Uniforms are not ordered to size. Team uniform sets contain preset sizes based on the age and gender of team
Shortly before Opening Day, each player will be issued a jersey, shorts, and socks.
Each player is required to wear a complete uniform to play in a game.
Families are encouraged to wear team colors at games to show their support
Soccer Ball
Each player must have a soccer ball (#3 for U6’s and U8’s, #4 for U10’s and U12’s and #5 for all others) at each practice and game.
Write your name on your ball with a permanent marker before first practice.
Shin Guards
Each player must have properly fitting shin guards.
Each player is required to wear shin guards to participate in games and practices.
Shin guards must be covered entirely by socks during all games and practices.
Soccer Shoes
A well fitting pair of soccer shoes is highly recommended (but not required).
Studs or cleats made of metal are not allowed. Baseball cleats can be used, but the toe cleat must be completely removed.
Jewelry
Players shall not wear jewelry or other items that may cause injury to themselves or other players during games and practices (i.e. hair barrettes, earrings, etc.)
Any articles that cannot be removed (such as Medic-Alert) must be taped.
Player Safety During Games and Practices
Players’ fingernails must be short and not sharp to participate.
Players wearing braces are encouraged to wear a mouthpiece.
Players wearing orthopedic casts are not allowed to participate.
Each player should have a parent or guardian present at all times.
Any injuries must be reported to the coach immediately for insurance purposes.
Playing Time and Game Schedule
Each player that shows up for a game will get to play at least half of that game.
Most games are on Saturdays. No game will be played on Labor Day weekend.
U-6 games have four 8-minute quarters. U-8 games have four 10-minute quarters.
Game schedules and game field assignments are posted online when they become available.
Referees
Parents at U6 and U8 games officiate their own games. They should not be coaching while officiating the game.
Paid referees are provided for U10 and older.
Many referees are youth players and still learning. Please treat them accordingly.
Coaches and parents should never be arguing with the referee over calls in the game.
Contact the Referee Coordinator if you have any feedback (good or bad) about referees.
Water and Snacks
Each player is responsible for bringing their own water to games and practices.
Team parent should create and distribute a snack schedule for their team.
Snacks should be healthy food. No carbonated drinks or sugary snacks.
Please bring a few extra servings to share with players’ siblings, coaches and the referee.
Team Banner
Each team provides its own banner and splits the cost evenly among all players.
The team parent is responsible for getting the banner prior to Opening Day.
The team parent is responsible for seeing that the banner is set up at each game.
All parents are encouraged to help the team parent with the banner.
Opening Day
Opening Day is typically the first weekend in August at one of the local school sites.
Team should arrive early as it does take time to find your team location. Parade starts 9:00 am.
U6 and U8 Teams march with their coaches in the opening ceremony. Older teams can participate, but not required
Please be in full uniform (shin guards are not required, soccer shoes are optional).
Pictures
Pictures are scheduled throughout the entire day on Opening Day.
The entire team must be there on time before scheduled picture can be taken.
Picture packs are provided to coaches at Coaches Meeting or when they get their uniform.
Parents do not have to purchase additional items as each player receives a free team and individual photo.
Teams should take pictures even if a few players are missing. There is no guarantee every player will be available on make-up date
Make-up date is typically scheduled mid season on a Sunday
Team Socials and Player Awards
Teams may have one social at mid-season and one after the final game.
Parent volunteers are responsible for coordinating these events.
Each team provides its own awards—usually it’s trophies, but there are other options.
The costs for all social events and awards are split evenly among all players.
Please share your ideas and any offers to help with the team parent.
A team volunteer is responsible for arranging any awards.
Communication
If your player is going to be late or miss a practice or game, please contact the coach.
Please bring up your concerns early so we avoid misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
Questions or concerns should be directed to the coach first.
If you are unable to resolve issues with the coach, contact a DYSL Board Member.
Please Always Remember
Soccer is a game…it should be fun for everyone at all times.
Each player is still learning the game. Keep expectations realistic.
Parent should not coach or give instruction from the sidelines. You may encourage, but not distract.
Practices are for helping them learn. Games are for letting them play, their way.
The game is for the children. Your role is to help them learn to play it and enjoy it.