ARTICLE ONE
PURPOSE
The purpose of these Guidelines is to regulate the affairs of A.Y.S.O. Region 1508. 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 and Section Rules & Regulations, the Area Guidelines and the Policies adopted from time to time by the AYSO National Board of Directors (collectively, the “National Regulations”), copies of which (except for the Articles of Incorporation) will be made available by the region on request and are hereby incorporated by reference. To the extent that these Guidelines conflict with or are in contradiction to any of them, they shall prevail over these Guidelines.
ARTICLE TWO
MISSION
The AYSO Mission is to develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs which promote a fun, family environment based on the AYSO philosophies:
Everyone Plays - Our goal is for kids to play soccer— so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least half of every game.
Balanced Teams - At the start of each primary season we form teams as evenly balanced as possible- because it is more fun where teams of equal ability play.
Positive Coaching - Winning kids are built up, not 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 and 18 years of age who want to register and play soccer in our program. Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing.
Good Sportsmanship - We desire to create a positive environment based on mutual respect, rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude, and our program is designed to instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO.
ARTICLE THREE
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE REGION
The duties and responsibilities of the region shall be, to the extent permitted by its size and available resources:
1) To run a quality youth soccer program in a safe environment that complies in letter and spirit with the philosophy, objectives, and National Regulations of AYSO;
2) To maintain good community relations and become involved in youth development and other community activities;
3) To register in the AYSO online registration system or with the National Support & Training Center (“NSTC”) all participating players, coaches, referees, administrators, and other volunteers prior to the commencement of the membership year or, if registered during the membership year, within 30 days following such registration;
4) To assign players and coaches to assure proper balance of teams within any one age division within a reasonable geographical area;
5) To obtain and maintain safe playing facilities;
6) To obtain and be accountable for uniforms, balls, goals and other necessary equipment; and to use such equipment in a safe manner;
7) To schedule practices and games;
8) To recruit and assign volunteer coaches and referees, and train them through clinics and audio/visual programs;
9) To disseminate information to the participants, their families and the community concerning the region and its programs;
10) To recognize volunteer efforts;
11) To hold periodic meetings of the regional board and disseminate to the participants, their families and the community appropriate information concerning the operation of the region by the board
12) To make available to the participants and their families of the region these Regional Guidelines and the attachments hereto as well as the financial statements of the region at least once a year;
13) To comply with AYSO policies and procedures relating to financial matters; including:
a) to publish for the region and for the files at the NSTC, and make available to the participants and their families at least annually, financial statements of the region and guidelines for the operation of the region approved by the area director and section director, or in the absence of such guidelines operate the region in accordance with the Standard Regional Guidelines as are in effect from time to time;
b) to collect and disburse fees and other monies ensuring the sound financial organization and operation of the region, to keep and submit to the NSTC, as required, accurate financial records to insure continuation of the tax exempt status of AYSO;
c) to participate in the National Accounting Program; and,
d) to pay the NSTC the national player fee and all amounts due with respect to the region’s purchases from the NSTC within the payment guidelines established by the national treasurer.
14) To comply with the Soccer Accident Insurance program and to submit on a timely basis accident notification forms and SAI claims to the National Support Center;
15) To notify the National Support Center of any threatened or actual claim against the region; its participants, or AYSO
16) To implement AYSO National programs available to the region, at least once a season;
17) To cooperate with neighboring regions, and area, section and development personnel, to promote growth, development and cooperation throughout AYSO;
18) To participate in area, section and National events and programs when able.
19) To cooperate in policies and procedures developed by the board or the National Support & Training Center with respect to requiring each coach, referee, and other designated volunteers to complete a volunteer form, and with respect to verifying the information obtained, before permitting the coach, referee or such volunteer to participate.
ARTICLE FOUR
MEMBERSHIP IN A.Y.S.O. REGION 1508
1) There shall be three kinds of members in the region:
Participating Members: Those persons serving the region in a coaching, refereeing, team parent or administrative capacity *, including the members (“board members”) of the regional board of directors (“regional board”) who shall, in the case of coaches and referees, be registered with the AYSO National Support Center on the appropriate forms prescribed by AYSO.
· Active Participating Members shall be granted ability to vote in Regional Commissioner Elections or any matter that the board deems. Must have a current volunteer application on file with the region.
· Inactive Participating Members shall not be granted the ability to vote in Regional Commissioner Elections or any matter that the board deems
Playing Members: All registered soccer players (“players”)
Contributing Members: Those persons to whom the regional board grants membership in order to recognize a contribution of value to the region and or to express its gratitude.
2) The names, addresses and telephone number of all members of the region, as well as the information contained in the AYSO Executive Member Directory or any AYSO database, are private and confidential. Such information and mailing lists may not be disclosed or distributed to anyone, including any vendor or sponsor, without the prior written approval of the national executive director.
* Administrative capacity shall include team parents, field coordinators and those individuals defined by the regional board as serving in a staff capacity.
ARTICLE FIVE
MANAGEMENT OF THE REGION
1. The regional commissioner, with the support and assistance of the regional board, shall conduct the business and affairs of the region.
2. Unless otherwise specifically provided by these Guidelines, all decisions of the regional board shall be made by a majority decision of the board members voting on any such matter; provided, however, that the regional commissioner (“RC”) may veto any such decision if the effect of such decision would be to violate any of the National Regulations. Such veto may be reviewed by the area director (the “AD”) on request by a 2/3 vote of the board members voting on such matter. By a 2/3 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.
3. The regional board shall meet no less than once each month. The regularly scheduled board meetings shall take place on the second Tuesday of each month at the Pizza factory or a location determined at least one month in advance of the scheduled. In addition, the regional commissioner, the regional secretary or 1/3 of the board members may call a special meeting of the regional board on three days’ prior notice stating the purposes of such meeting, which notice may be given in writing, by telephone or in person. 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 one board meeting in each month. The regional board shall provide for the taking of minutes of the proceedings at each meeting and make them available to the members of the region. All regional board meetings shall be open to all participating members unless the regional board determines that it is necessary to hold an executive session. An “executive session” is permitted only to review personnel matters, disciplinary matters, or legal matters, and should not be used where a vote upon any issue involving the affairs of the region is taken.
4. The election of the Regional Board is to be held on the official regional closing day of each season.
Last day of the regular fall season, Mid November and Last day of the Spring Season late May.
At least one month prior to the annual meeting, the regional commissioner shall appoint a nominating commission consisting of board members and a reasonable number of persons who are not members of the board, but not less than three in number. The nominating commission shall publicize to the participating members of the region the regional board positions to be voted upon. Regional board members need not be parents of players in the region. The nominating commission shall recruit and recommend board members for the next twelve months and accept other names of persons to be considered by the regional board for such positions. At the annual meeting, the board members shall be appointed by the regional commissioner on the recommendation of the nominating commission and with the approval of a majority of the outgoing regional board (if any), to hold office for twelve months. The regional commissioner may choose not to appoint an individual to a board position, even though recommended and approved, if the regional commissioner deems there is sufficient reason not to make the appointment. In such case, the regional commissioner shall ask the nominating commission to recommend additional candidates for approval and appointment. This inclusive and democratic process should be followed any time there are board positions to be filled, with the only exception being the appointment of the inaugural regional board (see paragraph 3).
At least three months, and preferably six months, before the expiration of the regional commissioner’s term, or whenever there is a vacancy in the regional commissioner position due to death, resignation or removal, the regional board shall constitute a nominating commission. Such nominating commission may be the same nominating commission appointed pursuant to the preceding paragraph. The nominating commission shall submit its recommendations of one or more candidates for the position of regional commissioner to the regional board. The regional board shall, by a majority vote, nominate a regional commissioner and forward such nomination to the region’s area director as directed by National Bylaw Section 7.03. In the absence of a regional board, or in the absence of a nomination by a majority of the regional board, the regional commissioner will be nominated by the region’s area director. A nominee for regional commissioner is subject to approval of the area director, section director and National Board of Directors and is effective only upon approval of the National Board of Directors. The National Board of Directors has full discretion to disapprove a nominee or approve a nominee for a term of three years or for a shorter period as it sees fit.
In the event of a vacancy in the position of regional commissioner other than at the expiration of the regular term, the regional board, including (if available) the outgoing regional commissioner, shall recommend an interim regional commissioner and submit such recommendation to the area director. The interim successor shall remain in office until the completion of the election procedures in paragraph 6.
The regional commissioner shall serve a term of three years, subject to the terms of approval set forth by the National Board of Directors (see paragraph 6). The regional commissioner may serve multiple terms so long as he or she is nominated and appointed as indicated above.
It is the general policy of the region that the regional commissioner will have normally served at least one year on the regional board before serving as regional commissioner.
It is the general policy of the region that the regional commissioner not serves as a coach or assistant coach, nor holds any other board or staff position in the region, except with the approval of the regional board. Where the regional commissioner or other board member also serves in another volunteer capacity, the regional board shall, at a minimum, adopt special procedures to insure that decisions affecting the regional commissioner acting in such other capacity are made by other, disinterested board members. The regional commissioner shall act in all other ways to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
No board member or any other participant in the region shall receive monetary or other compensation for his/her services to the region, nor may he/she use his/her position to benefit him/her directly or indirectly in any other way, such as a supplier of equipment or camp programs to the region. Nothing in this paragraph prohibits any regional board or staff member, or regional volunteer, from being reimbursed for his or her out-of-pocket expenses incurred for work on behalf of the region with the approval of the regional board.
Any vacancy on the regional board, except that of regional commissioner, may be filled by a majority vote of the then remaining board members, even if less than a quorum, and the person filling such vacancy shall serve until the next annual meeting and until his/her successor has been duly appointed.
Any board member (except the regional commissioner) may be removed in accordance with Article Nine, paragraph 4, of these guidelines. The regional commissioner may be suspended by the area director or the section director and suspended or removed only by the National Board of Directors in accordance with Sections 3.07 and 7.03 of the National Bylaws.
ARTICLE SIX
OFFICERS
The Regional Board of A.Y.S.O. Region 1508 shall consist of two bodies, the voting Regional Board and the non-voting Regional Staff. Each Officer and Board member shall serve for a one (1) year term.
The regional board shall, at a minimum, consist of the regional commissioner, the regional treasurer, the regional risk management/safety director, the regional coach administrator, the regional referee administrator, the regional registrar and the regional child and volunteer protection advocate. The regional board may create, designate, appoint, or elect such other voting board, or non-voting staff, positions including one or more assistant regional commissioners, a regional secretary, a regional coach trainer, a regional director of referee instruction, a regional director of referee assessment, age division directors, a director of playing fields, a team parent coordinator, a director of public relations, a statistician/scheduler, a director of purchasing, a director of volunteer recruitment and development, a regional auditor, and such other positions as the regional board may from time to time deem desirable. In addition, there may be such members-at-large as the board shall create. All members of a regional board understand and agree that they are fiduciaries of, and owe a duty of loyalty to AYSO, and agree to be bound by its Bylaws, Policies, Rules and Regulations.
Position descriptions for all positions may be found and downloaded from the AYSO Web site, www.AYSO.org, or may be obtained by calling the Supply Center to order the complete list. For specific position description requests, please call the Certification Associate at the National Support & Training Center. Every volunteer should have a copy of their position description, and current copies should be kept in the region for succession planning purposes.
The Regional Board of A.Y.S.O. Region 1508 shall consist of the following members, each elected as stated:
Elected every three years:
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Regional Commissioner
Elected ending the Fall Season and serves for one year:
2. Regional Manager
3. Regional Treasurer
4. Safety Director
5. Child & Volunteer Protection Advocate
6. Asst Regional Coach Administrator
7. Fund Raising Coordinator 1
8. Asst. Regional Registrar
Elected ending the Spring Season and serves for one year:
9. Assistant Regional Commissioner
10. Regional VIP Administrator
11. Regional Coach Administrator
12. Regional Referee Administrator
13. Regional Registrar
14. Regional Secretary
15. Fund Raising Coordinator 2
16. Team Parent Coordinator
The Regional Board may vote in Assistant Board positions by majority vote of the Regional Board when needed.
The non-voting Regional Staff of A.Y.S.O. Region 1508 shall consist of the following members, each elected as stated:
Elected ending the Fall Season and serve for one year:
13. Spring Season Coordinator
14. Divisional Coordinators U8 Below
15. Pictures & Yearbook Coordinator
16. Statistician
17. Uniform Coordinator
18. Regional Auditor
Elected ending the Spring Season and serve for one year:
19. Select Coordinator
20. Coach Training Coordinator
21. Ref Training Coordinator
22. Soccer Camp Coordinator
23. Divisional Coordinator U10 and above
Regional Board
It is expected that each Board Member be in attendance and participate at the monthly board meetings.
2. A brief and general overview of the duties and responsibilities of the seven mandatory board positions follows.
a) Regional Commissioner: The AYSO volunteer position of regional commissioner is intended to have the responsibility and the authority to manage the day-to-day business of the region, within the framework of the AYSO operating regulations.
b) Regional Treasurer: The AYSO volunteer position of regional treasurer is intended to have custody of all funds and 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 or depository.
c) Regional Safety Director: The AYSO volunteer position of regional risk management/safety director is intended to be responsible for all aspects of the region’s safety and oversee the equipment, nets, fields, and clean-up for fields of the region.
d) Regional Coach Administrator: The AYSO volunteer position of regional coach administrator is intended to administer a quality coaching program within the region.
e) Regional Referee Administrator: The AYSO volunteer position of regional referee administrator is intended to implement, monitor, and maintain the AYSO National Referee Program including program delivery, staff development, communication, and coordination at the regional level.
f) Regional Registrar: The AYSO volunteer position of regional registrar is intended to plan and implement the annual registration of all players and volunteers.
g) Regional Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA): The AYSO volunteer position of regional child and volunteer protection advocate is intended to oversee the child and volunteer protection program in the region in accordance with the AYSO Safe Haven program.
The following are the job descriptions for the members of the Executive Regional Board positions:
Regional Commissioner - The RC shall have the responsibility and the authority to manage the day-to-day business of the region within the framework of the National Regulations and these Guidelines.
The RC shall administer all of the regional activities:
a) Registering players, coaches, referees and administrators.
b) Assigning of players and coaches to assure proper balance of teams within any one age division within a reasonable geographical area.
c) Locating, obtaining and maintaining proper playing facilities.
d) Securing of uniforms, balls, goals and other necessary equipment.
e) Scheduling of league, post-season and friendly games and events.
f) Complying with the Soccer Accident Insurance program and submitting claims to the National Support Center.
g) Disseminating information.
h) Judging and ruling on appeals and disputes.
i) Overseeing the selection of an appropriate volunteer staff.
j) Keeping the regional board informed of actions and decisions on matters of importance.
k) Attending area meetings, the Section Meeting and the National AGM.
l) Maintaining close liaison with the AD and coordinating all extra-regional activities through the AD.
m) Making such other decisions and taking actions as may be required to run the region, within the limits of the regional budget and these Bylaws. RC shall preside at all meetings of the regional board.
n) Must have been a volunteer in the region for at least 2 years in both the Fall and Spring seasons.
The RC may be suspended by the AD or the section director (“SD”) and suspended or removed only by the National Board of Directors (the “National Board”).
Assistant Regional Commissioner - The Assistant RC shall assist the RC in fulfilling his/her duties and, in his/her absence, shall perform the duties of the RC.
The Assistant Regional Commissioner shall also conduct team balancing, Regional Drafts, oversee ratings of players and develop and distribute regular season game schedules. He/she must have been a volunteer in the region for at least 1 year in both Fall and Spring seasons. Maintains a close liaison with Valley Wide Parks and Recreations.
Regional Manager – (Awaiting Job Description from National)???????? He/she must have been a volunteer in the region for at least 1 year in both Fall and Spring seasons.
Will secure fields from the Valley Wide Parks and Recreations, provide information to the Manager of Valley Wide Parks upon their request. Attend the Valley Wide Parks and Recreation monthly meeting or send an asst to attend in order to provide Region 1508 with information. Manage a field maintenance team to line fields and set up for weekly games.
Regional Treasurer -The 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 or depository. The treasurer shall keep in appropriate books an accurate account of all money received and paid out. The treasurer shall give a report of the funds, receipts and disbursements of the region annually or at such other times as requested by the regional board and shall be responsible for timely filing with the National Support Center the Regional Information Form, the annual budget, and such other information as may be required or requested from time to time by the National Support Center and for complying with the National Accounting Program. The treasurer shall promptly, upon receipt, pay to the National Support Center the National portion of the registration fees of the region before the start of each season.
The Regional Treasurer shall also manage funds associated with the Region’s secondary seasons. All funds raised during the secondary season are required to be deposited into the Regional account and distributed by the Regional Treasurer.
Regional Safety Director - The safety director shall be responsible for administering the AYSO Soccer Accident Insurance program and liability insurance program for the region, handling all reports of accidents and/or SAI claims for such programs, ensuring the safety of all participants in the region by inspecting all field equipment, goal posts and fields to ensure they are in safe condition, and making safety information available.
Regional VIP Administrator – The VIP Administrator shall be responsible for the recruiting, training, and supervising of all VIP staff. He/she shall assist the Registrar with VIP registration and team formation. He/she shall coordinate his/her efforts with the RC and the Regional Coach Administrator.
Regional Coach Administrator - The Regional Coach Administrator shall be responsible for the recruiting, training and supervising of all coaches in the region. He/she shall arrange for and/or give clinics and training programs where needed and disseminate information when appropriate to assist the local coaches. He/she shall coordinate his/her efforts with the RC and the Area Coach Administrator.
Regional Referee Administrator - The referee administrator shall be responsible for the recruiting, training and supervising of all referees in the region. He/she shall arrange for clinics and training programs at least annually, and shall coordinate his/her efforts with the RC and the Area Referee Administrator. In addition, the referee administrator should appoint a Referee Instructor (to assist in maintaining the referee training program component of the AYSO National Referee Program) and a Referee Assessor (to assist in administering the certification component of the AYSO National Referee Program). The Referee Administrator shall be responsible for ensuring that all games are officiated by qualified referees.
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 for the region. The secretary shall ensure that these Regional Guidelines are reviewed annually and copies are made available to all its members.
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 Support Center prior to the start of the season, the distribution of the other copies of such forms as required, the collection of the registration fees and the turning over of such fees to the treasurer. The Registrar is also required to maintain and update the waiting lists, disburse players from waiting list, and maintain updated rosters. The Registrar shall also oversee the assignment of players during the secondary season, insuring all players are properly registered with AYSO.
Also See Regional Commissioner Manual Section 910.
Child & Volunteer Protection Advocate - The Child & Volunteer Protection Advocate shall have the responsibility of overseeing the child and volunteer protection program in the region in accordance with the AYSO Safe Haven Program.
Regional Auditor – The Regional Auditor will need to attend auditor training and request to be appointed as a Regional Auditor. He/she will review the regions accounting practices; review financial (NAP) reports periodically, meet with Area Auditor annually, review reconciliations annually, and submit a report to Area Director annually with a copy to Regional Commissioner. He/she will assist an Executive Member or Area Auditor (subject to personal availability) if performance of and audit service is requested.
The Auditor if at any time suspects Regional, Area, or Section funds mishandled or subject to fraud must immediately convey such suspicion to the chief business officer or designee at the NSTC.
Managing Regional Board
It is expected that each Managing Regional Staff Member be in attendance and participate at the monthly board meetings. Managing Board members at a minimum must attend board meetings when their areas of responsibility are scheduled for discussion.
The following are the job descriptions for the members of the Managing Regional Board positions:
Divisional Coordinators –
a) The Under 8 Coordinator and below - is responsible for recruiting, recommending and securing an adequate number of qualified coaches, conducting ratings, and informing coaches and divisional coordinators of changes, i.e. schedules, etc.. He/She shall also receive and resolve divisional complaints.
b) The Under 10 Coordinator and above - is responsible for recruiting, recommending and securing an adequate number of qualified coaches, conducting ratings, and informing coaches and divisional coordinators of changes, i.e. schedules, etc.. He/She shall also receive and resolve divisional complaints.
Also See Regional Commissioner Manual Section 730.
Spring Select and Flex Coordinator - The Spring Select Coordinator is responsible for managing the Spring Select and Flex Programs. He/She shall help select manage tryouts for spring select teams. Additional responsibilities include, collecting team rosters, insuring player eligibility, interfacing with Area Staff and distributing game schedules.
Regional Statistician - The Regional Statistician is responsible for collecting Game Cards at the conclusion of weekly matches and determining standings in the following categories: Referee Points, Sportsmanship points and League Standings. The Regional Statistician will coordinate with the Publicity/Communications Director to insure standings are posted on the web, the newspaper and the field the following week
Uniform Coordinator - The Uniform Coordinator is responsible for obtaining and presenting bids for uniforms to the Regional Board and coordinating the distribution of uniforms to the teams. Responsibilities also include coordinating the uniform needs of the Select & Spring Recreation Programs.
ARTICLE SEVEN
INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROGRAM
1. Team Assignments
Team assignments shall be made by the Regional Coach Administer, Divisional Coordinator and Regional Commissioner.
Retention of players on any team shall be limited to the head coach's child/children and the Asst Coach’s child/children. Except for the foregoing, there shall be no automatic retention of players from the previous regular season. Every attempt shall be made to balance the skill level of teams within each division. Once teams are formed, no transfer of any player from one team to another may be made without the approval of the coaches of both teams involved, the RC and the parent or guardian of the player.
Siblings in the same age division and gender will not be placed on the same team unless requested.
Teams shall be formed as set forth in the National Rules and Regulations, Articles II and III. Team assignments of players shall be made by those persons delegated such task by the regional board. Retention of players on any team shall be limited to the head coach's child(ren) and the Asst Coach’s child/children. . Otherwise there shall be no automatic retention of players on any specific team or with any specific coach from the previous season. Every attempt shall be made to balance the skill level of teams within each division. Once teams are formed, no transfer of any player from one team to another may be made without the approval of the coaches of both teams involved, the age division director (if any), the regional commissioner and the parent or guardian of the player. In the case where teams are involved in inter-regional play, no transfer of any player from one team to another after such teams are formed may be made without the additional approval of the area director and, if affecting section play, the section director.
2. Registration Fees; Refunds
The registration fee for each player participant shall be fixed annually for Fall, Spring, and Select season by the regional board. The fee for this season is set forth in Appendix D. Such fee may be waived in whole or in part with respect to any participant at the discretion of the Regional Commissioner if in its judgment the requirement of such fee would create a hardship for such participant or his or her family. Any such fee shall be refunded in the case of any participant who withdraws under the following conditions:
a) Any player, who withdraws 4 weeks prior to the beginning of the season, of the year in which the season begins, will result in a full refund of the Registration fee, providing that the player/parent submits a written request for a refund by emailing the request to the Regional Treasurer.
b) Any player who withdraws later than 4 weeks before the beginning of the season, of the year in which the season begins ,and prior to opening day will result in a full refund, less the cost of the AYSO National Registration Fee, provided that the player/parent submits a request for a refund by emailing the request to the Regional Treasurer.. The cost of the uniform will also be deducted once the uniform has been issued.
c) Any player who withdraws on or after participating in the first game of the season or anytime thereafter shall not be entitled to a refund.
Exceptions to this policy will be at the sole discretion of the Regional Commissioner.
3. Scholarships:
AYSO Region 1508 is a non-profit organization and as such, it is important that fees be collected for every player participating in the Region. There are instances in which a player’s financial situation may prevent an individual from participating. In these instances, players may apply for a full or partial scholarship. Player scholarships will be available on a limited basis. The Regional Board shall budget 10 scholarships per-season.
Applicants will be required to fill out a Region 1508 Scholarship Form. The decision to approve the application will be made by the Regional Commissioner in conjunction with the Regional Treasurer. The names of individuals receiving scholarships will not be divulged.
Families participating in the Player Scholarship Program will be required to volunteer a minimum of 10 hours family.
4. Eligibility
All boys and girls, between the ages of 4 and 18, based on their age as of the date designated by the section of the year in which the season begins shall be eligible to register for the program, subject to field availability and volunteer support and such rules as may be issued by the regional board.
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 membership year begins shall be eligible to register for the program, subject to field availability, volunteer support, AYSO operating regulations, and such rules as may be issued by the regional board. It is the duty of the region to assure that only eligible players are permitted to register and play.
5. Length of Season and Cancellation of Games
The season shall be of such duration as determined by the regional board and as set forth in the Regional Calendar attached as Appendix E. Inclement weather or poor field conditions may necessitate from time to time the canceling of games. Any such cancellation will be made at the discretion of the RC or the safety director as early as practicable before game time. Once the game begins, only the referee in charge may suspend or cancel the game for just cause.
The length of any playing season during the year shall be of such duration as determined by the regional board, and as set forth in the regional calendar attached to these guidelines. Inclement weather or poor field conditions may necessitate from time to time the postponing or canceling of games. Any such postponement or cancellation will be made at the discretion of the regional commissioner or the regional safety director as early as practical before game time. Once the game begins, only the referee in charge of the particular soccer field may suspend or cancel the game, except that the regional commissioner or designate may suspend or cancel games due to inclement weather or other conditions that may warrant such action.
6. Attendance; Participation
Every player participant shall be entitled to play at least three quarters of every match before another player can play the full game. Select teams, Tournament, or post-season play will follow National Guidelines requiring all players to play at least one-half of the game.
7. Protests
No protest of games shall be permitted. However, coaches are encouraged to file with the referee administrator a written report within 48 hours after a game of any misapplication of the basic rules by a referee, excluding judgment calls, and, if, after investigation by the referee administrator, it is found that a rule was misapplied, such referee shall be so informed in order to ensure that no further misapplication occurs.
No protest of games shall be permitted. However, coaches are encouraged to file with the regional referee administrator a written report within 48 hours after a game of any misapplication by a game referee of the Laws of the Game or rules and regulations. This procedure shall not be used as a means of complaining about or criticizing any judgment call of a referee or assistant referee. If, after investigation by the regional referee administrator, it is found that a law, rule, or regulation was misapplied, such referee shall be so informed in order to ensure that no further misapplication occurs.
8. Conduct During Games
The highest standards of conduct and good sportsmanship 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 at all practices and games. Coaches are expected to be positive and set the best possible example for the participants. Excessive coaching from the sidelines shall not be permitted, and the function of the coach should be to provide encouragement and a positive direction. The coach may enter the field of play only with the consent of the referee and may coach only within 10 yards in each direction from the half-way line of the field (in no event in either of the penalty areas or from behind the goals)*. 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. The use of alcohol or tobacco products in the vicinity of the playing field during practices or games is strictly forbidden. At the end of the game, the players on each team shall line up and shake hands with the players of the opposing team and thank the referee and linesmen. Discipline shall be up to the referee at each game, and the referee shall have the power and authority to discipline and eject players and coaches (including spectators, in the case of outside interference) from the playing area if their conduct violates these Guidelines or otherwise interferes with the course of play. No appeal of disciplinary action taken by a referee shall be allowed.
The highest standards of conduct and good sportsmanship must be maintained at all times by players, coaches, referees, spectators and all other participants. Offensive, insulting or abusive language is forbidden. The use of alcohol, tobacco products, or illegal drugs in the vicinity of the playing field during practices or games is strictly forbidden.
All participants must wear the official uniforms, as described in paragraph 12, for all games and dress in them in a neat, clean manner. The use of shin guards is required at all practices and games.
Coaches are expected to be positive and set the best possible example for the participants. Excessive coaching from the sidelines shall not be permitted, and the function of the coach should be to provide encouragement and a positive direction. The coach may enter the field of play only with the consent of the referee and may coach only within 10 yards in each direction from the half-way line of the field (in no event in either of the penalty areas or from behind the goals).
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. Spectators are expected at all times to act positively around players and to demonstrate respect for opponents, officials, and all other volunteers. Under no circumstances should they attempt to coach or address remarks derogatory to players, coaches or the referee.
At the end of the game, the players on each team shall line up and shake hands with the players of the opposing team and thank the referee and assistant referees.
Discipline shall be up to the referee at each game. The referee shall have the power and authority to caution and send off players and warn and expel coaches (as well as spectators, in the case of outside interference) from the playing area, or terminate the match if necessary, if their conduct violates the Laws of the Game, these guidelines or otherwise interferes with the course of play. No appeal of disciplinary action taken by a referee shall be allowed.
A player who is sent off for violation of the Laws of the Game shall be suspended for the duration of that game and shall not participate in the team’s next scheduled game. A player who is cautioned or sent off may be subject to additional disciplinary action (e.g., parent conferences, additional game suspensions, expulsion) at the discretion of the regional board upon thorough review of the incident following the procedures outlined in Article 9 (Dispute Resolution). A coach, assistant coach or spectator who is warned or expelled from the field 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 9 (Dispute Resolution).
* EXCEPTION NOTE:
Division U5 and U6 coaches will be allowed on the field of play. The number of coaches allowed on the field will be one (1) from each team.
Coaches and spectators are not allowed to coach from behind the goal line.
A player who is sent off “red card” or cautioned “yellow card” may be subject to additional disciplinary action (e.g. parent conferences, game suspensions, expulsions) upon thorough review of the incident following the procedures outlined in Article 9 (Dispute Resolution).
A coach who is sent off or cautioned may be subject to additional disciplinary action (e.g. parent conferences, game suspensions, expulsions) upon thorough review of the incident following the procedures outlined in Article 9 (Dispute Resolution).
9. Refreshments at Games
It shall be the responsibility of each team to supply its own refreshments. It is suggested that the best kind of refreshment is cool water. It is the responsibility of the coach and team parent participants to assure the absence of any drug, stimulant or other harmful substances in any refreshment given to any player.
10. Parental Participation
Each parent who has a player in the region shall be strongly encouraged to volunteer his or her services in some way. The region shall not reduce or eliminate the player fee based upon voluntary work done by a participant's parents or guardians and shall not charge an additional fee to those parents of players who do not volunteer their services.
As AYSO is an “all-volunteer” organization, each parent or guardian who has a player in the region shall be strongly encouraged to volunteer his or her valuable time and services in some way. The region shall not reduce or eliminate the player fee based upon voluntary work done by a participant’s parents or guardians and shall not charge an additional fee to those parents of players who do not volunteer their services or who do not donate funds to the program. No fee distinction shall be made based upon parental or player participation in regional fundraising activities. The region may not condition the registration of a player based upon any requirement of volunteer participation by a parent or guardian.
11. Facilities
It shall be the responsibility of the home team for the first game each day to set up the goal posts and nets and the home team for the last game of each day to take down the goal posts and nets. Each field shall be lined under the direction of the RC and/or the Field and Equipment Coordinator, 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.
Each team that will be assigned field marking duties and MUST provide a field worker on the Friday prior to that game that will help in lining the fields and anchoring the goals.
It shall be the responsibility of both teams for the first game each day to set up the goalposts and nets and both teams for the last game of each day to take down the goalposts and nets. Each field shall be lined under the direction of the regional commissioner 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 except in designated containers. Parking shall be limited to those areas designated at the fields.
12. Sponsors
The region encourages local businesses and individuals to support its program. Suitable
Recognition shall be given to them. 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 the applicable limitations in the Internal Revenue Code. It is the responsibility of any sponsor to comply with the Internal Revenue Code and AYSO will give no opinion on whether a particular donation is or is not deductible.
Teams in the Fall Season are encouraged to get a team sponsor of $150; Team’s supplying a sponsor will receive credit for up to $50 to apply towards a team party. . The remaining funds will be placed into the general regional account to support the region’s program. The Region will present a sponsor plaque to each sponsor in appreciation of their support
13. Equipment
The region shall supply each player with a shirt with the AYSO or AYSO/HERBAL LIFE logo properly affixed thereto and, a pair of socks, and shorts in the fall season. Each player is expected to provide his/her own appropriate footwear and shin guards. No alterations in design are to be made to the player’s uniform. No names, logos, stencils, embroidery will be allowed. Players will not be allowed to play in an altered uniform. The cost to remove or replace altered uniforms will be the responsibility of the players’ parents/guardians.
The region shall make arrangements to supply each player with a shirt with the original AYSO logo properly affixed thereto and, if possible, a pair of socks, and shorts. Each player is expected to provide his/her own appropriate footwear and shin guards. No player may participate in a game without such shirt, socks, shorts, appropriate footwear and shin guards. Players may not wear jewelry of any kind (including chains, watches, body jewelry and earrings), bandanas or other ornamentation or anything else that may, in the opinion of the referee, create an increased risk of injury to himself or herself or to other players during the game.
Medical information bracelets should not be removed, but can be covered with a soft wrist band or temporarily modified to fit more snugly. .
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.
Hard casts (including padded casts), splints, helmets and hard padding are not permitted to be worn by a player during any game or practice.
ARTICLE EIGHT
FINANCIAL, BANKING AND RELATED MATTERS
1. Budget; Financial Statement
The regional board shall adopt a budget which provides the basis for setting player registration fees. At the end of each season, the regional treasurer shall prepare 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 player. This season's budget and last season's Statement of Income and Expenses are attached hereto as Appendices B and C.
2. Account Signatories
All checks drawn on the region's bank account shall bear two signatures, one of which must either be the Treasurer's or the RC's. Additional signature authority is provided only to the Assistant Regional Commissioner or Regional Manager.
All checks drawn on any bank account maintained by the region shall bear two signatures, one of which must either be the regional treasurer’s or the regional commissioner’s. Additional signatories must be authorized by regional board action. Two signatories from the same household shall not be allowed. There must be at least three signatories on all regional bank accounts. Regional debit and/or credit card accounts are expressly forbidden.
3. 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. No regional expenses or reimbursements are to be paid from monies collected which have not first been deposited into, and accounted for within, the regional checking account.
4. Cash Handling Procedures
The regional treasurer in cooperation with other regional board and staff members shall establish internal control procedures to safeguard against the misuse or loss of regional assets, especially in regard to cash receipts and cash disbursements. Such internal control procedures shall include the following:
a. Funds withdrawn for “cash box change” must be deposited back into the regional bank account on the same day, or the first banking day thereafter.
b. All registration fees collected in cash and checks must be reconciled to the bank deposit slip and the AYSO registration forms.
c. Arrangements should be made to have the cash received deposited into the regional bank account on the same day such cash is received, or the first banking day thereafter.
d. When handling a significant amount of cash monies, at least two regional volunteers should be present.
5. Receipt Procedures
The regional treasurer in cooperation with other regional board and staff members shall establish internal control procedures to safeguard against the misuse or loss of regional assets, especially in regard to receipts for monies received. Such internal control procedures shall include the following:
a. A cash receipt book must be used to record all payments received on behalf of the region in cash. The original cash receipt for each transaction must be given to the payer, and the copy kept in the cash receipt book. All cash receipts must be signed or initialed by the volunteer completing the cash receipt form.
b. The cash receipt book must be reconciled to the bank deposit slip.
c. A volunteer accepting payment for registration fees should note upon an available portion of the player registration form: (a) the amount of the payment received; (b) whether such payment was made in cash or by check; (c) the check number (if paid by check); (d) the date such payment was received if different from the date of the parent or guardian’s signature on the player registration form; (e) the names of any other family member players for whom the payment was received; and (f) the initials of the volunteer receiving such payment.
6. Immediate Accounting to Regional Treasurer
The regional treasurer in cooperation with other regional board and staff members shall establish internal control procedures to safeguard against the misuse or loss of regional assets, especially in regard to the immediate accounting to the regional treasurer for monies received, checks written upon the regional bank account, invoices received for accounts payable by the region, and requests for reimbursement to regional volunteers for out-of-pocket expenses incurred on behalf of the region. Such internal control procedures shall include the following:
a. No one should sign a regional check in blank or which contains any item to be filled in later.
b. No one should sign a regional check without verifying the expense by examining the invoice or request for reimbursement.
c. No requests for reimbursement to regional volunteers shall be honored without a written request signed by such volunteer, itemizing the out-of-pocket expenses incurred, and with supporting receipts or other documentation attached.
d. All bills and invoices received for payment by the region must be forwarded to the regional treasurer for payment, if not already paid, within five (5) days of the receipt.
e. The regional treasurer must be notified of any checks written on the regional bank account without his or her knowledge within 48 hours of the issuance or delivery of such check for payment of any regional expense.
f. All bank withdrawal transactions and regional checks shall be noted with the appropriate National Accounting Program (NAP) code denoting the purpose for such transaction
7. Immediate Deposit Procedures
The regional treasurer in cooperation with other regional board and staff members shall establish internal control procedures to safeguard against the misuse or loss of regional assets, especially in regard to the immediate deposit of monies received. Such internal control procedures shall include the following:
a. All fees collected on behalf of the region for registration, sponsorships, fundraising, and donations or for any other purposes shall be deposited immediately after being reconciled with the appropriate cash receipt book, registration form, and/or bank deposit slips.
b. Under no circumstances may any person accept on behalf of the region any post-dated check or agree to hold any check for deposit on a later day.
8. Monthly Bank Reconciliations
All region accounts shall be reconciled by the regional treasurer, and verified by another board member who is not authorized to sign on the accounts. The reconciled statement(s) and copy of bank statement must be presented to each board member at their regularly scheduled meeting.
9. Credit/Debit Card Transactions
If credit/debit cards are accepted for payment of registration fees, all required accounting shall be performed and submitted on the first banking day after each credit/debit card transaction.
10. Audits
It is strongly recommended that each region have a regional auditor. Additionally, the region at all times shall cooperate with, and respond to, inquiries by the area auditor and section auditor.
ARTICLE NINE
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
1. General Policy
It is the policy of the region to resolve all disputes involving persons involved in the region in an amicable way, and, if disciplinary action is found to be necessary, to take only the minimum action necessary. All means available will be taken to avoid legal action, including emphasizing compromise rather than principles and avoiding personality conflicts.
It is the policy of the region to resolve all disputes involving persons involved in the region in an amicable way, if possible. 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 & Training 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 for abuse and similar events.
2. Procedure
If it is determined that it is necessary that a person involved in the region needs to be disciplined or his or her participation in the region limited or terminated, then the RC or the regional board shall give notice in writing to such person of the intention of the region to take action, specifying the action to be taken and the reasons therefore and giving such person 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 RC or regional board may appoint a disinterested committee to consider such discipline. After such opportunity has been given, the RC, regional board or Committee shall make its determination and announce it in writing to all persons concerned and such determination shall be final and binding on all concerned unless it is determined by the AD, or, if he/she is not disinterested, the SD, that such determination is arbitrary and capricious or the procedure was not fair or the person or persons making such determination are found not to have been disinterested.
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 to such person of such intention, initially by telephone, FAX, in writing via email or in person. Notice should always be followed by a written confirmation delivered via certified mail. Such notice shall specify the action to be taken and the reasons therefore. Such notice 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.
3. Suspension
The RC (with counsel of 1 executive board member when suspension concerns another member of the board) or regional board may suspend a person involved in the region from further involvement in the program on notice (by telephone, fax or 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.
The regional commissioner or regional board may suspend a person involved in the region from further involvement in the region’s activities if there is found to be an imminent danger to players or to the program by his or her continuing involvement, or if it is determined the person has been arrested or is under investigation for a crime that, if convicted, would rule out the person’s continued involvement. Notice must be provided and a hearing conducted, if requested, according to the procedures described in Paragraph Two above. A suspension is considered to be temporary in nature, and any such suspension may be removed or set aside by a majority of the regional board at any time.
2. Removal
The RC (with counsel of 1 executive board member when suspension concerns another member of the board) 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 on notice and after a determination is made that removal is appropriate, as the result of a disciplinary hearing described in Paragraph Two, if there is found to be
(a) A violation of the National Regulations, principles or philosophy of AYSO or
(b) Conduct which disrupts the region, AYSO activities, or programs.
The regional commissioner or the regional board may remove a person (whether or not suspended) involved in the region, 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.
Hearing Procedures
Any 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.
A person who has a direct interest in the outcome of the matter shall not participate in any stage of the procedure. A person has a direct interest in the outcome of the matter if that person’s conduct is in any way called into question by the events, or if that person is a witness to the events, has a familial relationship with any person involved in the matter, has a financial interest in the outcome, or whose judgment, for any reason, cannot be unbiased and neutral. In the event the regional commissioner has a direct interest in the outcome of the matter, any authority herein to be exercised by the regional commissioner shall be referred to the area director.
A committee or hearing board of disinterested persons shall conduct the hearing as quickly and as fairly as possible, but may structure the proceedings as circumstances may require to keep them as positive as possible as well. The committee or hearing board may ask such questions and request such documents or other evidence as may be necessary to obtain all pertinent facts, but should refrain form being overbearing with such examinations and requests. It is strongly recommended that players and other minors not be asked to participate as witnesses or to offer “testimonials” either in person or in writing unless it is absolutely necessary in order to determine any pertinent fact of the matter. The proceedings should be kept as confidential as may be necessary to protect all parties. The committee or hearing board shall listen to the facts of the situation from all interested parties. Each “side” may be permitted or requested to make their presentations outside the presence of the other if necessary to prevent undue acrimony or harm to the participants. Parties do not have the right to involve attorneys or to cross-examine other parties or witnesses, although either may be permitted within the discretion of the committee or hearing board if it believes that such participation will be helpful and positive.
At the conclusion of the hearing, the committee or hearing board shall 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 a majority vote determine the appropriate action to be taken. Such action may include that no action should be taken against the individual accused, or that a warning or caution be given, that a written reprimand be given, that further education or probation be required, or that such person should be suspended or removed from involvement in regional activities. Where the hearing board recommends removal or where otherwise determined appropriate, the individual in question should be given an opportunity to resign voluntarily. All interested parties shall promptly be notified of such resignation or, in the absence of a resignation, of the hearing board’s decision.
6. 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 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. There shall only be one review of each matter.
ARTICLE TEN
CHANGES IN GUIDELINES/PROCEDURES
1. Approval of Region 1508 Guidelines
These Guidelines shall become effective after being approved by the Regional Commissioner and the existing Regional board, the Area Director and the Section Director and then submitted to the National Support Center.
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Change in Region 1508 Bylaws
3. Once adopted, these Guidelines may only be amended by the regional board by a 2/3 vote of the regional board members, with the approval of the regional commissioner, the area director and the section director, and then submitted to the National Support & Training Center.
a. Once adopted, these Bylaws may only be amended by the regional board by a 2/3 vote of the regional board members, with the approval of the RC, the AD and the SD.
b. Two-thirds (2/3) of the Executive Board must be present in order to vote on amendment of the Regional Bylaws.
c. c. Two-thirds (2/3) of the Regional Board Members present must approve any changes to the Regional Bylaws.
3. Change in Region 1508 Procedures
a. Once adopted, these Procedures may only be amended by the regional board by a 2/3 vote of the regional board members, with the approval of the Regional Commissioner, the Area Director and the Section Director.
b. Two-thirds (2/3) of the Executive Board must be present in order to vote on changes to the Regional Procedures.
c. A majority of the Regional Board Members present must approve any changes to the Regional Procedures.
d. The Regional Commissioner may vote only in the event of a tie.
REGIONAL PROCEDURES
Regional Procedures shall hold the same weight as Regional Guidelines. The purpose of the Regional Procedures is to define how A.Y.S.O. Region 1508 will manage specific aspects of the business and/or operation of the region.
These Procedures shall become effective after being approved by the RC and the existing regional board, the Area Director and the Section Director and then submitted to the National Support Center.
1. Registration
a) The region will follow National Guidelines with respect to age divisions.
Under 19 years of age (U19)
Under 16 years of age (U16)
Under 14 years of age (U14)
Under 12 years of age (U12)
Under 10 years of age (U10)
Under 8 years of age (U08)
Under 6 years of age (U06)
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Selection of Coaches
Coach selection will be determined by the Coach Administrator, Coaching Staff and the Regional Commissioner. Coaches that are certified at the level they want to coach will have priority over coaches that are not certified at the appropriate level.
Coaches that wish to participate in Select, secondary programs or post season Area play will need to meet the National Coaching guidelines, or Area play guidelines, before they will be eligible to coach.
Coaching is a privilege. All coaches must be approved by the Regional Board
Coaches may only coach one team during the season, however, if there are not enough qualified candidates to support the coaching needs of one of the divisions, the coach request may to coach a second team. The Regional Coach Administration must give approval for multiple teams and advise the Regional Board.
3. Team Drafts
A) Divisions U19, U16, U14, U12 & U10 teams will be chosen via a blind snake draft.
Coaches or their representative, are required to attend the blind draft. Team draft will be conducted by the Coach Administrator, with the assistance of the Coaching Staff and Divisional Coordinators.
Upon the completion of the draft, rosters will be confirmed and no trades will be allowed between coaches once leaving the draft.
Retention of players on any team shall be limited to the head coach's child/children and the Asst Coach’s child/children. Except for the foregoing, there shall be no automatic retention of players from the previous years. Every attempt shall be made to balance the skill level of teams within each division.
No buddy request, carpooling request or Coach request will be honored.
B) U8, U6 and U5 Teams will be chosen by a blind draft.
Team draft will be conducted by the Coach Administrator, with the assistance of the Coaching Staff and Divisional Coordinators. No coaches will be present for lower division drafts.
Once the teams have been handed to the coaches they become official teams. No trades will be allowed between coaches
Retention of players on any team shall be limited to the head coach's child/children and the Asst Coach’s child/children. Except for the foregoing, there shall be no automatic retention of players from the previous years. Every attempt shall be made to balance the skill level of teams within each division.
No buddy request, carpooling request or Coach request will be honored
4. Rating of Players
Coaches rate players on a scale of one (1) to five (5) , five (5) being highest. The sole purpose of rating players is to provide as accurate a means as possible of balancing future teams. It is important that coaches be aware of the abilities of as many divisional players as possible, in order to accurately rate players.
In the event a players rating is highly inaccurate, the Regional Commissioner, Assistant
Regional Commissioner, Coach Administrator, Division Coordinator will have final authority to change any ratings.
5. Team Referee Responsibilities
It is imperative that AYSO Region 1508 have enough referee volunteers to provide multiple officials for each game.
A. Team Referee Requirement
Each team is required to provide two (one referee must be a new referee ) referees in divisions U10 and above, one Referee in division U8. The team’s referees must consist of volunteers associated with the team.
Referees for the U10’s and up are required to complete, at a minimum, the Regional Referee Class, and U8’s are required to complete, at minimum, the U8 referee class, sign up for games at least one week in advance and to be at the selected game at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the match.
B. Referee Scheduling
Referees are to sign up using the scheduling systems/processes provided by the region.
Referees are to attempt to officiate games outside of the pool or division in which they coach and or in which their children participate. For example, a Referee associated with a U10 Boys team, should attempt to officiate outside of the U10 Boys Division, or outside of their teams pool in the instance there are two pool within the U10 Boys Division.
C. Referee Point System
Teams will be awarded referee points each time one of their associated referees or assistant referees officiate a game and properly fills out the game card.
Referee points shall be accumulated throughout the season in the following manner:
Center Referee:
Under 10– Under 14 2 Points earned for each match officiated
Under 16 & Under 19 3 Points earned for each match officiated
Assistant Referee:
Under 10– Under 14 1 Points earned for each match officiated
Under 16 & Under 19 2 Points earned for each match officiated
Referees are not allowed to sign up to referee matches in which a team they represent is participating. Referee points will not be awarded to referees who sign up for matches involving a team which they represent. In the event a scheduled referee fails to show up to officiate a match and there are no other non-affiliated referees available, upon agreement of the two coaches, a certified referee representing a team participating in the match may officiate, as either a center or assistant referee. In this situation, the affiliated, certified referee will be eligible to receive referee points. A referee must wear an official referee uniform to officiate the match. Earned points will be tracked and posted each week.
Points will be assigned to only the teams for which the referees are associated. Referees may only represent one team until all team points have been earned. In the event that the referee has another family member on a team, he/she may continue to referee and earn points for the second team.
Referee points are not transferable.
6. Competition
Under 5 through U8 will play in a division that does not keep standing in both fall and spring seasons.
Under 10 through U19 will play in a division which keep standings during the fall season only, These divisions will be considered a competitive division for the fall season.
The region will follow AYSO Short Sided Rules of the game for divisions in the Under 5 through U12. FIFA Laws will apply to all division in the Under 10 and above.
Open substitution will be allowed at the U19 level or Open Division. The Referee shall insure that each team has called at least substitution sometime mid way through each half.
No divisional standings will be kept in the Spring season
The region will form separate divisions for girls and boys. The region will coed teams only when there is a lack of players to form separate divisions.
A. Four (4) teams per division poll shall constitute the minimum required for regional league competition. Maximum of 10 teams per divisional pool
B. Regional league champions shall be determined on the basis of one of the following:
1. Division Pool – overall record. If there is a tie in the overall record. At the end of the season, we will use the following tie-breakers.
a. Head to Head Competition
b. Least goals scored against
c. Most shut outs
d. Coin flip
Standings will be determined based on the following point system:
Ø Win = two (3) points
Ø Tie = one (1) point
Ø Loss = zero (0) point
7. Practice
All players are required to wear shin guards and