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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
& OTHER KEY INFO
Q. What is AYSO?
A. AYSO stands for "American Youth Soccer Organization". AYSO is a national association 501 (c) (3) nonprofit corporation Incorporated, State of California, 1964.
Q. What is the National Website Address?
A. www.soccer.org
Q. What is the Membership of the Organization?
A. AYSO has more than 50,000 teams and more than 650,000 players.
Q. What is the goal of the program?
A. In keeping with AYSO National's Policy, our goal is to develop and deliver a quality youth soccer program (ages 41/2 to 18, male and female) designed to promote a fun, family environment based on the five AYSO Philosophies. Click here to watch the short Parent Orientation Video and learn about the philosophy behind our program.
Q. What are the National Rules and Regulations?
A. Click here to download a pdf document of the National Rules & Regulations.
Q. Who is Santa Monica AYSO, Region 20?
A. We are the community-based league (called a Region) and a member of AYSO National since 1972. We are Region 20, located in Area 1, Section P. With over 1,500 players, we are the largest youth sports organization in Santa Monica.
Q. Do I need to live in Santa Monica to participate?
A. No. Region 20 consists primarily of Santa Monica residents, but also includes the surrounding communities of Mar Vista, Marina del Rey & Venice. If you do not reside in any of these communities, you are still welcome to join Region 20, but there may be another region more convenient for you. Check the national website for details.
Q. Who supervises the Region?
A. An elected Regional Commissioner, Board and Staff Members. These people are ALL volunteers and are NOT paid for their time and dedication.
Q. When does registration begin for the next Fall Season?
A. Online registration begins December 1 for the next Fall Season. All players are encouraged to register online (just click the REGISTRATION tab on the main page of this website). If your player is new to the Region, you will be asked to bring a copy of your child's birth certificate, passport or immunization card along with your AYSO Player Registration Form at the beginning of the season.
Q. What if I have a returning player to the Region?
A. Register online and bring a copy of your completed AYSO Player Registration Form to your team manager at the beginning of the season.
Q. What is the AYSO Player Registration Form and how do I print it?
A. The AYSO Player Registration Form is an official document that contains your emergency contact information and serves as a medical release form.
Click here for detailed instructions to print your form.
Please provide your Team Manager with an original signed copy.
Q. What is the fee for the season?
A. Fees vary based on how early you register:
Really Early Registration: December 1 through January 11: $95
Early Registration: January 12 – June 30: $125
Regular Registration: July 1 and after: $175
Requests for Financial Assistance
A limited number of scholarships are available for qualifying families on a first come, first serve basis. All other factors being equal, priority will be based on the level of volunteer participation.
If you have qualified for financial assistance from either:
*City of Santa Monica’s Community and Cultural Services Department
(for CREST, Youth Sports, Camps, Swim Lessons, other City Programs)
*Free/Reduced School Lunch Program
*Section 8 Housing
Then you will qualify for partial SM AYSO Financial Assistance.
CLICK HERE for detailed information about the SM AYSO Financial Assistance Program.
Q. How do I pay?
A. You must pay by VISA or Mastercard when you register online. If you have questions about other payment methods, please contact the Registrar at Registrar@ayso20.org
Q. When is the cutoff for player registration?
A. June 30. Anyone paying their registration fees July 1 or later, is automatically assigned to the waiting list.
Q. What does it mean to be placed on the waiting list?
A. Anyone who has either registered late or registered in a division that has already exceeded our anticipated number of players will be placed on the waiting list. If there are enough players on the waiting list to add two additional teams, and qualified volunteer coaches & volunteer referees to support them, then we will add the waiting list players to those new teams. Otherwise, waiting list players are assigned to teams after all registered players are confirmed. Openings for waiting list players should appear by early September. We do our best to place all players on the waiting list, especially those key volunteers such as coaches and referees. However, if we are unable to place your player on a team, we will refund your payment in full.
Q. When will the teams be formed?
A. During the month of July.
Q. When will I hear from my coach?
A. Team Rosters are posted on the website in late July/early August. If you have not been contacted by your coach by mid-August, check the website for announcements, or contact your division commissioner.
Q. Who is eligible?
A. Players between the ages of 41/2 and 18 are eligible to play regardless of where they live. July 31 is the determining date (the age of the child as of July 31 prior to the beginning of the season). See AYSO National age chart.
For children under age 41/2 we recommend the City of Santa Monica sponsored program "Socceropolis". Click on the link for the Recscape program guide.
Q. What is the refund policy?
A. All refund requests must be submitted in writing using our Refund Request Form.
A $15 processing fee will be deducted for each player refunded.
Before July 1: 100% refund (less processing fee)
July 1 - September 15: 50% refund (less processing fee), providing the complete unused soccer uniform is returned intact.
No fees will be refunded after September 15th.
Fees paid by credit card, will be credited to the credit card account originally charged.
If you paid by check, a refund check will be mailed to your address on file.
CLICK HERE to submit a refund request or e-mail REFUND@ayso20.org.
Q. What does the Region provide?
A. A uniform, including one jersey, one short and one pair of socks. The Region will provide playing and practice facilities. The Region will also provide limited insurance coverage for player accidents and injuries. The Region will also provide a participation award and a basic team and individual player picture at the end of the season.
Q. What other equipment will I need?
A. An appropriately sized ball, soccer cleats (or tennis or turf shoes) and shin guards. Baseball cleats are not acceptable for safety reasons.
Age groups will play with the following ball sizes:
Size 3 ball - U6 and U8
Size 4 ball - U10 and U12
Size 5 ball - U14, U16 and U19
Q. Where do I get the equipment not supplied by the Region?
A. Any sporting goods store can supply you with a starter package of cleats, shinguards and a ball.
Q. Can my player wear earrings? They were just pierced and I can't take them out! (sound familiar?)
A. Earrings may never be worn, even if taped or padded in practice or games. No jewelry, friendship bracelets, watches, necklaces, plastic or metal hair barrettes or "hair wraps" may be worn during practices or games as well. Only soft knee braces may be worn upon inspection and approval of the referee prior to the match. No casts, soft or hard, are permitted. MedicAlert bracelets may be covered by tape to keep them snug against the wrist and completely hidden.
Q. When are practices held?
A. For U8 & above, weeknight practices begin in mid-August. Your coach will provide you with details. U6 teams practice on Saturday’s before their games.
Q. What if the practice schedule conflicts with my family’s schedule?
A. Soccer is a team sport; a team's morale and success is dependent upon the commitment of each player to attend all practices and games. Please consider the impact on your child and teammates if he/she will be involved in other activities, which will compromise his/her availability.
If you cannot work around the practice schedule assigned for your team, you may choose to have your child put on the waiting list until there is an opening at his/her evaluation level on a team that practices on a different night. However, there is no guarantee that all players from the waiting list will be placed. Contact the registrar to have your child moved – registrar@ayso20.org
Q. When are league games?
A. Typically on Saturdays. However, older divisions (children 14 and older), All-star teams and Spring Select teams may play on Sundays.
Q. When will I receive a game schedule?
A. Usually 5 days before the season starts. But some divisions adjust the schedule AFTER the season starts to create as balanced matches as possible. The schedules will also be posted on our website. Don't panic - simply check the website regularly.
Q. How early should I show up for games?
A. Generally, 30-45 minutes prior to kickoff.
Q. Can I request a coach or team?
A. No. We do not honor requests made by parents or players to be placed on certain teams or with other players. CLICK HERE for details on our Team Formation policy.
Q. When does the season start?
A. The season runs from early September through mid-December. Older division teams end earlier. League Champions continue playing other regions in January. All-star teams and Spring-Select tournament teams may play January through June.
Q. Can I play AYSO and still play on my high school team?
A. Yes, but you cannot be playing for AYSO or a club team at the same time that you are playing for a high school team. Therefore, the AYSO season is carefully set up so that the Upper Divisions (U16 & U19) are finished in mid-November before the winter high school soccer season starts. Due to the shorter season, Upper Division teams play two games a weekend.
If you are a young freshman who is playing in U14 and intend to try out for your high school team, you will be asked to play up in the U16 Division to avoid any overlap of seasons.
Q. How is the best way to stay informed about Regional Events or issues?
A. This website, and staying in touch with your coach or team manager. The e-mail address you use during registration is the best way for us to contact you and keep you informed. You may update your contact information at any time after you have registered by entering the registration section as a returning player. Click here for detailed instructions.
Q. Who are the coaches?
A. The coaches in Region 20 are the foundation of our program. They are all unpaid volunteers. They are also mentors and role models to our children. As a result of this important role, they have a responsibility in regards to their behavior as well as deserving of our respect for the time and effort they give to our children. Your coach is not a babysitter. Be prompt for practices and games and support the person who is teaching your child the most popular sport in the world. Don't be late in picking up your child from practice. The coach is instructed to never leave until the entire team is accounted for and is picked up by a parent or guardian.
Q. How are the coaches 'certified' to coach?
A. First, all coaches register with AYSO National for a background check and complete a Safe Haven course, required by child protection policies implemented by AYSO and many other youth sports organizations. Second, all coaches must complete a classroom-style Level 1 Coaching Certification. New and returning coaches should check the "Coaches Corner" on our website frequently - especially before the season commences.
Q. How are the referees 'certified' to referee matches?
A. All referees must complete the background check and Safe Haven course, as well as a classroom-style Regional Referee Program/Certification Course. New and returning referees should check the "Referee Corner" on our website frequently - especially before the season commences.
NOTE: It is expected that each team - regardless of age group - have 2 – 3 parents volunteer to become a Program Certified Referee
Q. How do I volunteer?
A. Region 20 is run for our kids by parents and other dedicated volunteers like you. Unlike other youth sport organizations, AYSO has no paid staff on the local (regional) level. All Board Members, Coaches, Referees and support staff contribute their time without monetary compensation. And our registration fees reflect that. Because of this regulation, we must limit the number of players and playing opportunities to match the number of volunteers. Quite literally, it requires one volunteer at each level for every child in the program. Parents who try to enroll their children without a volunteer commitment constitute a burden on other parents and may jeopardize the program. There is always work to be done.
We offer free training and clinics for all aspects of volunteer help. Among the many ways to get involved are:
* Coach / Assistant Coach
* Team Manager
* Referee
* Youth Referee
* Division Administrative position (help from home!)
* Regional Board position (the big picture volunteer)
* Practice Chaperone
* Field Maintenance & Equipment
Let us know how you want to help by simply contacting us at volunteer@ayso20.org
Q. May I bring alcoholic beverages or consume tobacco at AYSO events?
A. NO! AYSO National Rules and Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District Rules dictate that NO persons may consume alcoholic beverages or use tobacco products while engaged in AYSO activities or on SMMUSD property. This includes at practices in the parks as well as at the schools. Coaches are asked to request parents that do smoke to do so off of school property and completely out of the presence of any child. Again, this also includes the parks. Individual who violate these rules will be asked to leave the premises, escorted if necessary. The same policy holds true if an individual is showing signs of being under the influence of alcohol/drugs.
Q. May I bring my pet to the practices or games?
A. No, it is prohibited by our field permit with the City of Santa Monica (even at parks that would otherwise allow them). Players, parents or spectators will be asked to leave the grounds if they have a pet.
Q. How do we handle the issue of Blood Safety?
A. Per AYSO guidelines, the following is required to occur if a player is injured and bleeding is present during practice or a game:
1. The player must be removed from the activity immediately and the nature of the bleeding stopped.
2. The wound must be covered/bandaged.
3. Any article of a players clothing containing blood must be removed or neutralized with a solution of hydrogen peroxide.
Q. Who is responsible for erecting or taking down the goals on game days?
A. Each morning, the first two teams playing on the field that day are required to set up the goals. This activity should be directed by the coach or assistant coach who has been trained in assembling the goals. This should be completed at least 45 minutes PRIOR to the start time of the match. Likewise, as indicated on the schedule, the last teams of the day have the responsibility of safely taking down the goals and nets, and placing ALL of the pieces, stakes, hammers and nets in the appropriate bags. Under no circumstances are players or children allowed to help putting up or taking down the goals and nets.
Q. Is there a Spring League in Santa Monica?
A. No. But in Divisions U10 and above, there are select tournament teams and all-star teams that participate in tournaments in other areas. See the post-season play section on this website for more information.
Q. Does Region 20 offer Summer Camps?
A. No. But let us know if this is something of interest to you. Some nearby regions may offer summer camps - click on www.aysosoccercamps.org.
Q. What is my role as a parent?
A. AYSO is an all-volunteer organization – we receive no public funds and all of our expenses are paid from the registration fees of the children who play. We expect all parents to participate in a volunteer role.
AYSO is an organization devoted to child development in a soccer environment that is safe, fair, and fun. The kids are the focus of our program, and the program depends on the efforts of all involved adults for its success. We require that as a Parent, Coach, Referee, Volunteer or Casual Observer you maintain a positive attitude when dealing with the children under all circumstances without exceptions. This also includes your attitude when dealing with other parents in the presence of children. Understand that we maintain a 'zero-tolerance' stand on 'abusive behavior' and violators will be suspended for one full year without appeal or exception.
Please read and abide by the AYSO Kids Zone Parent Pledge (downloadble pdf) for the benefit of our soccer community.
Q. Are we expected to do fundraising for Santa Monica AYSO, Region 20.
A. No, there is no individual fundraising requested of our families. But the one fundraising event of the year is Soccer Fun Day. Soccer Fun Day is our day of celebrating the new soccer season, as well as our team Picture Day. Mark your calendar now for Soccer Fun Day, typically held around the first Sunday of October. The exact date is posted in July.
Q. How can I help monetarily?
A. As a non-profit organization, we rely on the generosity from individuals to provide scholarships to qualifying needy families, who would otherwise be unable to participate. These funds help us promote and reinforce the environment for which we strive to provide! $10-$20-$50-$100 or more, Region 20 needs your financial generosity. You may donate via credit card during the registration process, or mail a check to our mailing address above. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permissible by law.
Q. How do I update or change my contact information?
A. Click here for detailed instructions.
Q. What is the mailing address?
A. Santa Monica AYSO Region 20, P.O. Box 91, Santa Monica, CA 90406-0091
However, the most efficient way to reach the region is via e-mail. See the BOARD & STAFF CONTACTS tab on the home page of the website for e-mail contacts.
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