2009 Policies and Procedures

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    AYSO Region 46

    Saugus, CA

    Region 46 Policies and Procedures

    Release 2009.1

    August 1, 2009

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    Table of contents

    Introduction................................................................................................................................................. 5Scope ....................................................................................................................................................... 5

    Safety .......................................................................................................................................................... 5Child Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA)/Safe Haven.................................................................... 5Safety Director......................................................................................................................................... 5Soccer Accident Insurance and AYSO.................................................................................................... 6Safety Policies ......................................................................................................................................... 6

    Player Injuries ...................................................................................................................................... 6Medical Release....................................................................................................................................... 7Emergency Treatment Authorization ...................................................................................................... 7Player Safety............................................................................................................................................ 8

    Soccer Shoes and Shinguards............................................................................................................... 8Casts and Splints .................................................................................................................................. 8Knee Braces.......................................................................................................................................... 9Medical Alert Bracelets........................................................................................................................ 9Eyewear................................................................................................................................................ 9Hearing Aids ........................................................................................................................................ 9Mouth guards........................................................................................................................................ 9Jewelry, Earrings and Studs ............................................................................................................... 10Additional clothing............................................................................................................................. 10Sleeveless Jerseys............................................................................................................................... 10Hats or Caps ....................................................................................................................................... 10

    Gloves................................................................................................................................................. 10Players' Drinking Water ..................................................................................................................... 10

    Financial and Purchasing .......................................................................................................................... 11Financial Accounts ................................................................................................................................ 11Budget.................................................................................................................................................... 11Major Expense Items............................................................................................................................. 12

    Field and facility rental ...................................................................................................................... 12Field Equipment ................................................................................................................................. 12Referee Supplies................................................................................................................................. 12Coaching Supplies.............................................................................................................................. 12Player Uniforms ................................................................................................................................. 12

    Balls.................................................................................................................................................... 12Asset Management ................................................................................................................................ 13Purchasing Controls............................................................................................................................... 13Expense Reimbursement ....................................................................................................................... 13Sponsorships.......................................................................................................................................... 13

    Team Sponsorship .............................................................................................................................. 14Family Sponsorship............................................................................................................................ 14

    Tournament Event Accounts ................................................................................................................. 14

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    Tournament Teams Accounts................................................................................................................ 14Staffing...................................................................................................................................................... 15

    Board Members ..................................................................................................................................... 15Coaches.................................................................................................................................................. 15

    Referees ................................................................................................................................................. 16Division Representatives ....................................................................................................................... 16Support Personnel.................................................................................................................................. 16Coordinator of Field Monitors............................................................................................................... 16

    Communication......................................................................................................................................... 17Board Meetings...................................................................................................................................... 17Communication Boxes .......................................................................................................................... 17Sideliner................................................................................................................................................. 17Website .................................................................................................................................................. 17Problem Resolution ............................................................................................................................... 17

    Fields and Equipment ............................................................................................................................... 18

    Securing Fields ...................................................................................................................................... 18Field Equipment .................................................................................................................................... 18

    Goals................................................................................................................................................... 18Associated Goal Equipment Bags ...................................................................................................... 18Equipment Set Up and Take Down.................................................................................................... 18

    Region Truck ......................................................................................................................................... 19Storage bins and structures.................................................................................................................... 19

    General Team Organization...................................................................................................................... 19Registration............................................................................................................................................ 19

    General ............................................................................................................................................... 19Fall Season ......................................................................................................................................... 20

    Spring Season..................................................................................................................................... 20Late Registration ................................................................................................................................ 20Drops/Adds......................................................................................................................................... 20

    Coaching Assignments .......................................................................................................................... 20Team selections ..................................................................................................................................... 21

    Competitive Division ......................................................................................................................... 21 Non-Competitive Division ................................................................................................................. 2VIP ..................................................................................................................................................... 21

    Team Designations ................................................................................................................................ 21Practices................................................................................................................................................. 21

    Trainers............................................................................................................................................... 22

    Scrimmages ........................................................................................................................................ 22Parent pick up and emergency contact ............................................................................................... 22

    Team Balancing and Player Evaluations ............................................................................................... 22Player Evaluations.............................................................................................................................. 22

    Games ....................................................................................................................................................... 23Scheduling ............................................................................................................................................. 23Field Monitors ....................................................................................................................................... 23Playing Time.......................................................................................................................................... 23

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    Game cancellation ................................................................................................................................. 24FIFA/Laws of the Game........................................................................................................................ 25Game Cards ........................................................................................................................................... 25Statistics................................................................................................................................................. 25

    Sportsmanship........................................................................................................................................... 26Conduct Policy ...................................................................................................................................... 26

    General Requirements ........................................................................................................................ 26Spectator Requirements...................................................................................................................... 27Coachs Requirements........................................................................................................................ 28Players Requirements........................................................................................................................ 28Conduct in Cases of Excessive Goal Differentials............................................................................. 28

    AYSO Conduct Policy Communication program ................................................................................. 29Rewarding Good Sportsmanship........................................................................................................... 31

    Sportsmanship Points ......................................................................................................................... 32Good Sportsmanship Awards:............................................................................................................ 32

    Post Season Play ....................................................................................................................................... 33League Playoffs ..................................................................................................................................... 33

    Regional Playoff Format .................................................................................................................... 33All Stars ................................................................................................................................................. 36Soccerfest............................................................................................................................................... 38

    Selection of Coaches .......................................................................................................................... 38Selection of Players............................................................................................................................ 38

    Regional Tournament Teams................................................................................................................. 38U-5 Short Sided Game............................................................................................................................. 1

    The Field .............................................................................................................................................. 1The Ball ................................................................................................................................................ 1

    Duration of Game................................................................................................................................. 1 Number of Players................................................................................................................................Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................ 1Organization ......................................................................................................................................... 1Session Schedule .................................................................................................................................. 1Changes from regular FIFA Play ......................................................................................................... 2

    U-6 Short Sided Games ........................................................................................................................... 3The Field .............................................................................................................................................. 3The Ball ................................................................................................................................................ 3Duration of Game................................................................................................................................. 3 Number of Players................................................................................................................................ 3

    Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................ 3Referee ................................................................................................................................................. 3Changes from regular FIFA Play ......................................................................................................... 4Other information................................................................................................................................. 4

    U-8 Short Sided Games ........................................................................................................................... 5The Field .............................................................................................................................................. 5The Ball ................................................................................................................................................ 5Duration of Game................................................................................................................................. 5

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    Number of Players................................................................................................................................ 5Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................ 5Referee ................................................................................................................................................. 5Changes from regular FIFA Play: ........................................................................................................ 6

    Other information................................................................................................................................. 6U-10 Short Sided Game........................................................................................................................... 7

    The Field .............................................................................................................................................. 7The Ball ................................................................................................................................................ 7Duration of Game................................................................................................................................. 7 Number of Players................................................................................................................................ 7Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................ 7Referee ................................................................................................................................................. 8Changes from regular FIFA Play: ........................................................................................................ 8Other Information................................................................................................................................. 8

    U-12 Short Sided Games ......................................................................................................................... 9

    The Field .............................................................................................................................................. 9The Ball ................................................................................................................................................ 9Duration of Game................................................................................................................................. 9 Number of Players................................................................................................................................ 9Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................ 9Referees.............................................................................................................................................. 10Other Information............................................................................................................................... 10

    U-14 Games........................................................................................................................................... 11The Field ............................................................................................................................................ 11The Ball .............................................................................................................................................. 11Duration of Game............................................................................................................................... 11

    Number of Players.............................................................................................................................. 1Playing Time ...................................................................................................................................... 11Referees.............................................................................................................................................. 11Other Information............................................................................................................................... 12

    U-16 & U-19 Games.............................................................................................................................. 13The Field ............................................................................................................................................ 13The Ball .............................................................................................................................................. 13Duration of Game............................................................................................................................... 13 Number of Players.............................................................................................................................. 13Playing Time ...................................................................................................................................... 13Referees.............................................................................................................................................. 13

    Other Information............................................................................................................................... 14Appendix B - Spring Season Formats....................................................................................................... 15

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    Introduction

    These policies and procedures were reviewed and approved by the General Board on June 11, 2007.

    Scope

    These policies and procedures are used in the daily management of the region in conjunction with theAYSO Region 46 Regional Guidelines by providing additional detail on how the Region will operate

    The policies and procedures must be approved by a simple majority of the Executive Board and ratifiedby a majority vote of the general board members in attendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    In the event of any conflict with the Regional Guidelines, the Regional guidelines shall prevail. Wheresuch conflict is due to differences of interpretation, the judgment of a simple majority of the Executive

    Board shall be final. In the event of a conflict with any rules or guidelines from National, Section, orArea levels that are formally published and approved and in general practice across the AYSOcommunity, the Executive Board will either meet or communicate via e-mail to resolve the differenceand such decision will then be ratified by a majority vote of the general board members in attendance atany monthly scheduled board meeting or via e-mail.

    In case of any emergency or time critical situation, the decision may be made by phone polling.

    Safety

    Safety of the players is the number one concern for Region 46. To provide the safest possible programwithin the consideration of a youth contact sport environment, Region 46 has adopted the followingpolicies and procedures related to Safety.

    Child Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA)/Safe Haven

    It is the policy of Region 46 that all coaches, referees and certain other volunteers (including allexecutive board members) who deal directly with children shall be certified under the AYSO safe havenprocess and complete an AYSO volunteer form on an annual basis. Region 46 has a Director of CVPAon the Board of Directors who can be contacted for more information.

    Safety DirectorRegion 46 has a safety director on the Board of Directors; this is the person to contact regarding anysafety concerns, soccer-related injuries, or question regarding the AYSO soccer accident insuranceprogram.

    The safety director will be responsible for assuring that the appropriate safety supplies are well stockedat all game venues scheduled by the region.

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    Soccer Accident Insurance and AYSO

    AYSO provides Soccer Accident Insurance as part of its program for properly conducted and approvedevents. For detailed information, visit the AYSO National web site (www.soccer.org), our local webside (www.ayso46.org), or contact the Safety Director.

    Insurance reimbursement requests must be filed within 90 days of the injury or accident.

    Safety Policies

    Player Injuries

    Soccer is a contact sport and occasionally injuries do occur. The vast majority of these injuries are veryminor and the player fully recovers after a couple moments of rest. If the injury is such that in theopinion of the referee the game needs to be stopped, the referee may halt the game. The game shall be

    restarted with a drop ball. If the game is halted when the ball is in the possession of the keeper, thereferee shall drop the ball so that the keeper can pick it up unchallenged to resume play.

    In some cases, the referee shall signal for the coach to attend to the child. This is a judgment of thereferee and shall be based in part upon the age of the player. Coaches may not enter the field until sosignaled by the referee. Parents must not enter the field unless called for by the coach and referee.

    Injuries Resulting in Bleeding

    Players with bleeding injuries are to be removed from play immediately.

    Once the bleeding stops and all traces of blood are removed from the skin, the player may return to play

    if the wound is covered and there is no evidence of bleeding through the covering.

    If the injured player's uniform contains any traces of the blood from the injury, the affected parts of theuniform must be changed or disinfected with Isopropyl Alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or hydrogen Peroxide.Rubbing alcohol and/or Hydrogen Peroxide may be found in the First Aid Kit located at the playingfield.

    Those attending a bleeding player should use disposable gloves provided in the first aid kit on the field.This is for the protection of both the player and the attendant.

    Injuries resulting in serious injury

    Do not move the player if there is doubt about severe injury where the player cannot move a limb unlessit is clearly safe to do so.

    Call for emergency medical assistance immediately in case of unconsciousness or immobility stemmingfrom any back or neck injury.

    In the case of a suspected broken bone, immobilize the fractured area or call for medical assistance. If abone has penetrated the skin, do not move the player but call for emergency medical assistance.

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    Incident Reports

    Every injury requiring a doctors evaluation soccer related or not must be reported to the coach.

    When a player requires medical attention from an injury during practice or a game, it is the coach'sresponsibility to complete an Incident Report Form. The form can be obtained online at both the AYSONational site (www.soccer.org ) and our local site (www.AYSO46.org ). The form is also available inthe field communication box, the First Aid Kit, or from the Safety Director.

    Incident reports should be filed with the Safety Director as quickly as possible.

    Pre-Existing conditions

    HIV Positive Conditions, Cancer and Shunts

    Players who are known to have HIV positive conditions, cancer or shunts will not be excluded from playin Region 46.

    A parent or other primary caregiver must be present at all practices and games and must provide anyemergency care to the player. The player can not play or practice if a parent or primary caregiver is notpresent.

    Shunts must be adequately covered and padded.

    Other conditionsPlease advise the coach of any other pre-existing medical conditions (especially any if medical suppliesor prescriptions are required). The coach will work with the Safety Director, if necessary, to resolve anyconcerns with discretion. An office physician's authorization to play may be requested.

    Medical Release

    A player, who consulted a medical professional for an injury, may not resume play in a practice or gameuntil the coach receives a Participation Release Form signed by the parent and forwards it to the SafetyDirector. This holds true whether the injury is soccer related or not. This rule is a strict adherence withAYSO National guidelines - no release, no participation.

    Emergency Treatment Authorization

    In the event that a medical emergency or serious injury occurs, the player registration form contains amedical release that allows the coach or assistant coach to take a child/player for medical treatmentshould the parent or guardian not be present. It is required that the coach and assistant coach keepcopies of the registration form, with an original parent or guardian signature, with them at all team

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    events such as practices, games, tournaments, team parties, and the like. If a registration form with themedical release and original signature is not present, the player will not be allowed to play.

    Any player(s) from other regions who join in an event sponsored or co-sponsored by Region 46 must

    also present a copy of a medical release with an original parent or guardian signature before beingallowed to participate.

    Player Safety

    Soccer Shoes and Shin guards

    Soccer shoes and shinguards made by any established soccer equipment manufacturer are acceptable.Other shoes and shin guards are acceptable if, in the opinion of the referee, they are not dangerous to theplayer wearing them or to another player and the shin guards afford the player a reasonable degree ofprotection. A piece of cardboard, rolled up newspaper or similar makeshift items does not constituteproper shin guards. The referee must inspect all cleats to ensure there are no sharp edges; this isespecially important for aluminum and nylon cleats.

    Shin guards must be completely covered by the player's stockings. Players are not allowed to wear theirshin guards over their stockings and then roll the stockings down over the shin guards. The shin guardsmust be worn completely under the stockings.

    Casts and Splints

    AYSO National Rules and Regulations paragraphs VI.H. states:

    "Players shall not be allowed to practice or participate in any game with any type of cast orsplint.

    Removal of any type of cast or splint at the field or surrounding area in order to participate shalldisqualify the player from practice or in any game."

    Coaches and referees must not allow players to participate in practices or games if the player wasobserved to have removed a cast or splint.

    The following is extracted from a letter to coaches, parents and players in AYSO Region 126. TheReferee Administrator, Steven R. Homel, who is a medical doctor and a practicing pediatrician, wrotethe letter.

    Casts and Splints: removable or fixed, hard or soft.

    Anything worn to protect an injured part or facility its healing is a red flag indicating that theinjured area either requires support to maintain proper alignment and/or protection for proper,complete and expeditious healing. Removable casts are designed to facilitate person hygiene and

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    dressing; they are not designed to be removed so that a player may engage in contact sports.Doing so could aggravate an injury and prolong healing time.

    Knee BracesAYSO policy statement 2.9 titled "Knee Braces" reads as follows:

    AYSO will not prohibit the use of knee braces by players in AYSO events and programs,provided that the knee brace is adequately covered and padded so as to eliminate the possibilityof its use causing injury to other players on the field of play.

    The difference between casts or splints and knee braces is that a cast or splint is used for the treatment ofa temporary injury to provide for healing. The use of a knee brace is different in that it is used toprovide support and/or flexibility. Knee braces are designed to allow for flexibility of movement, whileconversely a cast or splint is designed to restrict mobility.

    Medical Alert Bracelets

    Children may participate in games and practices while wearing medical alert bracelets. The braceletmust be covered with a cloth wristband or something equivalent, which does not involve taping thebracelet directly to the child's skin, as this can be very painful when it is removed.

    We must recognize that if the bracelet is removed and lost or hidden in any way, the child might be putin danger, particularly if the parents are not present to ensure that the medical condition is known. Wemust also recognize that it is unlikely that a medical alert bracelet, when properly covered, will pose adanger to the other children who are participating.

    EyewearPlayers who require prescription glasses are allowed to wear them during practices and games. It isrecommended that retaining straps be worn. Rubber bands may also be used for this purpose.Prescription goggles, such as the type used by racquetball players, are also permitted, subject to theapproval of the referee prior to the start of the match. Spectacle guards made of plastic or other hardmaterial are not permitted.

    Hearing Aids

    Players who normally must wear hearing aids are allowed to wear them during a game.

    Mouth guards

    AYSO does not prohibit the use of mouth guards. Parents are encouraged to consult their child's dentistor orthodontist to determine what, if any, mouth guard is appropriate for their child. Children should notbe prevented from participating in practice or games because they are using or not using an athleticmouth guard.

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    Jewelry, Earrings and Studs

    Jewelry, including earrings, of any kind, worn in any visible body piercing, must be removed before theplayer is allowed to participate in a practice or game. The same is true of any stud that is used in a bodypiercing when the jewelry is not being worn.

    Players wearing beads braided into the hair must wear a hair net covering the beads in order to preventthem from flying into the face or eyes of another player.

    Coaches and referees are role models and should abide by the same rules as the players in regard towearing jewelry and studs during practices or games.

    Additional clothing

    At the referee's discretion, additional clothing may be worn when and where appropriate. Additionalclothing which is only for adornment or which may pose a hazard is not allowed. The referee has thefinal decision in this regard.

    During cold or inclement weather, at a referee's discretion and in consideration of the age group, warmerclothes may be worn under the uniform. It is desirable that the color of any undergarment matches thepredominant color of the jersey or shorts, as applicable.

    Sleeveless Jerseys

    Although Law 4 International Board Decision 1 states that jerseys must have sleeves, it is still theposition of both USSF and AYSO that no individual or team should be kept from playing because theirjerseys do not have sleeves. Since this is not a safety issue, the only action referees should take is toindicate on the game report that a team has, or players have, sleeveless jerseys. Region 46 will not

    purchase sleeveless jerseys.

    Players are not prohibited from rolling or tying up jersey sleeves, provided it is done in a safe manner.

    Hats or Caps

    Players may be allowed to wear soft hats or caps without brims if the weather is inclement. They mustnot constitute a danger to the player or to other players and must be approved by the referee.Goalkeepers may wear a brimmed hat or cap. In addition to the above requirements, the brim must alsobe made of a soft material and must be approved by the referee. Baseball-style caps with hard brims arenot acceptable.

    Gloves

    Goalkeepers are traditionally allowed to wear gloves. Other players may also wear gloves if, in theopinion of the referee, the weather is cold enough to warrant it.

    Players' Drinking Water

    Players are permitted to drink water during a stoppage in the play, but only at the touchline. It is notpermitted to throw water containers onto the field.

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    Financial and Purchasing

    Financial Accounts

    The Treasurer shall establish an account for handling the Regional finances. This account shall be at asound local financial institution. The account shall have one checking account for general regionbusiness. Any reserves or accruals for major regional projects may also be held in one or more savingsaccounts. It is the policy of the region to not invest in any financial instrument where there is risk ofcapital loss.

    The authorized signatories for any regional general account are the treasurer, RC, ARC. There may notbe more than one authorized signatory from any related family members. The treasurer may not be

    related to any other executive board member.

    The region shall maintain a separate account for any tournament or tournament team activity. The regiongeneral funds may only be used for the general operating costs associated with the general fall or springprograms. General region funds may not be used for All Stars, Soccerfest, Tournaments, TournamentTeams, or any other use not directly related to the general fall or spring seasons.

    All region accounts shall be reviewed at the monthly general board meeting. All region accounts shall beaudited on an annual basis by someone other than the signatories (and their related family members) forthe account; the written audit report shall be presented to the Executive Board for review. Then thereport shall be given to the Secretary to present for review and approval at the next monthly scheduled

    board meeting. The Secretary shall file the Audit reports in the Regional records for a period of not lessthan 7 years.

    Budget

    The fiscal year for AYSO region 46 begins August 1. At the beginning of the fiscal year the treasurershall prepare a written budget for the coming year. At the end of the fiscal year the treasurer shallprepare a written actual versus plan report for the preceding fiscal year. The budget shall be reviewedand approved by the Executive board and ratified by a majority vote of the general board members inattendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    The budget shall include an RC reserve to cover emergency, unplanned expenses such as repairs for the

    Region 46 truck, storm damage to storage facilities, and the like. The RC or ARC may authorize up to$2000 in an emergency situation, with the requirement to report the emergency by phone to theexecutive board within 96 hours and to the general board at the next monthly scheduled board meeting.

    Additional out of budget expenses must be approved by the Executive board. Out of budget itemstotaling more than $500 must also be approved by a majority vote of the general board members inattendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

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    Major Expense Items

    Field and facility rental

    The RC in consultation with the Director of Fields will identify persons to serve as the point of contactwith various field sites to negotiate the use of fields for region sponsored events. Any expenses forrentals will be reviewed and approved by the Executive board and approved by a majority vote of thegeneral board members in attendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    Additional out of budget expenses must be approved by the Executive board. Out of budget itemstotaling more than $500 must also be approved by a majority vote of the general board members inattendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    Field Equipment

    During the budget planning cycle the Director of Fields shall prepare a forecast of field equipment andsupplies (goals, nets, paint, stakes, etc) needed for the year. The Director of Fields and Director ofPurchasing may order the approved budget items throughout the year.

    Referee Supplies

    During the budget planning cycle the Referee Administrator shall prepare a forecast of referee supplies(uniforms, flags, forms, card wallets, etc) needed for the year. The Referee Administrator and Directorof Purchasing may order the approved budget items throughout the year.

    Coaching SuppliesDuring the budget planning cycle the Coach Administrator shall prepare a forecast of coaching supplies(coaches handbooks, training materials, etc) needed for the year. The Coach Administrator and Directorof Purchasing may order the approved budget items throughout the year.

    Player Uniforms

    Player uniforms represent a major expense for the Region. As such, the selection of uniforms must beauthorized by a majority vote of the general board members in attendance at any monthly scheduledboard meeting. The Director of Purchasing shall select several samples of uniforms that fall within theforecasted budget to present to the general board. The quantities of teams and uniforms per teams shall

    be set by a majority vote of the general board members in attendance at any monthly scheduled boardmeeting. The AYSO uniform may not bear the player name or team name.

    Balls

    The region supplies 2 game balls to the head coach of every team each year. The selection of game ballsmust be authorized by a majority vote of the general board members in attendance at any monthly

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    scheduled board meeting. The Director of Purchasing shall select several samples of balls that fall withinthe forecasted budget to present to the general board.

    Asset Management

    Financial assets are defined as any single piece of equipment whose purchase price (including taxes,shipping, and installation) exceeds $500, for example goals, computers, projectors, etc. All asset itemsshall be recorded at the time of purchase and the responsible board member identified. The list of assetswill be verified by an annual audit coinciding with the budget preparation cycle. The disposal of anyasset item must be authorized by a majority vote of the general board members in attendance at anymonthly scheduled board meeting.

    Purchasing Controls

    Any major expense item must be approved by the general board as defined above. Any purchaserequisition above $300 requires advance general board approval by a majority vote of the general boardmembers in attendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    The Director of Purchasing shall report all purchases placed and associated dollar amounts at themonthly schedule general board meetings.

    Expense Reimbursement

    There are occasions where buying of supplies through Purchasing is not feasible (photocopying charges,feeding volunteers, etc.). In these instances, a board member may make a purchase and submit anexpense report for reimbursement. All expense reports shall be reviewed by the Treasurer and the RC orARC.

    Reimbursements for lunch expenses shall be limited to volunteers who spend more than

    day inservice. It is recommended that lunch reimbursements not exceed $10 per person.

    Dinner reimbursements are limited to volunteers who spend more than 10 hours of service in a day. It isrecommended that dinner reimbursements not exceed $18 for food and $12 for refreshments.

    Referees may be provided a field lunch served from the region snack bar during the regular season (NTE$5). Water and Gatorade (or equivalent) will be provided at the field venues for volunteer support.

    Reimbursement for attending out of the region meetings such as NAGM, Section Meetings, and Refereeand Coaching programs shall be contingent upon prior approval of attendance by an executive board

    member.

    All planned expenses should be cleared by review at the general board meeting whenever possible.

    Sponsorships

    Sponsors help to keep our registration fees to a minimum. Sponsor contributions also help to purchaseequipment such as goals and nets, field paint, etc.

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    Team Sponsorship

    There are three different types of team sponsorships. Each may be done directly through the team coach,or can be done through the Region and the sponsor will be assigned to a team. A team may recruit morethan one sponsor, but may choose only one for them (unless using option 2 below). Extra sponsors willrevert to the Region and will be assigned to another team.

    1) A $300 sponsorship includes a team plaque for the sponsor, their name on the team banner,their name in the Sideliner newsletter, and T-shirts with the sponsor's name and team name foreach child, coaches, and sponsor.2) Two $200 sponsors must agree to share advertising space on the T-shirt and banner. Thebanner and T-shirts for children, coaches and sponsor will have two sponsor names; eachsponsor will receive a team plaque and their name in the Sideliner.3) For a $150 sponsorship, the sponsor will receive a small team plaque, their name on thebanner and in the Sideliner.

    Family Sponsorship

    Families may become a sponsor with a $25 (or more) donation to the Region, usually at the time ofregistration, but can be at any time.

    For more sponsorship information please contact the Director of Sponsorship.

    Tournament Event Accounts

    There shall be a separate checking account to handle all financial matters related to Tournaments that the

    Region is involved in supporting. These accounts may be at another region for shared events, or at Areaor Section for tournaments sponsored at the Area or Section level which the region participates in. Thereshall be no mixing of general region accounts and Tournament accounts. Periodically, as determined byapproval of the executive board and by a majority vote of the general board members in attendance atany monthly scheduled board meeting, surplus funds beyond an operating reserve may be transferredfrom the Tournament Account to the general fund.

    Tournament Teams Accounts

    The region shall maintain a separate tournament account to hold all proceeds from tournaments and toprovide a clearing account for tournament teams. The funds in this account may be used to support other

    programs that the region engages in that are not open to all players such as All Stars, Soccerfest,Tournaments, Tournament Teams, or any other use not directly related to the general fall or springseasons.

    The region does not supply funds to any Tournament teams; tournament teams are entirely self-supporting.

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    The region will pay out of the Tournament account the entry fees (not referee deposit) for any teamattending the National Games.

    In order to provide that appropriate financial oversight for tournament teams, the region requires that TT

    manage their finances through the Tournament account. All proceeds for tournament teams (playerassessments, sponsorships, fundraisers, tournament refunds, etc.) are to be deposited to the tournamentaccount. All disbursements (tournament entry fees and referee deposits, uniform expenses, team partyexpenses, etc.) are to be made from the tournament account and must have receipts or properjustification. This policy is intended to prevent any misappropriation of funds and to protect thetournament team leadership from unfounded charges of impropriety.

    As the tournament account accumulates cash from the various fundraising events, the region shalldetermine the best use of funds to support the growth and quality of the soccer program in ourcommunity.

    StaffingThe key ingredient to any successful program is the quality of the people involved. This is especiallytrue for a volunteer organization such as ours. The following policies are put in place to make sure wecan deliver the best program possible.

    Board Members

    The region will establish at the beginning of the fiscal year a nominating committee to review candidatesfor board positions. The nominating committee will review potential candidates and volunteers to assurethat there is a good fit between position and candidate. Recommendations will be reviewed first at the

    Executive Board and then final approval will be made by a majority vote of the general board membersin attendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    The nominating committee will be made up of a minimum 3 member panel consisting of at least oneexecutive board member and one general board member.

    Any board member who is planning to retire from their position is requested to give a minimum of 6months notice.

    People may volunteer for Board positions by contacting the nominating committee.

    CoachesCoaches may volunteer by calling the coaching staff or by filling out a volunteer form at the time ofregistration.

    The Coaching Administrator will select the Coaches and present candidates to the Executive Board forapproval.

    The Executive Board will make final approval of Coaches.

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    Coaches must be Safe Haven Certified and complete a Volunteer Form.

    Coaches should attend the age appropriate AYSO certified coaching course.

    Referees

    Referees may volunteer by calling the referee staff or by filling out a volunteer form at the time ofregistration.

    Referees must be Safe Haven Certified, complete a Volunteer Form, and should attend age specifictraining.

    Division Representatives

    The Director of Division Representatives for both the Upper divisions (U-10 through U 19) and the non-competitive divisions (U-5 through U 8) shall prepare a listing of proposed candidates to present to theExecutive Board for review and approval.

    Candidates for the fall season are due by the second week in June.

    Candidates for the spring season are due by the second week in February.

    Support Personnel

    Support staff needs to complete a volunteer form.

    Coordinator of Field Monitors

    The Coordinator of Field Monitors is responsible for the selection, training, and scheduling of fieldmonitors. Field Monitors are to be nominated by coaches; each team is to provide parent/guardianvolunteers to monitor fields in support of the on duty board members.

    Field monitor duties shall be limited to observation of events and answering questions to the best of theirability. The field monitors are to notify a board member in the case where any intervention may benecessary such as dealing with a too vocal parent or in resolving any dispute that has the potential to get

    out of hand.

    The Home team will provide a Field Monitor for one hour before their scheduled game and the Awayteam for one hour following their scheduled game.

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    CommunicationAll publicly published information that relates the AYSO Region 46 must have approval of the RC orARC prior to distribution or posting for public viewing. This includes fliers, handbooks, web site

    material, Sideliner articles, etc.

    Board Meetings

    Board meetings are scheduled each year for the following year. Board meetings are generally held thesecond Monday of each month. See the Regional Calendar for details.

    From time to time, a meeting may need to be rescheduled; board members will be notified by phone oremail of any rescheduled meeting. Rarely, an additional board meeting may be needed to review criticalinformation. Board members will be notified by phone or email of any additional meetings.

    Communication Boxes

    The Division representatives shall maintain communication boxes for the physical distribution ofinformation to their coaches. The communication box is also used to collect any documentation from thecoaches.

    The division representatives shall check the communication box weekly during active parts of the seasonto assure that communication and materials are being delivered and retrieved from their assignedcoaches on a weekly basis. This may require frequent phone reminders.

    Sideliner

    The Region publishes a newsletter to cover relevant information for all families regarding the Regionand it activities. The Sideliner is distributed to coaches through the Division Rep/Communication box

    channel. The coach (who may subcontract this to the team parent) is responsible to assure Sidelinersare delivered to all families.

    The Sideliner is also published on the web site.

    Website

    The web site is an integral part of the Region 46 communication program. The web site architecture,design, and materials shall be reviewed on a periodic basis by the RC and ARC. Time criticalinformation, such as rain out information, is routinely published on the web site.

    The web site shall also have a suggestion box to foster feedback from all members of Region 46. Allsuggestions shall be reviewed by the Executive Board on a monthly basis at the monthly scheduledmeetings.

    Problem Resolution

    Any issues or problems should be resolved by dispassionate and mutually constructive negotiation. Theproper chain of events in elevating issues that cannot be resolved is to go through the following levels ofnegotiation starting with 1) The coach in question; or then 2) the appropriate Division Representative; or

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    then 3) the appropriate Director of Division Representatives; or then 4) the appropriate Board Member;or then 5) the appropriate Executive Board Member; or then 6) the RC & ARC council. If issues stillcannot be resolved then the issues shall be referred to the issue resolution process defined in the Region46 Guidelines.

    Review Boards, as mentioned in these Policies and Procedures, shall consist of the Executive Board,except the members of the Executive Board who have a conflict of interest (e.g. dealing with relatives,or where a case could result in a material impact to their childs team or competing team) who shallexcuse themselves. If conflicts of interest result in fewer than 4 people, additional members of thegeneral board may be invited to participate.

    The RC or ARC may elect to skips steps in the chain established above or immediately refer a dispute tothe issue resolution process defined in the Region 46 Guidelines based upon their judgment of thesituation or in case of a conflict of interest.

    Fields and Equipment

    Securing Fields

    The RC shall work with designated people to schedule field time for games and practices as possible.

    Field Equipment

    Goals

    All goals will be securely stored and locked when not in use.The Director of Fields and Equipment (or designee) will unlock the goals at the start of each game day.

    The Director of Fields and Equipment (or designee) will lock the goals at the end of each game day.The goals and related equipment (nets, ties, etc.) will be inspected by the Director of Fields andEquipment on a monthly basis during the regular and spring season and at reasonable intervalsthereafter.Goals must be secured with goal stakes.

    Associated Goal Equipment Bags

    Equipment bags for each field will contain the following:(1) Four (4) corner flags(2) Two (2) nets(3) Fourteen (14) goal stakes

    (4) Hammer

    Equipment Set Up and Take Down

    Equipment setup is the responsibility of the Coaches of both the home and visiting teams playing thefirst game of the day.

    Both teams playing the 1st game of the day will be responsible for lining (chalking or painting) theplaying area.

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    Equipment take down is the responsibility of the Coaches of both the home and visiting teams playingthe last game of the day.

    Unless otherwise instructed, the teams playing the last game of the day must drop off the fieldequipment bag as directed by the field staff.

    In the event any field equipment items are missing, the Director of Fields and Equipment shall benotified immediately to ensure prompt replacement for the following weeks games.

    Region Truck

    AYSO Region 46 has secured a truck and trailer to manage the transportation of region equipment fromstorage facilities to the point of usage. Operation of the Region Truck is limited to personnel who areinsured to operate the vehicle.

    The only people authorized to be insured and operate the vehicle are:

    The Regional CommissionerThe Assistant Regional CommissionerThe Director of FieldsOther designated board members or staff listed on the insurance policy

    Storage bins and structures

    The Director of fields shall periodically evaluate the storage bins and structures for safe and secureoperation. Any problems are to be reported to the RC or ARC immediately.

    The decision to rent storage facilities shall be made by the executive board and ratified by the generalboard.

    General Team Organization

    Registration

    The Region shall schedule numerous opportunities for players to register and this information shall bedisseminated to the public through means of the web site, fliers to the schools in the area, and otherpublic notices.

    General

    Region 46 attempts to place all players subject only to limitations of field space and support volunteerstaff.

    In order to register, players must have proof of age (copy of birth certificate, if not already verified inRegion 46 records), complete the player registration form, complete a player evaluation conducted bythe coaching staff for purposes of establishing a player rating to use in team balancing if the player did

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    not play in the prior fall season, and pay the registration fee. The registration fee shall be set by theExecutive board as part of the budget review process and shall be approved by a majority vote of thegeneral board members in attendance at any monthly scheduled board meeting.

    At all registrations, forms shall be available for parents to volunteer.

    Fall Season

    There shall be a minimum of 4 registrations.

    Spring Season

    There shall be a minimum of 3 registrations.

    Late Registration

    Late registration is on a space available basis and in keeping with maintenance of balanced teams.

    Drops/Adds

    If a player elects to drop off a team, the coach must immediately notify the Division Representative.Once the original registration form from the dropping player has officially been submitted to theDivision Representative and the Division Representative has verified with the players family that he isdropping, a replacement player (if any) from the waiting list will be assigned by the Registrar.

    If there is no waiting list, the next player to register may be assigned to the team provided he does notimbalance the team. A player closest in rating to the player that dropped should be added to the team.

    A written request must be made in order to receive a refund for a player who drops from the program.

    Refunds are pro-rated if we are notified after July 25. Requests can be made through the web site aswell.

    Fall refunds are available according to the following schedule:Before July 10 Full refundJuly 26 through August 30 Full refund less $50 processing feeAfter September 1 No refund

    Spring refund requests must be made at least 14 days prior to the first game of Spring Season.

    Registration fees or refunds will not be carried over to the next season.

    Coaching Assignments

    Coaches will be assigned teams based upon their volunteer preferences, coaching credentials, openings,and past performance. Coaching assignments are made by July for the fall season and by February forthe spring season.

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    Team selections

    Competitive Division

    Any Division with 14 teams or more will utilize pool play.Teams will receive three (3) points for a win, one (1) for a tie and no points for a loss. In U10 and U12,teams will receive one-half (1/2) point for supplying a uniformed certified assistant referee.There will be a minimum of 10 games played; some of these games may be practice games dependingon the numbers of teams in the pool/division as needed to maintain equitable schedules to determinestandings.

    Total points will determine a teams standing within its Division.

    Non-Competitive Division

    The season will be a straight season consisting of a minimum of ten (10) games depending on the

    calendar and field availability.No scores or standings will be recorded. Sportsmanship will be awarded.

    VIP

    The season will run concurrent with the rest of the region. No scores will be recorded; however, thehighlights of VIP games are to be reported.

    Team Designations

    Team names must be cleared through the Division Representative. Inappropriate names will not beallowed. Teams must get name clearance prior to making a banner or any other use of the name.

    The team number will be used in lieu of the team name until the Division Representative approves theteam name.

    The first designation will be the division number (i.e. "U-12, as in Under 12 division). The seconddesignation will represent the first letter of the gender of the division (i.e. "G", as in girls). For example,the team designated as U12G05 is Under 12 Girls team #05 and U10B10 is Under 10 Boys team #10.

    The team number will be the official designation for all teams on game schedules.

    The team name will be used on all correspondence within the division only. Outside the division, theteam number will be used.

    Practices

    Teams may begin practices on August 1. Coaches will determine the practice schedule and may reservepractice space through the Region as provided in the pre-season coaches meeting.

    Team practices cannot exceed 1 hours per day or 3 hours per week. One practice per week is ok forU-6 and U-8 divisions.

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    During pre-season or for weeks when there are no games, a scrimmage of not more than the ageappropriate game time may be included in addition to the normal practice time.

    Coaches should examine the practice field for safety hazards prior to practicing.

    Game safety considerations, including shoes and shin guards, are required for all practices andscrimmages.

    Player registration forms (originals or photocopies) with the parents original signature must be in thepossession of the Coach at all team practices.

    Coaches must have another parent present (one of the adults must be the same gender as the children)and must remain after practice to ensure that all children are safely picked up.

    Trainers

    AYSO is an all-volunteer organization. As such, and in order to maintain our tax status as a charitableorganization, no team may engage any trainer or other service where there are fees for such services.

    Scrimmages

    At the coachs discretion, additional scrimmages may be arranged with other AYSO Region 46 teams.The coaches involved are responsible for organizing such scrimmages and shall arrange for fields,equipment, and referees.

    Parent pick up and emergency contact

    If parents are more than 10 minutes late to pick up their children from games or practices, then the coachmay contact the emergency contact. If the emergency contact does not respond, then the coach maycontact the Sheriffs Department of Social Services for care of the child.

    Team Balancing and Player Evaluations

    Player Evaluations

    Player evaluations must be completed by coaches prior to the end of the season. Specific dates will beidentified during the season.

    Coaches must attend the team balancing meeting scheduled towards the end of the season. If a coachcannot attend, then they must make arrangements for someone from the team to represent them. Only

    one representative from each team shall be allowed to attend the meeting.

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    Games

    Scheduling

    Game Schedules

    Game schedules will be completed and made available by mid August.The home team will be the first team listed on the schedule.The home team will occupy the north or west side of the field and the visiting team will occupy thesouth or east side of the field.

    Starting Time

    Games will start at the time posted on the game schedule. No exceptions will be made to this policy.Any request to delay the start of a game will be denied.Teams should allow at least one hour prior to the start of the 1st game of the day to set up goals.

    Ending Time

    All games will end no later than five (5) minutes before the start of the next scheduled game. If the startof a game is delayed, each half will be shortened by an equal amount to allow the game to end on time.

    The length of a game may be shortened by the Referee or any member of the Executive Board forreasons including, but not limited to:

    A delay in the start of a gameAbusive behavior by coaches, players or spectatorsDangerous field conditions

    Inclement weatherScheduling limitations

    Field Monitors

    Board members and their trained designees will be assigned shifts as Field Monitors.

    At least one (1) Field Monitor should be present at all times during any games which are theresponsibility of Region 46 which includes regular and spring season games, playoff games, All-Stargames and Tournament games.

    Duties of the Field Monitor will include monitoring the conduct of players, spectators and volunteers.

    Inappropriate conduct will be brought to the attention of a Board Member who will intervene asnecessary to restore proper conduct.

    Playing Time

    Players in Divisions U-5 through U-12 and VIP must play ** of the game unless they arrive late, areinjured, or are ill.

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    Any suspended games may be made up at a later date and time, if the games have any impact onplayoffs. Suspended games, if replayed, will be played in their entirety; the scoring of the game at thepoint it was suspended has no impact on rescheduling.

    FIFA/Laws of the GameAll games shall be played in accordance with the FIFA laws of the game, AYSO Edition. The gameformats are described in a separate section of this Policies and Procedures.

    Game Cards

    The coach must submit a competed game card to the Referee prior to the game.

    All players on the team roster must be listed on the game card in numerical order, even if they are notpresent.

    The reason a player is not participating in a game must be indicated on the game card (i.e. injury, illness,absent, etc.).

    The captains of each team must be identified on the game card.

    The referee will assure that the game cards are filled out correctly and legibly, and shall make sure thenames of the assistant referees who have done the game are legibly written on the cards. In U10 andU12, in order to receive the 1/2 point, each team must provide a uniformed certified assistant referee.

    At the conclusion of all matches, the referees will record the results of the match (teams involved;halftime and final score; field location and time; players present, substitutions, goals scored; anycautions or send offs and reason; parent or coach disciplinary action needed; and sportsmanship ratings)on the game cards and obtain a signature of the coach to verify.

    No scores will be posted on game cards for non-competitive Divisions (U-5, U-6, U-8 or VIP).

    The game cards are to be deposited by the referee into the designated Game Card field box located at thesite referee area.

    The Director of Fields will collect the Game Card field boxes from each site at the close of each day.

    Game cards for each season will be retained until the beginning of the next years season.

    StatisticsEvery Sunday, the Director of Statistics will collect all game cards from the previous weeks games. Thecards will be audited for completeness; errors and missing cards will be identified to the appropriatereferee scheduler for feedback or reconstruction of the missing cards.

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    The Director of Statistics will publish a report tallying the final scores for all competitive division gamesand sportsmanship scores for all teams (typically by Wednesday) and forward that informationelectronically to the webmaster for posting on the web site (typically by Friday).

    If coaches dispute the posted results, please contact the Division Representative who will forward thaton to the Director of Statistics.

    The Director of Statistics will archive the game cards through the completion of the league and all starplayoffs in case we need to refer to the cards to verify minimum play time or any other information.

    SportsmanshipThe Region 46 Sportsmanship program recognizes the ideals of AYSO and the value to developingchildren of learning superior sportsmanship. Good sportsmanship doesn't just happen, it needs to betaught, encouraged and demonstrated. We expect all of our coaches, referees, parents and players toabide by the principles of good sportsmanship and have developed the following AYSO Codes ofConduct to set the appropriate expectations. We have also designed a Sportsmanship program to rewardand encourage good sportsmanship behavior in players, coaches, and spectators.

    The Region 46 family wants all of its members to have a fun season. Good sportsmanship is one of theways we can all assure ourselves of meeting this goal. Please review the Codes of Conduct with themembers of your family. If you have any questions about the Region 46 Sportsmanship Program contactthe Director of Sportsmanship.

    Region 46 supports the AYSO Kids Zone program.

    Conduct Policy

    General Requirements

    The use of fields is a privilege, not a guarantee. We depend upon the gracious support of the schools forour program. We also are pleased to have use of Central Park and Heritage Park through the gracioussupport of the city. We need the cooperation of our entire AYSO community to continue the goodrelationships that make this possible. Therefore all people are expected to follow all school and cityproperty rules and to respond respectfully when asked to do so by AYSO personnel.

    Parking shall be in designated parking locations only. The Region reserves the right to tow away orimmobilize vehicles parked in fire lines, or that block access roads, or are in inappropriate locations.Repeat offenders may be removed from further participation in AYSO.

    Foul language and/or abusive behavior from coaches, players and spectators will not be tolerated andpeople who violate this requirement will be asked to remove themselves from the field of play. Failureto do so will result in a forfeit for the offending team. This situation will be addressed accordingly by theCenter Referee, Field Monitor on duty, or Executive Board Member.

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    Use of tobacco products is prohibited on all school grounds.

    No pets are permitted on school grounds.

    Bicycles, skates, and skateboards are not permitted on school grounds.

    Noisemakers of any kind (i.e. whistles, horns, etc.) are prohibited during games.

    All fields and associated facilities and surrounding structures are to be treated with appropriate care andconsideration. Teams shall leave the fields clean and clear of debris. All trash must be placed inprovided receptacles.

    Vandalism of any kind will not be tolerated and will be immediately reported to authorities. Violatorswill be suspended from AYSO participation until final resolution is reached through the problem

    resolution process.

    Serious or repeated violations of any of the conduct policies or AYSO rules and regulations may causethe individual to go through the problem resolution process and may result in the suspension of theindividual or their child from further participation in AYSO for a period of time, perhaps permanently.

    The possession and use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on all fields. Any individual possessingalcoholic beverages will be asked to remove the alcoholic beverage(s) from the premises. Thisindividual may return to the field upon willingly removing the alcoholic beverage(s). Upon returning tothe field, this individual must exhibit behavior conducive to a youth sports environment. If theindividual exhibits abusive behavior and/or is resistant to removing the beverage(s), that individual may

    not return to the field. Following the game, his/her child (if playing) will be escorted to the parent's carby a neutral party to the incident such as the field monitor, team parent, or assistant coach. It is notwithin the authority of Region 46 to determine if an individual is under the influence of alcohol;however, Region 46 will make every effort to ensure that an atmosphere is maintained that isappropriate for youth sports participants. The safety of the children will be the priority of Region 46when handling situations such as this.

    Illicit substances or weapons of any nature will not be tolerated. Law enforcement agencies will beimmediately notified when an individual is found possessing illicit substances or weapons. Violatorswill be suspended from AYSO participation until final resolution is reached through the problemresolution process.

    Spectator Requirements

    Spectators are to remain three feet back from the sidelines and may not travel down by the goals. Theymust remain between the penalty areas.Spectators must not attempt to coach and are prohibited from addressing players and referees in aderogatory manner.Spectators shall not yell at the referee in order to dispute judgment nor question the referees honesty.

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    Coachs Requirements

    Only two (2) coaches will be allowed to coach a team during a game.With the exception of VIP, U-5, and U-6 all coaches must remain on their team's designated side of thefield during play. No coaching will be allowed to take place on the opponent's side of the field unless thesole purpose is to coach a deaf or developmentally mainstreamed child.Coaches are limited to a traveling distance of ten yards on either side of the center line of the playingfield. This area will be referred to as the "coaches area".If a coach is ejected from a game, that coach will sit out the remainder of the game and the followinggame.

    Players Requirements

    Players who are substituted out for the quarter must remain three feet back from the sidelines within theboundaries of the coaches area.If a player receives two yellow cards during a game, the referee will show a yellow immediatelyfollowed by a red card.If a player receives a red card during a game, that player will sit out the remainder of the game and thefollowing game.If a player in U-14, U-16, or U-19 receives yellow cards in two separate games at any time during theseason, that player may be subject to review before the Region 46 Review Board.Any player who throws a punch or intentionally strikes another player before, during, or after a gamewill be automatically subject to further action by the Review Board Committee and may be ejected forthe remainder of the regular season and all post season play.Any child or coach who receives a red card for violent behavior must appear before the Review BoardCommittee prior to participating in further scheduled games and may be ejected for the remainder of theregular season and all post season play.Any player who receives two red cards in a season or any coach who has been sent away more than oncemay be subject to further action by a Review Board. Players who are involved in ungentlemanly conductbefore or after a game will be immediately suspended until their case is reviewed.No appeal of any form of disciplinary action rendered by a referee shall be allowed.

    Conduct in Cases of Excessive Goal Differentials

    If a team has a five (5) goal lead on their opponent, the coach of the leading team must make changes tothe lineup to soften their attack, play down, and reduce the chance of scoring additional goals.

    The changes made by the coach should be of a nature that is subtly noticeable by the referees and theopposing coach.

    The changes made by the coach should not include a competitive let down by their team that is obviousto the opposing team and humiliating maneuvers such as keep away tactics must be avoided. Thisincludes refraining from loud instructions yelled out across the field; please call the players over to thesidelines and ask them to spread the word. Other ideas are to restrict scoring to headers, weaker footshots, and changing up positions and substitutions to minimize advantage (play your strongest playersthe minimum amount of time and in keeper and defensive positions).

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    Failure to make adjustments where there is an excessive scoring differential shall result in loss ofSportsmanship points. If adjustments are in good faith, then additional scoring shall not necessarily because for Sportsmanship point deductions.

    Taunting or humiliating behavior shall automatically result in minimum Sportsmanship points and mayresult in the coach appearing before a board of inquiry to determine if other sanctions (includingremoval of the coach) are necessary.

    AYSO Conduct Policy Communication program

    In order to make sure everyone is aware of our Sportsmanship program and Conduct Policy all people inthe program will be given a copy of these policies in the parent handbook. Our purpose in doing this isto assure that all individuals who will be participating in the games as players, spectators, coaches, etc.are informed of our conduct rules to make the games enjoyable for everyone - especially the children.

    We request that all Region 46 volunteers read and understand this policy because everyone will beexpected to adhere to it. The only mechanism we have in knowing that we have reached everyone is byreceiving the signature page back from all of you. Thank you for your cooperation!

    We ask the following to sign the signature page:1) Coaches,2) Assistant Coaches,3) Referees,4) One parent or guardian of each player (all divisions),5) All remaining Region 46 volunteers, and

    6) All U-14, U-16 & U-19 players.

    After the signature page is completed, coaches will collect the forms and turn them in to the designatedDivision Representative when they pick up their team uniforms. Referees will submit theirs to theReferee Administrator, and all other volunteers will submit theirs to the Region 46 board memberresponsible for the area they are working. For parents with multiple children in the program, please signone for each child you have playing.

    Coach's Code

    Coaches shall enthusiastically support and practice the Good Sportsmanship, Everyone Plays and

    Positive Coaching philosophies of AYSO. Ensure that your players' soccer experience is one of fun andenjoyment (winning is only part of it).

    Be reasonable in your demands on the young players' time, energy, enthusiasm and their performance onthe soccer field.

    Impress on your players that they must abide by the Laws of the Game at all times.

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    Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, and for the judgment of referees and opposingcoaches.

    Keep informed about sound principles of coaching, growth and development principles relating to

    children.

    Enlist the support of your team's parents in your efforts to instill proper attitudes and values in theplayers.

    Check equipment and facilities that you use. They should meet safety standards and be appropriate forthe age and ability of your players.

    Follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured child is ready to play again.

    Referee's Code

    Always remember the game is for the players. Player safety and fair play come first.

    Study and learn the Laws of the Game. Understand the "spirit" of the Laws. Help other referees do thesame.

    Encourage & enforce the AYSO philosophies of Everyone Plays, Positive Coaching & GoodSportsmanship.

    Respect other referees and their decisions, and do not publicly criticize another official.

    Wear the proper uniform and keep it in good condition.

    Maintain good physical condition so you can keep up with the action.

    Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches and parents.

    Honor accepted game assignments. In an emergency, find a replacement.

    Support good sportsmanship with a kind word to players, coaches and parents of both teams whendeserved.

    Always be fair and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest. Always maintain fair and impartial

    enforcement of the laws without regard to the sore.

    Parents' Code

    Do not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.

    Remember children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment, not yours.

    Teach your child always to play by the Laws of the Game.

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    Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than a victory.

    Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Your child will

    then be a winner, even in defeat.

    Do not ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or for losing a game.

    Set a good example. Children learn best by example.

    Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.

    Do not publicly question referee judgment and never their honesty.

    Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches,