AYSO Region 149
P.O. Box 516 Philomath OR 97370 United States of America
http://www.corvallisayso.org




Summer SoccerProgressive Play

Parent/Program Handbook

There are eleven (11) soccer fields on the campus shared by the 509j School District Offices and Adams Elementary School.  For many years, AYSO Region 149 has contracted to utilize those fields during the Spring and Fall soccer seasons.  The fields vary in size to provide the appropriate playing area for the various age groups participating in the region.  The game schedule online shows which field your child’s team will be playing on.

Welcome to AYSO

American Youth Soccer Organization - Region 149

AYSO Vision Statement - To provide world class youth soccer programs that enrich children’s lives.

AYSO Mission Statement - The American Youth Soccer Organization’s mission is to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs, which promote a fun, family environment based on the AYSO philosophies: Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship, & Player Development.

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

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

Open Registration - Our program is open to all children between 4½ and 18 years of age who want to register and play soccer.  Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing.  There are no elimination try-outs and nobody gets cut.

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

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

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

Program Info

Important Dates to Remember

Fall Season Begins - 2nd Saturday after Labor Day
Fall Practice Can Start - 1st Tuesday after Labor Day
Team Picture Day - 2nd Game Day of Fall Season
Spring Season Begins - 1st Saturday after Spring Break
Spring Practice Can Start - 1st Monday after Spring Break
(Fall and Spring seasons run 7 consecutive weeks each.)

About AYSO National
Everyone Helps Out - AYSO is a volunteer organization with more than 250,000 parents and friends volunteering, many of them working as coaches, referees and administrators.  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.  It can be a total family experience!

The Growth of AYSO - AYSO was founded in 1964 in Torrance, Calif. with about 125 players.  Today that number has grown to more than 625,000 nationwide.

Why AYSO Works - AYSO works because our volunteers work.  The volunteers work because they believe in the AYSO philosophies.  Our phenomenal growth underscores AYSO’s commitment to a healthy competitive atmosphere for youth soccer players, combined with dedication toward the development of responsible individuals.

What Makes AYSO Tick - AYSO was founded on community involvement.  Volunteer staff members are encouraged to organize in ways best suited to their needs.  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.

Registration Info

Registration Fees - The Regional Board shall fix the registration fee for each player participant annually.  Check online for the player fee for this season.  Registration fees pay for insurance coverage for each player, a uniform for each player consisting of a jersey, shorts and a pair of socks (players must provide their own shoes and shin guards), and cover the expense of maintaining the fields and equipment and providing supplies for the Region.  The players are allowed to keep their uniforms at the end of the season.

Registration Scholarships - Any child who is eligible for the free or reduced lunch program at their school may also be eligible for an AYSO Regional Scholarship.  With a scholarship, the registration fee is reduced to the cost of insurance and other required fees.  To apply for the scholarship, request a “scholarship form” at the registration event, fill in the form, and return it with your child’s registration materials and proof of eligibility.

Open Registration in May

Full Year (Fall and Spring Seasons) - Open Registration for a full season occurs from late-April through mid-June.  During June, volunteers assign players to teams.  In late-July, parents and players are notified of their team assignments and in early-August they attend team organizational meetings, where a parent for each child accepts a volunteer job.

Refunds - After the Open Registration in May, players withdrawing prior to June 15th will be issued a refund.  After June 15th, NO REFUNDS will be issued except for the following reasons: (1) The child is injured and unable to play; or (2) the child has moved out of this region.  All requests for a refund (less the processing fee) must be submitted by mail in writing to AYSO Registrar, PO Box 516, Philomath, OR, 97370, and must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Limited Registration in August & February

Full Year - In early-August, we have a Limited Registration to fill open positions on teams, registration closes when play begins in early-September.

Spring Season - If your child missed the fall season, he/she may register for the spring season on a space-available basis.  This limited registration is held from early-February through mid-March, registration closes after play begins in early-April.

Refunds - For our limited registrations in spring and fall, NO REFUNDS will be issued to players that are placed on a team.  If we are unable to place your child on a team, a full refund will be issued.

Player Application

Player Application - a Multi-Step Process

Step 1: Player Card - For Open Registration from late-April through mid-June, returning players should update the pre-printed Player Card provided by their team about the third or fourth game day of spring season.  Any new or returning player who does not receive a pre-printed card can go to www.corvallisayso.org, fill out and print a Player Card then submit it with their application materials.  You can find the relevant Player Card process at: www.corvallisayso.org ► Application

Step 2: eAYSO Player Application - Go to eayso.org  Login to your existing account or, if you are new to AYSO, create an eAYSO account.  Complete a Player Registration form for each player in your family and e-Sign each application.  Print out one copy of the completed application form.

Step 3: Submit All 3 Items - (a) each player’s copy of their e-signed Player Registration form, (b) the Player Card(s), and (c) a check or money order for the Full Year fee ($65).  Submit the forms & fees at a Registration Event, or by mail to:  AYSO Registrar, PO Box 516, Philomath, OR 97370.

If you do not have online computer access at home, you may complete and print the registration forms at any of the Benton County Public libraries, or in the computer lab during a registration event.

Player Registration Checklist

□ Complete the Pre-Printed or Fill-in Player Card Found Online (1 per child)

□ Fill out, eSign and Print the eAYSO Player Application (1 per child)

□ Write a Check to AYSO for the Full Year Fee ($65) (1 per child)

□ Submit all the above at a Registration Event or Mail it to AYSO Registrar, PO Box 516, Philomath, OR 97370

Team Formation

1. New Teams - Teams are formed in June of each year. The goal of team formation is to create teams within a school/practice zone that are balanced with regard to volunteer availability and player age and skill level.  Team Formation is done by the Boys & Girls Team Formation Coordinators and Divisional Coordinators, with the assistance of board members, coaches and other volunteers.

2. Balanced Teams - Teams are created within each school/practice zone , so that each team has a similar number of players at each skill level and grade level.  Teams are formed by assigning some less skilled players, some mid-level players, and some highly skilled players to each team. The skill of returning players is based on the evaluation by their prior-year coach who rates them.  Since new players do not have a rating, they are distributed among the teams of their age group.

3. Age Brackets - The primary consideration for player placement is their age on July 31 of each year.  Check the Age Guidelines on the next page for details.

4. Playing up - Players are allowed to “play up” one year on the recommendation of the current coach, or to stay with their classmates.  The latter applies to players with August birth dates or players that have skipped a grade.  In order to play up a division, a request must be made in writing either on or attached to the Player Card.  AYSO national regulations prohibit players from “playing down” a division.

5. Players are not moved - Once teams have been formed and rosters are printed, players cannot be moved to another team. Exceptions are made for an error in placement in the wrong division or wrong gender.  Occasionally a player is moved if there is a benefit to the region, i.e. a team is in need of a coach and the parent of the moved player can coach this team.

6. Volunteers - Another important consideration when forming teams is the availability of volunteers who are willing to be a Team Coach, Assistant Coach or Referee.  During the Player Registration process in May of each year, a Player Card is provided to the parents of each player.  On that card, the parent(s) should indicate which volunteer job they are willing to do.  Priority placement on a first choice school/practice area is given to the children of the Coach, Asst Coach, Referee and Board Member volunteers.  The parent should also note on the card their first and second choice of school/practice areas, and any special considerations they have (play up with classmates, need to car pool with Johnny Smith, would like to have Sally Jones as coach, etc.).  Not all of these wishes may be granted, but they will be considered when forming the teams.

7. School/Practice Zone - Since U6 teams do not practice during the week, they are formed from the pool of all players within this age group.  For U8, teams are formed and balanced within a grade school.  Not all grade schools have teams.  We cannot form teams at a school unless we have coach, assistant coach and referee volunteers.  For U10 - U14, teams are formed in five practice zones - NW Corvallis, Central Corvallis, NE Corvallis, S & SW Corvallis, and Philomath & West Benton.  In general, these areas correspond respectively to the Hoover Area, the Linus Pauling area, Cheldelin area, Adams/Lincoln area, and the Philomath area.  Players may be placed at their alternate choice school/practice area if there are not enough roster spots available at their first choice.  It is not always possible to form balanced teams and keep all of the players from one area together.

Age & Division Info

Age Guidelines

Region 149 uses six Age Divisions - These age divisions are based on a players age on July 31st each year.  Except for U6 players, AYSO players are grouped into a two-year age division (for U6 the age division is 1.5 years).  The divisions are called U6, U8, U10, U12, and U14.  Players in U6 are all UNDER SIX years of age on July 31st.  The U8 group is all UNDER EIGHT years of age, U10 is UNDER TEN, and so forth.  There is also a U19 division for all players aged 14 through 18.  Players must be at least 4.5 years old on July 31st for the youngest division (U6) and not older than 18 on July 31st for the oldest division.  Since the birth date range for each division changes each year, please see our website for the current year's birth date range.

Consult the website for exact birthday ranges. (here)

Division Information

 

 

U19

U14

U12

U10

U08

U06

Field
Players

11

11

Girls 9
Boys 11

9

7

5

Game Length

40 Min Halves

35 Min Halves

30 Min Halves

25 Min Halves

20 Min Halves

12 Min Halves

Ball Size

5

5

4

4

3

3

Notes

Coed Teams

Full Size Field

Medium or Full Size

Medium Size Field

No
Offside

No Goalie
or Offside

Parent Info

Attendance and Participation - Every player shall be entitled to play at least half of every game.  Parents must be aware, however, that late arrival for a game is disruptive to the team and must be avoided.  Therefore, while a player arriving during the first quarter will play the above numbered quarters, any player arriving during the second or third quarter may result in the player participating in only one quarter.

Practice - For Divisions U19, U16, U14, U12 and U10, practice will not exceed two hours, twice a week.  For Divisions U8, practice will not exceed 1½ hours, twice a week.  U6 teams do not practice except during pre-game warm-up on game day. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to make sure that their child attends practice.  If a player is going to miss practice, the coach or the team parent should be notified as soon as possible.

Practice Location & Attendance - As all of the coaches in AYSO are volunteers, practice times are scheduled at the coach’s convenience. Practice fields are arranged at various schools and field reservations are made directly with the school by the coach.  Shorts are better suited for the game of soccer than long pants.  In cold weather, sweatpants are recommended as jeans can restrict motion.  Cleats are best suited for most fields and should be worn at practices.  It is recommended that each player bring an appropriately sized ball and water to practices.

Length of Season - The regular season will begin on September 1st  and run through May 30th each year. There are normally seven games during September and October, then a winter break, and normally seven games in April and May.  Inclement weather or poor field conditions may necessitate the canceling of games.  Any such cancellation will be made at the discretion of the Regional Commissioner or representative.

Check the website for cancellation information on game day.  There are no refunds for cancelled games.

Parent Participation - THE REGION AND THE CHILDREN NEED YOUR PARTICIPATION.  Attend practices and games.  PARENTAL SUPPORT IS CRUCIAL.  Learn about the rules of the game by obtaining materials from your local library or by reading, “The Rules of Soccer:  Simplified.”  Above all, show tolerance of the players’ mistakes and weaknesses.  When attending games, cheer for all players on both teams as well as your own child.  Every parent is requested to volunteer in some area of the program and there are various jobs available.  Before your team’s annual meeting, read the section on volunteering in this handbook and visit our website.  Then you should offer to help.

Coaches - As a parent, you can help your child’s coach by introducing yourself and thanking them for their interest in coaching a team.  Support the coach’s request that your child be on time for practices and games.  If you do not stay for the entire practice session, pick up your child promptly at the end of practice.  Be positive with your comments and remember that a coach has a reason for his selection of player positions.  Don’t criticize the coach because you think your child should play a different position.  Offer help at practices.  Remember that coaches volunteer their time and energy to instruct and help your child, and they need your cooperation and support.

Referees - AYSO referees are entitled to the highest respect from coaches, players, and spectators.  The referee’s mistakes--and there will be mistakes--shall be accepted without complaint.  Many of the referees have no children playing in our Region and all of them gladly give their time to help us.  Please show them the respect they deserve as they are volunteers.   Express your appreciation for their commitment to our soccer program.  The Region is always in need of referees.  If you are interested, contact the Regional Referee Administrator.

Player Equipment

Required Soccer Equipment

Players may not wear rings, watches, chains, necklaces, earrings, or hard pony tail holders or barrettes, nor any kind of cast or splint (even with a Doctor’s note).

Uniforms - A uniform consisting of shirt, shorts, and socks (correct color) is provided for your child’s use at the beginning of the season and is yours to keep when the spring season ends.  You are responsible for taking care of the full uniform.  Do not iron the jersey.

Shoes - It is strongly suggested that players wear regulation soccer shoes with rubber or plastic molded cleats (no metal).  Football and baseball shoes with toe cleats are not allowed.  Gym shoes or sneakers are allowed, but not recommended.

Shin Guards - A National AYSO rule makes shin guards mandatory.  PLAYERS MUST WEAR SHIN GUARDS AT ALL PRACTICES AND GAMES underneath there socks - not on top.  Shin guards can and do protect the player.  They may be purchased at any local sporting goods store.

Ball - A player needs to practice with an appropriate soccer ball to develop skill and coordination.  For Divisions U6 and U8: Size “3”; Divisions U10 and U12: Size “4”; Divisions U14, and U16 - U19: Size “5”.  Any time spent with the ball makes for a better player and active parent participation is greatly encouraged.

Water - Each player is responsible for bringing water for himself/herself to each practice and game.  It is recommended that before, during, and after any sporting activity that players drink water to re-hydrate the body.  Region 149 encourages the use of refillable bottles to minimize waste. “Go Green!”

Volunteering

AYSO is a national non-profit organization, established in 1964, to teach the game of soccer and develop positive character traits in children through their participation in a quality sports program.  Our local region is one of hundreds throughout the nation serving over 650,000 children annually.  Region 149 serves over 1,200 children each year and is administered entirely by volunteers.  In order to provide the quality program our kids deserve, we need YOU!  Parents who enroll their children without making a volunteer commitment not only constitute a burden on other parents, but also jeopardize the quality of the program.  Following is a list of opportunities for you to consider.  No Previous Experience is Necessary!  Remember, the kids can play only if the adults volunteer.

Team Coach - This is an individual willing to take the responsibility for organizing a team, arranging team practice sessions, coaching during games, and assuring that AYSO philosophies are followed during practices & games.  AYSO rules require Team Coaches to be trained to the level of their team (i.e. a U12 Coach must have completed U12 Coach training).  Coaches must have Safe Haven certification, this and other free training clinics are held to certify coaches.

Assistant Coach - Individuals willing to take responsibility for assisting the coach during practices and games and provide leadership in carrying out AYSO and team philosophies.  Assistant coaches must attend training clinics and certification courses.  Safe Haven certification and division level training is required.

Referee - (2 required per team except U06) NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.  All referee training and uniforms are provided by the region.  You will be allowed to request an assignment at an age division to fit your experience and training.  Your referee schedule will be created around your child’s schedule, your preferences and availability.  However, your commitment involves 1 game per week in the fall and spring, or an equivalent number of games per season for each child you are representing.  Trading game assignments and getting substitutes are OK as long both referees fulfill their game commitment.  For U6 and U8 division you can referee your own child’s game as center (U6) or assistant (line) referee (U8).  For U10 and above, you will be responsible for being a center or assistant referee of a game other than your child’s.  All other training will occur in formal training sessions prior to the beginning of the fall and spring season and include classroom and field instruction.  Complete the referee data sheet each session, AND be sure to complete the AYSO Volunteer Application form each season outlined on page 15.  If you are interested in referee training beyond the basic level please contact the referee administrator This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Team Volunteers

Team Parent - The Team Parent is the communication link between the AYSO Board and the team.  A team parent must check the team folder each week at the shed and distribute information to all team members and families.  Team Parents schedule the half-time refreshments for game day and assist the coach as needed.  If a Team Parent must miss a Saturday at the field, they should arrange for someone else to do their duties that day.  The team parent should follow up to make sure other volunteers are signing up for their shifts at the safety/information station, the concessions stand, etc.

Registration - This individual must be willing to help with the registration process for their child’s team, as well as help with at least one registration event in the fall or spring.  The Team Registration volunteer will have an opportunity to select which registration event fits your schedule.  They can sign up to help at the open registrations, collect forms at the field, collate packets prior to registration. Each job is a 2-3 hour commitment.

Fields - (2 suggested per team) These individuals are required to help put up and take down nets, flags and goal posts.  They help pick up litter, empty garbage cans and provide rest room cleanup.  Some volunteer will be responsible for opening or closing the equipment shed.  All of these tasks can be performed on game day.  The Fields volunteer is willing to help on an as needed basis to line fields, repair goals, check nets and equipment, and do field repair.  Some Fields volunteers will be asked to help line fields one week before the season begins in the fall and spring and/or before the fall 5-A-Side jamboree.

Safety/Information - These volunteers are willing to operate the Safety/Information station on game day, answer questions about game day and general operations, and keep first aid supplies and forms in order.  This volunteer selects one two hour shift of their choice on game days in the fall and again in the spring.  Volunteers will be at the information station to help answer questions throughout their shift and assist the Region 149 Board in other tasks as needed.

Concessions - The Concessions Volunteer is willing to work on game day at the concession stand for a two hour shift of your choice.  Sign up information is found in the newsletter.  Volunteers will work a shift in the fall and a shift the spring.  On the job training will be provided.  You will be paired with another volunteer.

Special Events - Special Events volunteers are willing to help with miscellaneous jobs such as the Shoe Swap the first Saturday of the fall and spring season, the 5-A-Side Jamboree in the fall or any other special events sponsored by Region 149.

Volunteer Training

All coaches, referees and other volunteers who work directly with children, shall be appropriately trained before working with children.  Head coaches, assistant coaches and referees must be AYSO certified.  The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 ONLY provides liability protection for volunteers whom are registered and trained by the organization to perform their duties.  Only AYSO approved materials, courses and instructors may be used to train and certify these key volunteers.

There are various levels of AYSO training and certification for coaches and referees.  The training becomes more comprehensive as you become certified to coach and referee older players.  Training sessions for various levels of coaching and refereeing are offered locally each year by Region 149.  Please check the Region 149 website for training opportunities and arrange to attend.  Several lower-level training classes are offered online at the national AYSO webpage aysotraining.org.  You may complete that training online if you are unable to attend a local class.

In addition to training to learn the basics of their position, all Coaches, Assistant Coaches and Referees must complete “Safe Haven” training and be “Safe Haven Certified.”  The Safe Haven program is specific to AYSO and is designed to create the mindset which will provide an environment for the players which is both safe and pleasant.  By following the Safe Haven principles, allegations of misconduct by adult volunteers are minimized or eliminated.  Safe Haven training for Coaches and Referees is available online at aysotraining.org.

You must use your AYSO ID number to access the on-line training at aysotraining.org.  You can find your AYSO ID number on your registration form at eayso.org.  If you cannot find your number, send an email with your full name and phone number to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and you should receive a reply within 48 hours.

In 2010, AYSO established a requirement that all coaches should be trained and certified at the level they are coaching.  Volunteers are subject to ongoing evaluation, and additional training may be required to maintain good standing within the region and the organization.  For example, Safe Haven is changed every 3 years, you might be required re-certify by taking the course again.

Volunteer Registration

Volunteer Application - a Multi-Step Process

AYSO requires all coaches, assistant coaches, referees, team parents and board members to register as volunteers each year.  The volunteer application forms must be submitted to the Child & Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA) before the season begins.

Step 1: eAYSO Volunteer Application - To prepare your Volunteer Application form on-line, go to eayso.org Select “First Time” (if you have not previously registered) or “Log In” if you already have an account.  Fill out the on-line Volunteer Application form.  Provide as much information as you can, including your email address and employment information.  When done, print out one copy of the eSigned application form.  You will notice that only a series of XXXXs appear in the Social Security box and the Driver’s License box.  That information is in the AYSO database, protected by state-of-the-art encryption.

Step 2: State Photo ID - For mailing you will need a Xerox copy of your driver’s license.  For application at events you will need to have your photo ID with you.

Step 3: Submit The 2 Items - (1) one copy of the eSigned Volunteer Registration form, and (2) Show or Copy The Photo ID Card.  Submit all forms at a Registration Event or by Mail (AYSO CVPA, PO Box 516, Philomath, OR 97370).

If you do not have online computer access at home, you may complete and print the registration forms at any of the Public libraries, or in the computer lab during a registration event.  Lost eAYSO password? Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Volunteer Registration Checklist

□ Fill out, eSign and Print the eAYSO Volunteer Form

□ Bring Photo ID or make copies for the mail.

□ Submit all the above at a Registration Event or Mail it to AYSO CVPA, PO Box 516, Philomath, OR 97370

Sideline Etiquette

AYSO soccer encourages positive self-esteem, discipline, personal responsibility, teamwork, acceptance of and learning from disappointment and success, as well as, perseverance.  It is an enjoyable game to watch as well as it is to play.  We believe that quality soccer can and should be developed, and that it can and should be fun.  Therefore, the emphasis of our program is not on who wins but how the players and teams develop, and most importantly, did they have fun in doing so?  We want all participants to reach their full, age-appropriate potential and to enjoy themselves in the process.  As spectators, we must realize that the players are trying their very best and deserve our very best in the way of support and encouragement.  Negative comments have no place on the field or on the sidelines.  We need to recognize that the effort of each player is 100% well intended and we should encourage each player to maintain that effort.  It is also important to recognize all good play being demonstrated--regardless of which team the player is on.

Spectators should allow the coach to be the sole source of coaching during the match, communicating tactical or technical adjustments to the players.  If you are the coach, be sure that your coaching during the match is limited to positive, instructional and encouraging comments.  Giving play-by-play instructions to all players thwarts their ability to put into effect the lessons you have stressed in practices and takes from them the opportunity to think on their feet.

The area off the field that the coaches occupy is called the “technical area” and is on your own team’s side, no closer than one yard from the touchline, and up to ten yards from either side of the halfway line.  The “technical area” is limited to the head coach and one assistant coach for that team.  Not only are these to be the only persons occupying the “technical area,” they are the only persons who may coach (give tactical or technical information) during the course of the match.

OK, what is Kid Zone?

In AYSO, fans are asked to be cheerleaders, not critics. Kids Zone is a unique program that includes a parent pledge that moms and dads sign to commit to positive, encouraging behavior when they're watching the games. It also includes signs, buttons and other game-day reminders.

Soccer is a player's game. Players learn the game by trying new things, making mistakes and trying again. Sideline critics who scream instructions at players or criticize referees or coaches just slow down the learning process and make it less fun for everyone.

Negative, even violent, behavior of players, coaches and parents involved in youth sports has become almost epidemic in the U.S. Kids Zone is a proactive effort to counteract this trend.

As part of AYSO's education agenda, Kids Zone is a dynamic program aimed toward producing a thoroughly positive experience for everyone involved in soccer.

Child Protection

AYSO Region 149 is committed to the protection of all its children from all forms of abuse and neglect while participating in the program, and it promotes the awareness and prevention of child abuse in the community at large.

AYSO Region 149 shall have the right to revoke both the registration, certification and participation of any volunteer who falsifies information, is found guilty of child abuse, fails to fill in and return the volunteer application form, or who violates the principles of the AYSO child protection policies.

Complaints of misconduct against any AYSO volunteer, parent or spectator shall be made via email or in person to the CVPA (Child & Volunteer Protection Advocate).  The complaint, grievance, and appeal process shall be conducted as described in the regional guidelines, which can be viewed on the region’s website.  The names and identities of the complainant and the accused shall be protected at all times during the investigation and proceedings.

A volunteer accused by legal authorities of child abuse will be asked to resign voluntarily.  If the volunteer refuses, the board will move to suspend the volunteer until the matter has been resolved.  Regardless of civil or criminal guilt for the alleged child abuse, the continued presence of the volunteer in the program will damage the reputation of the region, even during the investigation and pretrial phase.

A volunteer accused of child abuse but subsequently cleared may apply for reinstatement in the region.  However, reinstatement is not a right, and reinstated volunteers are not guaranteed to return to their former positions.

Team Parent Tips

The team parent is expected to:
1. Check the team’s folder on the porch of the equipment shed for the latest handouts each week;

2. Act as administrative assistant by distributing information to the coaches, players, and families of the players;

3. Assist regional board and staff members with the distribution of team and individual photos, Soccer Shorts, flyers or any other written information;

4. Oversee, plan, and coordinate all team activities, such as game day refreshments, email or telephoning information to other parents, etc.

5. Provide a pocket-size team roster with names and jersey numbers to each  parent.  That way,  parents on the side line can cheer for any player that made a great play!

Game Day Refreshments should be provided to players during half-time.   The recommended refreshments are quartered oranges and water, cool, but not cold.  Other juicy fruits are also good.  Be sure to offer some to the coaches & referees.

Game Day Info

Field Rules

AYSO Region 149 has agreed with the Corvallis School District that we will enforce the 509J rules for use of their facilities, so you are expected to comply with these school district rules:

· NO DOGS ON SCHOOL GROUNDS
· Deposit all trash in trash cans, place recyclables in the appropriate containers.
· No parking on grass or dirt
· No smoking

Substitutions During The Game - Players coming on to the field must be recognized by the referee before entering, and must enter and leave at midfield. It helps the referees if the children remain on the slide with their numbers facing the field until the game restarts.  All divisions from U6 through U14 will have a substitution break approximately midway into each half (This should last roughly one minute.  This time is for substitutions, not for lengthy strategy sessions). Substitutions will occur only at quarter breaks, halftime, or for an injury.

Proper Uniform - The uniform for all divisions is provided and is as follows: 1 AYSO shirt, 1 pair of black shorts, 1 pair of socks (the correct color socks help the referee) and shin guards.  Shin guards, which are required but not provided, should be put on first, with socks worn over the shin guards.  Any extra garments must be worn underneath the provided uniform.  Soccer shoes are not required, but are recommended.  Any cleat with a center toe cleat is not allowed.  If a player is not in a complete and proper uniform, he/she will not be allowed to participate.

Cancelation of Games - Games may be halted at any time if it is determined that lightening is occurring within 2 miles of the fields.  An air horn will be blown two long blasts to alert all players, coaches and referees.  Referees will immediately halt the game and coaches will gather their team members and walk to the nearest building to take shelter until an all-clear horn is sounded with three short blasts.  If weather does not allow an all-clear notice, runners will be sent from the Safety Station to notify each team that play is suspended for the remainder of the game.  The score at that time will be considered the “final” score of the game.

Special Seasons

Special Winter Season - Indoor Soccer

AYSO Region 149 will offer an indoor program during the winter season for U8-U19 players if there is enough interest and volunteer coaches and referees are available.  Indoor soccer begins during the first week of November and runs for six weeks.  If you enjoy a fast-paced game, this might be for you.  Training will be provided for volunteer referees prior to the start of the season.

The game is played with six players per team on the field at one time.  Teams are formed using the same AYSO philosophy of balanced teams and registration is open to anyone who has signed up for the current fall/spring season.  Since there are no practices for indoor soccer, the indoor coordinator balances the teams from throughout the region, not by school/zone preference.  Registration is held at the safety/info Station in October.  This is a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

Games are played indoors at the Corvallis Sports Park, 175 SW Twin Oaks Circle, usually on Saturday.  It is possible that an occasional game would be played during the week, depending on the number of teams formed.  The cost will be determined prior to indoor registration and must be paid at the time of registration.  If there are not enough players registered, the season will be cancelled and the registration fee will be refunded.

Special Summer Season - Summer Camps

Aside from Progressive Play, AYSO only offers a few options over the summer season.  We offer one summer camp per month, with the first offered by AYSO, the second by Skyhawks, and the third again by AYSO.  All camps are approved by AYSO and adhere to our principles.  The camps provide discounts for AYSO registered players.

Progressive Play

Progressive Play is an option for those players with a desire to play a little more soccer than just the regular AYSO season, and to play at a more challenging level of play.  After tryouts and team formation, the Progressive Play teams play in a variety of tournaments, often with teams from other communities, from late spring through the summer.

Players who participated in the regular season may “tryout” for Progressive Play teams.  Only U10 - U15 players are eligible for progressive play.  Tryouts are typically held in late April.  Some teams may begin tournament play as early as Memorial Day weekend.

The number of teams that are formed is completely dependent upon the number of parents who volunteer to be a coach or assistant coach.  If nobody steps forward to be a coach for a particular age group, no team will be formed for that group.  All traditional AYSO rules and philosophies guide both team formation and play.  Many of the Progressive Play games require travelling to other communities throughout Oregon.

Registration - The Progressive Play registration form is due on the first day of tryouts.  Date, time, and place of the tryouts are announced in the Region 149 Newsletter each spring.

Cost - If a player accepts a position on a team, they will be asked to pay a registration fee (in addition to the regular season fee).  The fee covers a new jersey, shorts, socks and most, but not necessarily all, of the summer tournament fees.  Player insurance coverage continues from the Primary AYSO season through the end of July. Players who do not register for the next Primary season must pay an additional member and insurance fee.

Birth Certificate - Each player must provide a copy of their Birth Certificate to their coach.  Oregon Birth Certificates can be obtained by calling the Oregon Health Division, Office of Vital Records, (503) 731-4095, or VitalChek.com.

Flex Programs

5 vs. 5 Jamboree

5-A-Side is a short sided soccer tournament played with two teams of 5 soccer players on the field. Each game consists of two 7 minute halves and a one minute half time (totaling 15 minutes). Each registered team will play a total of 4 games in the tournament. One primary season soccer team (e.g. U14B Pilots) can form 2 separate 5-A-Side teams of at least 5 players if enough players are interested. These games are very fast paced and exciting for all to play and to watch.

□ Team Coach (must be an AYSO registered volunteer)

□ One (1) certified referee (works a 3-4 game block totaling 1hour – 1h 20m)

□ One (1) Fields volunteer (helps set up and prepare fields)

□ Team Registration Fee due at the time of registration

High School (U19) Coed

The Region 149 High School program provides the opportunity for players in the 15 to 18 age range a continuing opportunity to play recreational soccer in the AYSO tradition of safe, fun, and fair.  Like all AYSO programs, the high school program strictly adheres to the principal that everyone plays.  Qualified AYSO referees guarantee well-officiated games, and make every effort to keep the play safe.

You do not have to be enrolled at a high school to participate.  Individuals of the correct age, but not enrolled at a high school are also welcome.

The program is coed.  Some parents have concerns about women players competing against the men, but our experience has been that women compete well, and often exceed the skill of the male players.

The goal for this program is to make it comparable to all other Region 149 divisions, with well-defined teams and regular practices.  One problem is that typical sign-up allows for the formation of only two teams.  To give players more variety in the games they play, we try to schedule games with other AYSO regions, such as Albany and Eugene.  For this to work, teams need to be willing to travel occasionally to these locations.

The Region 149 High School program is easily the best value available for high school-aged players to continue to enjoy this great game in a low-key, player-centric, and fun environment.  Please come join us.

Sideline Coaching

Just about every AYSO coach hears those magic words sometime.  Whether they are coaching this season or haven’t coached in 15 years, there is always someone out there who only knows them as "Coach."

It is heartwarming to be remembered for a selfless act of service, even more so if that little U-8 defender is now a college student who never forgot his or her favorite coach.

It’s time to let coaches know they changed lives – before the kids grow up and start coaching teams of their own.  Let’s celebrate the people who run the drills, organize practices, and gather their teams for a huddle and a shout every Saturday. Let’s honor the people who set up the cones, pick up the balls, and show more patience than they really have.  Let’s make sure they know they are appreciated.

Everyone who volunteers is vital to AYSO.  Coaches have the most lasting impact on the athletes, and we want to thank them for their dedication and encourage them to continue their service.

Look for articles featuring exceptional coaches in upcoming issues of our newsletter.  If you have a story to share about a great coach in our region, please send it to:  AYSO 149 Commissioner, PO Box 516, Philomath, OR 97370.

                                                Coaches Coach, Parents Cheer

Region Board

Assistant Commissioner

Future region commissioner

Boys Progressive Coord

Boys Progressive Play director

Boys Team Formation

Manages division coordinators

Child &Volunteer Protection Advocate

Volunteer vetting and registration

Coach Admin

In charge of all region coaches

Commissioner

Board and region leader

Concessions Coord

Concessions volunteers and supplies

Data Manager

Manages Region database and info

Equipment Manager

Manages uniforms and region equipment

Fields Coord

Manages fields and equipment

Girls Progressive Coord

Girls Progressive Play director

Girls Team Formation

Manages division coordinators

Indoor Coord

Coordinates indoor soccer season

Newsletter

Newsletter and publication designer

Referee Admin

In charge of all region referees

Registrar

Player registration manager

Risk and Safety Manager

Safety volunteers, supplies & incidents.

Secretary

Historian & manager of governing docs

Special Events Coord

In charge of events like 5-A-Side

Team Parent Coord

Coordinator of all team parents

Treasurer

Accounts manager

U19 Coord

Coord for High School (U16-U19)

Volunteer Coord

Coordinates volunteers for tasks

Webmaster

Digital specialist in a world wide forum

Other Board Positions

  • Auditor
  • Asst. Coach Administrator
  • Asst. Boys Team Formation
  • Asst. Child & Volunteer Advocate
  • Asst. Girls Team Formation
  • Asst. Referee Administrator
  • Asst. Registrar
  • Asst. Risk Management & Safety
  • Coach Instruction Coordinator
  • Referee Instruction Coordinator
  • Statistician/Scheduler
  • Youth Player Representative

Division Coordinators

Boys Divisions:

  • Boys U6 Coordinator
  • Boys U8 Coordinator
  • Boys U10 Coordinator
  • Boys U12 Coordinator
  • Boys U14 Coordinator

Girls Divisions:

  • Girls U6 Coordinator
  • Girls U8 Coordinator
  • Girls U10 Coordinator
  • Girls U12 Coordinator
  • Girls U14 Coordinator

Annual Parent Meeting

Late in July, a letter is sent to the parents of each player advising them of the child’s new team assignment.  The date, time and place of the Parent Meeting is also stated in the letter.  The meeting, usually held during the 2nd week of August, is intended for parents only.  This gathering will allow parents to meet the coach and assistant coach, and to determine which parent will fill each of the volunteer positions required for the team’s participation in the program.  Your attendance at this meeting is crucial to the successful organization of your child’s team and the region.

Those of you who volunteer to coach, referee or be the team parent can submit your Volunteer Application form at the meeting if you have not already done so.  Uniforms will not be issued until all of those crucial volunteers have turned in their Volunteer Application forms. Also at this meeting, coaches and referees can sign up for their training sessions, and Concessions, Safety Shed and Fields volunteers can sign up in advance for the 2-hour periods when they will perform their volunteer duties.

By the end of the meeting all volunteer positions need to be filled and your Team Volunteer List completed.  When the list is complete, the team uniforms will be issued to the Coach.  If the list is not complete, uniforms will not be issued, and alternate instructions will be given.