AYSO Frequently Asked Questions
Season Specific Questions
General Questions
Season Specific Questions
ANSWERS
Season Specific Questions
1. When does the fall season begin?
Fall season typically begins in the first week of September and spring season typically begins in the first week of April. Of course, weather related delays are always a possibility.
2. What day of the week do we play?
U5 to U12 always play on Saturdays. The older divisions U14 and U19 play on Sundays.
U5 to U12 age divisions always play in Praire View Park at the corner of Waukegan and Dempster (directly behind Castle Honda car dealership). U14 and U19 play in the fields near Maine East High School (close to Lutheran General Hospital)
4. Who do I need to contact for game schedules?
You can always contact the coach designated for your team. In addition, you may also visit our website for the latest schedule.
5. Who is primary point of contact for my child's games?
Your designated coach is the primary point of contact for all game related questions. For general (non-game related) questions, you may contact using our website.
6. Where and when do I get my child's uniform?
Your child’s uniform is typically given to the team parent before the season begins in the Fall. For the Spring season, the same Fall uniforms are used for returning players. For new players, please contact the Team Parent or the Team Coach before the season begins.
General Questions
Children between the ages of 4 and 18 as of July 31 of the year in which the fall season begins can play AYSO soccer. Please see the Fall 2007 Division Birth Date chart for specific age group eligibility.
Our mission is to provide quality youth soccer programs where everyone builds positive character through participation in a safe, fun, family-oriented soccer environment. AYSO's five philosophies separate us from the pack:
1. • Everyone Plays
2. • Balanced Teams
3. • Open Registration
4. • Positive Coaching
5. • Good Sportsmanship
Not included in the registration fees are the required shin guards, appropriate shoes, and a strongly recommended practice ball. In addition, the team parents will possibly request a small amount to cover the expenses of a team banner, hair pieces (for the girls), end of season team party, and a small gift for the coach. Also, each family is often requested to bring snacks for the team at one game during the season.
No. AYSO is a national organization with very strict guidelines regarding age requirements. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players being the proper age to play and being placed in their age appropriate divisions. Children who do not meet the age requirement are not permitted to play. Be patient – they’ll grow up before you know it!
No. AYSO is a national organization that determines the player divisions based on birthdates. The AYSO "year" runs from August 1st through July 31st. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players placed in their age appropriate divisions. Many children are in "different" divisions than their school classmates. We encourage you to view this as a positive experience - it will allow your child to broaden his/her relationships outside of school and enjoy making new friends.
For the younger divisions, the games take about 1 hour to complete. For the older divisions, the games take about 1.5 hours to complete.
Shin guards (required), soccer shoes, a soccer ball, uniform (games only) and water. Also, bringing a well rested, well hydrated, nutritionally balanced child with a positive attitude and willingness to learn is highly recommended!
Soccer shoes are not mandatory but are highly recommended (regular athletic shoes with no cleats are the alternative). When buying soccer shoes, they cannot have a toe cleat (baseball shoes have a toe cleat). Generally speaking, nearly all players at all age levels use soccer shoes for practices and games.
Divisions U5 through U8 use a Size 3 ball.
Divisions U10 and U12 use a Size 4 ball.
Divisions U14 and above use a Size 5 ball.
Safety is the primary reason. Some types of shin guards are hard shell instead of soft, and may have sharp edges that could cut a player. By wearing their socks over the shin guards, players protect each other. Also, wearing the socks over the shin guards prevent the shin guards from shifting during running or when being kicked, which allow the shin guards to protect the areas they are supposed to.
No. Jewelry of any kind (necklaces, watches, earrings, rings, bracelets, etc.) cannot be worn during practice or games. There is an exception for Med-Alert bracelets, but they must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band for the safety of your child and all the other players.
No. While the doctor may be representing your son's interest appropriately, the risk to other players mandates that he limit his participation to that of moral support on the sidelines. Players may not wear casts or splints which could possibly cause injury to himself/herself or another player. NO EXCEPTIONS. This applies at the games as well as at practices.
Glasses, hearing aids, and med-alerts may be worn to practices and games. The use of an eyeglass holder/strap or sports-glasses is recommended. As stated above, Med-Alerts must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band as a safety measure.
Any extra articles of clothing must be worn under the uniform (so you can still determine which team a player is associated with). It is recommended that any extra articles of clothing be limited to undershirts or turtle necks (under the uniform). Try to coordinate with your team’s colors if possible. Any extra articles cannot have any zippers or any plastic/metal components of any kind.
Any hair accessories should not be made of metal or plastic, and should not be rigid. Soft hair accessories such as "scrunchies" and soft rubber bands are recommended and acceptable.