Information for Parents

Season

The BFYSA runs a two-part season, with seven-week sessions in the fall and spring. Your child will be on the same team for both sessions. Games for the fall session begin in early September, with practices starting mid-August. Games for the spring session typically start in late March or early April.

Uniforms and Equipment

• Each player must wear the entire uniform for each game (shirt, shorts, socks).
• Shin guards are required for every player at practice and games.
• Players may not wear jewelry, watches, or barrettes during games.
• No one can play wearing a cast.
• Although not required, cleats are usually a good idea.
• In cold weather, players may add layers underneath their jersey. These layers should not include zippered or hooded sweatshirts for safety reasons. Players should not wear pants under their uniform shorts.
• Every player should have a ball of the appropriate size for their age group. Always bring the ball to practice. Use size 3 for U8 or younger, size 4 for U9 to U12, and size 5 for U13 and older.

Practices

Each team will have one or two practices a week after school. Please make every effort to have your child attend all practices, as this is where they learn how to play the game. If a practice is cancelled for any reason, the coach or manager should contact you in advance. Please do not leave your child alone at the field before practice. Players should be picked up promptly at the end of practice. The coaches will not leave your child without adult supervision after practice, so please remember the coaches are volunteers and also have families and other obligations.

Playing Time

Every player who comes to practice regularly or who has an excused absence is guaranteed to play at least one-half of each game.

Canceling Games

Soccer games are played in the rain and light snow, so players should report to the field unless notified of a cancellation. Games are canceled by the referee, not by the coaches. You will be notified on the field if an individual game will be canceled by the referee.

Referees and Spectator Behavior

• All BFYSA league games have licensed referees. The decision of the referee in soccer is final.
• Big Footers Soccer requires that spectators refrain from arguing with, shouting at, or otherwise harrassing referees. Spectators who engage in this conduct will be asked to leave the field.
• Spectators are reminded that the players are out there to have fun. Please encourage them to do their personal best and set a positive example of good sportsmanship. Your conduct at practices and during their games will be the example they will follow. By all means, cheer on your player and the team, but leave the coaching to the coaches.
• Obviously, alcohol is not permitted at BFYSA soccer matches.
• Duck Pond Recreation Area is a public park. Please respect the grounds and clean up after yourself.
• Parents and spectators will sit on the side of the field opposite of the teams. Sit no closer than five yards to the sideline and keep younger children well away from the field of play. No spectators are allowed to stand behind the goals.

Concerns

If you have a concern about rules or club policies, please speak with your child’s coach after the game or practice, or contact the club president.