There are no try-outs; registration in this program is not based on a child's ability on the soccer field, but rather on a child's desire to play the game and to have fun. Our program is dedicated to giving all participants an equal opportunity to play.

Our programs are constantly reviewed by the Board of Directors and changes in the programs are made whenever the need arises. We have made every attempt to describe our programs accurately; however, when circumstances dictate, we will make the required changes, and those players and parents directly affected will be notified.

A Word for Parents. . .
It cannot be overemphasized that the AYSO program is FOR THE PLAYERS ! The emphasis is placed on good sportsmanship, exhibiting qualities of fairness and self-control, and having a good time.

Parents, coaches and officials are role-models for our children; therefore, overzealous behavior is totally inappropriate. The "will to win" is an important aspect of the game, but don't confuse this with a "win at all costs" attitude. The soccer we promote is a balance of development, fun and competition.

Soccer is a booming sport in our community and a quick look at the games structure shows why. Play is fast, spirited, and continuous. One of its attractions is its ad-lib quality (much of the action is made up as the game progresses), and as the field is large, action situations happen fast.

All of this can, and often does, set the stage for some spectator situations that, to say the least, deviate from the whole philosophy of our program. We ask you as parents, spectators, coaches and referees alike, to remember your responsibility and obligation to keep our soccer program fun for all. With this in mind, please take time to consider for a few moments the following guidelines:

Soccer is a Team sport. By registering your child for AYSO Soccer, you have made a commitment to a Team. These teams have been set up based upon your childs skills in an effort to balance all teams in a grade. When your child misses a game or practice, it can cause a great handicap for the rest of his or her Team. Be there ! Your team depends on You !!!

Cheer positively for the things you like and encourage your team to have fun ! Never put down the other team or your childs teammates.

The size of a soccer field and the continuous nature of the game diminish the effectiveness of sideline coaching. Often in our enthusiasm we are prone to yell several instructions at the players and frequently they are contrary to those of the coach. This only confuses the players...so please allow them to play the game to the best of their ability. Leave the sideline coaching, if at all needed, to the coach. This is not intended to lessen spectator enthusiasm. On the contrary, cheering for one's team is very much a part of the game.

Referees are required to properly conduct a game. While their decisions may not always be agreeable to all involved, their decisions are final ! No useful purpose is served by shouting disagreement or derogatory remarks. This type of conduct merely serves to teach our children disrespect for duly constituted authority. The referees (like all AYSO officials) are volunteers. In our programs, they are frequently youth referees from area schools. It is important that we conduct ourselves accordingly in these situations. Usually, those that yell the most and the loudest, have never tried to referee a game. If you think it is easy and you can do better, please call the Chief Referee to volunteer your services.

Sliced oranges and water are common half- time refreshment. Please help us keep the fields neat and clean by properly disposing orange peels, cups and other trash. Soda and junk food are not appropriate half-time refreshments.

Practice and Season Play. . .
Team practices should be held once or twice a week depending on the grade level. It is important that the players attend practices, as this is where game skills and strategy are taught. Coaches must be notified if it is necessary for a player to miss practice or a game.

The AYSO Region 95 Local Rule that each player shall play 3/4 of each game, if numerically possible, will be strictly enforced unless disciplinary action has been taken. In any case, each player must play at least 1/2 of each game.

Parents must see that players have made arrangements to get home safely after practices and games. This is not the responsibility of the coach; however, a coach will not leave any players at the field without adequate adult supervision.

Coaches are not allowed to smoke at the fields during practices or games. We also request that parents and other guests refrain from smoking while on the fields.

Game and Practice Schedule. . .
At a recent Commissioners meeting with the Somers Youth Sports Association and Ms. Sylvia Kalil, Superintendent of Somers Parks and Recreation, it was decided that Game Schedules for all sports will take precedence over practice schedules. All coaches are to respect this ruling when setting up practices. Parents and players should be aware of this ruling as it regards other sports practices.

Postgraduate Scholarships. . .
Beginning with the class of 1985, AYSO Region 95 has awarded a one year scholarship to a graduating senior of Somers who has "participated in the AYSO program, volunteered time and effort in support of the AYSO program (usually as a referee and/or instructor), and demonstrated personal qualities which reflect favorably on this program and on this Town." Beginning with the 1987 graduating class, two scholarships, one to a boy and one to a girl, have been awarded. These graduating seniors from the town of Somers are selected by the AYSO Board. A fund has been established to finance this scholarship.

Weather Cancellations. . .
If you do not get a telephone call prior to game time, assume your game will be played. Because games are almost impossible to make-up, we will have as few cancellations as possible. However, if a game is canceled, attempts will be made to make an announcement on radio station WHUD 96.7 FM.