ARTICLE ONE - Purpose
The purpose of these Guidelines is to regulate the affairs of this Region. These
Guidelines have been adopted pursuant to Section 1.04 of the National Bylaws of
the American Youth Soccer Organization ("AYSO") and are subject to such Bylaws, the Articles of
Incorporation of AYSO, the AYSO National Rules and
Regulations, the Policies adopted from time to time by the AYSO National Board
of Directors and the Section Rules and Regulations, copies of which (except for
the Articles of Incorporation) are
attached hereto and are hereby incorporated by reference. To the extent that
Region 10 Guidelines conflict with or are in contradiction to any of the others
listed above, they shall prevail over the
Region 10 Guidelines.
Mission
The AYSO mission is to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs where
everyone builds positive character through participation in a fun, fair, safe,
family environment based on the AYSO philosophies:
Everyone Plays—Our Region's goal is for kids to play soccer. We mandate
that every player on every team
must play at least half of every game.
Balanced Teams—Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as
possible in the higher divisions—because it is fair and more fun when teams of
equal ability play.
Positive Coaching—Kids win when they are built up, not when they are
torn down! We train and encourage our coaches to make the extra effort to
understand and offer positive help to our players, rather than negative
criticism.
Open Registration—Our program is open to all children between 4-1/2 and
18 years of age who want to play soccer. Interest and enthusiasm are the only
criteria for playing.
Good Sportsmanship—We strive to create a positive environment based on
mutual respect, rather than a
win-at-all cost attitude, and our program is designed to
instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO.
The core values guiding AYSO are: Fun for all! Education for all!
Ethics for all! Accessible to all!
The mission is accomplished by our Region's providing
these essential services:
Coaching and referee programs including quality delivery systems
Quality administrative and operating systems with a support network
Strong financial position
Special network for volunteers, supported by a national staff
(a) To comply in spirit and letter with the philosophy, objectives, National
Bylaws, Rules and Regulations of AYSO;
(b) To maintain good community relations with the primary objective being youth
development;
(c) To collect and disburse fees and other monies for the sound financial
organization and operation of the Region, it being incumbent upon the Region to keep and submit to the National Office, as
required, accurate financial records to ensure continuation of the tax exempt
status of AYSO;
(d) To make timely remittances for Regional purchases and fees;
(e) To publish for the Region and the files of AYSO, Bylaws for the operation of
AYSO within the Region and financial statements for the Region;
(f) To appoint and maintain a Regional Board consisting of, at a minimum, a
Regional Commissioner, a Regional Treasurer and a Regional Risk
Management/Safety Director;
(g) To register players and coaches, referees and other
Regional officials;
(h) To assign players to assure proper balance of teams within any one age
division within a reasonable
geographical area;
(i) To locate and secure proper playing facilities;
(j) To secure uniforms, balls, goals and other necessary equipment;
(k) To schedule games;
(1) To train and assign referees and coaches;
(m) To comply with the Accident Reimbursement Program
and to submit insurance claims to the National Office;
(n) To release publicity concerning the Region;
(o) To pass by majority vote of the Regional Board as required for proper
management of the Region,
Administrative Rules, a copy of which shall appear in Appendix I. These Rules
may be reviewed by each new Regional Board and passed or changed as required.
(p) To try to reflect the perspective of the players on those decisions that
impact them.
Participating Members: They shall consist of all those persons serving
the Region in a coaching, refereeing or
administrative capacity, including those members ("Board Members"),
provided that such persons are registered with AYSO National Office on the
appropriate forms prescribed from time to time by AYSO.
Playing Members: They shall consist of all registered soccer players.
Contributing Members: They shall consist of those persons who have
contributed something of value to the Region and for which the Region wishes to
express its gratitude; they shall be granted membership at the discretion of the
Regional Board.
Section One: The Regional Board shall conduct the business and affairs of
the Region.
Section Two: Unless otherwise specifically provided by these Bylaws, all
decisions of the Regional Board shall be made by a majority decision of the
Board Members voting on any such matters; provided, however, that the Regional
Commissioner ("RC") may veto any such decision if the effect of such
decision would be to violate the National Bylaws, the National Rules and
Regulations, the Section Rules and Regulations, the policies and directives of
the National Board or these Guidelines. Such veto may be reviewed by the Area
Director ("AD") on request by a 2/3 vote of the Board Members voting
on such matters. By a 1/3 vote of the entire Regional Board, any other issue may
be put to the Participating Members of the Region, subject to voting procedures
to be adopted by the Regional Board.
Section Three: The new Regional Board shall fix at its first meeting of
each year the time, date and place of each regular meeting of the Board. In
addition, special meetings of the Regional Board may be called by the RC or 1/3
of the Board Members on three days notice stating the purposes of such meeting,
which notice may be given in writing or by telephone. A majority of the Board
Members shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of holding either a regular or
special meeting. It shall be the policy of the Region to hold at least eight
board meetings each year, including one in each month during the soccer season.
All Regional Board meetings shall be open to all Participating Members,
Contributing Members, and all people residing in or playing AYSO soccer in
Region 10, subject to space availability unless the Regional Board determines
that it is necessary to hold a closed session of the Board.
Section Four: At least one month prior to the February Board meeting, the
RC shall appoint a Nominating Committee consisting of the Regional Treasurer,
the Regional Risk Management/Safety Director, the Regional Referee
Administrator, the Regional Coach Administrator, and one other member designated
by him to accept other names of persons to be considered by the RC and the
Regional Board. The chairman of the Nominating Committee
shall be elected by its members.
Section Five: At each February Board meeting, the new Officers shall be
appointed by the incoming RC on the recommendation of the Nominating Committee
and with the approval of the majority of the outgoing Regional Board by secret
ballot to hold office for twelve months or until their successors shall have
been duly appointed. (Officers need not be parents of participants in the
Region.) The voting members of the Board shall be determined by the incoming RC
from the list of officers recommended by the Nominating Committee. (See Article
5, Section 1.)
Section Six: Whenever there is a vacancy in the position of RC, the
Regional Board, including the outgoing RC, shall recommend a successor and
submit such recommendation to the AD. The RC shall not be allowed to serve on
the Regional board as a voting member for one year after serving as RC.
Section Seven: No Board Member or any other participant in the Region
shall receive compensation for his services in connection with the Region, nor
may he use his position to benefit him directly or indirectly in any other way,
such as supplier of equipment to the Region.
Section Eight: Any vacancy on the Regional Board may be filled by a
majority of the then remaining Board Members, though less than a quorum, and the
person filling such vacancy shall serve until the next February Board meeting
and until his successor has been duly appointed.
Section Nine: Any Board Member or Participating Member (except the RC)
may be removed by a vote of 2/3 of the Board Members, which vote shall include
the affirmative vote of the RC, whenever it is judged to be in the best
interests of the Region or AYSO. The RC may only be removed by the National
Board in accordance with Section 3.07 of the National Bylaws.
Section One: The Regional Board shall consist of the RC, the Assistant RC,
the Regional Treasurer, the Regional Coach
Administrator, the Regional Referee Administrator, the Regional Risk
Management/Safety Director and such other officers as the
Regional Commissioner shall deem desirable, provided they
agree to attend 3/4 of all regularly scheduled Board meetings.
Section Two: The officers shall consist of the Regional Commissioner, the
Assistant Regional Commissioner, the Regional Treasurer, the Regional Coach
Administrator, the Regional Referee Administrator, the Regional Risk
Management/Safety Director and may include without limitation the Regional
Secretary, the Divisional Coordinators, a Director of Playing Fields, the
Regional Registrar, a Director of Public Relations, a Director of Equipment, a
Director of Special Events, the Post Season Coordinator, and such other officers
as the Regional Board shall from time to time deem desirable.
Section Three: The following are the job descriptions for the above
positions:
Regional Commissioner
The RC shall have the responsibility and the authority to administer the
day-to-day business of the Region within the framework
of the National Bylaws and Rules and Regulations and these Guidelines. The RC shall administer all Regional activities. The RC shall
preside at all meetings of the Regional Board. The RC shall
maintain close liaison with the AD and coordinate all extra-Regional activities
through the AD. The RC may be suspended by the AD
or the Section Director ("SD") and suspended or removed by the
National Board of Directors (the "National Board").
Assistant RC
Each Assistant RC shall assist the RC in fulfilling his duties and, in his
absence, shall perform his duties.
Regional Treasurer
The Regional Treasurer shall have custody of all funds, securities, evidence of
indebtedness and other valuable documents, and shall deposit funds and
securities in the name and to the credit of the Region in a bank of depository.
The Regional Treasurer shall keep in appropriate books an accurate account of
all money received and paid out. The Regional Treasurer shall render monthly a
written report of the funds, receipts, and disbursements of the Region or at
such other times as requested by the Regional Board. He shall be responsible for
filing with the National Office and Regional Board on a current basis the
Regional Information Form, the annual budget, and the quarterly financial
reports. All necessary financial statements (i.e. savings books, bank
statements, etc.) used to prepare the quarterly financial reports must be
presented at the next Board meeting for the inspection of the Board Members.
Other information may be required or requested from time to time by the National
Office and/or the Regional Board.
Regional Risk Management/Safety Director
The Regional Risk Management/Safety Director shall be responsible for
administering the AYSO Accident Reimbursement Program and liability insurance
program for the Region, handling all reports of accidents and/or claims for such
programs, promoting the safety of all participants in the Region and
disseminating such information on safety as may be available from time to time.
Regional Coach Administrator
The Regional Coach Administrator shall be responsible for the obtaining,
training and supervising of all coaches in the region. He shall arrange for
and/or give clinics and training programs where needed. He shall coordinate his
efforts with the RC, the Section and Area Coach Administrators and the National
Coaching Commission.
Regional Referee Administrator
The Regional Referee Administrator shall be responsible for the obtaining
training and supervising of all referees in the region. He shall arrange for
and/or give clinics and training programs when needed. He shall coordinate his
efforts with the RC, the Section and Area Referee Administrators and the
National Referee Commission.
Regional Secretary
The Regional Secretary shall take minutes at all meetings of the Regional Board
and general meetings of the Region and shall be charged with sending out all
general correspondence and notices on behalf of the Region. The Regional
Secretary shall also be responsible for publishing and distributing the regional
bylaws, the regional newsletter and other items as required by the Region.
Divisional Coordinators
The Divisional Coordinators shall be responsible for the operation of the
Division for which they have volunteered -- including the supervision of the
League Coordinators in accordance with these Guidelines.
Regional Registrar
The Regional Registrar shall be responsible for the proper registration of each
member in the Region on the appropriate official AYSO Registration Forms, the
mailing of such forms to the National Office, the dissemination of the other
copies of such form as required, the collection of the registration fees and the
turning over of such fees to the Regional Treasurer. Director of Playing Fields
The Director of Playing Fields shall be responsible for the obtaining and
maintaining of the playing fields. He shall also ensure that the fields are
properly lined and/or burned.
Director of Public Relations
The Director of Public Relations shall be responsible for the dissemination of
information concerning Regional activities, the preparation of a Regional
newsletter and the relations between the Region and the Community.
Sponsor Coordinator
The Sponsor Coordinator shall be responsible for the obtaining of sponsors for
the Region or Regional events.
Director of the Directory
The Director of the Directory shall be responsible for publishing and
distributing the annual player-parent handbook.
Director of Special Events
The Director of Special Events shall be responsible for organizing and running
all special events and activities of the Region as may be approved from time to
time by the Board.
Tournament Director Coordinator
The Tournament Director Coordinator shall be responsible for organizing and
setting up all select team and tournament play as approved by the RC or the
Regional Board.
Winter League Coordinator
The Winter League Coordinator shall be responsible for organizing and setting up
the Winter Season program as approved by the RC or the Regional Board.
Summer League Coordinator
The Summer League Coordinator shall be responsible for organizing and setting up
the Summer Season program as approved by the RC or the Regional Board.
Section One: Team Assignment
Team assignments shall be made by those persons designated by the Regional Board
based on relevant considerations. The coach shall be entitled to keep his child
on his team. There shall be no retention of players from the previous season. In
order to ensure balanced coaching and team formation, there will be no
pre-selection of assistant coaches. Every attempt shall be made to balance the
skill level of teams within each division. No transfer of any player from one
team to another may be made without the approval of the RC, and the parent or
guardian of the player.
Section Two: Registration Fees and Refunds
The Registration Fee for each participant shall be fixed annually by the
Regional Board. Such fee may be waived in whole or in part with respect to any
participant at the discretion of the Regional Board if in its judgment the
required of such fee would create a hardship for such participant of his or her
family. Any such fee may be refunded in the case of any participant who
withdraws after the season commences at the discretion of the Regional Board
under such rules as may be adopted by the Regional Board and as set forth in
Appendix I hereto.
Section Three: Eligibility
All boys and girls between the ages of 4˝ and 18, based on their age as of July
31 of the year in which the season begins, living within the Region's geographic
area shall be eligible to register, subject to field availability and volunteer
support and such rules may be promulgated by the Regional Board.
Section Four: Length of Season and Cancellation of Games
The season shall be determined by the Regional Board, as set forth in the
Regional Calendar found in the Annual Directory. Inclement weather or poor field
conditions may necessitate the canceling of games from time to time. Any such cancellation will be made at the discretion of
the RC, the Assistant RC, the Director of Playing Fields, Divisional
Coordinators, the League Coordinators, or the Referee of the game. Cancellation
should be made as early as possible before game time. Any of the above six may
call the game(s) and MAY NOT be overridden in that decision.
Section Five: Attendance and Participation
Every player shall be entitled to play at least 1/2 of every game in the
division U19, U16, U14 and U12. In divisions U10, U8 and U6 each player must
play at least 3/4 of each game where the numbers of players on the team allow.
In addition, each goal keeper in Division U10 and U8 must play at least one
quarter of the game in a different position. Each player is strongly urged to
attend every required practice and every game.
Section Six: Protests
In the event of a legitimate complaint, the coach may submit a letter of game
protest to the League Protest Board, defined in this Section. However, protests
will be discouraged. Protests involving "judgement calls" by the
referee will not be considered. The League Protest Board shall be comprised of:
a) League Coordinator; b) League Chief Referee; and c) Divisional Coordinator.
Missing members will be replaced by the RC. All protests must be submitted in
writing to the League Coordinator within forty eight (48) hours of the incident.
Appeals will be handled by the Regional Board, whose decision is final. In no
event shall the outcome of the game be changed. Conflicts of interest by members
of either the League Protest Board of the Regional Board will result on that
member being excluded from that Board. No protest will be allowed in division U6
and U8.
Section Seven: Conduct During Games
The highest standards of conduct must be maintained at all times. Abusive or
foul language is forbidden. All participants must wear the official uniforms
provided at all times and dress in them in a neat, clean manner. The use of shin guards is required. Coaches,
referees and spectators are expected to be positive and set the best possible
example for the participants. The function of the coach should be to provide
encouragement and positive direction. Excessive negative coaching from the
sidelines shall not be permitted. The coach may only enter the field of play
with the consent of the referee and may only coach within (10) yards in each
direction from the middle of the field. Spectators at games must remain behind
the spectator control line (three yards from the sideline) and between the
penalty areas, and their vocal efforts should be limited to positive compliments
to the participants. Under no circumstances should they attempt to coach or
address remarks derogatory to players or the referee. At the end of the game,
the two teams should line up at the center of the field and shake hands with the
players of the opposing team. Discipline should be up to the referee at each
game, and he shall have the power and authority to eject players, coaches or
spectators from the player area if their conduct violates these Guidelines or
otherwise interferes with the course of play. Conduct of players and spectators
from the coach's team is the responsibility of the coach. The center referee
may, at his discretion, request that the coach take whatever action is necessary
for the curtailing the interruption of the game. Failure to control these
interruptions could result in suspension of the game. A player or coach who is
sent off (red card) or cautioned (yellow card) may be subject to additional
disciplinary action (e.g. Parent conferences, game suspensions, expulsions) at
the discretion of the Regional Board upon thorough review of the incident
following the procedures outlined in Article 7 (Dispute Resolution). A coach,
assistant coach or spectator who is sent off or cautioned may also be subject to
similar or additional disciplinary action at the discretion of the Regional
Board upon thorough review of the incident following the procedures outlined in
Article 7 (Dispute Resolution). Notwithstanding the disciplinary actions
described above, any participant who is sent off the field by a referee for a
disciplinary reason shall serve, at a minimum, a one additional game
suspension. No appeal of disciplinary action taken by a referee shall be allowed.
Section Eight: Refreshments at Games
It shall be the responsibility of each team to supply its own half-time and post game refreshments. It is suggested that the best kind or
refreshment is simply cool water. Teams should remember to bring refreshments for the referees at half-time.
Section Nine: Parental Participation
It is expected that each parent who has a player in the region shall volunteer
his or her services in some way. The Region reserves the right to reject the
registration of any player whose parent refuses to volunteer his or her
services.
Section Ten: Facilities
It shall be the responsibility of both teams for the first game each day to set
up the goal posts, nets and corner flags and the home team for the last game of
each day to take down the goal posts, nets and corner flags and to store them
properly. Each field shall be burned and/or lined under the direction of the
League Coordinators and/or the Director of Playing Fields, and each group of
fields shall be provided with a first aid kit. No trash should be left at the
facility. Parking shall be limited to those areas designated at the fields.
Section Eleven: Sponsors
The region encourages local business and individuals to support our program.
Suitable recognition shall be given to them. Such contributions are strongly
encouraged to be made to the Region rather than to a particular team. All such
contributions are considered charitable contributions and are deductible for U.S. tax purposes, subject to applicable limitations in the Internal Revenue
Code.
Section Twelve: Equipment
The Region shall supply each participant with a pair of socks, shirt and shorts,
as well as the playing fields, goals post, nets and balls. Each participant is
expected to provide his own soccer shoes, shin guards and ball.
Section One: General Policy
It is the policy of the Region to resolve all disputes involving persons
involved in the Region in an amicable way. Compromise should be emphasized
whenever possible, and personality conflicts should be avoided. If disciplinary
action is found to be necessary, it is the Region's policy to take only the
minimum action necessary. All means available should be taken to avoid legal
action.
It is the policy of the Region to avoid punishing the players for the conduct of
the parents except when there is no other solution (e.g., where a parent cannot
or will not cease his or her disruptive behavior).
It is the policy of the Region to avoid wiping out years of good memories of
AYSO and good service to AYSO, and that suspension or removal procedures are to
be used only as a last resort. Voluntary resignation is preferable to a
suspension or removal procedure.
It is the policy of the Region to avoid publicizing the suspension or removal
proceedings beyond those persons who need to know, and to respect the privacy of
the individuals involved. However, the Regional Commissioner or Regional Board
should notify the Area Director, the Section Director, the National Support
Center or members of the AYSO Legal Commission of the pending proceedings
pursuant to the operating regulations, and must comply with all applicable
regulations and laws requiring suspension, abuse and similar events.
Section Two: General Due Process Procedures
Disputes involving day-to-day activities of the Region should first be addressed
and resolved, if possible, by the appropriate Board Member in charge of the
activity and/or then by the entire Regional Board, if necessary. Disputes
arising out of game conduct should first be addressed and resolved, if possible,
by the Regional Referee Administrator and/or then by a disinterested Review
Board appointed by the Regional Commissioner and/or then by the entire Regional Board,
if necessary. If it is determined that it is necessary that a person involved in the Region
needs to be disciplined, or that his or her participation in the Region should
be limited or terminated, then the Regional Commissioner or the Regional Board
shall give notice in writing to such person of such intention. Such notice shall
specify the action to be taken and the reasons therefore. Such notices shall
further notify such person that he or she, upon request, will be given a
reasonable opportunity to explain why such action should not be taken. Such
opportunity to respond may be in person at a hearing, by telephone or in
writing. The Regional Commissioner or Regional Board may appoint a disinterested
Hearing Board or Committee of neutral persons to consider such discipline. After
such opportunity to respond has been given, the Regional Commissioner, Regional
Board, Hearing Board or Committee shall make its determination and announce it
in writing to all persons concerned.
Section Three: Suspension
The Regional Commissioner or Regional Board may suspend a person involved in the
Region from further involvement in the program on notice (by telephone, fax,
writing or in person) if there is found to be an imminent danger to the program
by his or her continuing involvement, or if a crime has been alleged to be
committed by such participant. Such a suspension must be followed by a
disciplinary hearing described in Paragraph Two, above. A suspension is
considered to be temporary in nature, and such suspension may be removed or set
aside by a majority of the Regional Board at any time.
Section Four: Removal
The Regional Commissioner or the Regional Board may remove a person (whether or
not suspended) involved in the Region, including a Regional Board Member, from
further involvement in the program. Such removal may only be made upon prior
notice and after a determination is made that removal is appropriate, as the
result of a disciplinary hearing described in Paragraph Two, above. Such removal
is only permitted when there is found to be (a) a violation of the National Bylaws or of the rules, regulations, policies or philosophies of AYSO
or (b) conduct which disrupts the Region's or AYSO's activities or programs.
Section Five: Hearing Procedures
The disciplinary hearing shall be held at a neutral location. The hearing
procedures shall be communicated to and understood by all parties prior to the
commencement of such hearing. All interested parties are to be informed of the
date, time and location of such hearing.
At the hearing the Committee or Hearing Board shall listen to the facts of the
situation from all interested parties, and then adjourn to a private session
where the decision will be reached. Under no circumstances shall the Committee
or Hearing Board deliberate in the presence of the parties involved in the
dispute. The Committee or Hearing Board will then decide the issues raised
pursuant to AYSO operating regulations and these Regional Guidelines based on
the evidence submitted, and by majority vote determine the appropriate action
including whether no action should be taken against the individual accused, or
whether such person should be given a warning or caution, or whether such person
should be given a written reprimand, or whether such person should be suspended
or removed from involvement in Regional activities. All interested parties shall
be promptly notified of such decision after, and in the case of removal, and
where deemed appropriate, such individual be given an opportunity to resign
voluntarily.
Section Six: Review
Any determination made in accordance with this Article shall be final and
binding on all concerned unless it is determined by the Area Director, or, if
he/she is not disinterested, the Section Director, that such determination was
arbitrary and capricious, or that the procedure was not fair, or that the person
or persons making such determination are found not to have been disinterested.
Any interested party dissatisfied with the decision or action taken by the
Committee or Hearing Board may request a review of such decision by (in order)
the Area Director, Section Director or National Board of Directors, as may be
appropriate pursuant to the operating regulations relating to dispute resolution
and due process.
Section One: Budget and Financial Statement
The Regional Board shall adopt a Budget at the beginning of each new Board which
provides the basis for setting participant registration fees. The Treasurer
shall provide the Board with no less than quarterly analyses of a comparison of
budget to actual expenses.
The Board shall also cause to be prepared a monthly cash on hand statement
showing funds available. At the end of the fiscal year, the Regional Board shall
cause to be prepared a statement of income received and amounts expended in
connection with the program. Such statement shall be made available to the
parent or guardian of each participant. This season's budget and last season's
Statement of Income and Expenses are found in the Annual Directory.
Section Two: Books and Records
The Region shall maintain accurate books and records in
accordance with the current accounting manual and prepare
quarterly statements of income and expenses. The Regional
Treasurer shall bring to monthly Board meetings a monthly
record of expenses.
Section Three: Account Signatories
All checks drawn on the Region's bank account shall bear two signatures, one of
which must either be the Regional Treasurer's or the RC's. Additional
signatories must be authorized by Regional Board action.
Section Four: Transfer of Funds
All funds received by the Region, whether from fees, gifts
or otherwise, must be deposited into the Region's checking
account, from which all expenses and disbursements must be paid. All funds
transferred in or out of the Region's savings account must be transferred from
or to the Region's checking account by check.
Section Five: "Specified Use" Funds
The Board may from time to time, designate funds accumulated in excess of
current operating requirements for specified use in a restricted fund balance by
affirmative vote of 2/3 of its members. " Specified use" will mean a project or purpose which will further the
duties and responsibilities of AYSO Region 10.
Section One: Approval of Guidelines
These Guidelines shall become effective when approved by the RC, the existing
Regional Board, the AD and the SD.
Section Two: Changes in Guidelines
Once adopted, these Guidelines may only be amended by the Regional Board by a
1/3 vote of the Board Members, with the approval of the Regional Commissioner,
the Area Director, and the Section Director.
Section Three: Suspension or Removal
of Regional Board Member
Notwithstanding anything else contained in these Guidelines to
the contrary, the AD or SD may suspend or remove any member
of the Regional Board if he/she determines that such member of
the Regional Board has violated these Guidelines, the National Bylaws, the
National Rules and Regulations, the Section Rules
and Regulations, the policies and directives of the National Board
of Directors, or the philosophy of AYSO.
APPENDICES INDEX
Appendix A/Regional Board .......................... See Annual Directory
Appendix B/Prior Year Income & Expenses .. See
Annual Directory
Appendix C/Current Year Budget .................. See Annual Directory
Appendix D/AYSO National Bylaws ............. See Regional Commissioner Manual or
the National AYSO website, www.soccer.org
Appendix E/AYSO National Rules and Regulations ...See Regional Commis sioner Manual or
the National AYSO website, www.soccer.org
Appendix F/Section One Rules and Regulations .........See Regional Commis sioner Manual or
the National AYSO website, www.soccer.org
Appendix G/AYSO National Policies ............ See Regional Commis sioner Manual or
the National AYSO website, www.soccer.org
Appendix H/Regional Calendar ..................... See Annual Directory
Appendix L/League and Playoff Protocol ........page 33
APPENDIX I
Administrative Rules
1. If a player is given a red card, or a coach or spectator is ejected
from the game, the violator, at a minimum, may not attend the next scheduled
game.
2. Disciplinary action may be taken by the Regional Board against any player,
coach, official or spectator. Such disciplinary action may include suspension
indefinitely.
3. Players not attired in a proper uniform may not be allowed to play until
properly dressed at the discretion of the game referee. Long sleeved sweatshirts
worn under a player's jersey in very cold or inclement weather may be permitted
by the referee.
4. A player will not be permitted to wear jewelry of any kind including items
such as earrings, wrist watches, string bracelets, chains, body jewelry, post
earrings, bandannas, hats (except for the goal keeper) and removable dental
pieces (no retainers), or anything else which the referee in his sole discretion
judges to be dangerous to the player or other players. Medical information
bracelets should not be removed, but must be padded and taped to the players
skin. Prescription eyeglasses may be worn, but must remain firmly on the
wearer's head or restrained by a strap. Non-prescription eyeglasses and
sunglasses are not permitted to be worn by a player during a game. It is also
recommended to coaches that the same safety rules be applied during practices.
5. Goalkeepers may wear soft knee or elbow pads and/or gloves.
6. A player will not be permitted to practice or participate in any game while
wearing any type of cast or splint.
7. No more than one required practice will be scheduled in any one week. If
there is more than one practice scheduled, the coach will designate which one is
required.
8. Players are expected to attend practice regularly. Failure to do so can lead
to disciplinary action, including the loss of playing time. This action may only
be taken by the Division Coordinator or RC after consultation with the parents,
coach, and League Coordinator.
9. Players who cannot attend a game or practice must notify the coach as soon as
possible so game or practice plans can be modified.
10. All players must be listed on the game line-up card in numerical order
whether present or not. The reason for absence should be noted next to the
absent player's name.
11. Coaches are responsible to have medical release forms present at each
practice and each game.
12. At least two adults must be present at every practice in order to guarantee
that the children are properly supervised in the event that one adult must leave
to care for an injured player.
13. The coach shall meet with all parents, and they shall agree on a procedure
for picking up children from practice. The coach will also make and publicize
the procedure if a child is not picked up within 10 minutes of the end of
practice or a game.
14. In the event a referee becomes incapacitated, the game may only be played
under the authority of a qualified referee. Play must be resumed within 15
minutes or the game re-scheduled for a later date.
15. No team may play a league game until a team roster (2 copies) is turned in
to the League Coordinator. Any scheduled games will be subject to forfeiture by
those teams not complying.
16. Any canceled games should be rescheduled if possible.
17. Coaches, referees and spectators may not smoke at practices or games.
18. Verbally or physically assaulting an official is prohibited and will lead to
immediate suspension from AYSO pending further disciplinary proceedings at the
discretion of the Regional
Commissioner.
19. All coaches, assistant coaches, referees and other volunteers must complete
and provide to the Registrar an AYSO Volunteer Application.
APPENDIX J -
TOURNAMENT AND SELECT TEAM
SELECTION PROCEDURES
Tournament soccer is played outside of the regular AYSO season and Area team
championships. Tournament play brings together players from different Regions
and consists of any single event, e.g., Founders Cup, or continuing soccer
program, e.g., Palos Verdes Spring League. Teams from our Area that participate
in tournament soccer are either "select" teams or "recreational
and development" teams.
Section One: Teams
"Select Teams"
· Our Region has aligned itself with the other regions in our Area by using the
select team format. A "select team" is made up of the most capable
players in boys' and girls' divisions U10, U12 and U14.
· In each division, a "younger" select team and an "older"
select team will be chosen. Thus, for example, in girls' U10, a "U9"
and a "U10" team will be chosen. The purpose of fielding two teams
from each division is to build fundamentals within the younger teams from an
earlier age who will bring those fundamentals to regular and post season AYSO play in progressively higher divisions.
· The select teams from boys' division U10 will be composed of proportional
numbers of players from each league within the division.
· The players on a select team are chosen entirely by the select team head
coach from the eligible players who competed in regular season play. Other coaches, e.g., head coaches from teams who competed
during the regular season, are encouraged to make recommendations, but final
selection authority rests with the select team coach.
· A player chosen for a select team must be registered with AYSO and must have
played in at least half of the games during the regular season.
· All players must have displayed good sportsmanship during the regular season.
Any player who received a red card during the regular season may be disqualified
from consideration.
· No player with an outstanding financial obligation to the Region will be
eligible for a select team.
· Select teams are formed before recreational and development teams or any
other team chosen for post season play.
"Recreational and Development" teams
· Recreational and development ("R & D") teams are formed from
players in boys' and girls' divisions U8, U10, U12 and U14.
· For the Redondo Beach Turkey Tournament (Region 34), eligible players are
those who are the children of volunteers in Region 10 such as Board members,
division Coordinators, league Coordina- tors, head coaches, assistant coaches,
referees and others who have made significant volunteer contributions during the
season.
· The R & D teams are coached by coaches chosen by the
Tournament Committee upon application.
· A player chosen for an R & D team must be registered in AYSO and must
have played in at least half the games during the regular season.
· All players must have displayed good sportsmanship during the regular season.
Any player who received a red card during the regular season may be disqualified
from consideration.
· No player with an outstanding financial obligation to the Region will be
eligible for an R & D team.
Section Two: Coaches and Tournament Committee
· The Tournament Committee of Region 10 is responsible for administering the
Region's tournament team program in accordance with these Guidelines.
· The Tournament Committee is chaired by that Region 10 Board of Directors
member responsible for Tournaments and Select Teams. In addition to that person,
the Tournament Committee is composed of the Regional Coach Administrator, Regional Referee Administrator,
Girls' Coordinator, Boys' Coordinator and Assistant Regional Commissioner. The
Tournament Committee reports directly to the Regional Commissioner, who has sole
authority to override any decisions of the Tournament Committee that are
contrary to AYSO philosophy.
· Any coach in AYSO Region 10 is eligible to coach a tournament team and must
be approved by the Tournament Committee. Approval of the head coach rests solely
within the discretion of the Tournament Committee and is final. The Tournament
Committee will choose tournament coaches using guidelines which include, but are
not limited to, the following:
Sportsmanship: Only those adhering to the "Positive
Coaching" philosophy of AYSO will be permitted to coach a tournament team.
Experience: Applicants must have at least one year of experience
as a regular season head coach, with two or
more years of head coaching experience preferred. Special consideration will be
given to those applicants with prior tournament coaching experience.
Tournament and/or season "plan": It is recommended that
coaches have a plan for their tournament team that allows for factors such as
team organization, player selection, financial considerations and tournaments to
be entered. If applicable, housing and transportation issues should be addressed
prior to the start of the tournament season, which generally runs from
Thanksgiving to July 4th. The season includes the Palos Verdes Select Spring
League, which runs from March to May.
Commitment: One of the goals of the Tournament
Committee is to develop talent within each of the divisions that field players
for select and tournament teams. It is hoped that the effort to develop such
players will result in those players continuing to play AYSO soccer as they
mature into older age divisions. Thus, a successful head coach candidate will
commit to AYSO teams at least through Division U12.
Division U12: Boys' and girls' divisions U12 select team coaches
will also have the responsibility of coordinating the Region's Spring League at
Ladera Linda and Highridge fields. Coaches in these divisions must make this additional commitment.
· Coaches must not select players prior to approval of the coach by the
Tournament Committee.
Section Three: Tournaments
· Tournament Season begins Thanksgiving weekend each year. The select teams
play at North Torrance in the annual Turkey Tournament. The R & D teams play at Redondo Beach in a Thanksgiving weekend
tournament.
· Other tournaments:
West Torrance hosts a very competitive select tournament
at Christmas time.
Beverly Hills hosts a tournament which rewards good sportsmanship
over the New Year Holidays in which the Region's R & D teams traditionally
participate.
Rainbow Tournament is held in Hawaii. Each year, the Region sends
boys' and girls' division U12 select teams to this tournament, participation in
which is partially subsidized by the Region's Cultural Exchange program.
· All Select and R & D teams must provide their own funding
and pay their own tournament fees. The Region will pay for fifty percent of the
Redondo Beach Thanksgiving volunteer teams' tournament fees.
· Spring Select Soccer:
Palos Verdes Spring League is hosted by Region 10 and runs from
March through May.
· Spring Recreation League:
Central Torrance hosts a recreational league from March through
May.
· Tournament soccer must not conflict in any way with AYSO regular season or
area championship play. Players and coaches who do not follow this policy are
subject to suspension from the Region and AYSO.
· During AYSO Area championships, select teams have priority in terms of
tournament entry, player and coach
selection, and practices.
· The Tournament Hotline is (310) 375-4999, mailbox 1.
Section Four: Transportation and Housing
· For any AYSO-sanctioned activity requiring transportation outside a 10-mile
radius of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, each driver shall have in his or her
possession a copy of the AYSO Player Registration form for each passenger under
the age of 18 (other than the driver's own child(ren)), signedby the
passenger's parent or guardian.
· In addition, for transportation to any AYSO-sanctioned activity outside a
50-mile radius of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the head coach shall submit a
transportation plan which will include the date(s) of the event, location,
pickup and return times, drivers' names and addresses and riders' names. When
private vehicles are used, drivers shall submit evidence of insurance with a
minimum coverage amount of $300,000 for bodily injury and $100,00 for property
damage.
· For any ASYO-sanctioned event requiring overnight accommodations, under no circumstances may a child stay
in any accommodation without the presence of an adult of the same gender.
Section Five: Suspension and Disciplinary Action
· Learning good sportsmanship is the most important part of participating in
youth sport and is an integral part of the AYSO philosophy. Because of this,
good sportsmanship by all players, parents, coaches and other spectators is
stressed at all games. Failure to demonstrate good sportsmanship is grounds for
suspension from the tournament and select program.
· Any player who receives a red card or any coach who is ejected from the field
for violent conduct will be suspended immediately from the tournament and select
program for the remainder of the season. "Violent conduct" includes,
but is not limited to, striking or attempting to strike another person and
threats of violence directed to any other person.
· Any player who receives a red card or any coach who is ejected from the field
for any other infraction of the rules may be asked to come before the Tournament
Committee, who will decide whether to refer the matter to the Regional
Commissioner for disciplinary action.
· Any parent or other spectator who is cautioned by the referee more than once
during a game is advised that further disruptions of the game may result in his
or her child's being suspended from the team for one game or more.
· Any parent or other spectator who challenges a referee or official after a
game has ended may have his or her child suspended from the team for a minimum
of two games and be required to come before the Tournament Committee to
determine whether the matter should be referred to the Regional Commissioner for
further action.
· It is the responsibility of the head coach to report immediately any
of the aforementioned infractions during tournament and select team play to the
Tournament Committee. Failure to report any infractions may result in the
suspension of the head coach.
APPENDIX K
Draft Procedures
Preamble:
National AYSO policy requires balanced teams to encourage an atmosphere of fair
and even competition. It does not allow for the pre-selection of any but the
coach's child(ren) to a particular team. Region 10 recognized the many reasons
that coaches might wish to pre-select as well the child of an assistant coach
but does not allow it in its draft procedures because:
1) It is contrary to the National policy and,
2) We believe that ultimately the children (and parents) in the program are best
served by a totally random selection process.
Region 10 recognizes its responsibility and has had for the last few years
sufficient "B" level coaches to provide introductory and "C"
coaches' clinics to all interested coach and assistant coach volunteers. We
recognize that it is easier to recruit new coaches when they do not have to
coach against a pair of coaches who have already developed that special
chemistry that comes from having worked together previously. We recognize that it is easier to keep more children interested in youth sports
when there is an attempt not only to provide balanced teams but also provide
balanced quality coaching. The draft procedure outlined below provides for distributing assistant coaches
to teams randomly and with the assurance that each coach will receive at least
one assistant coach (if available). We encourage all coach/assistant coach
volunteers to attend a scheduled "C" and/ or "B" clinic to
help ensure the quality of the coaching. Preference in the selection of coaches
will be given to those individuals who have earned at least a "C"
coach's badge and have demonstrated a commitment to the AYSO philosophy.
I. Prior to the draft all registered players must be contacted:
A. To confirm that they are going to play this season;
B. To determine any conflicts the players might have;
C. To confirm that the player is playing in the correct league.
II. Prior to the draft, all players must be rated relative to the other players
in their age group. The coaches must reach a consensus on the ratings of the
players before the draft can be conducted.
III. To balance skill levels across all teams, Region 10 will use a blind draft
procedure unless otherwise approved by the RC.
A. Head Coaches are to be assigned to teams on a random basis to the extent allowed by their own child's rating.
B. Players within each rating category will be assigned to their respective teams on a random basis. Once assigned to a team, no player may
be removed from that team without the approval of the Regional Representative.
IV. Assistant Coaches
A. The League Coordinators shall make every effort to recruit enough Assistant
Coaches so there will be one for every team.
B. Prior to the draft, Assistant Coaches must be confirmed by the League
Coordinator to guarantee that they are willing to coach.
C. To the extent of their own child's rating, Assistant Coaches will be assigned
to their teams on a random basis using a blind pick.
APPENDIX L
LEAGUE AND PLAYOFF PROTOCOL
Section One: Determining League Standings
The following point system will be used in those divisions in which league
standings are kept:
3 points for a win
1 point for a draw
0 points for a loss
In the event of a tie in league standings at the end of the season, the
following tie breakers will apply, in this order:
Results of head to head competition
Goal differential (maximum of three per game)
Lowest goals against
Coin toss
Trophies will be awarded to the top three teams in each league or division.
After the league play is over, a separate tournament with all teams eligible
will be held to determine which team will go to the King of the Hill or Queen of
the Hill Tournament.
Section Two: Playoff Play
In the event of a tie during a game that must end in a decision, two overtime
periods will be played using the golden goals system ("Sudden
Victory").
If a tie still remains, the California Shootout procedure will be employed.
In the past, ties after overtime have been decided by penalty kicks. We feel
that this is more a test of nerve than of soccer skill and have adopted a new
system, one that has been used recently in a number of Area tournaments.
California Shootout:
At the commencement of the California Shootout the teams change ends and the
goalkeepers are removed. If after 5 minutes no goal is scored the teams change
ends and three players on each team are removed. If after 5 minutes no goal is
scored, two additional players are removed. If after 5 minutes no goal is scored
the teams change ends and two players are removed. Somebody must score by now!
AYSO REGION 10
Application to be a Select or Recreational Head Coach
All requested information must be completed in full for this application
to be considered by the AYSO Region 10 Tournament Committee. It is
recommended that this application be submitted by October 1 each year.
Name _____________________________________________________ Requested Age U____
Address ________________________________ City __________________Zip ____________
Home Phone __________________________ Business Phone ___________________________
Current Fall division and team name
________________________________________________
Coaching Experience-League (Years and divisions)
_____________________________________
Coaching Experience-Select and Recreational (Years and divisions)
_________________________
Do you possess an AYSO "C" or "B" coaching license? (License
and date) ___________________
Have you attended either the Area F Intermediate or Advanced coaching clinics?
(Dates) ________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Did you receive any Red or Yellow cards during the past fall regular season?
______ If yes, please explain:
______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Do you have a tournament and/or season plan? ___________If yes, briefly describe
how the team
will be organized, including financial considerations, and how players will be
selected. Which tournaments, if any, would you like to enter? (Please attach
additional material if necessary.)
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Is there any additional information you would like the Tournament Committee to
consider when reviewing this application? (Please attach additional material, if
necessary.) ____________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
I have received, read and understand the AYSO Region 10 Guidelines for Select
Soccer.
Signature ________________________________________________ Date _______________
