CHESAPEAKE SOCCER CLUB (CSC)

 RULES AND PROCEDURES

MANUAL 

2001

TABLE OF CONTENTS   
(Click on the link to view the section)

History.

Past Presidents.

Mission.

Philosophy.

Club Organization.

Board of Directors.

Duties and Responsibilities of Board Members.

President

Vice-President

Secretary.

Treasurer

Registrar

Administrator

Director of Training and Assessments.

Volunteer Coordinator

Equipment Manager

General Membership Guidelines.

Team Formation – General Information.

Member Team – Defined.

Selection of Coaches.

Membership Fees.

Recreational Program (U-6/U-8)

Section 1 – General Philosophy.

Section 2 – Registration Policy.

Section 3 – U-6 Playing Rules.

Section 4 – U-8 Playing Rules.

Section 5 – Program Administrative Guidelines.

Advanced Program (U-9 through U-19)

Section 1 – General Philosophy.

Section 2 – Team Formation.

Section 3 – Registration Policy.

Section 4 – Tryout Procedures.

Section 4.1 – Tryout Evaluation Form..

Membership Policies.

Section 1 – Fee Structure.

Section 2 – Volunteer Requirements.

Section 3 – Club Communications.

Section 4 – Uniform Policy.

Standards of Conduct, Penalties, and Grievances.

Section 1 – Code of Conduct

Section 2 – Penalties.

Section 3 – Grievances.

Appendix A – Sample Roster Form..

Appendix B – Sample Coaching Application.

Appendix C – Sample Volunteer Form..

Appendix D – Sample Registration Form (Advanced Program)

Appendix E – Sample Medical Release Form..

Appendix F – Sample Registration Form (Recreation Program)

Appendix G – Coaching Guidelines.

 

History

 

            The Chesapeake Soccer Club was established in 1990 as an offshoot of the Chesapeake Select Soccer Club (CSSC).  The club, then known as the Chesapeake Advanced Soccer Club (CASC) fielded one team the first year and grew to five teams 2 years later.  They played the majority of their matches as adjunct members of the Virginia Beach Soccer Club (VBSC).  The club played at various venues in Virginia Beach but never was given the opportunity to play any matches in the City of Chesapeake. 

            In 1996, CASC experienced its first growth spurt, fielding a total of eleven teams, 8 boys and 3 girls teams.  Its membership expanded to nearly 200 players and their families.  A group of concerned parents and coaches, led by George Miller, Jim Schrader, Ken Halloway, and Lawrence Kerr began working on a plan to further develop the club by not only increasing the size of the club, but working on land sites to “bring our kids home.”  That is, to begin playing home matches in the City of Chesapeake.  Since the rules and procedures of VBSC would not accommodate that effort, another alternative had to be found. 

            In the fall of 1997, the first of two major events which would forever change the structure of the club took place.  The first, was the club’s admission as a Recreational Club into the Virginia Youth Soccer Association (VYSA), the governing body for youth soccer in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  VYSA is the state representative of the US Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), the governing body for youth soccer in the United States.  That relationship has provided guidance and support in terms of medical and liability insurance, coach and player development and training, and access to administrative and monetary support provided by USYSA. 

            The second major event was the establishment of the Hampton Roads Challenge League (HRCL).  HRCL is a conglomeration of soccer clubs in south Hampton Roads representing Chesapeake, Norfolk, Virginia Beach (Neighborhood Youth Soccer League (NYSL)), Portsmouth (Portsmouth Soccer Club, Churchland Soccer Club, Elizabeth River Soccer Club, and AYSO Region 1292), and Suffolk.  Along with the establishment of HRCL came access to Chesapeake City Park and Hickory Middle School for use as home playing sites.  HRCL play commenced in the fall of 1998.  A year later, the club dropped the “advanced” moniker from its name and became simply, Chesapeake Soccer Club (CSC). 

            Today, CSC has over 30 teams, both boys and girls, playing in nearly every division of HRCL.  CSC still calls Chesapeake City Park (fall) and Hickory Middle School (spring) home for its matches.  The club is an all-volunteer organization providing a soccer environment for the children of Chesapeake in accordance with USYSA and VYSA guidelines.  The club is working diligently with the Chesapeake Soccer Foundation (a wholly separate organization) for the building of an athletic park where our teams will have a permanent home in which to play matches.  To that end, the club established the Zerious Zoccer at the Zone Tournament in 1999.  Affectionately known as the ZZZ, this tournament is the club’s primary source of significant revenue to support a soccer venue of our own in Chesapeake. 

            The CSC Board of Directors sincerely welcome you to a great soccer experience.  We stand ready to provide your children with the skills necessary to get the most enjoyment out of this essentially simple game.

  

Past Presidents 

George Miller	1993-1998
Jim Schrader	1998-2000
Ken Halloway	2000-

 

Mission

             The mission of the Chesapeake Soccer Club (CSC) is to provide a positive environment for soccer players and families.  To that end, the club will provide licensed coaches and assistant coaches, stability of teams throughout the soccer year, continuous improvement training through periodic clinics, lectures, and other training sessions, and a playing environment which emphasizes player development of skills and techniques.  To that end, CSC will direct its coaches to concentrate on the teaching and development of techniques and tactics rather than whether or not their teams are winning.  Research conducted at the behest of USYSA confirms that the biggest dissatisfier amongst youth departing the sport between the ages of 12 and 16 do so because of the overemphasis on winning soccer matches to the detriment of player development.  Accordingly, it is the mission of CSC to provide a positive environment for players and spectators to have fun, to develop their skills, and to foster a wholesome family environment.

 

Philosophy 

            In support of CSC’s mission, the club is organized and administered to provide a higher level of soccer than what is currently available through the City of Chesapeake’s Department of Parks and Recreation.  For those players just beginning the sport, the Parks and Recreation program provides a fundamental level of soccer in a recreational environment.  What CSC offers is age-group specific-trained and licensed coaches who exhibit a positive demeanor and who subscribe to the stated mission goals of the club.  In addition, players are screened through a tryout process for admission into the Advanced Program.  Those players, U9 and older, who exhibit the skills or potential skills for success at an advanced level in the opinion of the age-group coaches, will be placed on a team.  There is a separate recreational program for youth 8 years of age and younger. 

            It is important to note that our children require and often yearn for role models.  As coaches, administrators, and other club officials, it is incumbent upon all to provide that positive role model for the players.  Coaches and parents will be encouraged to provide a positive environment for the program.  Coaches and parents who continually berate players, other coaches, and officials are setting a poor example for everyone and frankly, have no business belonging to an organization that promotes a positive environment.  The objective therefore, is to develop the children and to have fun in the process.

Club Organization

 Board of Directors 

            In accordance with Article III, Section 1 of the Chesapeake Soccer Club By-Laws, the club is administered through the Board of Directors.  The Board is elected by the membership in accordance with the aforementioned By-Law and has powers delegated to it to administer the daily operations of the Club.  The Board consists of: 

            President

            Vice-President

            Secretary

            Treasurer

            Registrar

            Administrator

            Director of Training and Assessments

            Volunteer Coordinator

            Equipment Manager 

            The Board is empowered by the By-Laws to make decisions in the best interests of the Club.  Unless otherwise provided for in the By-Laws or this Manual, the decisions of the Board are not subject to appeal.  Specific identity of individual Board members and points of contact will be listed on the Club web site.

 

Duties and Responsibilities of Board Members 

President 

            The President of the Club is the Chief Executive Officer of CSC and provides overall guidance and direction for the Club with the advice and consent of the Board of Directors.  The President shall chair the Board of Directors and shall approve the agenda for all meetings of the Board or the Club membership.  In the event of a tie vote on an issue before the Board, the President shall cast the deciding vote.  The President shall have the authority granted under Article IV, Section 8 of the CSC By-Laws. 

            The President shall represent the Club for all functions within the Southeast Region geographic area as defined by VYSA.  He/she shall cast any required votes at the semi-annual and annual general meetings held by VYSA.  In addition, the President shall represent the Club within the City of Chesapeake as spokesperson with the Department of Parks and Recreation, the Recreation Advisory Board, and the City Council.  Finally, the President represents the Club as a voting member of the Hampton Roads Challenge League Board of Directors. 

Vice-President 

            The Vice-President acts in the absence of the President for all matters pertaining to the Club.  Additionally, the Vice-President will chair the officer nominating committee, reporting results to the Board and the general membership.  He/she shall provide original recommendations for standing committee assignments to the Board and shall chair the operations and audit committee for periodic reviews of Club operations and fiscal health.  

            During the annual team formation period, the Vice-President shall coordinate activities with the CSC Administrator and Director of Training and Assessments, develop tryout plans for approval by the Board, and arrange the proper venues.  He/she shall represent the Club in the absence or at the direction of the President. 

Secretary 

            The Secretary will maintain a record of all proceedings, public and private, of the Board and the general membership.  He/she shall be the first point of contact for the receipt of inquiries, appeals, and other such data for the Club.  The Secretary shall develop meeting agenda and provide minutes for all open meetings and post them to the Club Web Site.  He/she shall be the signatory for all routine correspondence required for Club operations. 

Treasurer 

            The Treasurer shall maintain all funds collected by the Club for use in the routine operations of the Club.  All invoices, bills, and other obligations shall be forwarded to the Treasurer for prompt payment.  In addition, the Treasurer shall prepare and annual budget for review and approval by the Board in May of each year in accordance with Article IX of the Club By-Laws.  The Treasurer shall open all records for inspection by the Audit and Operations Committee, as directed by the CSC Vice-President. 

Registrar 

            The Registrar shall maintain a record of all players, coaches, team officials, parents, and other points of contact within the Club.  He/she shall receive team rosters and inspect them for accuracy and ensure that they are prepared and submitted in accordance with rules established by HRCL and VYSA.  Club personnel records are covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 (as amended) and are not subject to further public inspection without the express permission of the individuals involved.  At no time will personal information about any member of the Club be provided to anyone without that permission and the approval of the Board of Directors. 

            Records shall be maintained electronically using VYSA approved software (currently League OrganizerÔ).  The Registrar will prepare registration information for submission to HRCL and VYSA in accordance with established guidelines of both organizations. 

Administrator 

            The Administrator shall be responsible for the daily operations of the Club.  He/she is the first point of contact concerning team placement, league play, referee assignment, and player personnel.  In addition, he/she shall be the primary agent for the scheduling of coach training courses sponsored by VYSA, training sessions for coaches and players, and the scheduling of the recreational program league play. 

            The Administrator shall coordinate the activities of the Zerious Zoccer at the Zone (ZZZ) Tournament Director and shall act a primary liaison between the tournament, its management, and the Board of Directors.  When directed by the President or Vice-President, act as Club representative to the HRCL Board of Directors. 

            The Administrator shall act as the Chairman of the Adjudication Committee unless otherwise directed by the Board of Directors. 

Director of Training and Assessments 

            The Director of Training and Assessments is responsible to the Board of Directors for the training and assessment of coaches and player personnel.  To that end, the he/she shall: 

a.       Review all coaching applications at the time of team formation and make a recommendation as to the suitability of individuals to act as a head or an assistant coach for a team within the Club.

b.      Support the training objectives of the Club by providing assessments of coaches and players and developing training plans to improve the performance of coaches and players.

c.       Recommend to the Administrator the scheduling of specific license courses to support coaching objectives.

d.      Monitor the licensure status of all coaches within the Club.

e.       Schedule and conduct periodic player training sessions.

f.        Support age specific training objectives in support of published USYSA/VYSA guidelines.

g.       Act as primary liaison between coaches and the Board of Directors.

h.       Provide periodic progress reports to the Board of Directors. 

Volunteer Coordinator 

            The Volunteer Coordinator develops and maintains lists of Club members who can provide volunteer services for such tasks as: field preparation, tournament support, fund-raising, and other tasks as required.  He/she shall be the primary liaison between member teams and the Board of Directors.  The Volunteer Coordinator shall maintain an electronic database of volunteers in conjunction with the Registrar and shall be present during team formation to coordinate the new volunteers. 

Equipment Manager 

            The Equipment Manager shall coordinate the procurement of uniforms, goals, soccer balls, practice equipment, and other material necessary to operate the Club.  He/she shall maintain an electronic record of all equipment purchased by the Club, submitting a copy of that list to the Club Treasurer.  He/she shall issue practice equipment to individual team coaches who will be responsible for the proper care of that equipment.  Said equipment is the property of the Club and not the individual team.  Coaches of teams that either disbanded or are coached by another individual shall return any Club equipment to the Equipment Manager for re-issue.

General Membership Guidelines 

Team Formation – General Information 

            There are two programs offered by CSC.  The first is a recreational program for players under the age of 8.  The advanced program is for players ages 8 through 18.  The latter program’s teams are formed on the basis of a tryout, using the subjective view of the assigned coach.  The recreational program is designed as a pay-for-play entity.  Players will automatically be accepted to participate on a team limited only by the availability of coaches and venues.  Specific guidelines for the individual programs are contained elsewhere in this manual.

 

            The common thread amongst the two programs is that teams are formed for one soccer year.  The soccer (Club) year is defined as 1 August of the current year to 31 July of the subsequent year (this includes two playing seasons, fall and spring), with team formation being in June of each year.  Age groups are based upon player dates of birth falling between these two dates.  For example, a child who reaches the age of 8 on October 5^th of the current year would be designated as a U-8 for playing purposes.  However, if that same child turned 8 on June 18^th of the current year, that child would be designated as a U-9 for playing purposes.  Once placed on a team, a player will remain with that team for the entire soccer year.  This provides stability for the player in that he/she is under the same coach and is with the same team for a year.  It also provides the team stability in that players may be counted upon to participate on the team for one year.  Accordingly, no movement of players between teams will be allowed between seasons, unless a release of the player is granted by the “losing” coach and an acceptance is submitted by the “gaining” coach.  All of these actions shall be done in writing and submitted to the Club Administrator for approval.  

            The Club recognizes that there will be rare occasions where individuals will want to move between teams when the incumbent coach objects to the move.  In this instance, the player’s parents may petition the Board to move the player.  The Board shall consider each request on a case-by-case basis and shall use the following criteria in rendering a decision:  

a.       Roster size of the incumbent team – whether the loss of a player will place the team in undue hardship by reducing the number.

b.      The playing history of the player involved – whether the player was given reduced playing time unfairly.

c.       The development (or lack thereof) of the individual player – whether the relationship with the coaching staff is detrimental to the development of the player.

d.      Whether a personality conflict exists between player, his/her parents, and team officials/coaches. 

A final decision will be supported by inputs by the CSC Administrator and the Director of Training and Assessments.

 

Member Team – Defined 

            The Club is comprised of member teams.  A team, as defined in Article II, Section 2 of the Club By-Laws, consists of a Head Coach, a number of Assistant Coaches, a team representative, a team manager, and players.  All of these count as one member, having one vote within the Club.  This vote is normally exercised by the Head Coach, unless he/she delegates that responsibility to the team representative.  In either event, a member team shall only have one vote on matters so requiring a vote. 

Selection of Coaches 

            For the purposes of this manual, unless otherwise specified, the term coach refers to both a Head Coach and an Assistant Coach. 

            A coach is, by definition, the focal point of any team.  If the coach supports a certain policy or course of action, the players will most certainly follow.  In addition, the coach is also a role model for the youth placed in their charge.  Therefore, it is incumbent upon the Club leadership that only those individuals that truly possess a positive attitude, lack prejudice, and are performing as coaches for the love of the sport and not for the number of matches they can win or to showcase their own children, are selected as coaches.  Research has shown that the capability and conduct of a coach has a significant effect on the development of youth.  Those that are able to project a positive attitude, who are good teachers of the sport, and who are steady of demeanor will produce good players who not only will develop into good citizens, but have a tendency to return to the sport in their adult lives as coaches, team or league officials, and referees. 

            Accordingly, any individual desiring a coaching position within the Club, must submit an application to do so.  Each application will be considered by the Board of Directors prior to acceptance.  CSC reserves the right, at its sole discretion, which individuals shall coach CSC teams.    Any individual may be rejected or terminated as a coach at any time. 

            Coaches assigned to CSC teams shall possess a USSF license commensurate with the level in which they are coaching in accordance with the following table: 

AGE GROUP	USSF LICENSE
U-6	F (6-8 Module)
U-8	F (8-10 Module)
U-9/10	F (8-10 Module)
U-11/12	F (10-12 Module)
U-13/14	E
U-15 and Up	D

Note:  All three modules must be completed to attain the F License.  F License courses are normally completed in one eight-hour session.  The E License is 18 hours of instruction and conducted over two weekends.  The D License is 36 hours of instruction and normally conducted over a period of 3-4 weeks.  Due to the time requirements for the E and D licenses, these courses are only offered twice per year (Summer, Winter). 

            Head Coaches for U-11 and older will be given one soccer year to gain the required licensure.  Assistant Coaches for the same age groups shall be given two soccer years to complete the required licensure.  Assistant Coaches shall not be designated as Head Coaches without the appropriate licensure. 

            Head Coaches for U-12 and below will not be allowed to coach until they acquire an F-License.  The Club shall arrange for several F-License courses to be offered during the pre-season (these courses are one day in duration and are free).  The only exception to this rule will be for instances whereby the Club was unable to arrange the proper training.  In this event, coaches will attend the next available F-License course. 

            Licenses are age-specific.  Therefore, a coach who holds a valid D license must complete the F-License course prior to being assigned to a U-6 through U-12 team.  The same rule applies to U-13/14 teams.  The E and D license courses have a cost which will be borne by the individual coach.  If upon successful completion of a course and coaching in the Club for one soccer year, the club will reimburse a coach the full course fee, if requested to do so. 

Membership Fees 

            Fees for participation in the Club are established by the Board of Directors and will be posted on the Club’s Web Site.  Fees are based upon operating costs and are collected twice annually, at seasonal registration.  In addition, new Club members will be required to purchase a playing uniform at additional cost.  Uniform fees are paid only once.  CSC teams often participate in tournaments that are outside of the normal playing season.  Fees for participation in such tournaments are the responsibility of the individual team.  The Club shall sponsor such teams for insurance purposes in accordance with the policy gained by virtue of membership in VYSA. 

Recreational Program (U-6/U-8) 

Section 1 – General Philosophy 

            The purpose of youth soccer training at ages 4 through 7 is based upon the philosophy that the “Game is in the Child.”  The ultimate goal of US Youth Soccer, the Virginia Youth Soccer Association, and the Chesapeake Soccer Club is to unlock the game within each child to enable each child to reach their full soccer potential.  Using the Player Development Model, the attributes and qualities of both player and coach are combined with a positive culture and context, learning opportunities, and playing to enhance the total game experience for each child. 

            Coaching and developing children at these ages is significantly different from the same endeavor for older children.  In order to properly provide the most positive soccer experience for these children, one must first understand some of their basic characteristics.  For the U-6 player, some considerations/characteristics are: 

·        Use of the movement education approach

·        The differences between genders are minimal

·        Weight range is approximately 30-50 lbs.

·        Heights range from 35” to 45”

·        Progress in motor development starts with the head and moves downward to the feet and from the center of the body outward

·        Segments of the body grow and develop at different rates

·        Easy fatigue, but rapid recovery with an average heart rate of 90 bpm

·        Emphasis to be placed upon fundamental movement skills (locomotor-walking, running, leaping, jumping, hopping; non-locomotor-bending, stretching, twisting, pulling, pushing, reaching; basic manipulative-throwing, catching, striking with the feet)

·        Desire to explore possibilities with the ball

·        Game play consists of a high degree of imagination and pretend activities

·        Rudimentary use of symbology to represent objects in their environment

·        Usually only capable of performing one task at a time when problem solving

·        Can only process small bits of information at one time, instructions and rules therefore must be simple

·        They have a limited understanding of time, space, and boundary relationships

·        Short attention spans – must remain active to feel challenged

·        Ego-centric (they all want the ball and to get touches on it)

·        Require generous praise and play without pressure

·        Might say “team” but really lacks understanding of group or collective play 

For the U-8 player, many of the aforementioned characteristics are beginning to improve.  In addition, the following characteristics/considerations come into play as well: 

·        Heart rates are not as efficient as adult’s; rate peaks sooner and takes longer to recover

·        Temperature regulation is also less efficient

·        Improvement in pace and coordination from the U-6 player can be seen

·        Limited ability to attend to more than one task at a time; the act of controlling the ball consumes most of the attention span, thereby limiting the ability to make tactical decisions

·        Concepts of time, space, and boundaries are beginning to develop

·        Improvement in personal evaluation: effort is synonymous with performance (i.e. if I try hard, then I perform well), irrespective of actual performance

·        Great need for approval from adults, negative comments carry considerable weight

·        Think soccer is “fun”

·        Team and collaborative play are developing

·        Strong desire for social acceptance 

The Recreation Program for these age groups capitalizes on these characteristics and concerns by providing a positive soccer experience through small-sided games and teams comprised of no more than 10 players.  In addition, each coach shall possess a valid USSF F-License prior to coaching any team in this group.  This program is a pay-for-play program which means that it is open to any player that desires to participate. 

Section 2 – Registration Policy 

            Team formation at this level will be conducted annually in June.  The Club will advertise a time and place for registration and will establish fees.  Parents desiring to have their children participate in the program must bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate for inspection (for proper age group placement) and fill out the Club’s application form.  As part of that process, parents will sign a Medical Release Form, a Volunteer data sheet and, if desired, submit an application to coach a team. 

            No more than 10 players shall be placed on any team.  In addition, there will be one Head Coach and one Assistant Coach.  The coaches shall appoint a Team Manager (sometimes referred to as a “Team Mom”) and ensure that at least one member of the team leadership is accessible via e-mail.  The child must have turned a minimum of four years of age by 31 July.  Younger children may be considered for participation in the U-6 program on a case basis by the Board of Directors. 

            The Club will form teams on the basis of age, number of applicants, and number of available coaches.  Teams will be Co-ed.  Teams shall remain together for one soccer year (fall and spring playing seasons) after which they shall be disbanded.  New teams shall be re-formed at the next annual registration in June.  With prior approval of the Board of Directors, based upon a favorable recommendation by the Director of Training and Assessments, teams within the same program may remain together until they progress to an older age program.  For example, a U-6 team is formed in June and desires to remain together after their initial soccer year.  Provided the team remains at the U-6 level AND their petition to remain together is approved, they may remain together for the additional year.  Once that team progresses to the U-8 level, a new team will be formed. Coaches shall have their own children assigned to their teams.  The Club will provide playing schedules in sufficient time to facilitate family planning.  All matches will be played within the limits of the City of Chesapeake. 

Section 3 – U-6 Playing Rules 

            As with all matches, the U-6 playing rules are based upon the FIFA Laws of the Game.  Matches will be conducted in accordance with the following modifications to the Laws of the Game: 

1. Field Size:  20 x 30 yds (a game is played on two side-by-side fields); Radius of the Center Circle will be 3 yds.  No goal area.
2. Goal Size:  4 x 6 ft
3. Ball Size: 3
4. Number of players:  The match is played on a 3 v 3 basis.  There will be two simultaneous matches played against the opposing team on adjacent fields.  One Head Coach and the Opposing Assistant Coach shall administer each field.  No Referees will be used, the coaches serve in that capacity.  Substitutions are made on the fly by placing the substitute at the center line, outside the touchline with the coach calling players on/off.  Teams switch at halftime so that they are playing different players.  With a 10-player roster, 5 players will be on each field (3 active players, 2 substitutes).
5. Player’s Equipment:  Conform to FIFA standards; Sneakers, soccer shoes or cleats are acceptable; shin guards are MANDATORY.
6. Duration of the Match:  match is played in four quarters of 8 minutes duration, with a two minute break between quarters and a five minute halftime.  Clock is maintained by the coaches on the field and shall be continuous.
7. Match is started with a kick-off from the center line; opposing players must be 3 yards away from the ball.  Other restarts are conducted by the coaches who roll the ball toward one team or the other.
8. Goal scoring:  conform to FIFA Law 10; although each team should try to score on an opponent’s goal, a goal will be awarded in the event a team scores at its own goal; no record of goals is retained upon conclusion of the match; no standings shall be kept.
9. Fouls and misconduct:  All infractions of the Laws of the Game shall be explained to all players.
10. No offside, no Penalty Kicks; no Corner Kicks; all Free Kicks (in the event that there is one) are INDIRECT.
11. No goalkeepers are used.  Further, it shall be illegal to place a player in front of the goal in an effort to protect it.
12. Players are not assigned actual positions for the game; Coaches/parents shall provide positive encouragement but should let the children play.  Coaches should refrain from “coaching” their teams during matches.  Rather, they should note strengths and weaknesses and plan subsequent practice sessions that focus upon these observations.
13. The minimum age for participation shall be four years of age.

Section 4 – U-8 Playing Rules 

            As with all matches, the U-8 playing rules are based upon the FIFA Laws of the Game.  Matches will be conducted in accordance with the following modifications to the Laws of the Game: 

1. LAW 1 – The Field:  Field size will be 30 x 50 yds; A Center Circle with a radius of 5 yds will be used; A Goal Area of will be used: 3 yds from each goal post and 3 yards into the field of play joined by a line parallel to the goal line;  Goal size is 6 x 12 ft.
2. LAW 2 – The Ball:    Size 3
3. LAW 3 – The Players:  The game is played on a 4 v 4 basis on a single field;  No goalkeeper is used;  It shall be illegal to place a player in front of the goal for the sole purpose of defending it; players can be assigned positions (e.g. attacker/defender);  Substitutions are made on the fly by placing the substitute at the midfield line, just outside of the touch line; the coach shall call the players on/off.
4. LAW 4 – The Player’s Equipment:  Conform to FIFA standards; Sneakers, soccer shoes or cleats are acceptable; shin guards are MANDATORY. 
5. LAW 5 – Referee.  Each team’s coach (Head Coach or Assistant Coach) shall evenly split the officiating duties with one person in the center;  During the Spring season, a USSF-Certified Referee shall be assigned to one match to call the match and to provide a Laws of the Game seminar to the players in preparation for their transition into Challenge League play.
6. LAW 6 – Assistant Referee.  Each team shall provide one volunteer parent to act as a Club Linesman.
7. LAW 7 – Duration of the Match:  The match shall be played in four equal quarters of 12 minutes duration with a 2 minute break between quarters and a 5 minute halftime; Clock will be maintained by the Center Referee (coach) on the field and shall be continuous.
8. LAW 8 – The Start of Play:  The Center Referee shall conduct a coin-toss with team captains prior to the match.  The winner of the coin-toss shall choose which goal to attack, the other team shall have the kick-off.  Teams shall switch sides of the field after halftime.
9. LAW 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play:  The restart for a ball crossing the touchline will be a throw-in.  The restart for balls crossing the goal line between the goal posts is the kick-off.  The restart for balls crossing the goal line and not scoring will be the goal kick if the attacking player last touched the ball, or a corner kick if the defender last touched the ball.
10. LAW 10 – Method of Scoring:  A ball which crosses the goal line underneath the top of the goal and between the goalposts scores one goal for the attacking team.
11. LAW 11 – Offside:  There will be no offside called during these matches.
12. LAW 12 – Fouls and Misconduct:  All fouls and infractions shall be fully explained to all players.  The issuance of cautions or send offs is neither required nor desired.
13. LAW 13 – Free Kicks:  All free kicks are INDIRECT.  No kicks shall be taken by the attacking team within the defending team’s goal area.  All fouls shall result in an indirect free kick with the opponent being at least 5 yards away.
14. LAW 14 – Penalty Kicks:  No penalty kicks shall be awarded or taken during these matches.
15. LAW 15 – Throw-In:  A second throw will be allowed if the player conducting the throw-in commits an infraction (e.g. lifts one foot, does not place ball behind head, etc.).
16. LAW 16 – Goal Kick:  Goal kick may be taken from anywhere within the defending team’s goal area.  Opposing players must be at least 5 yards away.  All goal kicks are INDIRECT.
17. LAW 17 – Corner Kicks:  Corner kicks are taken from the corner arc nearest to where the ball crossed the goal line.  Opponents must be at least 5 yards away from the kick. All corner kicks are INDIRECT.
18. “LAW 18” – Common Sense:  Coaches/parents shall provide positive encouragement but should let the children play.  Coaches should refrain from “coaching” their teams during matches.  Rather, they should note strengths and weaknesses and plan subsequent practice sessions that focus upon these observations.

Section 5 – Program Administrative Guidelines 

            Each coach shall have a parents meeting either prior to or subsequent to the first practice session of the season.  At this meeting, the coach should specify his/her objectives for the team during the upcoming season and anticipated goals to be set for the team as a whole and the players individually.  It is important to express what the parents can expect from you as a coach and what you expect from them in terms of team support and sideline behavior.  

            Coaches shall schedule no more than 2 practice sessions per week for no more than 1 hour per session.  Coaches shall develop a practice plan prior to walking onto the pitch and make it clear to players and parents what the emphasis of the particular session will be.  Prior to departure, the coach should debrief the players on their performance and to tell them whether the goals and objectives that were set out at the beginning of the session were met.  Sample practice session activities are included in the appendices to this manual. 

            Player uniforms shall be purchased through the Club Equipment Manager.  Players shall receive a colored jersey and a white jersey (individual numbers emblazoned on the back), blue shorts, and blue socks.  The designated home team shall wear the “white” jersey and provide the game ball(s).  There is no prohibition to placing individual player names on the backs of the uniforms, but that shall be an individual team’s responsibility. 

            The Club will provide a season playing schedule.  Teams will play an 8 match schedule per season.  All matches shall be played on Saturdays.  In the event of inclement weather forecast 24 to 48 hours in advance, the Club will issue a decision on match cancellation through its Hot Line and Web Site.  In the event of inclement weather on game day, the two coaches involved shall make a mutual decision to terminate the match.  Any rescheduling of matches will be under the purview of the Club. 

            There will be situations whereby the Board will be required to modify some of these rules to fit non-routine circumstances.  In such instances, the best interests of the program will be considered but in no case shall any rule modification under these rules be considered a precedent for future operations.  Nominally these rules shall be promulgated on a one-time, necessity basis only.

Advanced Program (U-9 through U-19) 

Section 1 – General Philosophy 

            CSC offers a program of advanced-level soccer for youth in age groups U-9 through U-19.  The program is structured to provide a higher level of coaching and competition than is typically available in a recreational program.  As such, the Club provides USSF-licensed coaches who have been screened to ensure that they fully subscribe to the club’s overall philosophy and approach to coaching youth soccer.  The program is designed as a “bridge” between a recreational program and a select or travel program.  CSC offers an environment which nearly matches the level of competition found at the travel level and offers a reasonable alternative for those players not desiring to play on Sundays or who no longer wish to bear the expense in time and resources to participate at that level.  CSC allows players to be dual-rostered (i.e. member of an advanced and a travel team) only if the player originated in CSC.  Travel players that have not played in a CSC program within the previous 4 years shall not be allowed to participate on a CSC team while remaining an active player on a travel team.  Coaches shall indicate on their rosters which players are concurrently playing on a travel team.  It is the desire of the Club to provide the most positive environment possible for player development. 

Section 2 – Team Formation 

            Advanced teams shall be formed on an annual basis in June.  Once teams are formed, they shall remain together for one soccer year.  All teams shall be formed on the basis of a tryout, supervised by the Board of Directors and coordinated by the Director of Training and Assessments.  Advanced teams compete in the Hampton Roads Challenge League (HRCL) and are subject to all HRCL rules in addition to any rules the Club may have.           

            Individuals desiring to coach an advanced team must submit an application to do so to be considered by the Board of Directors.  This is an annual requirement.  Selection criteria are contained elsewhere in this manual.  Coaches accepted to coach shall be assigned specific teams by the Director of Training and Assessments with the advice and consent of the Board of Directors. 

            There will be two registration periods per year.  The first will be during team formation in June.  The second will be at the beginning of February.  All returning teams are required to re-register for the spring season.  No new teams will be accepted for admission to the Club during the spring registration period.  Individuals desiring to play that had not played during the fall season shall contact the Club Administrator.  The Administrator and Club Registrar shall determine whether there is room on the roster of a particular team or teams and refer the applicant to the coach.  The coach is the sole authority to decide whether to accept the applicant on his/her team.  Acceptance shall be subject to a tryout as determined by the coach. 

Section 3 – Registration Policy 

            CSC places all of its advanced teams into the Hampton Roads Challenge League (HRCL) for scheduling and match play.  As an HRCL member club, CSC has agreed to abide by the rules established by the HRCL Board of Directors.  The number of advanced teams that are registered into CSC is determined by the capacity of HRCL.  That capacity is established by HRCL using the number of playing fields available, the number of potential teams within specific divisions, the turn-around times of the matches, and the number of USSF-Certified referees that are available.  While every effort shall be made to include every CSC advanced team, there will be occasions that teams may have to be disbanded, turned away, or modified to fit the stated HRCL capacity for teams. 

            At the time of registration, players shall need to fill out an application and provide a copy of their birth certificate to show as proof of age.  Each parent/guardian shall be required to list their availability to volunteer to support the Club and its activities.  Once accepted to participate on a CSC team, that player is guaranteed a place on that particular team for the upcoming soccer year (two playing seasons, fall/spring).  Transfers of players between CSC teams will not be allowed until the end of the soccer year.  Exceptions to this policy will be considered by the Board of Directors only upon petition of the player involved and should not be considered “automatic.” 

            Fees shall be established and published by the Club with the information available through the Club Web Site.  Fees shall be collected on the last scheduled day of tryouts as determined by the Board of Directors.  Delinquent fees are due in accordance with Article IX, Section 2 of the Club By-Laws.  All registrations shall be complete by the deadline previously established by the Board of Directors.  Additions and/or deletions to rosters shall be made in accordance with the rules and procedures of HRCL. 

Section 4 – Tryout Procedures 

            Tryout dates shall be published by the Board of Directors and promulgated to the Club through the email system and the Club Web Site.  Tryouts will be conducted over two weeks during June, subsequent to tryouts held by the Chesapeake Select Soccer Club (CSSC).  Nominally, the first tryout period will be held for boys U-9 through U-12 and for all girls programs.  The last tryout period will cover boys from U-14 through U-19.  All players shall be required to be in proper playing attire in accordance with Law 4 of the FIFA Laws of the Game and shall be encouraged to bring plenty of water. 

            All returning and prospective coaches will submit an application to coach a CSC team not later than 21 days prior to the Club tryout dates.   A Returning coach is defined as a coach that has held a coaching position within the Club for the previous Club year only.  Those coaches who may have held coaching positions within the Club in the past, but not for the previous 12 months shall be considered in the same manner as prospective coaches and cannot protect players for they would not have any players to protect.  Returning coaches accepted to remain with their current teams shall then submit a list of their returning players that they wish to protect from the overall draft to the CSC Administrator not later than 5 days prior to the tryout date.  Protected players shall not participate in the Club tryout but be required to remit all necessary Club fees to their respective coach prior to the commencement of  tryouts for that particular age group. 

            Teams are formed on the basis of the draft.  Returning coaches who are not at max roster limit for their respective age group (inclusive of any protected players) may choose players through the draft.  Upon completion of the tryout process, the Board of Directors will assess whether any new teams will be formed. 

            Each age group shall be assembled in the same area.  Returning and prospective coaches shall assess the player pool in accordance with the guide provided in Section 4.1.  Emphasis shall be on assessment of players in small-sided games with a minimum of specific drills.  The Director of Training and Assessments shall provide overall supervision of the tryouts and designate one coach in each group as the age group coordinator who shall be responsible for the administration of the selection process. 

            There are four components to be assessed during the tryout process.  They are:  Fitness, Technique, Tactics, and Psychological Make-Up (i.e. does the player possess the requisite maturity to be coachable at the advanced level?).  In addition, assessments of potential vs. present level of play, trial performance, and consideration of skills vs. techniques are made.  This is a difficult task given the paucity of time allotted for the tryout (2-3 nights, 2 hours each night).  Accordingly, an assessment should include a review of player technique, review of fundamental skills (Dribbling, Passing, Finishing (shooting), Heading, and ball Control) in pressure situations, and progression training from 1 v 1 to small-sided games. 

            On the last scheduled day of the tryout, the coaches will come together and choose their players as specified below:

• The age group coordinator shall oversee the selection process.
• The coach that has zero (or the fewest) players assigned shall make the first selection.  In the event there is more than one coach in this situation, the age group coordinator shall determine who shall select first by equitable means of his/her choosing.  Disagreements shall be arbitrated by the Director of Training and Assessments.
• The first coach shall make selections and then the next in round-robin format until all players eligible are chosen.  Coaches with the fewest players assigned at the outset of the selection process shall continue to select players until the number of players on their team is equivalent to that of the other coaches in the division.  Selection shall continue in round-robin format until all eligible players are selected.  Example:  There are three coaches at U-10.  One has protected 8 players, one has protected 6 players, the third has no players returning.  This third coach will then make the first 6 selections, then the two coaches will alternate the next two selections.  Then, all three coaches will alternate selections until all eligible players are selected.
• Players are not to be notified of their selection on the field!  Coaches shall notify their selected players by phone within 48 hours of the completion of the selection process and then notify the Club Administrator that this task is complete.
• Once the selection process is complete, the rosters shall be frozen.  Any additional players desiring to play that may have moved into the community shall be referred to the Club Registrar for placement.  The Registrar shall review rosters of the affected age group in order to ensure balance amongst all teams in the same age group.  Said players shall be referred to a coach who will be required to conduct an assessment on the player for submission to the Director of Training and Assessments prior to acceptance into the Club.  An invitation for the Director to be present for the assessment of the player satisfies this requirement.

There will be situations whereby the Board will be required to modify some of these rules to fit non-routine circumstances.  In such instances, the best interests of the program will be considered but in no case shall any rule modification under these rules be considered a precedent for future operations.  Nominally these rules shall be promulgated on a one-time, necessity basis only.

Section 4.1 – Tryout Evaluation Form

Player No.

Skill

Dribbling

Change Directions

Use of Both Feet

Around Opponents

Looks to Pass

Takes Space

Goes at Defender

Passing

Directs passes

Uses both feet

Finishing

Instep (Low/High)

Uses both feet

Makes good contact

Scores

Ball Collection

Control on Ground

Control in Air

Heading

Willing to Head

Technique/Direction

Defending

Transitions Well

Positioning

Delays Attacker

Challenges for Ball

Controls Attacker

Clears ball correctly

Supports

Goalkeeping

Catches/stops ball

Parries/Punches ball

Punting

Distribution

Player

Recognizes choices

Makes decisions

Coachability

Attacking

1st Attacker

2nd Attacker/support

3rd Attacker

Speed

Pure Speed

Technical Speed

Speed of Action

Mental Speed

Notes:
1.  Use subjective grades.  A = skill exceeds expected level for players in this age group; B = skill is average for players in this age group; C = skill is below average for players in this age group; F = Player exhibits difficulty in this skill.

 

Membership Policies 

Section 1 – Fee Structure 

            Fees are established in accordance with the Club By-Laws and are due as discussed elsewhere in this manual.  There are times when registration fees previously collected may be refunded.  Refunds will be offered in the event that a player becomes injured either prior to the season or during the first two regular season matches and is physically unable to perform or participate as determined by competent medical authority (written notification required).  Fees shall not be refunded to any player in the event that the player, once accepted and properly registered in the Club, chooses not to participate for any reason. 

            Each Head Coach is allowed one scholarship per team to be distributed in total, as he/she deems appropriate.  This scholarship may be used in lieu of a registration fee for their own child or any other player the coach feels is a hardship case.  Further, a player may apply to perform tasks for the Club in lieu of some or all of their registration fee.  Players desiring this option must apply to the Club for such consideration.  The CSC Vice-President shall coordinate this program in conjunction with the CSC Treasurer.         

Section 2 – Volunteer Requirements 

            CSC is run totally by volunteers.  Everything that is required to properly operate the Club and provide a positive experience for our children is coordinated and executed by volunteers who receive no remuneration for the time that they give to this program.  In addition, all coaches are volunteers and receive no salary for serving as coaches.  Tasks such as field preparation, concessions, field marshalling, etc. are typical of things that must be done in order to have 22 players and three referees step off on time each week. 

            The CSC Volunteer Coordinator is charged with the responsibility of determining volunteer requirements and placing them where needed.  During annual registration, parents will be asked to make themselves available for volunteer assignment.  The volunteers shall be administered through their parent teams.  Normally, each volunteer may expect to devote five hours per playing season to various tasks.  The Club certainly welcomes additional time devoted by parents.  In addition, for those parents willing to volunteer on a permanent basis or who perform significant volunteer service to the Club may be eligible for reduced registration fees for one or more of their children.  On the other hand, those who refuse to volunteer will be subject to increased registration fees for their children in order for the Club to arrange to have some services performed.

Section 3 – Club Communications 

            With the advent of e-mail, we are able to pass along information to a large number of people without incurring significant costs.  In addition, Web Sites and Hot Lines are available for the storage of critical and/or long term, non-perishable information. 

            HRCL is run entirely on the Internet.  All scheduling is done via email which is then placed on the Club’s Web Site.  Additionally, the Club passes information via mass emailing for dissemination to all member teams and their players.  This reduces the requirement for regular mailings and frequent meetings.  Accordingly, each coach shall have access to an email account, either personally or through his/her team manager or representative.  

            The Club’s Hot Line Number is (757) 546-7405.

 

Section 4 – Uniform Policy 

            Player uniforms shall be purchased through the Club Equipment Manager.  Players shall receive a royal colored jersey, a white jersey (individual numbers emblazoned on the back), royal shorts, white shorts, royal socks, and white socks.  The designated home team shall wear the “white” jersey and provide the game ball(s).  There is no prohibition to placing individual player names on the backs of the uniforms, but that shall be an individual team’s responsibility.  Each player shall bring both jerseys to each match in the event there is a jersey conflict.  Royal and white are the official and only authorized colors for the club.  Member teams shall not purchase or otherwise wear any other color (save for practice jerseys (aka “pinnies”) in the event of a jersey conflict that cannot be resolved). 

Standards of Conduct, Penalties, and Grievances 

Section 1 – Code of Conduct 

            It is the policy of CSC to provide and promote a positive soccer environment for players, coaches, spectators, and families.  Our training programs are designed to emphasize skills over that of winning at all costs.  This is accomplished  through the licensure of coaches and by providing positive reinforcement for players.  It is further accomplished by dealing swiftly and surely with those individuals who experience difficulty controlling their behavior, maintaining a modest level of decorum, or whose overall conduct is inconsistent with the mission and policies of CSC. 

            Prior to the commencement of each playing season, the parent(s) of each player shall sign an acknowledgement form (contained elsewhere in this manual) stating that they will maintain a level of behavior consistent with club policies.  Each player shall likewise sign underneath their parent’s signature.  It is important to remember that each member (coach, parent, and player) represents CSC for all soccer functions.  

            There are three participants in any soccer match: coaches, players, and referees.  Coaches will make coaching mistakes, players will make playing mistakes, and referees will make officiating mistakes.  Focusing on any of these mistakes by coaches, players, or spectators are not conducive to a positive environment.  Therefore, negative comments from anyone on the pitch are neither required nor desired. 

Section 2 – Penalties 

            The following penalties will apply upon receipt of substantiated incident report by the CSC Board of Directors: 

Incident	Penalty
Player sent off by referee (RED Card)	Player must depart venue; ineligible to play in next match
Coach sent off by referee	Coach must depart venue; may not be present at next match
Parent/Spectator sent off by referee	Parent/Spectator must depart venue; may not be present at next match
Referee Abuse (by anyone)	Abuser suspended for next three matches
Referee Assault (by anyone)	Expulsion from CSC
Assault	Suspension for the remainder of the playing season

 

• Note: Simple Assault is a Class I Misdemeanor as listed in the Code of Virginia and is punishable by a maximum of a $2,500 fine and confinement in the City Jail for a period not to exceed one year.  The required elements to prove assault do not necessarily include physical contact.  CSC shall not adjudicate assault cases per se but rather refer the offended party to the City Magistrate’s Office.

Section 3 – Grievances 

            A grievance is a complaint with a suggested resolution.  The only matters which are grievable are treatment of players by coaches, spectators, or any violation of CSC’s coaching or playing guidelines.  No other matters are grievable, including: 

1. Coaching or playing guidelines found in this manual and/or promulgated by the CSC Board of Directors.
2. Non-selection as a coach or a player.
3. Age groupings set by USYSA/VYSA.
4. Field Usage.
5. Players, coaches, or parents barred from participation in CSC activities.
6. Any or all items stated in this manual or the CSC By-Laws as the responsibility of the Board of Directors.
7. All decisions, with respect to coaches, of the Director of Training and Assessments.
8. Modifications to FIFA Laws of the Game as approved by USYSA/VYSA/HRCL.

Grievances submitted shall be handled in accordance with Article VII of the CSC By-Laws.

Appendix A – Sample Roster Form

HAMPTON ROADS CHALLENGE LEAGUE

Official Roster Form

 

Seasonal Year

 

CLUB

BOYS

GIRLS

 

TEAM NAME

AGE GROUP

 

Coach		License		Address		Ph (H)		Ph (W)		E-Mail
A.Coach		License		Address		Ph (H)		Ph (W)		E-Mail
Manager		License		Address		Ph (H)		Ph (W)		E-Mail

 

No.	Jersey	Name (Last,First)	Address	Zip	Phone No.	DOB	Parents
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18

 

Club Officer Signature

Date: