff strategy o Keep ball to sides away from goal Heading (introduction only): o Touch at hairline o Mouth closed, eyes open o Hit ball; don t let it hit you DEALING WITH PARENTS Each coach will encounter different problems with the parents of the players. Despite the age of your players, youth or high school, the parents continually express their feelings on how their child should be played and how the team should be coached. The parents will naturally try to influence the coach to accept their opinions on their child s abilities and correct role on the team. The parents are entitled to their thoughts and the coach should field their questions and listen to their suggestions. The sticking point is that the parents, most of whom have never played or coached soccer, inherently take a subjective angle of their child s situation. It is up to you as the coach to hold onto an objective viewpoint of the team s development and do what s best for the team. Before the season commences, the coach should address the parents. The following list of items should be included, either via a letter or in a presentation to a group. A. Review of last season 1. Comment of highlights 2. Comment on lowlights 3. Team improvement needs B. Emphasis for the players 1. Training sessions o Punctuality o Work ethic o Concentration o Willingness to learn 2. Sportsmanship o For teammates o For referees o For opponents 3. Team Chemistry o Bringing suggestions to the coach o Support of teammates, especially when mistakes are made o Interdependence play as a group, not as individuals C. Emphasis for the parents 1. Soccer is a player s game o Coaches and parents must encourage the kids to work hard and learn, the game is the best teacher 2. Responsibilities of the coach o Facilitator o Role model o Teacher o Motivator 3. Positions to be filled by parents o Manager o Treasurer o Tournaments/Travel o Phone Tree o Water o First Aid o Fund Raiser o Uniforms/Equipment 42

45 D. Team philosophy 1. Insist on individual player and team development over winning at all costs. 2. As the coach, your role is to bring the beautiful game of soccer to the players. Each coach s philosophy and methodology is unique, but the most important component is to construct a positive environment in which the players will freely and enthusiastically work hard together. Resource: US Youth Soccer THE ROLE OF THE SOCCER PARENT Top 5 things parents should do: 1. Pay attention when watching your child play. There will be a test in the car on the way home! 2. Stay positive Cheer!! Don t yell. 3. Support each player on the team, not just your kid -- he/she can t do it alone! 4. Set a good example and never yell at the referee. 5. Volunteer! Being involved in your child s soccer organization is fun and you ll make wonderful friends!! Resource: US Youth Soccer PARENTS: YOU ARE PART OF THE TEAM TOO! As a parent of a youth sport athlete, you are also part of your son s or daughter s team. There are many ways you can be involved with your child s team. You may choose to be very directly involved by being one of the team coaches or less directly, but just as important, as a spectator. You may participate in other ways such as providing transportation, helping with field or facility maintenance, officiating, fund raising, and so on. As a parent of an athlete, you are part of a cohesive puzzle. You can help, even indirectly, with team cohesion by making an effort to understand what is going on. Attend the preseason meeting the coach holds for the players and their parents. During this meeting you will learn about the goals the team hopes to achieve during the upcoming season and how the coaches intend to achieve these goals. As the preseason progresses toward the start of competition, learn about your child s role on the team. Help your child understand his or her role on the team and encourage them to work hard to fulfill this role. Never talk negatively about your child s coaches or other members of the team. Coaches are not always right, but you cannot help solve a problem by making negative statements about the coach in front of your child. If you are not a member of the coaching staff of your child s team, do not try to coach your child from the sidelines during practices or games. This undermines the responsibility of the coaches and is very confusing for the child. Cheer hard for your child and the other members of the team too. Resource: US Youth Soccer HOW PARENTS CAN HELP! Parents of our youngest athletes can play an active part in the enjoyment their children have in youth soccer. Step one, encourage your child to try new things. Now that they are out there kicking, running, laughing, falling down and chasing the ball simultaneously, they need positive reinforcement. During games, and sometimes even during practices, many parents yell out directions and instructions to their child. They cheer only when things go right and cry out in anguish when they don t. In all, they are trying to be positive and help the kids, but what most adults have forgotten is that young children can only focus on a limited number of tasks at one time. That may also be true, but to a lesser degree, for older players too. Indeed it takes all the attention of our youngest players to control the ball. This is because they are still developing basic balance, coordination and agility. Also in a 3 verses 3 game, the odds for the player with the ball are generally 1 versus 7. So during the games, the players need to focus on the task at hand---trying to control the ball. Unfortunately they are distracted by all of the adults yelling from the touchline. Now they have to make a choice, either play the ball or listen to the parents. So the lesson is clear. If parents want to help their team play their best, they need to be quiet while watching the game. Just sit and let the children play! Resource: US Youth Soccer 43

46 SIDELINE BEHAVIOR DURING GAMES In football, baseball, and basketball, coaches are actively and directly involved in the game as they call plays, flash signals, and even stop the game by calling time-outs. Soccer is unique in that once the whistle blows to start the game, players have considerably more freedom and responsibility to play, organize, and enjoy the game. A player s independence on the field is a distinguishing factor of soccer and one of the reasons that soccer is a fast-growing sport. Players enjoy the ability to improvise and create. Encourage them to do so. Soccer is a game that is enjoyed by players through their own senses and decisions, not by the micro-management of coaches. Coaches serve to facilitate the growth and appeal of the game rather than dictating by X s and O s. Be aware that coaches rarely find widespread interest from players for increased coaching intervention from the sidelines. In most cases the players prefer less instruction and cringe at verbally dogmatic coaches. Sideline coaching has often been over-extended to the extreme of damaging a player s confidence or distracting a player s concentration. Be calm, positive, and enthusiastic. Express your words of advice sparingly for greater impact. Avoid repetitive, unproductive instructions like: Don t play with it, kick it, Hurry up, and Work harder. Instead, concentrate on using constructive, informative, and supportive phrases like: Well played, Man on, Wide, Support him, Mark up, Good hustle. Especially with younger players, always use positive reinforcement. It is especially important to avoid yelling repeated and/or complicated instructions to a player who has just received the ball. This is the moment when composure and self-confidence are critical to a player s success, and an external and often intimidating voice can upset a player s equilibrium. Make mental notes of specific game situations, and use practice, pre-game, and Half-time as forums to express them. Remember that the match is like a test for your players. They have done their homework in your guided practices, and now they aim to apply what they have learned. Watch and enjoy! Coaching Weaknesses to Avoid: o Disorganization o Inflexibility o Refusal to perform basic tasks o Lack of imagination o Avoiding responsibility for mistakes o Being too serious Resource: US Youth Soccer HEY COACH! ARE WE GOING TO SCRIMMAGE TODAY? No, you re going to run laps- it s fitness day! Every practice session, every camp, and every clinic I ve run in the last twenty years has had a player ask that question, and that s been my tongue and cheek answer. Many times the same player asked that question AT EVERY PRACTICE -- ALL SEASON LONG! Since I ve never failed to include playing the game or scrimmage in my practices, I wonder if previous coaches didn t include scrimmage not likely! Players gain comfort from knowing that at some point they will get to do what kids like most about soccer-play! I admit that I take great joy in announcing that we will have a fitness day-lots of push-ups, wind sprints, and of course running laps. The exact activities that young players DO NOT NEED! Young soccer players should (and will) get fit by playing soccer. Every practice should conclude with THE GAME. This doesn t mean that I divide the team in half, throw out a ball, sit back and let them go, instead I prefer playing small-sided scrimmages of 2v2 or 3 v 3. 8v8 is how Under 10s play real games, but rarely are all seven players around that ball at once. Usually no more than two or three are within ten yards of the ball. Playing 4v4 may be the most realistic training scrimmage for this age group! National Team and Professional coaches will tell you that games are decided by the 1v1 battles that occur all over the field. Playing 4v4 or less allows children many more opportunities to face an opponent one on one. In the days of 5 year olds playing 11-a-side (with all twenty two wanting to get the ball!), the first question asked at a coaching clinic was How do you keep them from bunching up? Simpleeliminate the bunch! The value of playing 3 v 3 or 4 v 4 is undeniable more touches on the ball, more opportunities to make decisions, equals more FUN! How long is the scrimmage? It depends on the age of players, but generally, 15 minutes (Under 6s) to 30 minutes (Under 12s). Skill training games and activities should make up the majority of a practice session. Using games rather than drills allows players, not the coach, to be in control of their decisions. (Just like the real game!) 44

47 These games and activities are found in The Parent/Coach Primer, Assistant Coach series U6/U8, U10, & U12, and Peak Performance: Soccer Games for Player Development. These publications and others are available from US Youth Soccer. Tom Hart, Director of Recreational Coaching Education US Youth Soccer: SOCCER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Why do the Under 10s and younger not play 11 a side like older kids and adults? Playing small-sided games allows younger players more touches on the ball, a less crowded field, more actual playing time. Since they must play both offense and defense, it helps develop a more complete player. Why will my players not stay in their positions? Soccer is not like baseball or football where players have a geographic or static position as it relates to the ball and other players. How do I teach strategy? We don t teach algebra to first graders and we don t teach strategy to them either! Youth coaches who attempt to teach strategy or team tactics are doing so in the mistaken belief that it will help their team. Youth players must develop ball skills and individual play before they can grasp team concepts. The best planned strategy fails if a player lacks the skill necessary to play the game. What are the Three EviLLL s of Coaching Youth Players? Laps, Lines, & Lectures First let s talk about laps not the most original method of fitness training and one of the least effective for soccer players. It s better to play high intensity games with a ball to encourage fast play of short duration. A heck of a lot more fun than running laps! Lines Name one line you enjoy waiting in for your turn. Since kindergarten, we ve been trained to line up. One of the reasons kids like to play soccer is the continuous action let s not spoil the attraction of the sport by making them wait! Any longer than thirty seconds until their turn and you ve lost them! Using game activities rather than drills creates a realistic approach to teaching soccer. Lectures bring up memories of school. Sitting. Listening. Passive. Non-participatory. Please! Our players come to play! Use the Thirty Second Rule. Give them quick, concise information and get them moving! You cannot improve your skills by listening to someone talk about soccer! For help in practices that avoid the EviLLL s, see The Assistant Coach Series. I would like to help coach but I ve never played soccer! A playing background, while helpful, is not necessary to coach. The ability to teach children is probably the most important element. Knowledge of soccer is less important than your skill dealing with children. The role of a youth coach is that of a facilitator: Let the Game Teach! I ve played soccer all of my life, why would I need to attend a coaching clinic? Doing is not the same as teaching! Having a playing background is very helpful when demonstrating skills, but the ability to teach is a priority in coaching. A basic understanding of the psychological, social, and cognitive characteristics of our players allows for far greater opportunities than do what I do coaching. Resource: US Youth Soccer 45

48 SAMPLE SOCCER TEAM LETTER Welcome to the Spring Soccer Season! This newsletter will provide you with information to help make this a great soccer season. Please read it and bring up any questions or concerns that you have. We are the Pinon Valley Rapids soccer team, U8 for 1 st & 2 nd Grade Division. My name is and I will be your head coach this season. This is my first season coaching Parks & Recreation soccer and I have completed the AYSO Coaches Training and the coach s soccer clinic presented by the Youth Sports staff. Please feel free to call me at home xxx-xxx-xxxx or cell at xxx-xxx-xxxx if you have any questions, concerns, etc. The goals of this team are to: o promote a true attitude of sportsmanship; o promote good self-esteem; o provide a safe and healthy athletic outlet for our children; o learn; o have fun! Parents, coaches and spectators will conduct themselves in a manner that promotes these goals. Please emphasize sportsmanship and having fun with your soccer player. Motivate your soccer player to do his or her best. De-emphasize the score, whether we win or lose. Make all of your comments positive and constructive. I encourage you to read any books or articles for more information on children s recreational activities. Additional information: 1. This team runs on volunteer power! There are a variety of opportunities for you to be involved as a volunteer. 2. So please volunteer to bring a game snack on the sheet being passed around. Snacks should be something healthy. A fruit drink and sliced oranges are very popular. Please do not bring candy. We will need enough for 10 players (a little extra for brothers and sisters is nice too). 3. You may also volunteer to organize the purchase of trophies, photos and an end-of-season picnic. Please see the sign-up sheet for more details. 4. I will also appreciate any parent volunteering to help me during practices. The quality of coaching will improve tremendously with a little bit of help. Please let me know if you are willing to help. No experience is required. 5. Each player must have a parent or designated guardian at the field during practices and games. Also, please notify me if your player must leave the practice or game before the scheduled end. 6. Please report any accidents and/or injuries to me immediately, regardless of how minor the injury may seem. 7. Please let me know if your player has any physical and/or emotional conditions that may require special considerations while participating with our team, even if you have already given this information to the Sports Office. 8. Be sure to read the warning statement (on the Parent Information Sheet ) that describes the risks of playing soccer and let me know if you have any concerns about the statement. 9. All practices will be held at Pinon Valley Park located at 5585 Mule Deer Dr.. Please arrive at practices at the designated time so your player will not miss the fun. 10. Personal equipment for games and practices: Shin guards are required and soccer socks (must cover shin guards). Shoes with good traction will work well at our playing level. Molded plastic cleats are acceptable, but are not necessary. Screw-in and aluminum cleats are not allowed. No baseball shoes. Jewelry must be removed. Medical bracelets and necklaces may be worn, but must be taped down. Bring a water bottle to games and practices. Be sure to put your name on the bottle. If you have a soccer ball (state size) that we can use during practices and pre-game warm-ups it would be appreciated. Be sure to put your name on the ball. Although we will try to take care of all the equipment, I (and anyone helping me) cannot be responsible for personal equipment, including soccer balls. Our attention will be directed towards the kids, not equipment. Jerseys and games schedules will be available next week. (Our games will probably begin at 5:30 & 6:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Gossage Park.) Please arrive to the game field 15 minutes before game time so your player can warm-up. The Youth Soccer Manual rules state that during a game, parents must remain on the same side of the field as their team bench. Although all referees do not strictly enforce this, I have found it to be a sensible rule. Our team will abide by this and all rules. I also ask that no parents coach from the end lines. 46

49 and Kids Zone Parent Pledge Kids Zone is a trademark and a program created and owned by the American Youth Soccer Organization. It is reserved for the sole use of AYSO s regions. Please read and initial each item where indicated. 1. I pledge to be on time or early when bringing my child to his/her practices and games. I understand that it may be uncomfortable for my child to be late to a game or practice and that he/she is subject to physical risk if not provided with adequate time to warm up. I understand that I am encouraged to stay during practices and games, but if I do not, I will be there when he/she is finished. Being punctual shows respect for the coach, who has other time commitments, and it tells my child that he/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 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. Winners are people who make the maximum effort, continue to learn and improve, and do not let mistakes, or fear of making mistakes, discourage 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 of success is not how my child compares to others, but how he/she is doing in comparison to his/her best self. 4. I will Honor the Game. I understand the importance of setting a good example of sportsmanship for my child. 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 call I do not agree with, I will refrain from questioning, insulting or making personal attacks against him or her. 5. I understand that games can be exciting for my child as he/she deals with the fast-paced action of the game, responds to opponents, referees, teammates, and listens to coaches. I will not yell out instructions. During the game, I will make only sportsmanlike comments that encourage my child and other players on both teams. 6. I will not make negative comments about the game, coaches, referees or teammates in my child's presence. This sets a bad example, which can negatively influence my child's motivation and overall experience. I agree to act in a sportsmanlike manner and make every effort to foster a friendly and non-violent atmosphere. I agree to honor the Kids Zone Parent Pledge in my words and actions. PLEASE PROVIDE THE INFORMATION REQUESTED ON THE REVERSE SIDE, SIGN WHERE INDICATED AND RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR COACH. 47