Q: Can a child who will not reach age 5 by 7/31/2009 play? A: No. We realize that this may seem arbitrary to some, but in order to be fair to all we cannot make exceptions. Our deadline of July 31st corresponds with age delineations set by the New York State West Youth Soccer Association
Q: Can a child who will turn 17 on or before 7/31/2009 play? A: No. We realize that this may seem arbitrary to some, but in order to be fair to all we cannot make exceptions. Our deadline of July 31st corresponds with age delineations set by the New York State West Youth Soccer Association
Q: Can a child play in an older age group ("play up")? A: While this generally is not advised, a player who is at the oldest age for their classification may be allowed to play in the next oldest age group. A parent or guardian will have to make a special request at registration. V/F United officials will need to discuss this with the parent or guardian and evaluate the player before granting permission.
Q: Can a child play in a younger age group ("play down")? A: No.
Q: My child has little soccer experience. Will they get much playing time? A: Coaches are directed to divide playing time as equally as possible for all players, regardless of ability. This is reflected in our philosophy statement.
Q: Can Travel Soccer players also compete in Recreation Soccer? A: No.
Q: What equipment is needed? A: Shin guards are required for practice and games. They are available at most stores selling sporting goods. For ages 5 and 6, sneakers are fine but soccer cleats may be worn. It is recommended that players 7 and older wear soccer cleats, but sneakers are acceptable. A water bottle should be brought to every game and practice. Soccer balls are available at the practice fields, but it is helpful if a player brings their own ball, clearly labeled, to ensure there are enough for individual activities. Uniforms provided include a numbered t-shirt, soccer shorts and soccer socks. However, uniforms are issued just before the game season, so players should have a pair of soccer socks to wear during practice season. Soccer socks must be worn over shin guards. They are available at most sporting goods stores. The extra pair can be handy during game season.
Q: Do we have any fundraisers? A: Your child will not be asked to sell anything.
Q: Are there playoffs? A: No. As V/F United's Recreation Program is designed to be "just for fun", no official score or standings are kept.
Q: Can my child be placed on a team with their friends or a particular coach? A: While there is a place on our forms to indicate special requests, such requests should not be looked at as guarantees. Our first consideration is to balance the teams with regards to ability, age and gender (in the case of co-ed leagues). The one circumstance that is always honored is for siblings who fall in the same classification.
Q: What about "rain-outs" or cancellations? A: Rain does not mean a game or practice is cancelled. For games, coaches and referees must meet at the field to determine playing conditions before canceling. Players should report to the field by game time. Soccer can be safely played in a light to moderate rain. We will not play or practice while lightning is visible from the field location. Practices may be cancelled at the coach's discretion. Make sure you have a clear understanding with your coach what the criteria and procedure will be for canceling a practice. Coaches may ask players to report to practice so that conditions can be evaluated before canceling
Q: Will soccer conflict with baseball, softball or lacrosse? A: Many players participate in these sports and Recreation Soccer too. The Recreation Soccer practice season overlaps the regular season for most local baseball, softball or lacrosse house leagues (non-travel). For players 12 and under, the regular house league season for these sports usually wraps around the time the game schedule begins for Recreation Soccer. Leagues for older players, as well as post or "extended" season play for those 12 and under, are more likely to overlap the Recreation Soccer game season.
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