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GENERAL INFORMATION
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) |
Is my child the right age for AYSO?
Children between the ages of 4 and 18 as of August 1st of the year in which the fall season begins can play AYSO soccer.
U5 open to ages 4 as of August 25, 2013
U6: open to ages 5 yrs (player's age on July 31, 2013)
U8: open to ages 6 and 7yrs (player's age on July 31, 2013)
U10: open to ages 8 and 9 yrs (player's age on July 31, 2013)
U12: open to 10 and 11yrs (player's age on July 31, 2013)
U14: open to 12 and 13yrs (player's age on July 31, 2013)
U16: open to 14 and 15 yrs (player's age on July 31, 2013)
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How do I register my child?
For full details, see our Registration Process, but a overview of the process is: Get the on-line form at www.eayso.org, complete it, print and sign a copy, sign it and mail the form in or visit one of our registration events. Players that did not play last year will have to show proof of age as well.
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My child does not meet the minimum age range for the AYSO Fall season, but he/she is very [big/strong/athletic/coordinated] for his/her age....
No. AYSO is a national organization with very strict guidelines regarding age requirements. Players must be 4 years old before attending games. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players being the proper age to play and being placed in their age appropriate divisions. You may sign up and wait until the proper date.
Be patient – they’ll grow up before you know it!
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In school, my child is with classmates who are [younger/older]. May my child "play down" in a younger division...
No. AYSO is a national organization that determines the player divisions based on birthdates. The AYSO "year" runs from August 1st through July 31st. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players placed in their age appropriate divisions. Many children are in "different" divisions than their school classmates. We encourage you to view this as a positive experience - it will allow your child to broaden his/her relationships outside of school and enjoy making new friends.
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What makes AYSO different?
Our mission is to provide quality youth soccer programs where everyone builds positive character through participation in a safe, fun, family-oriented soccer environment. AYSO's six philosophies separate us from the pack:
- Everyone Plays
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
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When is the San Marcos AYSO soccer season?
The largest season is in the fall with registration taking place in the spring. Fall season will start the end of July.
We have additional programs to run year round please contact our Registrar Jennie for more information. Registrar@sanmarcosayso.org
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What's a Region?
Our San Marcos 127 AYSO Region is one of nearly 1,000 local programs in communities nationwide. Each AYSO Region is the same, yet different. The Bylaws and Rules and Regulations are the same but because community needs and characteristics may be different, Regions have flexibility to accommodate their unique needs.
Your Region is identified by its own number. Your Regional Commissioner and Regional Board of Directors will usually meet once a month during the season and perhaps more often for pre-season planning. You are welcome to attend any of these meetings. Many Regions give out a Region Handbook at registration, with their policies fully defined.
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What equipment is needed?
Soccer has limited equipment requirements. Shin guards are mandatory during practice and games. Full-coverage shoes are required, and it is advisable to use shoes designed specifically for soccer. San Marcos AYSO teams play in uniforms (jersey, shorts and socks) supplied by the Region and it is included in the registration fee. San Marcos AYSO also provides the field equipment, such as goals, nets and flags. Every child should have their own soccer ball for practicing and playing on their own.
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Do I have to get soccer shoes for my child to play?
Soccer shoes are not mandatory but are highly recommended (regular athletic shoes with no cleats are the alternative). When buying soccer shoes, they cannot have a toe cleat (baseball shoes have a toe cleat). Generally speaking, nearly all players at all age levels use soccer shoes for practices and games.
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What size soccer ball should I get for my child?
Divisions U5 through U8 use a Size 3 ball.
Divisions U10 and U12 use a Size 4 ball.
Divisions U14 and above use a Size 5 ball.
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Why are the children required to wear their soccer socks over their shin guards?
Safety is the primary reason. Some types of shin guards are hard shell instead of soft, and may have sharp edges that could cut a player. By wearing their socks over the shin guards, players protect each other. Also, wearing the socks over the shin guards prevent the shin guards from shifting during running or when being kicked, which allow the shin guards to protect the areas they are supposed to.
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When are practices and games?
Each Region schedules its own practices and games. When your child has been registered and placed on a team, your child's coach will contact you with practice day(s) and time(s), and a schedule of games.
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What is the duration of the games?
For the younger divisions, the games take about 1 hour to complete. For the older divisions, the games take about 1.5 hours to complete.
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What should I bring to my child’s practices and games?
Shin guards (required), soccer shoes, a soccer ball, uniform (games only) and water. Also, bringing a well rested, well hydrated, nutritionally balanced child with a positive attitude and willingness to learn is highly recommended!
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I've been asked to bring game snacks for the team, what should I bring?
Soccer is a super energy-intensive sport and game snacks will help the players recharge their energy levels.
Half-time snacks:
Fruit and water is recommended, the players get recharged without getting overly full.
Grapes, cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew, or starwberries make a great half-time snacks.
After the game:
Keep in mind the kids will be thirsty...
Cold drinks (no soda)
A light healthy snack individually wrapped for players to take with them.
Bring enough to supply the team, coach and referee.
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Is it OK for players to wear jewelry during practice and game?
No. Jewelry of any kind (necklaces, watches, earrings, rings, bracelets, etc.) cannot be worn during practice or games. There is an exception for Med-Alert bracelets, but they must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band for the safety of your child and all the other players.
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How much does it cost to sign up?
San Marcos AYSO is very affordable, but the cost differs depending when you sign up. The fee is used for insurance, equipment, uniforms, program development, field rental and other needs. None of the Region leadership receives payment for their time.
For the 2013 season, early registration is $85.00, and you can get a form filled out at www.eayso.org, also the U5 program is at a discounted rate of $60. Our normal registration is $105.00
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What other soccer expenses can I anticipate this year?
Not included in the registration fees are the required shin guards, appropriate shoes, and a strongly recommended practice ball. In addition, the team parents will possibly request a small amount to cover the expenses of a team banner, hair pieces (for the girls), end of season team party, and a small gift for the coach. Also, each family is often requested to bring snacks for the team at one game during the season.
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The doctor said that my child can play with his arm splint. Will AYSO allow him/her to play?
No. While the doctor may be representing your son's interest appropriately, the risk to other players mandates that he limit his participation to that of moral support on the sidelines. Players may not wear casts or splints which could possibly cause injury to himself/herself or another player. NO EXCEPTIONS. This applies at the games as well as at practices.
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What about eyeglasses and hearing aids?
Glasses, hearing aids, and med-alerts may be worn to practices and games. The use of an eyeglass holder/strap or sports-glasses is recommended. As stated above, Med-Alerts must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band as a safety measure.
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What kinds of hair accessories are acceptable?
Any hair accessories should not be made of metal or plastic, and should not be rigid. Soft hair accessories such as "scrunchies" and soft rubber bands are recommended and acceptable. Feathers and other items are not allowed.
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It can be cold during the early morning Fall season games. Can my child wear a sweatshirt during the games?
Any extra articles of clothing must be worn under the uniform (so you can still determine which team a player is associated with). It is recommended that any extra articles of clothing be limited to undershirts or turtle necks (under the uniform). Try to coordinate with your team’s colors if possible. Any extra articles cannot have any zippers or any plastic/metal components of any kind.
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What if my child drops out and I would like to request a refund?
If you are requesting a refund for part of your registration fees you must submit the request in writing.
The fastest way to do that is to email to registrar@sanmarcosayso.org. Include your player's name, date of birth, address for refund, phone number, and brief reason for the request.
Refund requests can also be mailed to AYSO, Refund Request, PO Box 333, San Marcos, CA 92079.
Refunds take 3-4 weeks to verify all the information.
For more details on refunds, please check our Refund Procedure page.
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Who will coach my child's team?
AYSO teams are coached by volunteers from your community, many of them parents with children in the program.
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Who runs San Marcos AYSO Region 127?
Volunteers - AYSO National is a volunteer organization with more than 220,000 parents and friends working as coaches, referees and administrators. San Marcos is no different and it's not unusual to find two, three or more children in the same family playing AYSO soccer - while Dad serves as referee and Mom as coach. A coach, a referee, a registrar, a fundraiser, a field marker, a publicist, a treasurer - many people, all contributing their time and efforts to make AYSO a great program for our soccer-playing kids.
AYSO works because the volunteers work.
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What am I expected to do as an AYSO parent?
Support Your Child
Take your child to practices and games with the proper equipment. Support your child by giving encouragement and showing an interest in his or her team. Help your child learn soccer skills and good sportsmanship. Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than victory.
Volunteer
Everyone can do something. And everyone is needed to do their part. Let us know your talents and we will match you with a job you enjoy.
Always Be Positive
You are not on the team, but you have strong influence on the team's environment. Applaud good plays by your child's team and by the opposing team. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sporting activities.
Be Enthusiastic And Supportive
Let children set their own goals and play the game for themselves. Don't put too heavy a burden on your child to win games.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
The best way to help a child to achieve goals and reduce the natural fear of failure is through positive reinforcement. No one likes to make a mistake. If your child does make one, remember that he or she is still learning. Encourage your child's efforts and point out the good things your child accomplished.
Let Coaches Coach And Referees Ref
Coaches and referees are usually parents. They volunteer their time to help make your child's youth soccer experience a positive one. They need your support, too. What coaches and referees don't need is your help in coaching from the sidelines. So please refrain from coaching during games and practices. Referees are not the "bad guys." Treat them and their calls fairly and respectfully.
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How do I become an AYSO volunteer?
It's easy. Talk to your child's coach; contact your Regional Commissioner or any of theRegion board members. They will be most helpful - and happy - to find the right job for you.
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How does AYSO protect its athletes?
Safe Haven™
Safe Haven is a program designed to address a growing need for child and volunteer protection.
The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997
This law grants immunity from certain types of prosecution for volunteers who meet its requirements. In order to receive full protection under the law, AYSO volunteers need four things.
They must be currently registered in the database.
They must be properly trained and certified.
They must be performing duties as laid out in a position description.
They must act within the scope of AYSO's Policies, Procedures, and Guidelines.
Kids Zone™
Kids Zone is a dynamic program targeted to eliminate negative sideline behavior. Kids Zone buttons and signs are distributed throughout the Region and parents are asked to sign the Kids Zone Pledge promising to behave within the guidelines of the program.
Play It Safe
Safety is a big part of keeping things fun. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
Buddies
Advise your child never to leave a practice or game alone. Walk with a buddy whenever possible.
Goal Posts
NEVER let your children play on soccer goals. Portable goals have been known to tip over when people play on them, resulting in serious injury and even death.
Code Word
If you normally pick your child up from the field, but have to send someone else, use a code word. That way, if someone comes up and says "Your mother sent me to pick you up," but they don't have the code word you and your child have established, your child knows not to go with the stranger.
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How do you play soccer?
Soccer is a simple game. It requires a field, a ball, two teams of players and their equipment, and a referee. The field is approximately the size of a football field. Smaller fields may be used for younger players.
The game is played in two timed halves of equal length. To advance AYSO's Everyone Plays™ commitment, quarter breaks can be made within each half to allow for player substitution. The length of each half is determined by the age of the children playing.
Physical size is not an important factor in becoming a skilled and successful soccer player. Because of the game's pace, every child participates in the action while on the field.
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What are basic soccer skills?
The sport involves several basic skills: passing/shooting, dribbling, and controlling (or trapping) the ball. These skills can be learned at any age, and a good soccer player works continually to improve them.
Passing/Shooting
Passing is kicking, pushing or heading the ball to a teammate or to a space where a teammate can run to the ball. A player may lightly tap the ball to a teammate several feet away or kick it strongly to move it down the field. The ball may scoot along the ground or may be kicked into the air.
Most players use two types of kicks to pass to a teammate or shoot towards the goal. One is the instep drive which is a powerful kick. The other kick is called a push pass. Performed using the inside of the foot, the push pass is much more accurate than the instep drive, but is less powerful.
Dribbling
Dribbling is transporting the ball under control from one area to another. Soccer players cannot use their hands. Players dribble the ball with their feet, using light taps on the ball to move it along the ground.
Controlling
Controlling (or trapping) is stopping the ball in flight or on the ground, and then controlling it by either dribbling or passing the ball to teammates. There are many ways to trap a ball: (1) allow it to hit the chest at an angle that deflects the ball to the ground where it can be controlled; (2) allow it to hit the thigh or bent knee to deflect the ball to the ground where it can be controlled; or (3) use the foot to stop the ball.
Heading
Heading is unique to the game of soccer. When a ball is too high to kick, players "head" the ball to pass to a teammate or score a goal.
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What are the soccer positions?
The goalkeeper is responsible for guarding his or her team's goal and preventing the other team from scoring. Goalkeepers are generally not used in U-8 soccer.
The Defender's primary duty is to prevent the opponent from having a good shot at the goal. This player also works to gain possession of the ball and pass it to a teammate for an attack.
The Midfielder (or halfback) plays a "transitional" game from defense to offense and vice versa. Usually the midfielder is the most active player on the field and key to maintaining team continuity.
The Forward's primary responsibility is to score, and also assists the midfielder in shifting play from defense to offense.
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What are the rules?
The rules, which in soccer are called Laws...
The object of the game is for the players to get the ball into their opponent's goal using any part of their body except their hands and arms. Only goalkeepers may use their hands while inside their own penalty area.
Kickoff
To start the game or the second half, and after each goal, a kickoff is taken from the center circle.
Throw In
After the ball has completely crossed the side lines - commonly called touch lines in soccer - a throw in is awarded against the team that last touched the ball. The throw in is taken from where the ball left the field and must be thrown with two hands from behind and over the head, while both feet are on the ground on or behind the touch line.
Goal Kick
The goal kick is taken by the defending team each time the ball crosses the goal line without a goal being scored and was last touched by an attacking player. The ball may be placed anywhere in the goal area and is not considered back in play until it has been kicked out of the penalty area.
Corner Kick
This kick is taken by the attacking team each time the ball is kicked by the defense over its own goal line without a goal being scored. The ball is placed within the three-foot arc in the corner of the field (nearest to where the ball went out of play) and kicked into play by the attacking team.
Penalty Kick
A penalty kick is awarded when a defending player commits one of the 10 major fouls within his or her own penalty area while the ball is still in play. The penalty kick is taken by a player from the offended team from a spot 12 yards from the goal. All players must remain outside the penalty area, 10 yards from the ball, and behind the penalty kick mark until the kick is taken, except for the kicker and the goalkeeper. The goalkeeper must remain on the goal line until the ball is kicked. Once kicked, the goalkeeper may try to stop the ball from entering the goal. The kicker, after waiting for the referee's signal, may score by kicking the ball directly into the opponent's goal.
Misconduct
There are two kinds of misconduct:
when an action results in a caution (yellow card) from the referee
when an action results in a player being sent off or ejected from the field (red card).
A referee may also warn a player to improve his or her conduct (or unsporting behavior) before a caution is issued. The referee also has the authority to suspend or terminate play because of misconduct or interference on the part of coaches or spectators.
The Team
A team has a maximum of 11 players on the field at any one time, although a game can be played with as few as seven players on a team. Regions use small-sided teams in younger age divisions. Players get more "touches" on the ball, learn skills quicker and have more fun using this method.
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What is offside?
A player is offside if he or she is ahead of the ball at the moment the ball touches or is played by a member of the same team, except if that player is in his/her own half of the field or has two opponents even with or between him/her and the opponent's goal line. The referee's "moment of judgment" is the instant the ball is played, not when it is received.
A player is not offside if he/she is the first to receive the ball from a throw-in, corner kick or goal kick, or is not involved in active play by interfering with play, interfering with an opponent, or gaining an advantage by being in that position.
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Who are the officials?
San Marcos AYSO uses three game officials-one referee and two assistant referees.
The referee is the ultimate authority during the game. The referee's chief responsibilities are to make the game as fun, fair and safe for the players as possible. The referee enforces the rules - which, in soccer, are called "Laws" - by calling offenses and determining if goals have been scored.
Assistant referees provide vital assistance to the referee by signaling when the ball has gone out of play and which team gets possession. Assistant referees also assist with substitutions and the general control of the game.
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How is the field set up?
The field is divided in two halves. The center circle in the middle of the field is used to start the game, to start the second half and to restart after a goal has been scored.
There is a large rectangular area and a smaller rectangular area found at each end of the field. These are vital areas for both teams, and are where penalty kicks are taken.
The four corners of the field are inscribed with three-foot arcs where corner kicks are taken.
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What are fouls?
Major (Penal) Fouls
There are 10 major fouls that result in a direct free kick (DFK), and from which a goal may be directly scored against the opponents.
The 10 major fouls are divided into two groups. Six within the first group require that the foul be committed carelessly, recklessly, or with disproportionate force:
· Kicking or attempting to kick an opponent.
· Striking or attempting to strike an opponent.
· Pushing an opponent.
· Charging an opponent.
· Tripping or attempting to trip an opponent.
· Jumping at an opponent.
The other four require only that they be committed:
· When tackling an opponent, making contact with the opponent before the ball.
· Spitting at an opponent.
· Holding an opponent.
· Handling the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeepers within their own penalty areas).
Minor (Non-Penal) Foul
Minor fouls result in an indirect free kick (IFK). At least one additional player of either team must touch the ball before a goal can be scored from an IFK. Minor fouls include:
Playing in a dangerous manner (including high kicking near another player's head or trying to play a ball held by a goalkeeper).
Impeding the progress of an opponent.
Preventing the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his/her hands.
Goalkeeper Offenses - An IFK is also awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, within his/her own penalty area, commits any of the following offenses:
Takes more than six seconds while controlling the ball with the hands.
Touches the ball again with the hands after it has been released from the keeper's possession and has not touched another player.
Touches the ball with the hands when the ball is deliberately kicked to the keeper by a teammate.
Touches the ball with the hands after receiving it directly from a throw-in taken by a teammate.
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Does AYSO have programs for children with special needs?
The Very Important Player (VIP) Program is for players with mental or physical disabilities.
Learn More
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What is Good Sportsmanship?
AYSO has always encouraged good sportsmanship in its programs. In fact, "Good Sportsmanship" is one of the philosophies listed in the AYSO National Bylaws. San Marcos AYSO strongly supports good sportsmanship through dynamic programs. Elements of these programs may vary, but all define the conduct of players, coaches, referees and even parents. They explain the fundamentals of good behavior-which is simply showing courtesy and respect for all involved in the game.
We figure that if players, volunteers and parents understand what is expected of them when it comes to good sportsmanship, that's probably how they will act. AYSO is proud of its many good sports, but understands that good sportsmanship doesn't just happen. It needs to be taught, encouraged and demonstrated.
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How did AYSO begin?
AYSO National was founded in 1964 in Torrance, Calif. with about 125 players. Today that number has grown to more than 600,000 nationwide. AYSO's founders based its formation on community involvement.
See a more detailed History of San Marcos AYSO.
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How is AYSO organized?
The Region: (In our case San Marcos 127) The foundation of AYSO is the "Region", or basic community program. Each Region is headed by a Regional Commissioner who, with the help of a Regional board, conducts business within the framework of AYSO's philosophies, Rules and Regulations and Bylaws. Depending on its stage of development, a Region may have as few as 200 players or as many as 5,000, grouped into boys and girls divisions based on age.
Regional Commissioners report to Area Directors.
The Area: (San Marcos is in Area "R") Several bordering Regions compose an "Area." Each Area is headed by an Area Director who is responsible for performance and growth of the Area.
Area Directors report to Section Directors.
The Section: (San Marcos is in Section 11) Section Directors are responsible for the general welfare and administration of a "Section." A Section is composed of several bordering Areas and may cover a portion of a state, an entire state, or several states.
The Board of Directors: A National Board of Directors governs the overall AYSO organization. Regional Commissioners, Area and Section Directors, along with the National Board Members, serve as executive members with voting rights.
The National Staff: The staff at AYSO's national headquarters in Hawthorne, Calif. works closely with these volunteer executive members and interfaces directly with each Region. The headquarters, called the National Support & Training Center or NSTC, provides many services: computerized registration; publications; liability and accident insurance; training for coaches, referees and administrators, and more.
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Everything You Need To Know About San Marcos AYSO
Parent FAQ