Guidance to Clubs - Virginia Soccer Association

Guidance to Clubs

Teams are single gender: boys’ teams and girls’ teams.
MAKE IT FUN. Be sure to keep things in perspective. Soccer is not only a game, but an experience, a passion, a way of life. People use it to get away from “life”. We’re all in it together, so encourage everyone to make having fun the first priority. Think of it as a celebration.
Players: Unless a player is not mentally or physically equipped yet, try not to leave out any interested players (unless you don’t have enough coaches). If a player would benefit from another season of Recreational play, keep an eye on them for future participation. Do not leave someone out because they are not as good as others right now. It’s the coaches’ job to get them where they need to be.
Teams: If you have more than one team, create them with an equal mix of talent.
Forming teams randomly each week or of equal overall talent will avoid blowouts during games. Remember, the focus is on the training, not winning games. There are no standings.

Coaches: Clubs should assign teams a coach who is licensed or working to get certified and has advanced training and playing experience. This will give the players the best chance to succeed and ensure the parents are educated by someone with advanced knowledge of the game.
Training: Focus efforts to improve players on the technical skills they need for the future and not how to win games tactically. Without comfort on the ball, they will fall behind and those losses will add up down the road. Think long-term.
Parents: Don’t forget the parents. Remember, this is an introduction to travel. This is your chance to educate them on the game, the experience of travel and, most importantly, how to act on the sidelines. This is a unique opportunity to give them a peek into what we expect from them and what they will experience when they transition to travel. Teach them early or you will be very busy later.
Referees: Please remember that the referees are in training. It is our responsibility to allow them mistakes and let them grow. Give them positive feedback, but wait until after the game and do it calmly. Shouting during the game is not acceptable. If you fear a safety issue or want to provide feedback on a referee, feel free to submit this to the Cross-Over Commissioner. Feedback will be shared with the referee assignors.