Parent FAQs
Answers to common questions.
Registration
When does registration open?
Registration typically opens May 1 each year for the fall season. Early registration costs less.
How much does it cost?
$210-$240 depending on when you register. See Getting Started for the full pricing schedule.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. No child is turned away for financial reasons. Contact [email protected] — all requests are confidential.
Can I register after the season starts?
Sometimes, if space is available. Contact [email protected].
My child turns 5 (or 7, or 9) mid-season. What division do they play in?
Age is determined as of July 31 of the current year. If your child turns 7 on August 15, they play in 6U (for 6-year-olds) for that season.
Teams and Placement
Can my child play with their friend?
You can request one buddy during registration. We honor requests when possible but cannot guarantee them.
When will I find out my child’s team?
Usually 1-2 weeks before the season starts. Watch your email.
My child is on a different team than their friend even though we requested each other. Why?
Buddy requests can only be honored when both families request each other and when team balance allows.
Can my child switch teams after the season starts?
Only in unusual circumstances. Contact [email protected] to discuss.
Volunteering
Do I have to volunteer?
Yes. AYSO is volunteer-run. Without parent coaches and referees, there’s no program. We ask each family to provide one volunteer.
I’ve never played soccer. Can I still coach?
Yes. Our training classes teach you everything you need.
What if I can’t coach or referee?
Other roles include team manager, field host, and snack coordinator. See Volunteer Roles.
How much time does coaching or refereeing take?
- Coaches: 2-3 hours per week (one practice + one game)
- Referees: 1-2 games on Saturday mornings (1-2 hours)
Games and Practices
What day are games?
Games are on Saturdays. Times vary by division.
What day is practice?
Your coach sets the practice day — usually one weeknight (Monday-Thursday), once per week.
How long are games?
40-70 minutes depending on age group. See Your Child’s Team for game lengths by division.
What happens if it rains?
Check the field status page and your email Saturday morning.
My child will miss a game for vacation/event. Is that okay?
Yes. Let your coach know in advance.
Does my child have to play goalkeeper?
In older divisions (10U+), coaches ask for goalkeeper volunteers. No one is forced to play goalkeeper.
Equipment and Uniforms
What equipment do I need to buy?
Shoes and shin guards. We provide the uniform. See our Equipment Guide.
Do I need to buy cleats?
No. Sneakers work fine, especially for younger players.
When do we pick up uniforms?
Dates are announced by email, usually 1-2 weeks before the season.
The uniform doesn’t fit. Can we exchange it?
Yes. Email [email protected].
Playing Time and Competition
Will my child play in every game?
Yes. AYSO’s “Everyone Plays” philosophy means every player participates in at least half of every game.
Do you keep score?
In younger divisions (6U-8U), we don’t emphasize score. In older divisions, score and standings are tracked, but there’s no elimination — every team plays a full season.
What if my child is much better (or not as good) as the others?
Our blind-draw team formation process helps create balanced teams.
Is there a competitive option for advanced players?
NEXT offers advanced training and tournament play for 10U-14U. All-Stars is another option.
Safety and Health
Is my child covered by insurance?
Yes. AYSO provides liability and accident insurance during official AYSO activities.
What happens if my child gets hurt?
Minor injuries are treated on-site. For more serious injuries, follow your instincts as a parent. Coaches have basic first aid training.
My child has allergies/medical needs. Who should I tell?
Inform your coach before the first practice. Keep your emergency contact information in the registration system up to date.
What’s the head injury policy?
Any player who shows signs of a concussion is removed from play immediately and cannot return until cleared by a medical professional. See our Safety page.
What if it’s really hot?
We have a heat policy that may modify or cancel activities when temperatures are extreme.
Communication
I’m not getting emails from the team. What should I do?
- Check your spam folder
- Confirm your email is correct in your your InLeague profile
- Contact [email protected] if you’re still not receiving messages
How do I contact my coach?
Your coach’s contact info is in your team assignment email and in InLeague
Who do I contact about [specific issue]?
| Issue | Contact |
|---|---|
| Registration, team placement | [email protected] |
| Team communication | [email protected] |
| Practice fields | [email protected] |
| Equipment, uniforms | [email protected] |
| General questions | Contact us |
AYSO Basics
What does AYSO stand for?
American Youth Soccer Organization. It’s a national nonprofit providing youth soccer programs since 1964.
What makes AYSO different from club soccer?
AYSO is recreational and inclusive — everyone plays, teams are balanced, and the focus is on development. Club soccer is more competitive with tryouts, selective teams, and travel.
Can my child do both AYSO and club soccer?
Yes. Be aware of potential schedule conflicts.
Still Have Questions?
- Email: [email protected]
- Contact page: Contact Us
- Feedback: Share your feedback
Related Pages
- Getting Started — Guide for new families
- Equipment Guide — What to buy, what’s provided
- Your Child’s Team — Game day info and schedules
- Volunteer FAQs — Questions about coaching and refereeing
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