1. PurposeThe purpose of this document is to provide all participants in American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Region 213 (North Irvine, CA) with an overview of Regional, Area, Sectional, and National Guidelines and Regulations which govern the operation of Region 213. 2. DefinitionsPrimary Program. The standard AYSO program offered to Under-6 through Under-14 players is considered the Primary Program. All references within these Regional Guidelines apply to the Primary Program unless specifically referencing one of the Secondary Programs. Secondary Program. All other programs other than the Primary Program are considered secondary. Secondary Programs include Jamboree(U5), VIP, AYSO EXTRA, AYSO FLEX (such as All-stars and Spring Select), U16 and U19 programs. AYSO EXTRA. AYSO EXTRA is designed for players who have the interest, skills and abilities and want to enhance their experience and individual growth through soccer while retaining the spirit of and organization membership in AYSO. AYSO EXTRA strengthens AYSO by recruiting and retaining players and volunteers through providing more competitive play the AYSO way. AYSO Region 213 participates in the AYSO Section 11 EXTRA program – the AYSO Section 11 EXTRA program rules, regulations and guidelines define play. And, these Regional Rules & Regulations define how AYSO Region 213 selects coaches, forms teams and regulates participation in the AYSO Section 11 EXTRA program. AYSO FLEX. AYSO Region 213 participates in additional opportunities - considered AYSO FLEX programs - for players to play including:
VIP.The AYSO VIP (Very Important Players) Program provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. VIP teams may include players who are: Blind or visually impaired; Amputees or with conditions that impair mobility; Mentally or emotionally challenged; Autistic; Down syndrome; and Cerebral Palsy. AYSO VIP ensures everyone truly does get a chance to play AYSO soccer. U5: Under-5 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/08 and 07/31/09) U6: Under-6 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/07 and 07/31/08) U7: Under-7 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/06 and 07/31/07) U8: Under-8 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/05 and 07/31/06) U9: Under-9 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/04 and 07/31/05) U10: Under-10 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/03 and 07/31/04) U12: Under-12 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/01 and 07/31/03) U14: Under-14 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/99 and 07/31/01) U16: Under-16 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/97 and 07/31/99) U19: Under-19 division (players with date of birth between 08/01/94 and 07/31/97) Membership Year or MY2012. AYSO, like other soccer organizations, determines what division a player participates in based on their age on July 31 of the current year. The Membership Year goes from August 1 of the current year through July 31 of the following year. Therefore, MY2012 runs from August 1, 2012 through July 31, 2013. Players registered for the Fall Season with AYSO Region 213 are registered with AYSO for the entire Membership Year. Seasons other than Fall Season may require an additional fee for a player to participate; However, a player registered for the Fall Season in AYSO Region 213 will normally pay less to participate in subsequent seasons since the AYSO fees for this player have already been paid by AYSO Region 213. 3. GovernanceAll components covered herein have at their applicable times been adopted pursuant to Section 1.04 of the National Bylaws of AYSO, and are subject to such Bylaws, the Articles of Incorporation of AYSO, the AYSO National and Section 11 Rules and Regulations, the Area Q Guidelines, and the Policies adopted from time to time by the AYSO National Board of Directors (collectively, the “AYSO Regulations”) and the AYSO Region 213 Board of Directors. The AYSO Region 213 Referee Points System Guidelines Referee Points System) and AYSO Region 213 Tournament and Playoff Guidelines (Tournament and Playoff Guidelines), as adopted by the Board of Directors, are incorporated and included herein. The details of the Referee Point System are defined in the AYSO Region 213 Referee Points System posted on the Region’s website prior to the start of the season or available by written request from the Regional Commissioner or the Regional Referee Administrator. Any issues not specifically addressed in these guidelines shall be governed by the AYSO Standard Regional Guidelines currently in effect. A complete copy of all AYSO Regulations and these Regional Guidelines are available to any participant in the program by contacting the Regional Commissioner. All games shall be conducted in accordance with the current FIFA Laws of the Game and decisions of the International Board as modified by AYSO and in effect as of September 1, 2013. 4. AuthorityThe City of Irvine issues a permit to AYSO Region 213 for the use of city fields and facilities. The permit grants AYSO Region 213 control of the fields during the permit allocations. As such, the referee and coach have authority to ask unauthorized individuals (unaffiliated with AYSO Region 213) to leave the field for the safety of the players. For games, the referee is the authority for AYSO Region 213. They are the authority from the moment the referee steps into the vicinity of the field and until the referee leaves the vicinity of the field. 5. Fall Season5.1. GamesGames for the 2013 Fall Season for all divisions will begin on or about September 7, 2013 and end with the last game on or about November 23, 2013. 5.2. Picture DayPicture day is tentatively scheduled for Sunday, October 6, 2013 from 7:30 AM until completion. The Division Commissioner will contact each coach and provide him/her with the assigned time for his/her team. The tentative location of Picture Day is Harvard Community Park on Field D. 5.3. PracticesAll practices – except for AYSO FLEX – may begin, subject to field availability, on or about August 19, 2013. AYSO FLEX may begin practices, subject to field availability, on or about August 5, 2013. 6. Spring Season6.1. GamesGames for the 2014 Spring Season for all divisions will begin on or about March 8, 2014 and end with the last game on or about May 17, 2014. 6.2. PracticesAll practices – except for Spring Select – may begin, subject to field availability, on or about February 24, 2014. Spring Select teams may begin practices, subject to field availability, on or about January 6, 2014. 7. Practices GuidelinesA collection of four (4) or more players from a single team shall constitute a practice session. Failure of a player to participate in practice shall not be a valid reason to limit the player’s participation in a game. No "optional" practices, "lesson" meetings, or other such gatherings intended to "coach" soccer to a team shall be permitted. However, a team may substitute one or more practices per week with such "lesson" meetings or special gatherings intended to "coach" soccer off the field. For the Fall Season of MY2013, AYSO Region 213 is working with AYSO Soccer Camps to provide additional training to Primary Program teams. Attendance at this training session is required[1] and replaces one of the practice sessions during the week. All teams shall observe their allocated practice slots, fields, and parks. In particular, teams should refrain from practicing in "open areas" of parks not allocated to them. A weeknight game shall be considered one practice session towards the maximum two (2) practice sessions per week. Coaches are reminded that the limitations on practice times are intended to create a fair and balanced program for all participants. While practicing each week for periods longer than specified in these guidelines may be of substantial benefit to that select few who are afforded the opportunity, in the long run, such policies are detrimental to the remainder of the participants by creating an "uneven playing field." Any team found to practice in violation of these guidelines may forfeit the game immediately following each week where a violation has taken place. All teams shall make reasonable efforts to adjust their assigned practice slots on fields without lights, such that all teams are afforded at least one hour of daylight per practice session. When Pacific Standard Time becomes effective, those teams practicing on unlit fields with 5:00 PM practice times will only have that slot on Monday or Tuesday and those that had 6:00 PM slots will have the 5:00 PM slots on Wednesday or Thursday. All teams will only have one practice slot from that point on unless assigned to lit fields. 8. Duties of CoachesIt shall be the duty of each coach to:
9. Duties of Referees and OfficialsIt shall be the duty of each Referee and Official to:
10. Fairness and Safety in PlayAll coaches and officials should make every effort to make the games safe and fair for all players and spectators. In particular, in those rare cases where one team is substantially dominating the game, coaches should do all they can to minimize the chances of lopsided scores by adjusting the lineup accordingly. Slide tackles should be discouraged as a part of the game. They are often dangerous and lead to a high degree of injuries. The referee shall remain the sole judge in deciding which plays are fouls and whether or not a player merits a Caution (yellow card) or Send-off (red card) for misconduct. 11. Good Sportsmanship ProgramGood Sportsmanship is the cornerstone of the AYSO Region 213 soccer program. Consequently, AYSO Region 213 is formally defining the Good Sportsmanship program in these Regional Guidelines. The AYSO Good Sportsmanship Program applies to both the Fall and Spring Seasons of the primary program. Each week, coaches, parents and/or referees may report (via email or electronic form) good sportsmanship demonstrated by a player, team or coach. The report shall contain:
At the end of each week, the Regional Commissioner (or their designee) will highlight a story about a player, coach and/or any other person who demonstrates good sportsmanship in the AYSO Region 213 email newsletter or on the website. At the end of the respective season, the Regional Commissioner (or their designee) will select and present to one or more individuals Great Sportsmanship of the season award(s). 12. Field/Team Setup and Sideline ParticipationTeam setup at fields shall observe the following guidelines:
AYSO Region 213 prohibits smoking (and the simulation of smoking) of any kind, the use of any tobacco products (including chewing tobacco) or the consumption of alcohol at or within reasonable proximity to any AYSO activity including practices, games, clinics and camps. Any person dismissed from the field by a Referee for violation of this prohibition shall not return to the AYSO activity and the Referee shall file a report in accordance with Section 27 Discipline and/or Sanctions. All coaches shall be held accountable for the behavior of spectators and may be subject to disciplinary action by the Referee (including being sent off the field of play) due to poor behavior on the part of parents of player on his/her team. 13. Proper DressAll players shall observe the following dress code:
14. Player Participation and Substitution14.1. Coaches Must Have Signed Player Registration FormsNo player shall be allowed to participate in a game, practice, or scrimmage, unless the coach has in his/her possession, at the field of play, the player’s registration form as presented to him/her by the Region at team pass out and duly signed by the parent or legal guardian of the player; or unless the player’s parent or legal guardian is present during the entire time that the player is participating in such game, practice, or scrimmage.No exceptions of any kind shall be permitted. Availability of these registration forms at game time is the responsibility of the coach. 14.2. Player TransfersNo player may be transferred from one team to another once the player is assigned to a team without the prior approval of a parent or guardian, both coaches, the Division Commissioner, and the Regional Commissioner. 14.3. Ineligible PlayersAny team which plays an ineligible player shall automatically forfeit the game and be awarded no points, regardless of the final score of the game. Any team with a player on its roster who was transferred without approval as defined in Player Transfers above shall be considered as having played an ineligible player. Therefore, the team shall forfeit all games played with the ineligible player. Any team with a player not properly registered shall be considered as having played an ineligible player and shall forfeit all games played with the ineligible player. 14.4. Player Participation and Substitution14.4.1. Playing TimeAll registered AYSO Region 213 players (in the Primary Program) in attendance at the beginning of a game, are entitled to play at least half (1/2) of the game. And, these players are entitled to play at least three-quarters (3/4) of the game before any player (on the team) can play the entire game. 14.4.2. Coach Provided Line CardTo ensure players receive the playing time they are entitled to, each Coach shall present the Referee with a completed lineup card prior to the beginning of the game. A completed Line Card lists all players – whether they are present for the game or not – in increasing player jersey number order. The Line Card is part of the Referee’s match report and shall be retained by the Referee. 14.4.3. Substitution HandlingPlayers substituting must report to the referee or assistant referee – the referee cannot designate a club linesman responsible for recording substitutions. Substitution breaks for the U7 through U14 divisions are approximately midway through the first half, approximately midway through the second half, and at the beginning of the second half of the game. The referee shall look for a natural stoppage in the game (that is any one of: throw-in, goal kick, kick off, corner kick, free kick other than a penalty kick, or drop ball), temporarily suspend play and allow for player substitution to take place. The referee does not stop his/her watch for substitutions midway through either half. Substitution breaks for the U5 and U6 divisions are determined by time. Play will stop when time reaches midway through the half and/or at the end of the half (and not at a natural stoppage in play). The referee does stop their watch for substitutions. 14.4.4. Substitutions for Late Arriving PlayersIf a player arrives after the beginning of the game but before the first substitution break, the player must be substituted onto the field of play at the first substitution break or at half time, and subject to conditions for Substitutions for Injury and Substitution Guideline Exceptions below, may be required to play the remainder of the game. If a player arrives between the second substitution break and before the beginning of the second half, he must be substituted onto the field of play at the half or at the third substitution break, and, subject to conditions listed under Substitution for Injury and Substitution Guideline Exceptions below, must play the remainder of the game. If the player arrives after the third substitution break, the player may be substituted onto the field of play subject to all applicable substitution regulations and at the discretion of the coach and the referee. 14.4.5. Substitution Guideline ExceptionsThe only valid exceptions to the playing time a player is entitled to shall be:
In the case of the above exceptions, the coachand parent may agree, with the referee’s permission, to reduce the playing time of the player. Recently, Section 11 and Area Q have piloted "managed substitution" programs where managed substitution means a coach may substitute players at a normal stoppage in play (with the referee’s permission). AYSO Region 213 supports managed substitution and will encourage divisions to use managed substitution if Section 11 and/or Area Q offers managed substitution to the Regions. 14.4.6. Dealing with InjuriesIn the event that a player becomes injured during a game, the following guidelines shall be observed. The referee shall be the sole judge on whether the game shall be stopped to attend to the injured player. All referees are strongly encouraged to always keep the welfare of the injured player foremost in their minds when making a decision on whether the game shall be stopped immediately or at the next natural stoppage. No persons (which include coaches, assistant coaches, parents, or other players) shall enter the field of play to attend to the injured player(s) without the referee’s approval. In such cases, only the coach shall be permitted onto the field. The referee may allow additional persons onto the field, if in his/her opinion the nature of the injury so warrants. The referee is not required to stop the clock during an injury. No player shall be allowed to remain on the field of play if he/she has blood on any exterior part of his/her body, including bloodstains on uniforms. In the event of any injury during play, which results in bleeding, the referee shall immediately send the player to the touchline and request that the bleeding be controlled in such a way that no blood is visible or exposed. The player may not return to the field of play until the referee is satisfied that blood is either no longer present on the skin or clothing of the player, or has been neutralized with a disinfectant. Any player or volunteer who becomes injured in the course of a game or practice shall be reported to the Safety Director by reporting the injury on the Region’s website. The applicable paperwork shall be completed regardless of whether additional medical attention is necessary, as required by National Bylaws. No player who becomes injured may return to the team for either practice or a game without the Safety Director’s prior approval. Any team who plays a previously injured player without the prior approval of the Safety Director shall be considered to have played an ineligible player, and thus forfeit the game in accordance with Ineligible Players above. If a player is injured, play has been stopped by the referee, and the referee waves the coach on to the field to take care of the injured player, then the player must leave the field.[2] The coach may choose either to:
The player who started the "quarter" is credited with playing the entire quarter. The player is still credited with the entire quarter regardless of the actual time played. And, the substitute replacing the player is NOT credited with any part of this quarter regardless of the actual playing time. 15. Game DurationThe Referee shall be the only timekeeper of the game. To keep games on schedule, half time periods shall be a minimum of five (5) minutes and a maximum of ten (10) minutes and substitution breaks should be one (1) to two (2) minutes in duration as designated by the referee. The length of time for halves in the U9 through U14 divisions takes into account approximately one (1) minute for substitutions. Consequently, the Referee’s watch shall continue to run through the substitution break. The referee may, at their discretion, add time in one (1) minute increments for time wasting for substitution breaks or for the handling of injuries. The length of time for halves in the U6 through U8 divisions does not take into account time for substitutions. The Referee stops their watch for substitution breaks for the U6 through U8 divisions. Without regard to the division, Coaches should do all they can to keep the length of substitution breaks to a minimum. They are not an opportunity to coach or re-arrange the entire line-up. Rather they are to simply get players off the field and new ones onto the field. 16. Games Not Completed in Regulation TimeIn the event that a game is not completed in regulation time due to any reason, including without limitation, weather, insufficient players, or abandonment by the referee, all relevant facts shall be submitted to the Regional Commissioner for review who shall have the option to:
The Regional Commissioner’s decision shall be final. 17. AYSO Region 213 Game Schedules17.1. Schedule Source and AvailabilityThe AYSO Region 213 games schedule is posted on a specific SchedulesEtc website (Schedules). If games for a division, such as one of the U14 division, include other AYSO Regions within AYSO Section 11 Area Q, then the schedules for these games will (or may) be on the AYSO Section 11 Area Q scheduling website (rather than on Schedules). A URL link to the Schedules is available on the home page of the AYSO Region 213 website (http://www.AYSOsoccer.org). 17.2. Regional Scheduler AuthorityThe Regional Scheduler is authorized by the Regional Commissioner to:
17.3. Game Rescheduling ProceduresAs a reminder, no games may be played between two (2) teams which are not listed on the Schedules (this does not include scrimmages between teams during practices). All game reschedule requests must be submitted at least three (3) days prior to the day when the game will be played. Games may be rescheduled, if approved by the Regional Scheduler, as follows:
18. AYSO Jamboree ProgramThe AYSO Jamboree program for U5 players is defined at: http://www.ayso.org/resources/short_sided_games/u05_guidelines.aspx. In general, a Master Coach shall operate a jamboree-style session which will last approximately one (1) hour and fifteen (15) including organizing time and breaks including:
During the game, one parent from each team should be selected to act as the game supervisors for the week. These parents should be required to keep the game going. All other parents should be encouraged to cheer positively and to refrain from "coaching" (giving instructions) from the sidelines since this is the time for the kids to play – LET THEM PLAY. The following guidelines include the only elements of the Laws of the Game that apply to the AYSO Region 213 U5 Program: Field: Thirty (30) by fifteen (15) yards marked with lines or cones. Goals: PUGG goals no more than four (4) feet high and six (6) feet high or two (2) tall cones set six (6) feet apart. Ball: Size three (3) soccer ball. Teams: each U-5 team should have a maximum of five (5) players on the roster. Games are played with 3 players per team on the field (and no goal keepers). A minimum of 2 quarters is required for each player and it is recommended that no one play 4 quarters until everyone has played at least 3 quarters. Separate boys and girls teams are recommended. Slide Tackles: For player safety, no "slide tackles." Coaches should not be teaching this technique and should discourage players from attemtping it. Coaches should stop play, inform the player that slide tackles are not permitted, and award a Direct Free Kick for the opposing team. {copy/paste remainder of ayso.org information here} 19. AYSO Region 213 Under-6 Program19.1. AYSO Region 213 Specific Guidelines for the U6 ProgramAll games are played on Saturdays per the Schedules. There are no standings in U6. All Fall Season 2013 players will receive an award (trophy and/or medal) at the end of the season. No more than two (2) 1-hour practices per week. Coaches are strongly encouraged to limit practices after the beginning of the season to one (1) 1-hour practice per week. 19.2. Laws of the Game Modifications for U6The following modifications to the Laws of the Game shall apply to U6.
19.3. Coach’s Duty U6Coaches should recognize that the primary function of this division is to develop players and sportsmanship. Accordingly, each coach should:
20. AYSO Region 213 Under-7 and Under-8 ProgramsAYSO Region 213 may have - yet, is not required to - an U7 division independent of the U8 division. To prevent confusion, these guidelines refer only to U8 although they are the same for both U7 and U8.
21. Rules of Competition for the Fall Season for U9 through U1421.1. Regular ComponentThe Rules of Competition for the Regular Component of the Fall Season apply only to matches played between AYSO Region 213 teams. Teams losing Game Points as a result of player misconduct or coach misbehavior described below will have them deducted from the AYSO Region 213 division standings whether or not the misconduct or misbehavior was a game between AYSO Region 213 teams or not. The purpose of the Regular Component of the season is:
Accordingly, the rules to determine standings applicable to all U9 through U14 (within Region 213) shall be:
21.2. Reporting Game ResultsAll game scores are reported on the game scheduling site. All scores must be reported within twenty-four (24) hours of the scheduled game time. Any person with the password may report the score. 21.3. Tie-breaker Rules to determine standingsIf there are two or more teams tied with same number of Total Points (the sum of Game Points and Referee Points) and a winner must be determined, then the following Tie-breaker rules are followed in order until a winner is determined. If three or more teams are tied with the same number of Total Points, then run through the Tie-breaker rules until 1 team is eliminated. Once a team is eliminated from the tie, restart from the beginning again and eliminate a team each time until you are left with only 1 team. Compare teams using the following rules, in order, to determine the winner (or to eliminate teams from the tie):
22. Season ConfigurationThe season configuration could consist of:
The season configuration depends upon a number of factors such as: the number of teams playing in the division or the number of available slots available each week to play games (for the total number of games). The actual configuration for the season is determined by the Regional Scheduler and are defined/released when the schedules are released. A separate "document" (web page like this one) may summarize how the standings are determined and/or if there will be playoffs in each division. If this new webpage is created, then it is - by reference - considered part of this document and is incorporated herein. The top two teams in each division from the Playoff Component will represent AYSO Region 213 in post-season Area Q playoffs. 23. Referee Points SystemThe Referee Points System for the 2013 Fall Season impacts the Regular component standings and the Tournament component results. The Referee Points System for the 2013 Fall Season is available in a separate "document" (web page) and is incorporated and included herein. 25. Referees Requirements for all Under-7 and older games25.1 General Referees requirements for all Under-7 and older gamesThe two-man Referee system is strictly prohibited in AYSO Region 213. Only A certified, authorized Referee must volunteer using the SchedulesEtc or equivalent scheduling system (SchedulesEtc) to officiate the game. In the event a game does not have a certified, authorized Referee or Assistant Referees have signed up on SchedulesEtc by 6:00 PM on the day before the match, then the match will be canceled and not rescheduled or made-up. In the event the scheduled Referee does not appear to conduct the match and at least one certified, authorized Assistant Referee in uniform is willing to be the Referee, then the match can be played. If more than one certified, authorized Assistant Referee is available, then the choice (to become Referee) shall be presented in order to a neutral Assistant Referee first, an Assistant Referee associated with the home team second and an Assistant Referee associated with the visiting team last. In the event the designated Referee does not appear to conduct the match and no Referee in uniform is willing to be the Referee, then the match cannot be played. In the event the designated Referee is unable to continue the match due to injury or other any other reason (and where a certified, authorized Assistant Referee is not available to take over), then the match shall be terminated. Any game which has been terminated by the Referee must be reported to the Regional Referee Administrator and the Division Commissioner with twenty-four (24) hours of the termination. 25.2 Specific Referee requirements for all Under-7 and Under-8 gamesA certified, authorized Referee must volunteer to supervise the match. Assistant Referees are not required. The Referee can, but is not required to, recruit Club Linesman to help determine when the ball goes out of play over the touchline. 25.2 Referees required for all Under-9 and older gamesA certified, authorized Referee must volunteer to supervise the match. Wherever possible, two certified and authorized Assistant Referees in uniform shall volunteer to assist the Referee. If not possible, then the Referee should recruit Club Linesman to help determine when the ball goes out of play over the touchline. 22. AYSO Region 213 Specific Guidelines for Under-9 and Under-10If:
No more than two (2) 1-hour practices per week. The games shall be played in equal halves of twenty (25) minutes. A minimum of five (5) players shall constitute a team and a maximum of seven (7) players, including a goalkeeper, shall be allowed on the field at one time. Participation of a player in the position of goalkeeper shall be limited to no more than one-half (1/2) of the game. The field size for U10 shall be approximately forty (40) yards by eighty (80) yards.
The goals shall be seven (7) feet high and seven (7) yards (21 feet) wide. A size 4 ball is used. 23. AYSO Region 213 Specific Guidelines for Under-12No more than two (2) 1-hour practices per week. The games shall be played in equal halves of twenty (30) minutes. A minimum of seven (7) players shall constitute a team and a maximum of nine (9) players, including a goalkeeper, shall be allowed on the field at one time. Participation of a player in the position of goalkeeper shall be limited to a maximum of three-fourths (3/4ths) of the game as goalkeeper. If the same player plays three-fourths (3/4ths) of the game as goalkeeper, then they must play one (1) quarter as a field player. The field size for U12 shall be approximately fifty (50) yards by one-hundred (100) yards. No change to the markings from the Laws of the Game. A size 4 ball is used. 25. AYSO Region 213 Under-14 ProgramGame Conduct for U14 may be determined by the Section 11 and/or Area Q rules and regulations as defined and agreed upon by the AYSO Region 213 Board of Directors and incorporated herein. If Section 11 and/or Area Q rules and regulations are not defined for AYSO Region 213 U14 teams, then the following rules and regulations shall apply: No more than two (2) one (1) hour practices per week. Participation of a player in the position of goalkeeper is not limited – one player may be the goalkeeper for the entire game. The games shall be played in equal halves of twenty (35) minutes. All other guidelines are in accordance with the Laws of the Game. 26. Under-16 and Under-19U16 and U19 games shall be conducted in accordance with Area Q and/or Section 11 guidelines as agreed upon by the AYSO Region 213 Board of Directors yet to be published. Teams can practice up to two (2) times per week. Each practice session shall not exceed 1 hour and 15 minutes. If a game is played during the week (between Monday and Friday), then the game takes the place of one of the practices (and the coach can hold only 1 practice during the remainder of the week). 27. Discipline and/or Sanctions27.1. Player MisconductAll players sent off the field of play (in accordance with Law 12 of the current FIFA Laws of the Game as modified by AYSO) by the referee shall not participate in the remainder of the game and shall not be replaced. Such players shall be allowed to remain on the sidelines, provided they do not, in the opinion of the referee, further disrupt the game. 27.2. Player CelebrationsAny player who “celebrates” a caution [yellow card] with teammates or exhibits behavior which, in the opinion of the referee, indicates he/she is celebrating having received a caution, shall be considered guilty of “unsportsmanlike” conduct and thus shall be subject to a second caution leading to immediate send off [red card]. Such decision will be at the sole discretion of the referee. Every year the referees have to deal with more dissent (a challenge to the Referee’s authority) and abuse by spectators and coaches. In an attempt to deter dissent and to provide consistent handling of sanctions and discipline, the following guidelines have been added to the AYSO Region 213 Regional Rules and Regulations. 27.3. Player Discipline by CoachesAll players shall have the right to participate in all games in accordance with the minimum playing requirements. No coach may prevent a player from participation in a game, or portion thereof, without the Region’s prior approval. While the Region recognizes that discipline is a key ingredient to a successful team, any coach who experiences difficulties in this area with one or more players on his/her team, should discuss the matter with the Regional Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA) prior to implementing disciplinary action. 27.4. Referee Handling of Dissent and AbuseCoaches and spectators should note that the use of yellow [caution] and red [send off] cards are limited to players. If, in the opinion of the Referee, a coach or any spectator (Subject) on their sideline behaves irresponsibly though dissent or verbal abuse by word or action, then Referee must acknowledge and deal with it. Coaches and spectators are reminded the Referee’s Authority includes before and after the game – the Referee is the Authority once they enter the vicinity of the field and ends once they leave the vicinity of the field. 27.4.1. Referee 3-step Process for Handling Dissent or AbuseThe Board of Directors and the Regional Referee Administrator recommend the Referee deal with dissent and abuse using a 3-step process:
Any serious verbal abuse (e.g. using offensive, insulting, or foul language or repeated incidents of less serious abuse) or any threat directed towards a referee by a spectator or coach or shall result in the immediate dismissal of the coach from the match without warning. Asking the referee about a call or complaining about a call in earshot of the Assistant Referee or the Referee - whether it is directed at the referee or not - is considered dissent and shall result in a warning. Neither the coach nor the spectators are entitled to an explanation of the call. The Referee team makes a decision, signals for the proper restart, and play resumes. If the Assistant Referee hears the dissent or abuse, then they will report this to the Referee at the next, best opportunity. The Referee shall issue any warnings or dismissals. Referees are reminded to avoid confrontation with coaches. 27.4.2. Recommended Disciplinary Sanctions for Referee AbuseAll dissent/abuse incidents reported to the Regional Referee Administrator are handled through the Disciplinary Review Process described below. In general, the following sanctions are suggested:
Immediate and sincere remorse on the part of the offender may be taken into account by the Disciplinary Committee when determining whether a lesser level of sanction should be applied. Egregious offenses (e.g. repeated or multiple abusive situation, physical contact with a youth referee, or exceptionally inappropriate misbehavior directed toward a referee) shall result in immediate and continuing suspension of the offending person pending a Disciplinary Review. The Regional Commissioner and/or Review Panel will determine if further, or more serious, discipline is warranted. An egregious offense violates the fundamental mission of AYSO and requires strong action. Discipline may include, but is not limited to, suspension for the season, suspension for multiple seasons, "rehabilitation" (e.g. taking the child/volunteer protection training, taking referee training, referee a set number of games, or other remedial education and training), or expulsion of the person and/or their child from further participation in AYSO. A suspended person may not, during their suspension, attend a game of the team where the offense occurred; that adult may attend other children's games in other age groups. A suspended coach may not, during the suspension, attend any game for the team at whose game the misconduct occurred. The coach may attend practices of that team and games of other teams unless notified of additional restrictions by the Regional Commissioner. These sanctions apply only to the discipline of adult spectators or coaches. This policy does not apply to AYSO players or youth (under age 18) spectators. These sanctions do not limit, prevent, or replace any voluntary or required report or referral of improper conduct, by any adult toward any child, to any law enforcement or child protection agency. 27.5. Referee Reporting Requirements for Player Misconduct or Coach/Spectator MisbehaviorAny player sent off – or volunteer, parent or other member of AYSO Region 213 who is dismissed from -- the field of play are subject to disciplinary sanctions and is automatically suspended from participation at any future game until such time as the Disciplinary Review Process has been completed. Referees must report all player misconduct (Cautioned and Sent-off Players) and/or coaches or spectators dismissed from the field for misbehavior to the Regional Referee Administrator within twenty-four (24) hours of the game. 27.6. Impact on post-season Select All Star participationAny coach or other adult participant who is sent off the field of play or subject to any other disciplinary action may, at the Regional Commissioner’s discretion, be prevented from coaching (either as “head” or “assistant”) a post-season Select All Star team, regardless of whether he or she has already been selected for such a team. Any player sent off the field of play three (3) or more times may, at the RC’s discretion, may be prevented from participation in a post-season Select All Star team, regardless of whether he or she has already been selected for such a team. 27.7. Disciplinary Review Process
Figure 1 AYSO Region 213 Due Process Flowchart The Disciplinary Review Process described below is consistent with the current AYSO National Office recommended Due Process Flow Chart available (at the time of this writing) athttp://www.aysohelp.org/management/workshops/2009/Due_Process_Flow_Chart.pdf. In general, every incident or issue is sent to the Regional Commissioner (RC). The RC refers the matter to fact finders and:
All incidents or issues (the “matter”) are first referred to the Regional Commissioner (RC) in writing (where email is deemed sufficient to be "in writing"). The RC refers the matter to Fact Finder(s) to investigate. Did early results of the fact-finding investigation show imminent danger to program or people? 28. Area Q All-star GuidelinesThis section provides the special rules applicable to the AYSO Section 11 Area Q All-star program (“All-stars”). The All-stars program is also governed by a separate document that will be published by AYSO Section 11 Area Q prior to the start of the season. All-star games shall be conducted in accordance with Area Q and/or Section 11 guidelines as agreed upon by the AYSO Region 213 Board of Directors yet to be published. In general and in the absence of any Section 11 and/or Area Q rules and regulations, these Regional rules and regulations govern game conduct: All-star players are selected from the Fall 2012 Season regular AYSO program U10, U12, and U14 divisions. AYSO FLEX Extra program players are NOT eligible to play on All-star teams. 28.2. Selection of Select All Star CoachesAll those persons interested in coaching a Select All Star team must notify and submit a brief resume of experience to the Regional Coach Administrator by October 1, 2012. The Regional Commissioner strongly encourages those interested in volunteering for All-star coaching positions consult with others with whom they would like to coach and submit their notification as a “coaching team.” The coaching team allows more coaches an opportunity to enjoy the All-star experience in addition to putting together individuals who work well together. Coaching Teams shall be limited to three persons and all coaches on the team shall be subject to the approval of the Selection Committee. The final selection of coaches for Select All Star teams shall be made by a Selection Committee consisting of the Regional Coach Administrator, Regional Referee Administrator, Assistant Regional Commissioner, and Regional Commissioner, in consultation with the respective Division Commissioner. Issues that contribute to the selection include (in no particular order), without limitation: When planning a “coaching team”, those interested should consider these items. 29. AYSO Region 213 EXTRA GuidelinesThis section provides the special rules applicable to the AYSO EXTRA[7] program. The AYSO EXTRA program is also governed by a separate document that will be published by Section 11 prior to the start of the season. AYSO EXTRA games shall be conducted in accordance with Area Q and/or Section 11 guidelines as agreed upon by the AYSO Region 213 Board of Directors yet to be published. In general and in the absence of any Section 11 and/or Area Q rules and regulations, these Regional rules and regulations govern game conduct: All registered AYSO EXTRA players in attendance at the beginning of the game, or who arrive prior to the beginning of the second half of the game, shall play at least half (1/2) of the game. AYSO EXTRA teams practice up to twice a week and each practice session shall not exceed 1 hour and 30 minutes. A game scheduled during the week (Monday through Friday) replaces a practice session (coaches cannot hold both a game and two practices during the week from Monday through Friday). 29.1. Coaching RequirementsCoaches interested in coaching an AYSO EXTRA team must file their resume with the Regional Coach Administrator prior to February 1 of the proceeding year (such as February 1, 2012 for the 2012 Membership Year). Coaches must apply to coach an AYSO EXTRA team each year; the Regional Coach Administrator and/or Regional Commissioner does not, any time, guarantee or otherwise promise a current coach will coach a team the following Membership Year. All coaches must meet the following requirements: Coaches are subject to the suspension or removal by the Regional Commissioner at anytime due to any of the following: 29.2. Assistant Coaching RequirementsCoaches must be in good standing with the Region (No red cards, problems reported with Regional, Area, or Section Boards). AYSO Intermediate Level Coaching Certificate (can be obtained at this year’s three day camp). AYSO Safe Haven Coaching Certification (can be obtained at this year’s team pass out meeting). Coaches are subject to the suspension or removal by the Regional Commissioner at anytime due to any of the following: 29.3. Player RequirementsPlayer must be registered with AYSO Region 213 for the current Membership Year as AYSO EXTRA players prior to participating in any AYSO activities including, but not limited to practices and games. 29.4. TryoutsThe Regional Commissioner, Regional Coach Administrator, and AYSO EXTRA Commissioner shall select Evaluators for the AYSO Flex Program tryouts. Coaches shall not be allowed to evaluate at the tryouts for their team. AYSO EXTRA tryouts are scheduled in February and/or March for play during the following Membership Year. The Regional Coach Administrator and AYSO FLEX Commissioner shall plan and schedule a minimum of two tryout sessions for players to be evaluated. Each session shall be approximately 90 minutes in duration. Coaches may direct their own team’s tryout session. It is strongly recommended coaches use the tryout plan (the drills, small-sided games and full game conditions) presented by the AYSO Region 213 EXTRA Coordinator to ensure each player can demonstrate his/her skills and abilities to the Evaluators who have been trained to do evaluations based on the execution of this tryout plan. The Evaluators will rate each player using a numbered scale and evaluation criteria specified by the AYSO Region 213 EXTRA Coordinator. The Evaluators will not cooperate or discuss the player’s ratings with other Evaluators or the coach during and after the tryouts. The Evaluators will strive to generate a wide range of scores based on the skill levels of attendees at the tryout. Evaluators shall also strive to enter an evaluation score for every category for every attendee. The Evaluators shall turn in their evaluation scoring sheets at the end of each night’s evaluations. Evaluations for the first night will not returned to the Evaluators (once turned in). The evaluations will be given to an uninterested, independent administrator (such as the Regional Coach Administrator or their Designee) upon completion of the tryouts. A list will be compiled to determine the rankings of the participants. Coaches must select the team per the Region’s published guidelines for selection of AYSO FLEX team players which will be published prior to the first evaluation night and be incorporated herein when published and approved by the AYSO Region 213 Board of Directors. Maximum number of players per team shall be twelve (12) for U9 & U10 teams and fifteen (15) for U11, 12, 13 and 14 teams. If a player or players drop from a team, they may be replaced. This will be valid until one day before the team-balancing meeting for the impacted team’s division. After the team-balancing meeting for the impacted team’s division, that team roster shall be frozen for the regular and playoff seasons. The Regional Commissioner must approve all team members. If a player for any reason has demonstrated a lack of discipline in his/her prior AYSO career, after reviewing the evidence, the Regional Commissioner, in his/her sole discretion may prohibit any player from participation on any AYSO FLEX team. [1] Coaches will replace one of their practices with attendance at the AYSO Soccer Camps training session – they cannot hold 2 practice sessions that week. [2] With the exception of the goal keeper who, in accordance with the Laws of the Game, may stay on the field and continue to play with the Referee’s permission. [3] For example, if Team A was playing Team B and the reschedule means Team A will play Team C while Team B will play Team D. [4] See the Referee Point System for a definition of: a certified, authorized Referee. [5] See the Referee Point System for a definition of: a certified, authorized Referee. [6] Some games may be identified as “pre-season” or cross-division and are not considered for the Total Points calculations. Coaches will receive clear communication from their division commissioner, the regional scheduler, or other representative (as determined by the Board of Directors) indicating what games will not be considered in the [7] AYSO National Support and Training Center (NSTC) officially sanctioned the AYSO FLEX program with the 2009-2010 Playing Year. For AYSO Region 213, AYSO FLEX is the new name for what used to be called the Advanced Plus Play (APP) or Plus program. |
Change of websitewww.ayso213.org
 Please note that we are changing our website. www.ayso213.org is now where you register, but also where you go for all of your other information as well. Thank you for your patience as we make this change. Region 213 Management |
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Balanced Teams * Everyone Plays * Great Sportsmanship * Player Development * Open Registration * Positive Coaching