TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome Page 2 Mission Page 2 Purpose ...
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association Dear Parents, Coaches, and Players,
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome Mission Purpose and Affiliation Business Address, Phone Number, E-mail, Web Site Guidelines for Parents Player’s Code of Conduct Parent’s Code of Conduct League Responsibilities Team Responsibilities The Laws of the Game 3 v 3 Official Laws for Under 5 and Under 6 4 v 4 Official Laws for Under 7 and Under 8 Field Preparation for Games Termination of Incomplete Games Scheduling of Games Field Security Lost and Found Insurance Uniforms Players, Coaches, and Parents Discipline Protest of Games Cards and Suspension of Players, Coaches, or Parents Coaching from the Sidelines Divisional Game Statistics and Year-end Placements Recreational Team Formation Select Team Formation Play Up Policy Fundraising / Sponsorships Volunteers Duties and Responsibilities of the Board of Directors Duties and Responsibilities of the Elected Officers Duties and Responsibilities of the Appointed Officers
WELCOME
Parents Handbook
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Welcome to the West Gwinnett Soccer Club (WGSC) aka Atlanta United Soccer Association (Atlanta United). WGSC/Atlanta United has experienced phenomenal growth over the past few years as the population of Gwinnett County has grown and as our program has expanded. It is our intent to offer to you a rewarding soccer experience whatever your age or playing level. WGSC/Atlanta United offers recreational and select soccer for ages 4 through 18, both coed and girls teams. WGSC/Atlanta United also offers TOPSoccer program for the mentally and physically handicapped. We’d also like to see the parents get involved. There are many opportunities for the participation of volunteers. Coaching classes are offered to allow you to learn about soccer and to allow coaches to advance their teaching skills. Referee classes are offered regularly if you would like to become an official. And the club has need for a variety of volunteers, from lining fields to bringing refreshments to serving on the Board of Directors.
Mission. With all that said, our primary concern is for the players which explains why we adopted this mission statement. The Mission of the WGSC/Atlanta United is to provide a quality soccer program which will create an atmosphere where children can have fun, develop and enhance team and individual skills, learn good sportsmanship, and become responsible individuals. We would ask that you let this mission statement guide your endeavors relative to WGSC/Atlanta United just as we try to do. This handbook provides you with the necessary information to be a well-informed and involved parent. Please review all information carefully and feel free to contact any coach, team manager, officer, director, or board member if you need further assistance. WGSC/Atlanta United Board of Directors
PURPOSE AND AFFILIATION The West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association is a non-profit organization which attempts to fill its mission in and around the greater Northwestern Gwinnett County and Northeastern Fulton County area. WGSC/Atlanta United is affiliated with: • Georgia State Soccer Association (GSSA, GYSA) • United States Soccer Federation (USSF, USYSA) • Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)
BUISINESS ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER, E-MAIL, WEB SITE
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association
Parents Handbook
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association P.O. Box 296 Duluth, Georgia 30096 (770) 271-4525 E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.WGSC.net
GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS 1.
Each fall, you should receive a copy of this handbook.
2.
All WGSC/Atlanta United soccer players are covered by secondary medical insurance once they are fully registered. This insurance is made available to the league through the state office. If your child receives an injury at our, or other soccer fields during league play, please be sure that your coach files an accident report. Please refer to page 19 for further information.
3.
When you registered your child to play, you made a commitment for both you and your child to the coach, the league, and your child's teammates. There should be no tardiness or absences from practices or games. Absences hinder the learning and the coaching because soccer is a team sport. Promptness and attendance teach your child responsibility.
4.
Have your children at all practices and games on time as requested by the coach. All parents are requested to stay with their child during practice.
5.
Please notify your coach when your child cannot attend a practice or a game. Notify the team manager only when you cannot reach the coach.
6.
Practices are canceled at the discretion of the coaches. It is the coach's responsibility to notify all parents as soon as a decision is made.
7.
Games are only canceled when the Director of Fields, the Director of Referees, or the referee determines that the field is unplayable. If a Director determines that the fields are unplayable and cancels games, a message will be left on the league answering machine. Parents and players need to report to the field unless the message on the league answering machine states otherwise. Unplayable conditions are defined as flooded fields, lightning, natural disasters, etc. Rain alone does not make a field unplayable. "No shows" may result in a forfeiture of a game for your player's team.
8.
9.
No refunds of fees will be made except for extenuating circumstances to be judged on a case-by-case basis. All requests for refunds must be mailed to: WGSC/Atlanta United; Attn.: Treasurer; PO Box 296; Duluth, GA 30096. All requests must be received by the first game of the season and must be accompanied with a self addressed, stamped envelope. A $5.00 processing fee shall be deducted from the refund amount. Any player wishing to play at WGSC/Atlanta United after
registering for either the Fall or the Spring season with another soccer club affiliated with GSSA must complete a player transfer request form. A fee of $50.00 is required of players requesting a transfer to the select program and is subject to approval by GYSA. 10. All referees are certified by the USSF after undergoing a proscribed course of study and passing a test on the laws of the games. Referee’s must be recertified annually and are assessed regularly to insure their continued familiarization with the laws of the game and the techniques of refereeing it. A referee who is assigned to a match is the absolute authority over that match from the time he/she approaches the field of play until he/she leaves the vicinity. He/she is instructed by the Laws of the game to penalize only those acts which are, in his/her judgment, contrary to the spirit of fair play, and only when that penalty does not take away an advantage from the offended team. He/she is the game's symbol of fair play, integrity, and good sportsmanship, and he/she is empowered to use his/her judgment and authority in discharging his/her responsibilities in all matters at the field of play. Even though the referee assigned to your game may be a teenager, rest assured that he/she is capable and that he/she has the full support
of the Board of Directors of WGSC/Atlanta United All referees should be treated with the respect which they deserve. Should a problem arise during a game which should be brought to the attention of the Director of Referees, there is a procedure for doing so. But, in no case, should a referee be harassed during a game.
If a recreational team or group of players chooses to enter a tournament or scrimmage not sponsored in part by WGSC/Atlanta United, it is up to the coach and parents to fund the venture with non-league funds. As a league, WGSC/Atlanta United/ has no jurisdiction or liability for these outside or post-season tournaments. Players, coaches, and or teams may not play teams unaffiliated with GSSA or the recognized USYSA affiliate if playing in another state.
PLAYER'S CODE OF CONDUCT Play the game for the game's sake. Be generous when you win. Be a good sport when you lose. Be fair always, no matter what the cost.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association Learn and obey the laws of the game. Work for the good of your team and every player. Accept the decisions of the officials with good grace. Believe in the honesty of your opponents. Conduct yourself with honor and dignity. Honestly and wholeheartedly applaud the efforts of your teammates and your opponents. Have FUN!
PARENT'S CODE OF CONDUCT Parents should remember: Children have more need for example than criticism. Make athletic participation for your child and others a positive experience. Attempt to relieve the pressure of competition, not increase it. A child is easily affected by outside influences. Be kind to your child's coach and to officials. The coach is a volunteer giving of personal time to provide a recreational activity for your child. The coach is providing a valuable community service, without reward other than the personal satisfaction of having served the community. The opponents are necessary friends. Without them your child could not participate. Applaud good plays by your team and the opposing team. Between the exuberance of the winner and the disappointment of the loser, we find the referee. All referee’s follow the same creed; to watch every move of every player, and to call the game to the best of his/her ability. Do not openly question his/her judgment and never his/her honesty. He/She is a
symbol of fair play, integrity, and sportsmanship. Accept the result of the game. Encourage your child to be gracious in victory, and turn defeat to victory by working toward improvement. Parental evaluation carries a great deal of weight with children. The attitude shown by parents at games towards their child, the opposing team, the officials, and the coach influences the child's values and behavior in sports. Criticism, disrespect for officials and opponents by parents bent on immediate success rather than longrange benefits undermine the purpose of competition When the child cannot cope effectively with such stresses, it contributes to behavior not keeping with the spirit of the game. It has been said that a soccer game is viewed in four different perspectives: the referee's, the coach's, the player's, the spectator's. It is too bad none can agree.
Parents Handbook 3.
4.
Provide training opportunities and instruction for the coaches. Reimburse the cost of coaching classes up to and including the D course if the coach passes the course and coaches in our league for at least one season. Higher level courses may be reimbursed at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Reimburse the cost of referee entry classes if the perspective referee passes the class and officiates games in our club for one season.
5.
Make sure teams have uniforms.
6.
Provide game fields and referees on game days.
7.
Provide practice areas.
8.
Communicate to the teams any Board decisions and activities as well as picture, fund raiser, and sponsorship information through newsletters and handouts at the fields to team managers and coaches.
9.
Advertise sponsors.
and
recognize
3.
It is the coach's responsibility to implement Board decisions in a positive and timely manner.
4.
The team manager must attend the pre-season team manager's meeting (or send a representative).
5.
The team manager serves as a liaison between the league and the team. As such, the team manager coordinates uniform needs, pictures, fund raising, and sponsors.
6.
The primary method of communication between the league and the teams and players is through the bulletin board and the team file boxes which are generally located in the breezeway at the concession stand. The coach and/or team manager should check the file boxes each week and communicate /distribute all information contained in the file boxes.
7.
Teams may solicit sponsors who donate money and services to help defray the costs incurred by the team. All donations must be used to defray expenses. Sponsorship moneys are not to be used for things such as parties. All sponsorship checks should be made out to WGSC/Atlanta United. The Treasurer will write a league check to the appropriate team and insure that the donation is recorded for tax purposes. 10% of all donations will be retained by the club. All sponsors donating
team
10. Arrange for outside teaching and training opportunities for players.
LEAGUE RESPONSIBILITIES
two coaching clinics sponsored by WGSC/Atlanta United. All Select team coaches are required to have at least an 'E' license. This is a state requirement for the Select team programs.
TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES
1.
Register Teams and Players with the Georgia State Soccer Association.
1.
The coach must attend the preseason coaches meeting (or send a representative).
2.
Schedule games through Georgia State Soccer Association.
2.
Coaches are strongly encouraged to obtain an 'F' license during first year of coaching and/or to attend
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association $250.00 will receive a plaque or a T-shirt from the club. Each coach is accountable to the club for all moneys collected from any source. Financial statements must be submitted to the club treasurer at the end of each spring season. 8.
9.
All teams must have at least one volunteer present to help prepare the fields on Field day A11 teams must have at least two volunteers present to work in the concession stand as scheduled by the Director of Concessions. Failure to provide volunteers will result in the club hiring workers. Any team that does not provide volunteers will be responsible for the cost of these workers.
10. The teams will follow all rules and guidelines as outlined in the Parent's Handbook and league Bylaws. Failure to comply with the above guidelines without reasonable or just cause could warrant referral to the Disciplinary and Protest Committee for disciplinary action.
Parents Handbook
If you understand the laws, you will enjoy the game more.
LAW 1 THE FIELD OF PLAY The field of play is rectangular being longer than it is wide. Exact dimensions vary with age, but the field can be no longer than 100 yds. wide and 130 yds. long. A goal is located at each end of the field on the shorter dimensioned sides. The line on which the goal rests is called the goal line. The lines on the longer sides of the field are called touch lines. A line is drawn splitting the field in half along its length. The line is called the half line. A quarter circle with a 1 yd. radius is drawn in each corner, and a corner flag is placed at each corner. Two small rectangles are drawn at each end of the field. The smaller of these rectangles, which would be 6 yds. by 20 yds. on a full sized field, is called the goal area. The larger rectangle, which would be 18 yds. by 44 yds. on a full sized field is called the penalty area.
LAW 2 THE BALL Official game balls will be the responsibility of the home team and will be given to the referee before each match. The game ball will be retained to the home team after each match. The official size ball for each age group is as follows:
THE LAWS OF THE GAME (General) The following is a brief description of the "Laws of the Game" with youth modifications inserted where applicable. It is not meant to be an official discourse. However, if you as a parent or coach have questions, please ask. Please note that the small-sided games played at Under 6 and Under 8 have drastically modified rules. These modified rules are contained at the end of this section in this handbook.
Age U5 - U8 U9 - U12 U13 and Up
Ball Size 3 4 5
LAW 3 NUMBER OF PLAYERS A game will be played by two teams each consisting of a prescribed number of players, one of whom shall be the
goalkeeper (in those ages which use goalkeepers). Below is the minimum and maximum number of players allowed for each age group:
number of players, the more fortunate team should not take unnecessary advantage.
LAW 4 PLAYER’S EQUIPMENT Age U5 - U6 U7 U8 U9 -U10 U11 and Up
Team Size 3 4 5 8 11
Minimum to Start/Continue 3 3 4 6 8
Prior to the start of each match, a complete team roster shall be prepared by each team coach and presented to the referee. The referee shall NOT allow a match to take place unless a roster is presented. The team roster shall be prepared on the form furnished by the league or the state if appropriate, and shall include the name and number of each registered player on the team, whether present or not. Ineligible players shall be marked with an "X". Players not present at the start of the match shall be ineligible to play in that game unless they report to the referee once the match has started. Each player must play on the field at least one half of each half of play. In recreational matches for U12 and below, play will be stopped near the middle of each half to allow for substitutions. U14 and U16 recreational matches have free substitution but still must follow the one half game play rule. On select teams, GYSA rules require that each player must play at least one half of each half as well. Free substitutions are allowed. No team is required to play with fewer than the maximum number of players. However, if the opposing team cannot field the full
A player shall not wear anything which is dangerous to another player or anything which could cause himself/herself harm. NO CASTS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED. GYSA requires all players regardless of age to wear shin guards fully covered with socks, and may not wear exposed metal cleats during play. Any player who is not wearing shin guards or who has exposed metal cleats on his shoes will not be allowed to play in the game. Only molded rubber cleats are allowed in age groups under U11. Uniforms of each team will be determined by the league and all players on the same team shall wear the same color UNIFORM with legible and individually numbered jerseys. In the event that two teams have the same color jerseys, it is the responsibility of the home team to change. The Director of Referees oversees the checking in and out of scrimmage vests on game day. Scrimmage vests are housed in the concession stand. The goalkeeper will wear colors which distinguish him from both teams, the other goalkeeper, and from the Referee.
LAW 5 THE REFEREE The referee will be assigned to a game by the Assignor. If a referee is not available for a recreational match, each coach will referee one-half of the match. In any case, the match must be played. Referees will be certified in a course of instruction administered and approved by the State and USSF prior to officiating league games.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association The referee's authority and power to penalize commences when he enters the premises where the game is to be played and does not end until he leaves the premises.
LAW 6 ASSISTANT REFEREES In Under 9 and above games, two assistant referees will be appointed prior to the start of play to assist the referee with offside calls and in determining when a ball is out of bounds. In normal recreational play, if an assistant referee is not available, the referee may ask each coach to supply a club assistant referee. Assistant Referees are certified referees or State Assistant Referees (see Law 5).
The start of play shall take place within five minutes of the scheduled starting time. A team not prepared to start play within this restriction shall forfeit the match. Play is started by a kick-off from the center of the midfield line by the team losing the coin toss. All players shall be in their own half of the field until the ball is in play (it is kicked and moves forward). The team not taking the kick-off shall be at least 10 yards from the ball. A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off.
LAW 9 BALL OUT OF PLAY A ball is out of play when it wholly crosses the touch line, goal line or when play is stopped by the referee.
Parents Handbook a)
interferes with play or with an opponent, or
b)
gains an advantage by being in that position.
LAW 7 DURATION OF THE GAME The game shall have two equal two halves. The length of the halves is dependent on the age of the teams. The half periods for each age group are: U9 - U10 (Rec)
A player is in an offside position if he/she is nearer to his/her opponents goal line than the ball, unless: a)
The player is in his own half of the field, or
b)
The player is not nearer to his opponent's goal-line than at least two of his opponents.
25 minute halves
U9 - U10 (Select) 30 minute halves U11 - U12
30 minute halves
U13 - U14
35 minute halves
U15 - U16
40 minute halves
U17 - U19
LAW 11 OFFSIDE
45 minute halves
LAW 8 START OF PLAY
NOTE: The opponent's goalkeeper may be one of these players. A player shall only be declared offside and penalized for being in an offside position, if, at the moment the ball is played by one of his teammates, he/she, in the opinion of the referee:
holds an opponent; or
i)
spits at an opponent; or
j)
handles the ball deliberately (carries, strikes, or propels the ball with hand or arm) - except the goalkeeper within his own penalty area
A player shall NOT be declared offside by the referee: a) b)
merely because of his being in an offside position, or, if he receives the ball, direct, from a goal kick, a corner-kick, a throw in, or when it has been dropped by the referee.
NOTE: There is no offside in Under 6 and Under 8. For an infringement of this law, the referee shall award an indirect free kick from that point where the infringement occurred.
LAW 10 METHOD OF SCORING A goal is scored when the ball is legally propelled wholly across the goal line between the goal posts and under the cross bar.
h)
is guilty of a penal foul and shall be penalized by the award of a direct free kick or penalty kick (if committed within the offending player’s penalty area). However, the Referee may choose to allow play to continue if, in his/her judgment, penalizing the offense would take away an advantage for the offended team. This is commonly called “Advantage”. A player committing any of the following five offenses: a)
Playing in a manner considered by the Referee to be dangerous; or
b)
Charging fairly (shoulder to shoulder contact) when the ball is not within playing distance and the player(s) are definitely not playing it; or
c)
Deliberately impeding the progress of an opponent when not playing the ball; or
d)
Charging the goalkeeper except when he/she is: (1) holding the ball; (2) obstructing an opponent; (3) outside their goal area;
e)
When playing as a goalkeeper, and inside their own penalty area: (1) touches the ball with his/her hands after releasing it into play and before any other player has played the ball; or (2) indulges in tactics which, in the opinion of the Referee, are designed to waste time (5 to 6
LAW 12 FOULS AND MISCONDUCT A player who commits any of the following six offenses in a manner considered by the Referee to be careless, reckless, or involving excessive force: a)
kicks or attempts to kick an opponent; or
b)
trips an opponent; or
c)
jumps at an opponent; or
d)
charges an opponent; or
e)
strikes, or attempts to strike an opponent; or
f)
pushes an opponent;
or who commits any of the following four offenses: g)
when tackling an opponent makes contact with the opponent before contact is made with the ball; or
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association seconds) to the advantage of his/her own team.
d)
Receives a second Caution in a match; or
is guilty of a minor offense and shall be penalized by the award of an indirect free kick to the opposing team. The Referee may apply the advantage for any of the above.
e)
Spits at another person; or
f)
Denies an opponent’s obvious goal scoring opportunity by committing a penal or minor offense, or a cautionable act; or
For U8, U9 and U10 matches, when the goalkeeper takes possession of the ball by the hands, opposing players are to move away and to the side to allow the ball to be put back in play.
Misconduct A player shall be cautioned and shown the Yellow Card if, in the opinion of the Referee, the player: a)
Enters the field of play without permission of the Referee; or
b)
Deliberately leaves the field of play without permission of the Referee; or
c)
Persistently infringes the Laws of the Game; or
d)
Dissents, by word or action, with the decision of the Referee; or
e)
Is guilty of unsporty behavior; or
f)
Delays the restart of play; or
g)
Fails to respect the required distance for an opponent’s free kick.
A player shall be sent off the field of play and shown the Red Card if, in the opinion of the Referee, the player: a)
Is guilty of violent conduct; or
b)
Is guilty of serious foul play; or
c)
Uses offensive, insulting abusive language; or
or
g)
Denies an opponent’s obvious goal scoring opportunity by intentionally handling the ball while not playing as the goalkeeper.
No misconduct shall be charged in U6 or U8 matches. However, the Referee may ask a coach to remove a player who constantly infringes the Laws, or displays unsatisfactory conduct.
LAW 13 FREE KICKS There are two kinds of free kicks. When taking a “direct” free kick (DFK), the team taking the kick can score directly from the free kick. When taking an “indirect free kick (IFK), the ball must be touched by a player other than the player taking the kick before a goal can be scored. It should be noted that this player could be on either team, i. e. if the goalkeeper attempts to save an indirect free kick and the ball goes in the goal after he touches it, it is a goal. Both kinds of free kicks are taken from the point of infringement. All players on the opposing team must be 10 yds. away when the kick is taken (shorter distances for younger divisions). If an opposing player encroaches (moves closer than 10 yds.), he is subject to a caution (yellow card). The ball must be played by another player
Parents Handbook before the player taking the kick can play the ball again.
LAW 14 PENALTY KICK If a player commits one of the ten penal fouls (those resulting in a direct free kick) within his own penalty area, the referee will award a penalty kick. A penalty kick is taken from the penalty mark, which is 12 yds. (10 yds. for U9 and U10) from the goal line in the center of the goal. During the taking of the penalty kick, all players except for the player taking the kick and the goalkeeper shall be outside the penalty area. The goalkeeper will keep both feet on the goal line until the kick is taken. The ball is determined to be in play after it has been kicked and moves. Prior to that time, no other players are allowed in the penalty area. After the penalty kick has been taken, play shall continue, but the player taking the penalty kick may not play the ball again until it has been played by another player. If a member of the defending team enters the penalty area prior to the kick being taken, the kick will continue and, if a goal is not scored, the kick will be retaken. If a member of the attacking team enters the penalty area prior to the kick being taken, the kick will continue and, if a goal is scored, the kick will be retaken.
LAW 15 THROW IN When the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, it will be thrown in from the point where it crossed the touch line, by a player of the opposite team from the team which last touched the ball before it crossed the line. When taking a throw in, a player must remain behind, on, or in contact with the touch line. The ball must be thrown with both hands and must be delivered from
behind and over the player’s head. Both feet must be in contact with the ground at the instant that the ball is released. The player taking a throw in may not play the ball again until it has been played by a member of either team. A goal may not be scored directly from a throw-in.
LAW 16 GOAL KICK When the whole of the ball crosses over the end line having last been touched by a member of the attacking team, except for when a goal is scored, the defending team will be awarded a goal kick. A goal kick is taken from anywhere inside the goal area by any member of the defending team. The ball cannot be played by any other player until it has left the penalty area. A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick.
LAW 17 CORNER KICK When the whole of the ball passes over the goal line outside of the goal posts, having last been played by a player on the defending team, a corner kick shall be awarded. The whole of the ball shall be placed within the 1 yard arc at the nearest corner flag, which must not be moved, and it shall be kicked from that position. A goal may be scored direct from such a kick. The kicker shall not play the ball a second time until it has been touched by another player.
3 v 3 Official Laws for Under 6 Law 1 The Field The field of play shall be rectangular, its length being not more than 30 yards nor less than 20 yards and its width not more
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association than 20 yards nor less than 15 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. The goal shall be 4’ by 6’.
Law 2 The Ball Size three (3).
Law 3 Number of Players The maximum number of players on the field at any one time will be three (3). There will be no goalkeeper. Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.
Law 4 Player’s Equipment Same as FIFA except that acceptable footwear will be tennis shoes or turf shoes.
Parents Handbook
It is recommended that substitutions be made between quarters to insure that all players present play at least 50% of the game.
Law 16 Goal Kick
Law 8 The Start of Play
Law 17 Corner Kicks
Conform to FIFA except that opponents must be three (3) yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.
No corner kicks. A throw-in will be taken instead of the corner kick. Opponents shall be three (3) yards away.
Law 9 Ball In and Out of Play
4 v 4 Official Laws of Under 8
Same as FIFA.
Law 1 The Field
Law 10 Method of Scoring Same as FIFA except that a player may not score on his own team.
No cleated soccer shoes are allowed.
Law 11 Off-Side
Shin guards are MANDATORY.
There shall be no off-side.
Same as FIFA except that opponents must be three (3) yards away from the ball.
The field of play shall be rectangular, its length being not more than 50 yards nor less than 40 yards and its width not more than 30 yards nor less than 20 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width.
One official shall be assigned to each game. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
Law 6 Assistant Referees Not necessary.
Law 7 Duration of Game The game shall be divided into four (4) equal twelve (12) minute quarters. There shall be a two (2) minute break between quarter one (1) and quarter two (2), and another two minute break between quarter three (3) and quarter four (4). There shall be a half-time break of five (5) minutes between quarters two (2) and three (3).
Goals shall be 6’ by 12’.
Law 5 Referee
Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct
Size three (3).
It is recommended that substitutions be made between quarters to insure that all players present play at least 50% of the game.
One official shall be assigned to each game. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
All fouls will result in an indirect free kick with the opponents three (3) yards away.
Law 3 Number of Players
Law 8 The Start of Play Conform to FIFA except that opponents must be six (6) yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.
Law 2 The Ball
Not necessary.
Law 13 Free Kicks
The maximum number of players on the field at any one time will be four (4). There will be no goalkeeper for U7. A goalkeeper may be added as a fifth player for U8.
Law 7 Duration of Game
All free kicks shall be indirect. Opponents shall be three (3) yards away from the ball.
Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.
The game shall be divided into four (4) equal eight (8) minute quarters.
Law 14 Penalty Kick
Law 4 Player’s Equipment
Law 10 Method of Scoring
There shall be a two (2) minute break between quarter one (1) and quarter two (2), and another two minute break between quarter three (3) and quarter four (4).
No Penalty kicks shall be taken in this division.
Same as FIFA except that acceptable footwear will be tennis shoes or turf shoes.
Same as FIFA except that a player may not score on his own team.
There shall be a half-time break of five (5) minutes between quarters two (2) and three (3).
A second throw in will be allowed if the player commits a foul on the initial attempt. The Referee shall explain the proper method.
Law 6 Assistant Referees
The referee will explain all infractions to the offending player.
Law 15 Throw In
No cleated soccer shoes are allowed. Shin guards are MANDATORY.
Law 5 Referee
Law 9 Ball In and Out of Play Same as FIFA.
Law 11 Off-Side There shall be no off-side.
Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association All fouls will result in an indirect free kick with the opponents six (6) yards away. For U8, the goalkeeper may handle the ball in his/her own penalty area. The goalkeeper shall put the ball back in play by throwing the ball, or setting the ball on the ground and kicking the ball. The goalkeeper shall not punt the ball back in play. The referee will explain all infractions to the offending player.
rollerskates, or rollerblades are not permitted at the game fields on game days. No pets are allowed inside any sports complexes. Players are prohibited from wearing cleated shoes during practice on game field areas. Only turf shoes or sneakers are permitted for practice on game field areas.
LINING THE FIELD:
No Penalty kicks shall be taken in this division.
Normally, WGSC/Atlanta United has someone scheduled to line the fields the night before games are played. However, if for some reason the fields did not get lined, it is the responsibility of the home team of the first scheduled game (on each field) of the day to line the field for that day's games. Contact the Director of Fields or Director of Referees for access to the paint stripe machines and paint.
Law 15 Throw In
CORNER FLAGS:
A second throw in will be allowed if the player commits a foul on the initial attempt. Referee shall explain the proper method.
The home team of the first scheduled game of the day is responsible for installing the corner flags on the fields. The home team of the last scheduled game of the day will be responsible for removing and storing the comer flags.
Law 13 Free Kicks All free kicks shall be indirect. Opponents shall be six (6) yards away from the ball.
Law 14 Penalty Kick
Law 16 Goal Kick Same as FIFA except that opponents must be six (6) yards away from the ball.
Law 17 Corner Kicks Same as FIFA except that opponents must be six (6) yards away from the ball.
FIELD PREPARATION FOR GAMES
SETTING UP THE NETS: Normally the nets will remain installed from week to week. However, it will be the responsibility of the visiting team of the first scheduled game of the day to make sure that the nets are secured and properly installed. If the visiting team is from another league, the WGSC/Atlanta United home team will be responsible.
FIELD MAINTENANCE No glass containers are allowed on or near the fields. Alcoholic beverages in or around the premises will NOT be tolerated. Riding of bicycles, skateboards,
TAKING DOWN THE NETS Normally the nets win not be required to be taken down at the end of the day's matches. However, if it is required, notification will
Parents Handbook be given to both coaches and the responsibility will be shared to take down and stow the nets. The parents are asked to help their coaches in performing the above tasks. Because of the time restraints on any given game day, should a team fail to meet these requirements, the Director of Fields and Director of Referees may declare a forfeit against the team that fails their job responsibilities.
TERMINATION OF INCOMPLETE GAMES Under 5 and Under 6 Games: Once a game has started, it is considered to be official, regardless of how much time passes between the start of the game and the decision to call it.
Under 7 and above Recreational Games: If a game reaches the fourth quarter or if one team is leading by 5 or more goals when a game is called, it shall be considered official and will not be replayed. Otherwise, the game will be replayed in it’s entirety providing neither team is at fault.
Select Games: Decisions regarding the replaying of Select Games will be made by the GYSA.
SCHEDULING OF GAMES All scheduling of games is done by the league scheduler. Teams are expected to play all games as scheduled as long as the team has enough players to field a team. If a team is unable to field a minimal number of players and the players are out due to illness, injury or because of church school
or community sponsored activities, the league will reschedule the game. The coach is required to contact the league scheduler at least one week before a scheduled game if it needs to be rescheduled. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in the team's forfeiture of their game. A team that does not show up for a scheduled match without any prior notification to the league scheduler is subject to disciplinary action by the Board of Directors. If the league must reschedule a team's game, it will be rescheduled no earlier than 7 days beyond the originally scheduled game. Rain Outs or rescheduled games may be made up on Sundays. Games are not to be made up on practice days as practice is when the coaches are to teach the game. Coaches and teams who travel to other fields to play inter-league matches should also contact the scheduler if any discrepancy in scheduling occurs between another league and WGSC/Atlanta United. We encourage our coaches and teams to be as cooperative as possible with other leagues. However, if a last minute schedule change should occur which causes your team to play with unnecessary hardship, please contact the scheduler immediately so he/she may contact the appropriate authorities at the other league. Coaches, please keep in mind that many of your players and parents are officials with job obligations at our fields. If you are notified that another league's team visiting our fields is unable or unwilling to make a scheduled game, please notify the scheduler immediately.
FIELD SECURITY There will be designated coaches who have a key to the front gate at River Green. It will be their responsibility to lock the gates when they leave so everyone must leave at that time.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association uniform committee.
LOST & FOUND All items turned in from the fields should be placed in the container marked Lost & Found in the concession stand. Any items not claimed within 2 weeks will be donated to local charities.
INSURANCE All players are provided supplemental insurance through the National Athletic Insurance Trust. The insurance is underwritten by K&K Insurance Group, Inc., Transamerica Insurance Co. Players are covered while participating in the sanctioned play or practice of soccer under the direction and supervision of an authorized official, while traveling directly and uninterruptedly to or from such play or practice and the insured's residence, school, or job, and while participating in other scheduled group activities which are directly supervised by an authorized official. Benefits are payable in excess of all other valid and collectible insurance. The deductible is S100.00 per claim. In the event of an injury, the coach should fill out an incident report and submit it to GSSA. Parents should then contact GSSA by phone and present their claim by obtaining and submitting a form. Georgia State Soccer Association. 36S4 B-l Stewart Road Atlanta, GA 30340 Telephone: 452-0505.
UNIFORMS WGSC/Atlanta United club colors are red, black, and white. Traveling and select teams will have uniforms that are predominately club colors. The uniform committee will determine the color, cost, and allocation of uniforms for the recreational program. Select teams will wear a standard uniform selected by the
Traveling teams should carry an extra Tshirt (which need not be numbered), different from their uniform color in case of a color conflict. The home team is responsible for changing in case of a conflict. Scrimmage vests or alternate shirts will be made available to teams at our fields on a check-out basis from the Director of Referees if a color conflict occurs. It is the home team coaches' and parents' responsibility to see that the vests are available and are returned.
PLAYERS, COACHES AND PARENTS DISCIPLINE It is the coach's responsibility to establish discipline on the team so that the players will enjoy and learn the game without disruption. Any other disciplinary action required that cannot be handled by the coach will be referred to the Disciplinary and Protest Committee (D&P). Decisions made by D&P may be appealed to the Board of Directors, and if no satisfaction is found, may be appealed to the GSSA D&P Committee.
Parents Handbook Protests of games can only be made by the head coach. No protests of games will be considered on the qualifications of referees once the game has started. Games are only protestable on points of law. The referee's judgment is not protestable. Referee misconduct is not a protestable offense but should be reported to the league. A protest of the game, if upheld by the D&P Committee, will result in the game being replayed in its entirety.
CARDS AND SUSPENSION OF PLAYERS, COACHES OR PARENTS To achieve the desire for a broad based program, GYSA and WGSC/Atlanta United have developed the rule that each player must play at least half of each game. This rule is not a blanket right, but is predicated on a player desiring to behave properly and attend practices and games. Not allowing a player to play in a game may be necessary to limit team disruption in cases of unexpected absences from practices or games and severe disciplinary cases such as fighting with other players. For each 10 game season: 1.
PROTESTS OF GAMES All protests must be received in writing by the chairman of the WGSC/Atlanta United D&P committee within 48 hours of the incident. All protests must be accompanied by a check for $25.00 made payable to WGSC/Atlanta United. If the protest is upheld the fee will be refunded within 15 days. If the protest is not upheld by the D&P Committee, but is upheld by the Board of Directors, the fee will be refunded as above.
2.
3.
RED CARDS
A red card issued to an INDIVIDUAL player will result in that player being suspended from the next scheduled game. The equivalent of a red card issued to a coach (the coach being asked to leave the field of play) will result in that coach's suspension from the next scheduled game. A coach receiving a second ejection will be suspended until such time as he/she arranges for a hearing before the D&P committee to hear cause for reinstatement. Any player receiving a second red card is suspended until such time
the player appears before the D&P committee to hear cause for reinstatement. For each 10 game season: YELLOW CARDS 1.
For every second caution received by a player in different games during the season, the player must sit out the team's next game. The player may complete the game in which the second caution is received.
2.
Penalty points will be kept by the Director of Referees on each team throughout the season as follows: Player Red card ejection
2 pts
Player Yellow card caution
0 pts
Coach ejection
3 pts
Game termination (team's fault)4pts Game forfeitures
2 pts
Once a team reaches the point totals of 8, 12, and 15 points during game play, no additional points can be assessed in that game However, additional disciplinary action may be taken by the D&P committee. If a team obtains eight points during a season: The team is placed on probation If a team obtains twelve points during a season: The coach is suspended until a D&P hearing is held. If a team obtains fifteen points during a season: The team is suspended. No appeal to reinstate may be heard unless more than 6 penalty points are received in any one match. The coach is suspended for the remainder of the year.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association All penalties with the exception of a red card or two yellow cards issued to an individual player may be appealed to the D&P Committee. D&P will review each case presented within two weeks. Dangerous play SHALL NOT be taught or encouraged by any coach, player, or parent. Too often these plays cause needless injury to players. The referees are instructed to caution players when this action occurs and further will eject a player if it continues. Profanity and/or abusive language will NOT be tolerated from any player, coach or spectator. If heard by the referee, immediate ejection of the offender will occur. Any conduct detrimental to the league, players, or coaches will be handled on an individual basis. If a spectator or coach is asked to leave the field of play, the referee has the right to suspend play until such time as the spectator or coach has left sight and sound of the field. In extraordinary cases of extreme unruliness, the referee may terminate the match. Terminated matches will be automatically reviewed by the Disciplinary and Protest Committee.
COACHING FROM THE SIDELINES Coaching of players by coaches and spectators is allowed so long as the coaching is in the spirit of the game. Comments should be designed to help players and at no time should they become overly critical of either team. Abusive coaching is NOT tolerated in any age group or skill level. The coach and all assistants are to remain inside the designated coaching area during the entire game, unless called on the field by the referee. Spectators are expressly forbidden to enter the field of play. In the case of a severe
Parents Handbook
injury, U5 - U8 parents may be asked on the field. We must keep in mind that our children are on the field of play for the purpose of having FUN in a supervised game. The play is for them, not for us as spectators. We must provide the children with the example of sportsmanship we expect from them.
using two 5-minute overtimes and if required, shots from the penalty mark as specified in the FIFA rules. If either team refuses to play the additional match, that game will be deemed a forfeit against the refusing team. 4.
DIVISIONAL GAME STATISTICS AND YEAR-END PLACEMENTS NOTE: There are no officially published statistics or placements for U5 - U8 recreational teams. Win and loss statistics will be kept for teams on a divisional basis. Divisions are determined by age groups. Places within each division will be calculated on "game points". Points are awarded to teams as determined by the director of boys recreational coaches and the director of girls recreational coaches. The statistics will be kept on a weekly basis and will be available for viewing at the fields each weekend beginning after the fourth week of play. If two or more teams, based on total game points, are tied at the end of regular season play, the criteria for breaking the tie is as follows: 1.
For second-place ties: If both teams have no more than 50% losses, they shall be declared cowinners of second place. Otherwise, there shall be no second place declared.
First and second place awards for traveling recreational teams playing uncommon opponents are conditional upon the following criteria: 1.
1st Place Minimum 70% of total points.
2.
2nd Place Minimum 50% of total points.
Teams playing common opponents will be placed on the basis of comparative win and loss point total. The top two teams from each age group (U10 - U19) may represent WGSC/Atlanta United at the GYSA state tournament provided the teams have met the 2nd place minimum.
Review the win and loss records of the two teams in head-to-head competition The better record between those teams shall prevail and be named the winner. If this does not break the tie,
RECREATIONAL TEAM FORMATION
2.
The team with the most wins will be declared the first place winner. If this does not break the tie:
The Team Formation Committee is responsible for implementing the draft procedures.
3.
For first-place ties: An extra match will be played head-to-head. The match will be played to a winner
All recreational teams will be reformed each Fall Season in divisions which have at least six teams. The teams will stay
together in the Spring as long as the coach and a sufficient number of players return from the Fall Season. New players will be added to teams in the Spring to fill in for players who do not return. Any parent who feels that his/her child is wrongly placed on a team may appeal to the Team Formation Committee. If the appeal is not upheld, the parent may then appeal to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall have the authority to change a team if they rule favorably on the appeal.
SELECT TEAM FORMATION The following information will be given to the coaches involved with players associated with the appropriate age levels: 1.
Age groups eligible.
2.
Date of Assessments.
3.
Rules and regulations involving registration with the league prior to taking part in work-outs.
4.
All select players must be assessed in a league sponsored assessment.
All information will be given to coaches prior to the assessment date. Assessments will be held at the end of the spring season. All players who go through assessments must register (GSSA requirement) and sign with their parents the Select Commitment letter prior to the assessment process. Coaches are not required to fill teams with players who have low assessment scores. The coach has the final say in determining players for the team as long as he follows board policy in his selection. Returning players are not guaranteed a spot on select teams. They must go through the assessments just like every other player. All players participating in the assessments will be contacted by one of the coaches in a timely manner.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association
PLAY UP POLICY No play ups will be permitted at the U14 and younger age groups except for special circumstances approved by the Coach’s Committee. Players at West Gwinnett are strongly encouraged to play in the proper age group in the select and recreational programs. Requiring players to play in their correct age group is fairest to players trying out in the proper age group and develops stronger teams in each age group. As children mature into young adults, the differences in physical development of the younger player is magnified during the adolescent years. For special circumstances, a completed play up application form accompanied with a $20.00 application fee made payable to WGSC/Atlanta United must be submitted to the Director of Select Coaches or the Director of Recreational Coaches by the seventh game of the season to play up next season. The Coach’s Committee will rule on appeals considering the age, size, and skill level of the player; the impact on the team that would be receiving the player; the impact on the team that would be losing the player; and the available alternatives for the player. The $20.00 fee is nonrefundable whether the appeal is approved or not. All previously approved play ups must reapply and be approved before moving up an age group from an even year age group in the recreational division. All previously approved play ups in the select division must reapply if they miss one season of play or if they played back down in their proper age group for one season.
FUNDRAISING / SPONSORSHIPS All teams are encouraged to obtain at least one sponsor to help defray expenses. Funds raised from sponsors MUST be used for
soccer expenses such as: equipment, trainers, tournament expenses, etc. Sponsorship moneys are not to be used for parties. All sponsorship checks should be made out to WGSC/Atlanta United and given to the club Treasurer. The Treasurer will return funds to the appropriate teams in a timely manner. This procedure assures the sponsor of proper recognition, both in league publications and for tax purposes. 10% of the sponsorship will be retained by the club. All other moneys will be returned to the team. Teams receiving sponsorship money are required to submit financial reports to the club Treasurer at the end of each spring season.
VOLUNTEERS The success and the continued growth of our program is dependent on volunteers. Many people give much of their time and expertise to the development of our children. We are always in need of volunteers for various jobs to help make the program complete and to assist the coaches. Since the introduction of soccer to this country, it is a rare situation to find experienced soccer coaches or a parent who has played as a youth. Yet, WGSC/Atlanta United has many qualified coaches and instructors. Anyone who wants to coach will receive training within the league to help get him/her started. It is our policy to hold coaching clinics at least once each season. All coaches are encouraged to obtain at least an "F" license after coaching in our league for one year. Premier coaches in WGSC/Atlanta United are required to hold at least an "E" coaching license. Classic and Athena A coaches must have at least a "D" license. It is the policy of this league to reimburse the course fee for licensing after he/she has coached one
Parents Handbook season for WGSC/Atlanta United and submits a copy of the certificate. Anyone interested in coaching classes should contact the Directors of Recreational Coaches or the Director of Select Coaches. It is the policy of this league to reimburse the course fee for any individual who desires to take the entry level referee course and become a certified referee. Referees are paid by this league for both officiating in the center and also as an assistant referee. In addition, players with an interest in becoming referees should contact the director of Referees. These "student" officials are also paid while they are furthering their skills to become our referees of the future. Parents with an interest in administering the leagues' programs should contact any board member or officer. Elections for the President, Vice President, and Board positions are held at the annual fall meeting. The term of office for the President and Vice President is one year and the term of office for Board members is two years. Vacancies between elections are filled by appointment, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.
The primary responsibilities of the board of directors are to set the policy and the budget for the league. The Board of Directors is made up of 6 to 8 members. Term of office is two years. Half of the board is up for election every fall. To qualify to be nominated for a position on the board of directors, a member of the club must have 1.
been a Director, Officer, or Senior Appointed Official of the league for at least 1 year,
OR 2.
coached for 5 seasons
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS The President and Vice President are the only league officers that are elected by the membership. Term of office for the President and Vice President is 1 year. The offices are up for election every fall. To qualify to be nominated for President or Vice President, a member of the club must have 1.
been a Director, Officer, or Senior Appointed Official of the league for at least 1 year,
OR 2.
coached for 5 seasons
PRESIDENT
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
1.
Serve as Chief Operating Officer of the Corporation.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association 2.
Appoint Officers to operate the league.
3.
Supervise and control all business and affairs of the corporation.
4. 5. 6.
Preside at all meetings membership and Officers.
of
1.
2.
4.
Shall attend and vote at meetings of the Board of Directors.
Chair Newsletter and Handbook committees.
5.
Record all D&P committee action and serve as non-voting member of this committee
3.
4.
Preside over all meetings with the Officers in the absence of the President.
7.
Appoint and chair the nominating committee for the elected positions in the fall each year. Assume the duties of the President if for any reason the President cannot complete his/her term.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF APPOINTTED OFFICERS
File all state and federal repents in a timely fashion. COMMISSIONER OF TEAM MANAGERS AND UNIFORMS
5.
Provide cover letter and distribute player ID cards.
6.
Furnish secretary with ten sets of player address labels and ten sets of board member address labels at the beginning of the season and as need.
7.
Provide team rosters to board members as needed.
5.
Serve as ex-officio member of all Board committees.
6.
Print and distribute registration flyers or postcards to all schools each season.
Take messages and change message on league answering machine as needed. Maintain bylaws.
Aid the President, Treasurer, and Secretary in all matters pertaining to corporation functions.
4.
4.
league's
the
3.
VICE PRESIDENT
Maintain detailed financial records and publish projected and end of season financial statement.
following
board members week. 2.
Parents Handbook
records and Parent
1.
Preside over the Team Managers Meeting
2.
Order uniforms for all recreational players.
3.
Notify board members of special meetings at least five days in advance. Mail postcards or phone to remind board members of regular meetings one week in advance.
4. 5.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 1. 2.
3.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
6.
Primary communications officer, administrator, and contract executor for the corporation.
Request quotations, compare prices vendors, etc. to make sure the league is getting the best product and delivery for the money spent. Maintain and update inventory of items on hand on a regular basis. Coordinate the distribution of uniforms prior to the first game of the season. Coordinate returns of defective merchandise.
Work with others in setting and maintaining league budget.
The following is a list of appointed officers. The list is by no means a complete list as the President and the Board of Directors will create or eliminate officer positions as necessary for operation of the corporation. Members of the club with the desire to help with the operation of the corporation should contact the president for officer positions SECRETARY 1.
Take minutes at all scheduled league meetings and mail minutes (and meeting agenda if absent) to
TREASURER
DIRECTOR OF TEAM SERVICES 1.
Provide sponsorship plaques based on list from the Executive Director / Treasurer.
2.
Obtain prices, plan and implement team picture procedures.
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS 1.
Maintain accurate teams' sponsors.
records
of
2.
Write thank you notes to sponsors.
3.
Provide list of sponsors to Director of Team Services.
4.
Obtain League Sponsor's plaques.
5.
Work with Gwinnett County and other organizations to provide for the long term field needs of WGSC/Atlanta United.
DIRECTOR OF REFEREES
REGISTRAR
1.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
1.
Declare and register recreational and select teams with GSSA.
1.
Recruit, train and support referees and assistant referees.
2.
Collect and deposit league funds.
2.
State
2.
Oversee classes.
3.
Write checks and maintain league' financial accounts.
Register teams in Recreational Tournament.
3.
Set up registration dates and oversee registration procedures.
3.
Work with assessors evaluating referees on an ongoing basis.
referee
rectification
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association 4.
Provide water or Gatorade for referees on game days.
5.
Oversee checking in and out of scrimmage vests on game days.
DIRECTOR OF FIELDS 1.
5.
Ensure trash around concession area is bagged and placed in dumpster.
6.
Count money and turn in to Treasurer in a timely manner.
7.
Ensure all fields and practice areas are properly laid out and maintained.
2.
Assign practice areas and nights.
3.
Make sure there is an ample supply of field materials (paint, sprayers, flags, nets etc.).
Parents Handbook 4.
5.
Responsible for boys coaches' training including securing licensing information and coordinating clinics.
6.
Design, distribute, collect and summarize boys coaches' evaluations.
7.
Handle parent / coach conflicts as they arise.
Maintain accurate records to determine profitability status of concessions.
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR 1.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
2.
Provide training for coaches.
4.
Coordinate Field Day.
3.
Provide soccer camps for players.
5.
Arrange for Porta-Johns to be supplied and service during season.
4.
6.
Arrange for weekly trash pickup.
Provide technical guidance for all WGSC/Atlanta United select and recreational coaches, players, and teams.
7.
Ensure that trash on fields is bagged and placed in dumpster.
8.
Act as liaison for the Board and the Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department for maintenance of fields.
5.
Provide guidance for Director of Boys Recreational Coaches, Director of Girls Recreational Coaches, Director of Select Coaches, and the Select Committee.
DIRECTOR OF GIRLS RECREATIONAL COACHES 1.
1.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
2.
Assign Teams' concession duties.
3.
Purchase food and supplies for concession stand.
4.
Oversee opening and closing of concession stand.
DIRECTOR OF BOYS RECREATIONAL COACHES 1.
2. 3.
Recruit one coach per boys team and one commissioner per boys age group. Provide list of boys coaches to the officers. Plan, prepare folders and preside over preseason coaches meeting.
Recruit one coach per girls team and one commissioner per girls age group.
2.
Provide list of girls coaches to the officers.
3.
Plan, prepare folders and preside over preseason coaches meeting.
4.
Preside over girls coach's commissioner meetings and prepare written report of these meetings to the officers.
5.
DIRECTOR OF CONCESSIONS
Preside over boys coach's commissioner meetings and prepare written report of these meetings to the officers.
6.
7.
Determine the number of select teams to be formed.
3.
Schedule and administer select assessments and team formation.
4.
Recruit the members of the Select Committee.
5.
Preside over the Select Committee.
6.
Provide the list of select coaches to the Officers.
7.
Responsible for select coaches' training and assuring that the coaches have proper licenses, and for coordinating clinics.
8.
Administer the select team matching training allowance program.
9.
Handle parent / coach conflicts as they arise.
10. Design, distribute, collect and summarize coaches' evaluations. SCHEDULER 1.
Schedule intra league games for recreational teams.
2.
Responsible for girls coaches' training including securing licensing information and coordinating clinics.
Attend state scheduler meetings in order to schedule inter league recreational games and select teams games.
3.
Design, distribute, collect and summarize girls coaches' evaluations.
Provide copies of schedules at team managers' preseason meetings.
4.
Handle parent / coach conflicts as they arise.
Provide list of contacts and maps for all travel teams.
5.
Handle rescheduling of games as necessary.
6.
Serve as contact person for the State Recreational Tournament.
DIRECTOR OF SELECT COACHES 1.
2.
Select one coach per select team for final Board approval.
DIRECTOR OF RECREATIONAL TEAM FORMATION
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association 1.
Chair the committee.
team
formation
2.
Organize and implement the player draft per league policy.
3.
Provide rosters to the officers.
4.
Maintain and publish team standings on a weekly basis.
5.
Assist in organizing and implementing league recreational tournaments
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROGRAMS 1.
Organize and implement the TOP Soccer program.
2.
Provide rosters to the officers.
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS 1.
Manage all tournaments sponsored by the corporation or scheduled at the corporation' facilities.
2.
Oversee the scholarship recognition programs
3.
Coordinate any special events for the corporation.
and
DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEERS 1.
Solicit and maintain a list of volunteers for the officers.
2.
Manage and schedule the field marshal program.
WEBMASTER 1.
Maintain the United web site.
WGSC/Atlanta
To contact any Director of Coaches call (770) 271-8300.
To contact any Board Member or Officer call (770) 271-4525. or e-mail at [email protected] Visit our web site at www.WGSC.net
Parents Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome Mission Purpose and Affiliation Business Address, Phone Number, E-mail, Web Site Guidelines for Parents Player’s Code of Conduct Parent’s Code of Conduct League Responsibilities Team Responsibilities The Laws of the Game 3 v 3 Official Laws for Under 5 and Under 6 4 v 4 Official Laws for Under 7 and Under 8 Field Preparation for Games Termination of Incomplete Games Scheduling of Games Field Security Lost and Found Insurance Uniforms Players, Coaches, and Parents Discipline Protest of Games Cards and Suspension of Players, Coaches, or Parents Coaching from the Sidelines Divisional Game Statistics and Year-end Placements Recreational Team Formation Select Team Formation Play Up Policy Fundraising / Sponsorships Volunteers Duties and Responsibilities of the Board of Directors Duties and Responsibilities of the Elected Officers Duties and Responsibilities of the Appointed Officers
WELCOME
Parents Handbook
Page 2 Page 2 Page 2 Page 2 Page 3 Page 5 Page 5 Page 6 Page 6 Page 8 Page 14 Page 16 Page 18 Page 18 Page 19 Page 19 Page 19 Page 19 Page 20 Page 20 Page 20 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 23 Page 23 Page 24 Page 24 Page 25 Page 25 Page 25
Welcome to the West Gwinnett Soccer Club (WGSC) aka Atlanta United Soccer Association (Atlanta United). WGSC/Atlanta United has experienced phenomenal growth over the past few years as the population of Gwinnett County has grown and as our program has expanded. It is our intent to offer to you a rewarding soccer experience whatever your age or playing level. WGSC/Atlanta United offers recreational and select soccer for ages 4 through 18, both coed and girls teams. WGSC/Atlanta United also offers TOPSoccer program for the mentally and physically handicapped. We’d also like to see the parents get involved. There are many opportunities for the participation of volunteers. Coaching classes are offered to allow you to learn about soccer and to allow coaches to advance their teaching skills. Referee classes are offered regularly if you would like to become an official. And the club has need for a variety of volunteers, from lining fields to bringing refreshments to serving on the Board of Directors.
Mission. With all that said, our primary concern is for the players which explains why we adopted this mission statement. The Mission of the WGSC/Atlanta United is to provide a quality soccer program which will create an atmosphere where children can have fun, develop and enhance team and individual skills, learn good sportsmanship, and become responsible individuals. We would ask that you let this mission statement guide your endeavors relative to WGSC/Atlanta United just as we try to do. This handbook provides you with the necessary information to be a well-informed and involved parent. Please review all information carefully and feel free to contact any coach, team manager, officer, director, or board member if you need further assistance. WGSC/Atlanta United Board of Directors
PURPOSE AND AFFILIATION The West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association is a non-profit organization which attempts to fill its mission in and around the greater Northwestern Gwinnett County and Northeastern Fulton County area. WGSC/Atlanta United is affiliated with: • Georgia State Soccer Association (GSSA, GYSA) • United States Soccer Federation (USSF, USYSA) • Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)
BUISINESS ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER, E-MAIL, WEB SITE
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association
Parents Handbook
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association P.O. Box 296 Duluth, Georgia 30096 (770) 271-4525 E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.WGSC.net
GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS 1.
Each fall, you should receive a copy of this handbook.
2.
All WGSC/Atlanta United soccer players are covered by secondary medical insurance once they are fully registered. This insurance is made available to the league through the state office. If your child receives an injury at our, or other soccer fields during league play, please be sure that your coach files an accident report. Please refer to page 19 for further information.
3.
When you registered your child to play, you made a commitment for both you and your child to the coach, the league, and your child's teammates. There should be no tardiness or absences from practices or games. Absences hinder the learning and the coaching because soccer is a team sport. Promptness and attendance teach your child responsibility.
4.
Have your children at all practices and games on time as requested by the coach. All parents are requested to stay with their child during practice.
5.
Please notify your coach when your child cannot attend a practice or a game. Notify the team manager only when you cannot reach the coach.
6.
Practices are canceled at the discretion of the coaches. It is the coach's responsibility to notify all parents as soon as a decision is made.
7.
Games are only canceled when the Director of Fields, the Director of Referees, or the referee determines that the field is unplayable. If a Director determines that the fields are unplayable and cancels games, a message will be left on the league answering machine. Parents and players need to report to the field unless the message on the league answering machine states otherwise. Unplayable conditions are defined as flooded fields, lightning, natural disasters, etc. Rain alone does not make a field unplayable. "No shows" may result in a forfeiture of a game for your player's team.
8.
9.
No refunds of fees will be made except for extenuating circumstances to be judged on a case-by-case basis. All requests for refunds must be mailed to: WGSC/Atlanta United; Attn.: Treasurer; PO Box 296; Duluth, GA 30096. All requests must be received by the first game of the season and must be accompanied with a self addressed, stamped envelope. A $5.00 processing fee shall be deducted from the refund amount. Any player wishing to play at WGSC/Atlanta United after
registering for either the Fall or the Spring season with another soccer club affiliated with GSSA must complete a player transfer request form. A fee of $50.00 is required of players requesting a transfer to the select program and is subject to approval by GYSA. 10. All referees are certified by the USSF after undergoing a proscribed course of study and passing a test on the laws of the games. Referee’s must be recertified annually and are assessed regularly to insure their continued familiarization with the laws of the game and the techniques of refereeing it. A referee who is assigned to a match is the absolute authority over that match from the time he/she approaches the field of play until he/she leaves the vicinity. He/she is instructed by the Laws of the game to penalize only those acts which are, in his/her judgment, contrary to the spirit of fair play, and only when that penalty does not take away an advantage from the offended team. He/she is the game's symbol of fair play, integrity, and good sportsmanship, and he/she is empowered to use his/her judgment and authority in discharging his/her responsibilities in all matters at the field of play. Even though the referee assigned to your game may be a teenager, rest assured that he/she is capable and that he/she has the full support
of the Board of Directors of WGSC/Atlanta United All referees should be treated with the respect which they deserve. Should a problem arise during a game which should be brought to the attention of the Director of Referees, there is a procedure for doing so. But, in no case, should a referee be harassed during a game.
If a recreational team or group of players chooses to enter a tournament or scrimmage not sponsored in part by WGSC/Atlanta United, it is up to the coach and parents to fund the venture with non-league funds. As a league, WGSC/Atlanta United/ has no jurisdiction or liability for these outside or post-season tournaments. Players, coaches, and or teams may not play teams unaffiliated with GSSA or the recognized USYSA affiliate if playing in another state.
PLAYER'S CODE OF CONDUCT Play the game for the game's sake. Be generous when you win. Be a good sport when you lose. Be fair always, no matter what the cost.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association Learn and obey the laws of the game. Work for the good of your team and every player. Accept the decisions of the officials with good grace. Believe in the honesty of your opponents. Conduct yourself with honor and dignity. Honestly and wholeheartedly applaud the efforts of your teammates and your opponents. Have FUN!
PARENT'S CODE OF CONDUCT Parents should remember: Children have more need for example than criticism. Make athletic participation for your child and others a positive experience. Attempt to relieve the pressure of competition, not increase it. A child is easily affected by outside influences. Be kind to your child's coach and to officials. The coach is a volunteer giving of personal time to provide a recreational activity for your child. The coach is providing a valuable community service, without reward other than the personal satisfaction of having served the community. The opponents are necessary friends. Without them your child could not participate. Applaud good plays by your team and the opposing team. Between the exuberance of the winner and the disappointment of the loser, we find the referee. All referee’s follow the same creed; to watch every move of every player, and to call the game to the best of his/her ability. Do not openly question his/her judgment and never his/her honesty. He/She is a
symbol of fair play, integrity, and sportsmanship. Accept the result of the game. Encourage your child to be gracious in victory, and turn defeat to victory by working toward improvement. Parental evaluation carries a great deal of weight with children. The attitude shown by parents at games towards their child, the opposing team, the officials, and the coach influences the child's values and behavior in sports. Criticism, disrespect for officials and opponents by parents bent on immediate success rather than longrange benefits undermine the purpose of competition When the child cannot cope effectively with such stresses, it contributes to behavior not keeping with the spirit of the game. It has been said that a soccer game is viewed in four different perspectives: the referee's, the coach's, the player's, the spectator's. It is too bad none can agree.
Parents Handbook 3.
4.
Provide training opportunities and instruction for the coaches. Reimburse the cost of coaching classes up to and including the D course if the coach passes the course and coaches in our league for at least one season. Higher level courses may be reimbursed at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Reimburse the cost of referee entry classes if the perspective referee passes the class and officiates games in our club for one season.
5.
Make sure teams have uniforms.
6.
Provide game fields and referees on game days.
7.
Provide practice areas.
8.
Communicate to the teams any Board decisions and activities as well as picture, fund raiser, and sponsorship information through newsletters and handouts at the fields to team managers and coaches.
9.
Advertise sponsors.
and
recognize
3.
It is the coach's responsibility to implement Board decisions in a positive and timely manner.
4.
The team manager must attend the pre-season team manager's meeting (or send a representative).
5.
The team manager serves as a liaison between the league and the team. As such, the team manager coordinates uniform needs, pictures, fund raising, and sponsors.
6.
The primary method of communication between the league and the teams and players is through the bulletin board and the team file boxes which are generally located in the breezeway at the concession stand. The coach and/or team manager should check the file boxes each week and communicate /distribute all information contained in the file boxes.
7.
Teams may solicit sponsors who donate money and services to help defray the costs incurred by the team. All donations must be used to defray expenses. Sponsorship moneys are not to be used for things such as parties. All sponsorship checks should be made out to WGSC/Atlanta United. The Treasurer will write a league check to the appropriate team and insure that the donation is recorded for tax purposes. 10% of all donations will be retained by the club. All sponsors donating
team
10. Arrange for outside teaching and training opportunities for players.
LEAGUE RESPONSIBILITIES
two coaching clinics sponsored by WGSC/Atlanta United. All Select team coaches are required to have at least an 'E' license. This is a state requirement for the Select team programs.
TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES
1.
Register Teams and Players with the Georgia State Soccer Association.
1.
The coach must attend the preseason coaches meeting (or send a representative).
2.
Schedule games through Georgia State Soccer Association.
2.
Coaches are strongly encouraged to obtain an 'F' license during first year of coaching and/or to attend
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association $250.00 will receive a plaque or a T-shirt from the club. Each coach is accountable to the club for all moneys collected from any source. Financial statements must be submitted to the club treasurer at the end of each spring season. 8.
9.
All teams must have at least one volunteer present to help prepare the fields on Field day A11 teams must have at least two volunteers present to work in the concession stand as scheduled by the Director of Concessions. Failure to provide volunteers will result in the club hiring workers. Any team that does not provide volunteers will be responsible for the cost of these workers.
10. The teams will follow all rules and guidelines as outlined in the Parent's Handbook and league Bylaws. Failure to comply with the above guidelines without reasonable or just cause could warrant referral to the Disciplinary and Protest Committee for disciplinary action.
Parents Handbook
If you understand the laws, you will enjoy the game more.
LAW 1 THE FIELD OF PLAY The field of play is rectangular being longer than it is wide. Exact dimensions vary with age, but the field can be no longer than 100 yds. wide and 130 yds. long. A goal is located at each end of the field on the shorter dimensioned sides. The line on which the goal rests is called the goal line. The lines on the longer sides of the field are called touch lines. A line is drawn splitting the field in half along its length. The line is called the half line. A quarter circle with a 1 yd. radius is drawn in each corner, and a corner flag is placed at each corner. Two small rectangles are drawn at each end of the field. The smaller of these rectangles, which would be 6 yds. by 20 yds. on a full sized field, is called the goal area. The larger rectangle, which would be 18 yds. by 44 yds. on a full sized field is called the penalty area.
LAW 2 THE BALL Official game balls will be the responsibility of the home team and will be given to the referee before each match. The game ball will be retained to the home team after each match. The official size ball for each age group is as follows:
THE LAWS OF THE GAME (General) The following is a brief description of the "Laws of the Game" with youth modifications inserted where applicable. It is not meant to be an official discourse. However, if you as a parent or coach have questions, please ask. Please note that the small-sided games played at Under 6 and Under 8 have drastically modified rules. These modified rules are contained at the end of this section in this handbook.
Age U5 - U8 U9 - U12 U13 and Up
Ball Size 3 4 5
LAW 3 NUMBER OF PLAYERS A game will be played by two teams each consisting of a prescribed number of players, one of whom shall be the
goalkeeper (in those ages which use goalkeepers). Below is the minimum and maximum number of players allowed for each age group:
number of players, the more fortunate team should not take unnecessary advantage.
LAW 4 PLAYER’S EQUIPMENT Age U5 - U6 U7 U8 U9 -U10 U11 and Up
Team Size 3 4 5 8 11
Minimum to Start/Continue 3 3 4 6 8
Prior to the start of each match, a complete team roster shall be prepared by each team coach and presented to the referee. The referee shall NOT allow a match to take place unless a roster is presented. The team roster shall be prepared on the form furnished by the league or the state if appropriate, and shall include the name and number of each registered player on the team, whether present or not. Ineligible players shall be marked with an "X". Players not present at the start of the match shall be ineligible to play in that game unless they report to the referee once the match has started. Each player must play on the field at least one half of each half of play. In recreational matches for U12 and below, play will be stopped near the middle of each half to allow for substitutions. U14 and U16 recreational matches have free substitution but still must follow the one half game play rule. On select teams, GYSA rules require that each player must play at least one half of each half as well. Free substitutions are allowed. No team is required to play with fewer than the maximum number of players. However, if the opposing team cannot field the full
A player shall not wear anything which is dangerous to another player or anything which could cause himself/herself harm. NO CASTS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED. GYSA requires all players regardless of age to wear shin guards fully covered with socks, and may not wear exposed metal cleats during play. Any player who is not wearing shin guards or who has exposed metal cleats on his shoes will not be allowed to play in the game. Only molded rubber cleats are allowed in age groups under U11. Uniforms of each team will be determined by the league and all players on the same team shall wear the same color UNIFORM with legible and individually numbered jerseys. In the event that two teams have the same color jerseys, it is the responsibility of the home team to change. The Director of Referees oversees the checking in and out of scrimmage vests on game day. Scrimmage vests are housed in the concession stand. The goalkeeper will wear colors which distinguish him from both teams, the other goalkeeper, and from the Referee.
LAW 5 THE REFEREE The referee will be assigned to a game by the Assignor. If a referee is not available for a recreational match, each coach will referee one-half of the match. In any case, the match must be played. Referees will be certified in a course of instruction administered and approved by the State and USSF prior to officiating league games.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association The referee's authority and power to penalize commences when he enters the premises where the game is to be played and does not end until he leaves the premises.
LAW 6 ASSISTANT REFEREES In Under 9 and above games, two assistant referees will be appointed prior to the start of play to assist the referee with offside calls and in determining when a ball is out of bounds. In normal recreational play, if an assistant referee is not available, the referee may ask each coach to supply a club assistant referee. Assistant Referees are certified referees or State Assistant Referees (see Law 5).
The start of play shall take place within five minutes of the scheduled starting time. A team not prepared to start play within this restriction shall forfeit the match. Play is started by a kick-off from the center of the midfield line by the team losing the coin toss. All players shall be in their own half of the field until the ball is in play (it is kicked and moves forward). The team not taking the kick-off shall be at least 10 yards from the ball. A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off.
LAW 9 BALL OUT OF PLAY A ball is out of play when it wholly crosses the touch line, goal line or when play is stopped by the referee.
Parents Handbook a)
interferes with play or with an opponent, or
b)
gains an advantage by being in that position.
LAW 7 DURATION OF THE GAME The game shall have two equal two halves. The length of the halves is dependent on the age of the teams. The half periods for each age group are: U9 - U10 (Rec)
A player is in an offside position if he/she is nearer to his/her opponents goal line than the ball, unless: a)
The player is in his own half of the field, or
b)
The player is not nearer to his opponent's goal-line than at least two of his opponents.
25 minute halves
U9 - U10 (Select) 30 minute halves U11 - U12
30 minute halves
U13 - U14
35 minute halves
U15 - U16
40 minute halves
U17 - U19
LAW 11 OFFSIDE
45 minute halves
LAW 8 START OF PLAY
NOTE: The opponent's goalkeeper may be one of these players. A player shall only be declared offside and penalized for being in an offside position, if, at the moment the ball is played by one of his teammates, he/she, in the opinion of the referee:
holds an opponent; or
i)
spits at an opponent; or
j)
handles the ball deliberately (carries, strikes, or propels the ball with hand or arm) - except the goalkeeper within his own penalty area
A player shall NOT be declared offside by the referee: a) b)
merely because of his being in an offside position, or, if he receives the ball, direct, from a goal kick, a corner-kick, a throw in, or when it has been dropped by the referee.
NOTE: There is no offside in Under 6 and Under 8. For an infringement of this law, the referee shall award an indirect free kick from that point where the infringement occurred.
LAW 10 METHOD OF SCORING A goal is scored when the ball is legally propelled wholly across the goal line between the goal posts and under the cross bar.
h)
is guilty of a penal foul and shall be penalized by the award of a direct free kick or penalty kick (if committed within the offending player’s penalty area). However, the Referee may choose to allow play to continue if, in his/her judgment, penalizing the offense would take away an advantage for the offended team. This is commonly called “Advantage”. A player committing any of the following five offenses: a)
Playing in a manner considered by the Referee to be dangerous; or
b)
Charging fairly (shoulder to shoulder contact) when the ball is not within playing distance and the player(s) are definitely not playing it; or
c)
Deliberately impeding the progress of an opponent when not playing the ball; or
d)
Charging the goalkeeper except when he/she is: (1) holding the ball; (2) obstructing an opponent; (3) outside their goal area;
e)
When playing as a goalkeeper, and inside their own penalty area: (1) touches the ball with his/her hands after releasing it into play and before any other player has played the ball; or (2) indulges in tactics which, in the opinion of the Referee, are designed to waste time (5 to 6
LAW 12 FOULS AND MISCONDUCT A player who commits any of the following six offenses in a manner considered by the Referee to be careless, reckless, or involving excessive force: a)
kicks or attempts to kick an opponent; or
b)
trips an opponent; or
c)
jumps at an opponent; or
d)
charges an opponent; or
e)
strikes, or attempts to strike an opponent; or
f)
pushes an opponent;
or who commits any of the following four offenses: g)
when tackling an opponent makes contact with the opponent before contact is made with the ball; or
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association seconds) to the advantage of his/her own team.
d)
Receives a second Caution in a match; or
is guilty of a minor offense and shall be penalized by the award of an indirect free kick to the opposing team. The Referee may apply the advantage for any of the above.
e)
Spits at another person; or
f)
Denies an opponent’s obvious goal scoring opportunity by committing a penal or minor offense, or a cautionable act; or
For U8, U9 and U10 matches, when the goalkeeper takes possession of the ball by the hands, opposing players are to move away and to the side to allow the ball to be put back in play.
Misconduct A player shall be cautioned and shown the Yellow Card if, in the opinion of the Referee, the player: a)
Enters the field of play without permission of the Referee; or
b)
Deliberately leaves the field of play without permission of the Referee; or
c)
Persistently infringes the Laws of the Game; or
d)
Dissents, by word or action, with the decision of the Referee; or
e)
Is guilty of unsporty behavior; or
f)
Delays the restart of play; or
g)
Fails to respect the required distance for an opponent’s free kick.
A player shall be sent off the field of play and shown the Red Card if, in the opinion of the Referee, the player: a)
Is guilty of violent conduct; or
b)
Is guilty of serious foul play; or
c)
Uses offensive, insulting abusive language; or
or
g)
Denies an opponent’s obvious goal scoring opportunity by intentionally handling the ball while not playing as the goalkeeper.
No misconduct shall be charged in U6 or U8 matches. However, the Referee may ask a coach to remove a player who constantly infringes the Laws, or displays unsatisfactory conduct.
LAW 13 FREE KICKS There are two kinds of free kicks. When taking a “direct” free kick (DFK), the team taking the kick can score directly from the free kick. When taking an “indirect free kick (IFK), the ball must be touched by a player other than the player taking the kick before a goal can be scored. It should be noted that this player could be on either team, i. e. if the goalkeeper attempts to save an indirect free kick and the ball goes in the goal after he touches it, it is a goal. Both kinds of free kicks are taken from the point of infringement. All players on the opposing team must be 10 yds. away when the kick is taken (shorter distances for younger divisions). If an opposing player encroaches (moves closer than 10 yds.), he is subject to a caution (yellow card). The ball must be played by another player
Parents Handbook before the player taking the kick can play the ball again.
LAW 14 PENALTY KICK If a player commits one of the ten penal fouls (those resulting in a direct free kick) within his own penalty area, the referee will award a penalty kick. A penalty kick is taken from the penalty mark, which is 12 yds. (10 yds. for U9 and U10) from the goal line in the center of the goal. During the taking of the penalty kick, all players except for the player taking the kick and the goalkeeper shall be outside the penalty area. The goalkeeper will keep both feet on the goal line until the kick is taken. The ball is determined to be in play after it has been kicked and moves. Prior to that time, no other players are allowed in the penalty area. After the penalty kick has been taken, play shall continue, but the player taking the penalty kick may not play the ball again until it has been played by another player. If a member of the defending team enters the penalty area prior to the kick being taken, the kick will continue and, if a goal is not scored, the kick will be retaken. If a member of the attacking team enters the penalty area prior to the kick being taken, the kick will continue and, if a goal is scored, the kick will be retaken.
LAW 15 THROW IN When the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, it will be thrown in from the point where it crossed the touch line, by a player of the opposite team from the team which last touched the ball before it crossed the line. When taking a throw in, a player must remain behind, on, or in contact with the touch line. The ball must be thrown with both hands and must be delivered from
behind and over the player’s head. Both feet must be in contact with the ground at the instant that the ball is released. The player taking a throw in may not play the ball again until it has been played by a member of either team. A goal may not be scored directly from a throw-in.
LAW 16 GOAL KICK When the whole of the ball crosses over the end line having last been touched by a member of the attacking team, except for when a goal is scored, the defending team will be awarded a goal kick. A goal kick is taken from anywhere inside the goal area by any member of the defending team. The ball cannot be played by any other player until it has left the penalty area. A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick.
LAW 17 CORNER KICK When the whole of the ball passes over the goal line outside of the goal posts, having last been played by a player on the defending team, a corner kick shall be awarded. The whole of the ball shall be placed within the 1 yard arc at the nearest corner flag, which must not be moved, and it shall be kicked from that position. A goal may be scored direct from such a kick. The kicker shall not play the ball a second time until it has been touched by another player.
3 v 3 Official Laws for Under 6 Law 1 The Field The field of play shall be rectangular, its length being not more than 30 yards nor less than 20 yards and its width not more
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association than 20 yards nor less than 15 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. The goal shall be 4’ by 6’.
Law 2 The Ball Size three (3).
Law 3 Number of Players The maximum number of players on the field at any one time will be three (3). There will be no goalkeeper. Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.
Law 4 Player’s Equipment Same as FIFA except that acceptable footwear will be tennis shoes or turf shoes.
Parents Handbook
It is recommended that substitutions be made between quarters to insure that all players present play at least 50% of the game.
Law 16 Goal Kick
Law 8 The Start of Play
Law 17 Corner Kicks
Conform to FIFA except that opponents must be three (3) yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.
No corner kicks. A throw-in will be taken instead of the corner kick. Opponents shall be three (3) yards away.
Law 9 Ball In and Out of Play
4 v 4 Official Laws of Under 8
Same as FIFA.
Law 1 The Field
Law 10 Method of Scoring Same as FIFA except that a player may not score on his own team.
No cleated soccer shoes are allowed.
Law 11 Off-Side
Shin guards are MANDATORY.
There shall be no off-side.
Same as FIFA except that opponents must be three (3) yards away from the ball.
The field of play shall be rectangular, its length being not more than 50 yards nor less than 40 yards and its width not more than 30 yards nor less than 20 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width.
One official shall be assigned to each game. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
Law 6 Assistant Referees Not necessary.
Law 7 Duration of Game The game shall be divided into four (4) equal twelve (12) minute quarters. There shall be a two (2) minute break between quarter one (1) and quarter two (2), and another two minute break between quarter three (3) and quarter four (4). There shall be a half-time break of five (5) minutes between quarters two (2) and three (3).
Goals shall be 6’ by 12’.
Law 5 Referee
Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct
Size three (3).
It is recommended that substitutions be made between quarters to insure that all players present play at least 50% of the game.
One official shall be assigned to each game. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
All fouls will result in an indirect free kick with the opponents three (3) yards away.
Law 3 Number of Players
Law 8 The Start of Play Conform to FIFA except that opponents must be six (6) yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.
Law 2 The Ball
Not necessary.
Law 13 Free Kicks
The maximum number of players on the field at any one time will be four (4). There will be no goalkeeper for U7. A goalkeeper may be added as a fifth player for U8.
Law 7 Duration of Game
All free kicks shall be indirect. Opponents shall be three (3) yards away from the ball.
Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.
The game shall be divided into four (4) equal eight (8) minute quarters.
Law 14 Penalty Kick
Law 4 Player’s Equipment
Law 10 Method of Scoring
There shall be a two (2) minute break between quarter one (1) and quarter two (2), and another two minute break between quarter three (3) and quarter four (4).
No Penalty kicks shall be taken in this division.
Same as FIFA except that acceptable footwear will be tennis shoes or turf shoes.
Same as FIFA except that a player may not score on his own team.
There shall be a half-time break of five (5) minutes between quarters two (2) and three (3).
A second throw in will be allowed if the player commits a foul on the initial attempt. The Referee shall explain the proper method.
Law 6 Assistant Referees
The referee will explain all infractions to the offending player.
Law 15 Throw In
No cleated soccer shoes are allowed. Shin guards are MANDATORY.
Law 5 Referee
Law 9 Ball In and Out of Play Same as FIFA.
Law 11 Off-Side There shall be no off-side.
Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association All fouls will result in an indirect free kick with the opponents six (6) yards away. For U8, the goalkeeper may handle the ball in his/her own penalty area. The goalkeeper shall put the ball back in play by throwing the ball, or setting the ball on the ground and kicking the ball. The goalkeeper shall not punt the ball back in play. The referee will explain all infractions to the offending player.
rollerskates, or rollerblades are not permitted at the game fields on game days. No pets are allowed inside any sports complexes. Players are prohibited from wearing cleated shoes during practice on game field areas. Only turf shoes or sneakers are permitted for practice on game field areas.
LINING THE FIELD:
No Penalty kicks shall be taken in this division.
Normally, WGSC/Atlanta United has someone scheduled to line the fields the night before games are played. However, if for some reason the fields did not get lined, it is the responsibility of the home team of the first scheduled game (on each field) of the day to line the field for that day's games. Contact the Director of Fields or Director of Referees for access to the paint stripe machines and paint.
Law 15 Throw In
CORNER FLAGS:
A second throw in will be allowed if the player commits a foul on the initial attempt. Referee shall explain the proper method.
The home team of the first scheduled game of the day is responsible for installing the corner flags on the fields. The home team of the last scheduled game of the day will be responsible for removing and storing the comer flags.
Law 13 Free Kicks All free kicks shall be indirect. Opponents shall be six (6) yards away from the ball.
Law 14 Penalty Kick
Law 16 Goal Kick Same as FIFA except that opponents must be six (6) yards away from the ball.
Law 17 Corner Kicks Same as FIFA except that opponents must be six (6) yards away from the ball.
FIELD PREPARATION FOR GAMES
SETTING UP THE NETS: Normally the nets will remain installed from week to week. However, it will be the responsibility of the visiting team of the first scheduled game of the day to make sure that the nets are secured and properly installed. If the visiting team is from another league, the WGSC/Atlanta United home team will be responsible.
FIELD MAINTENANCE No glass containers are allowed on or near the fields. Alcoholic beverages in or around the premises will NOT be tolerated. Riding of bicycles, skateboards,
TAKING DOWN THE NETS Normally the nets win not be required to be taken down at the end of the day's matches. However, if it is required, notification will
Parents Handbook be given to both coaches and the responsibility will be shared to take down and stow the nets. The parents are asked to help their coaches in performing the above tasks. Because of the time restraints on any given game day, should a team fail to meet these requirements, the Director of Fields and Director of Referees may declare a forfeit against the team that fails their job responsibilities.
TERMINATION OF INCOMPLETE GAMES Under 5 and Under 6 Games: Once a game has started, it is considered to be official, regardless of how much time passes between the start of the game and the decision to call it.
Under 7 and above Recreational Games: If a game reaches the fourth quarter or if one team is leading by 5 or more goals when a game is called, it shall be considered official and will not be replayed. Otherwise, the game will be replayed in it’s entirety providing neither team is at fault.
Select Games: Decisions regarding the replaying of Select Games will be made by the GYSA.
SCHEDULING OF GAMES All scheduling of games is done by the league scheduler. Teams are expected to play all games as scheduled as long as the team has enough players to field a team. If a team is unable to field a minimal number of players and the players are out due to illness, injury or because of church school
or community sponsored activities, the league will reschedule the game. The coach is required to contact the league scheduler at least one week before a scheduled game if it needs to be rescheduled. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in the team's forfeiture of their game. A team that does not show up for a scheduled match without any prior notification to the league scheduler is subject to disciplinary action by the Board of Directors. If the league must reschedule a team's game, it will be rescheduled no earlier than 7 days beyond the originally scheduled game. Rain Outs or rescheduled games may be made up on Sundays. Games are not to be made up on practice days as practice is when the coaches are to teach the game. Coaches and teams who travel to other fields to play inter-league matches should also contact the scheduler if any discrepancy in scheduling occurs between another league and WGSC/Atlanta United. We encourage our coaches and teams to be as cooperative as possible with other leagues. However, if a last minute schedule change should occur which causes your team to play with unnecessary hardship, please contact the scheduler immediately so he/she may contact the appropriate authorities at the other league. Coaches, please keep in mind that many of your players and parents are officials with job obligations at our fields. If you are notified that another league's team visiting our fields is unable or unwilling to make a scheduled game, please notify the scheduler immediately.
FIELD SECURITY There will be designated coaches who have a key to the front gate at River Green. It will be their responsibility to lock the gates when they leave so everyone must leave at that time.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association uniform committee.
LOST & FOUND All items turned in from the fields should be placed in the container marked Lost & Found in the concession stand. Any items not claimed within 2 weeks will be donated to local charities.
INSURANCE All players are provided supplemental insurance through the National Athletic Insurance Trust. The insurance is underwritten by K&K Insurance Group, Inc., Transamerica Insurance Co. Players are covered while participating in the sanctioned play or practice of soccer under the direction and supervision of an authorized official, while traveling directly and uninterruptedly to or from such play or practice and the insured's residence, school, or job, and while participating in other scheduled group activities which are directly supervised by an authorized official. Benefits are payable in excess of all other valid and collectible insurance. The deductible is S100.00 per claim. In the event of an injury, the coach should fill out an incident report and submit it to GSSA. Parents should then contact GSSA by phone and present their claim by obtaining and submitting a form. Georgia State Soccer Association. 36S4 B-l Stewart Road Atlanta, GA 30340 Telephone: 452-0505.
UNIFORMS WGSC/Atlanta United club colors are red, black, and white. Traveling and select teams will have uniforms that are predominately club colors. The uniform committee will determine the color, cost, and allocation of uniforms for the recreational program. Select teams will wear a standard uniform selected by the
Traveling teams should carry an extra Tshirt (which need not be numbered), different from their uniform color in case of a color conflict. The home team is responsible for changing in case of a conflict. Scrimmage vests or alternate shirts will be made available to teams at our fields on a check-out basis from the Director of Referees if a color conflict occurs. It is the home team coaches' and parents' responsibility to see that the vests are available and are returned.
PLAYERS, COACHES AND PARENTS DISCIPLINE It is the coach's responsibility to establish discipline on the team so that the players will enjoy and learn the game without disruption. Any other disciplinary action required that cannot be handled by the coach will be referred to the Disciplinary and Protest Committee (D&P). Decisions made by D&P may be appealed to the Board of Directors, and if no satisfaction is found, may be appealed to the GSSA D&P Committee.
Parents Handbook Protests of games can only be made by the head coach. No protests of games will be considered on the qualifications of referees once the game has started. Games are only protestable on points of law. The referee's judgment is not protestable. Referee misconduct is not a protestable offense but should be reported to the league. A protest of the game, if upheld by the D&P Committee, will result in the game being replayed in its entirety.
CARDS AND SUSPENSION OF PLAYERS, COACHES OR PARENTS To achieve the desire for a broad based program, GYSA and WGSC/Atlanta United have developed the rule that each player must play at least half of each game. This rule is not a blanket right, but is predicated on a player desiring to behave properly and attend practices and games. Not allowing a player to play in a game may be necessary to limit team disruption in cases of unexpected absences from practices or games and severe disciplinary cases such as fighting with other players. For each 10 game season: 1.
PROTESTS OF GAMES All protests must be received in writing by the chairman of the WGSC/Atlanta United D&P committee within 48 hours of the incident. All protests must be accompanied by a check for $25.00 made payable to WGSC/Atlanta United. If the protest is upheld the fee will be refunded within 15 days. If the protest is not upheld by the D&P Committee, but is upheld by the Board of Directors, the fee will be refunded as above.
2.
3.
RED CARDS
A red card issued to an INDIVIDUAL player will result in that player being suspended from the next scheduled game. The equivalent of a red card issued to a coach (the coach being asked to leave the field of play) will result in that coach's suspension from the next scheduled game. A coach receiving a second ejection will be suspended until such time as he/she arranges for a hearing before the D&P committee to hear cause for reinstatement. Any player receiving a second red card is suspended until such time
the player appears before the D&P committee to hear cause for reinstatement. For each 10 game season: YELLOW CARDS 1.
For every second caution received by a player in different games during the season, the player must sit out the team's next game. The player may complete the game in which the second caution is received.
2.
Penalty points will be kept by the Director of Referees on each team throughout the season as follows: Player Red card ejection
2 pts
Player Yellow card caution
0 pts
Coach ejection
3 pts
Game termination (team's fault)4pts Game forfeitures
2 pts
Once a team reaches the point totals of 8, 12, and 15 points during game play, no additional points can be assessed in that game However, additional disciplinary action may be taken by the D&P committee. If a team obtains eight points during a season: The team is placed on probation If a team obtains twelve points during a season: The coach is suspended until a D&P hearing is held. If a team obtains fifteen points during a season: The team is suspended. No appeal to reinstate may be heard unless more than 6 penalty points are received in any one match. The coach is suspended for the remainder of the year.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association All penalties with the exception of a red card or two yellow cards issued to an individual player may be appealed to the D&P Committee. D&P will review each case presented within two weeks. Dangerous play SHALL NOT be taught or encouraged by any coach, player, or parent. Too often these plays cause needless injury to players. The referees are instructed to caution players when this action occurs and further will eject a player if it continues. Profanity and/or abusive language will NOT be tolerated from any player, coach or spectator. If heard by the referee, immediate ejection of the offender will occur. Any conduct detrimental to the league, players, or coaches will be handled on an individual basis. If a spectator or coach is asked to leave the field of play, the referee has the right to suspend play until such time as the spectator or coach has left sight and sound of the field. In extraordinary cases of extreme unruliness, the referee may terminate the match. Terminated matches will be automatically reviewed by the Disciplinary and Protest Committee.
COACHING FROM THE SIDELINES Coaching of players by coaches and spectators is allowed so long as the coaching is in the spirit of the game. Comments should be designed to help players and at no time should they become overly critical of either team. Abusive coaching is NOT tolerated in any age group or skill level. The coach and all assistants are to remain inside the designated coaching area during the entire game, unless called on the field by the referee. Spectators are expressly forbidden to enter the field of play. In the case of a severe
Parents Handbook
injury, U5 - U8 parents may be asked on the field. We must keep in mind that our children are on the field of play for the purpose of having FUN in a supervised game. The play is for them, not for us as spectators. We must provide the children with the example of sportsmanship we expect from them.
using two 5-minute overtimes and if required, shots from the penalty mark as specified in the FIFA rules. If either team refuses to play the additional match, that game will be deemed a forfeit against the refusing team. 4.
DIVISIONAL GAME STATISTICS AND YEAR-END PLACEMENTS NOTE: There are no officially published statistics or placements for U5 - U8 recreational teams. Win and loss statistics will be kept for teams on a divisional basis. Divisions are determined by age groups. Places within each division will be calculated on "game points". Points are awarded to teams as determined by the director of boys recreational coaches and the director of girls recreational coaches. The statistics will be kept on a weekly basis and will be available for viewing at the fields each weekend beginning after the fourth week of play. If two or more teams, based on total game points, are tied at the end of regular season play, the criteria for breaking the tie is as follows: 1.
For second-place ties: If both teams have no more than 50% losses, they shall be declared cowinners of second place. Otherwise, there shall be no second place declared.
First and second place awards for traveling recreational teams playing uncommon opponents are conditional upon the following criteria: 1.
1st Place Minimum 70% of total points.
2.
2nd Place Minimum 50% of total points.
Teams playing common opponents will be placed on the basis of comparative win and loss point total. The top two teams from each age group (U10 - U19) may represent WGSC/Atlanta United at the GYSA state tournament provided the teams have met the 2nd place minimum.
Review the win and loss records of the two teams in head-to-head competition The better record between those teams shall prevail and be named the winner. If this does not break the tie,
RECREATIONAL TEAM FORMATION
2.
The team with the most wins will be declared the first place winner. If this does not break the tie:
The Team Formation Committee is responsible for implementing the draft procedures.
3.
For first-place ties: An extra match will be played head-to-head. The match will be played to a winner
All recreational teams will be reformed each Fall Season in divisions which have at least six teams. The teams will stay
together in the Spring as long as the coach and a sufficient number of players return from the Fall Season. New players will be added to teams in the Spring to fill in for players who do not return. Any parent who feels that his/her child is wrongly placed on a team may appeal to the Team Formation Committee. If the appeal is not upheld, the parent may then appeal to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall have the authority to change a team if they rule favorably on the appeal.
SELECT TEAM FORMATION The following information will be given to the coaches involved with players associated with the appropriate age levels: 1.
Age groups eligible.
2.
Date of Assessments.
3.
Rules and regulations involving registration with the league prior to taking part in work-outs.
4.
All select players must be assessed in a league sponsored assessment.
All information will be given to coaches prior to the assessment date. Assessments will be held at the end of the spring season. All players who go through assessments must register (GSSA requirement) and sign with their parents the Select Commitment letter prior to the assessment process. Coaches are not required to fill teams with players who have low assessment scores. The coach has the final say in determining players for the team as long as he follows board policy in his selection. Returning players are not guaranteed a spot on select teams. They must go through the assessments just like every other player. All players participating in the assessments will be contacted by one of the coaches in a timely manner.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association
PLAY UP POLICY No play ups will be permitted at the U14 and younger age groups except for special circumstances approved by the Coach’s Committee. Players at West Gwinnett are strongly encouraged to play in the proper age group in the select and recreational programs. Requiring players to play in their correct age group is fairest to players trying out in the proper age group and develops stronger teams in each age group. As children mature into young adults, the differences in physical development of the younger player is magnified during the adolescent years. For special circumstances, a completed play up application form accompanied with a $20.00 application fee made payable to WGSC/Atlanta United must be submitted to the Director of Select Coaches or the Director of Recreational Coaches by the seventh game of the season to play up next season. The Coach’s Committee will rule on appeals considering the age, size, and skill level of the player; the impact on the team that would be receiving the player; the impact on the team that would be losing the player; and the available alternatives for the player. The $20.00 fee is nonrefundable whether the appeal is approved or not. All previously approved play ups must reapply and be approved before moving up an age group from an even year age group in the recreational division. All previously approved play ups in the select division must reapply if they miss one season of play or if they played back down in their proper age group for one season.
FUNDRAISING / SPONSORSHIPS All teams are encouraged to obtain at least one sponsor to help defray expenses. Funds raised from sponsors MUST be used for
soccer expenses such as: equipment, trainers, tournament expenses, etc. Sponsorship moneys are not to be used for parties. All sponsorship checks should be made out to WGSC/Atlanta United and given to the club Treasurer. The Treasurer will return funds to the appropriate teams in a timely manner. This procedure assures the sponsor of proper recognition, both in league publications and for tax purposes. 10% of the sponsorship will be retained by the club. All other moneys will be returned to the team. Teams receiving sponsorship money are required to submit financial reports to the club Treasurer at the end of each spring season.
VOLUNTEERS The success and the continued growth of our program is dependent on volunteers. Many people give much of their time and expertise to the development of our children. We are always in need of volunteers for various jobs to help make the program complete and to assist the coaches. Since the introduction of soccer to this country, it is a rare situation to find experienced soccer coaches or a parent who has played as a youth. Yet, WGSC/Atlanta United has many qualified coaches and instructors. Anyone who wants to coach will receive training within the league to help get him/her started. It is our policy to hold coaching clinics at least once each season. All coaches are encouraged to obtain at least an "F" license after coaching in our league for one year. Premier coaches in WGSC/Atlanta United are required to hold at least an "E" coaching license. Classic and Athena A coaches must have at least a "D" license. It is the policy of this league to reimburse the course fee for licensing after he/she has coached one
Parents Handbook season for WGSC/Atlanta United and submits a copy of the certificate. Anyone interested in coaching classes should contact the Directors of Recreational Coaches or the Director of Select Coaches. It is the policy of this league to reimburse the course fee for any individual who desires to take the entry level referee course and become a certified referee. Referees are paid by this league for both officiating in the center and also as an assistant referee. In addition, players with an interest in becoming referees should contact the director of Referees. These "student" officials are also paid while they are furthering their skills to become our referees of the future. Parents with an interest in administering the leagues' programs should contact any board member or officer. Elections for the President, Vice President, and Board positions are held at the annual fall meeting. The term of office for the President and Vice President is one year and the term of office for Board members is two years. Vacancies between elections are filled by appointment, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.
The primary responsibilities of the board of directors are to set the policy and the budget for the league. The Board of Directors is made up of 6 to 8 members. Term of office is two years. Half of the board is up for election every fall. To qualify to be nominated for a position on the board of directors, a member of the club must have 1.
been a Director, Officer, or Senior Appointed Official of the league for at least 1 year,
OR 2.
coached for 5 seasons
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS The President and Vice President are the only league officers that are elected by the membership. Term of office for the President and Vice President is 1 year. The offices are up for election every fall. To qualify to be nominated for President or Vice President, a member of the club must have 1.
been a Director, Officer, or Senior Appointed Official of the league for at least 1 year,
OR 2.
coached for 5 seasons
PRESIDENT
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
1.
Serve as Chief Operating Officer of the Corporation.
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association 2.
Appoint Officers to operate the league.
3.
Supervise and control all business and affairs of the corporation.
4. 5. 6.
Preside at all meetings membership and Officers.
of
1.
2.
4.
Shall attend and vote at meetings of the Board of Directors.
Chair Newsletter and Handbook committees.
5.
Record all D&P committee action and serve as non-voting member of this committee
3.
4.
Preside over all meetings with the Officers in the absence of the President.
7.
Appoint and chair the nominating committee for the elected positions in the fall each year. Assume the duties of the President if for any reason the President cannot complete his/her term.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF APPOINTTED OFFICERS
File all state and federal repents in a timely fashion. COMMISSIONER OF TEAM MANAGERS AND UNIFORMS
5.
Provide cover letter and distribute player ID cards.
6.
Furnish secretary with ten sets of player address labels and ten sets of board member address labels at the beginning of the season and as need.
7.
Provide team rosters to board members as needed.
5.
Serve as ex-officio member of all Board committees.
6.
Print and distribute registration flyers or postcards to all schools each season.
Take messages and change message on league answering machine as needed. Maintain bylaws.
Aid the President, Treasurer, and Secretary in all matters pertaining to corporation functions.
4.
4.
league's
the
3.
VICE PRESIDENT
Maintain detailed financial records and publish projected and end of season financial statement.
following
board members week. 2.
Parents Handbook
records and Parent
1.
Preside over the Team Managers Meeting
2.
Order uniforms for all recreational players.
3.
Notify board members of special meetings at least five days in advance. Mail postcards or phone to remind board members of regular meetings one week in advance.
4. 5.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 1. 2.
3.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
6.
Primary communications officer, administrator, and contract executor for the corporation.
Request quotations, compare prices vendors, etc. to make sure the league is getting the best product and delivery for the money spent. Maintain and update inventory of items on hand on a regular basis. Coordinate the distribution of uniforms prior to the first game of the season. Coordinate returns of defective merchandise.
Work with others in setting and maintaining league budget.
The following is a list of appointed officers. The list is by no means a complete list as the President and the Board of Directors will create or eliminate officer positions as necessary for operation of the corporation. Members of the club with the desire to help with the operation of the corporation should contact the president for officer positions SECRETARY 1.
Take minutes at all scheduled league meetings and mail minutes (and meeting agenda if absent) to
TREASURER
DIRECTOR OF TEAM SERVICES 1.
Provide sponsorship plaques based on list from the Executive Director / Treasurer.
2.
Obtain prices, plan and implement team picture procedures.
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS 1.
Maintain accurate teams' sponsors.
records
of
2.
Write thank you notes to sponsors.
3.
Provide list of sponsors to Director of Team Services.
4.
Obtain League Sponsor's plaques.
5.
Work with Gwinnett County and other organizations to provide for the long term field needs of WGSC/Atlanta United.
DIRECTOR OF REFEREES
REGISTRAR
1.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
1.
Declare and register recreational and select teams with GSSA.
1.
Recruit, train and support referees and assistant referees.
2.
Collect and deposit league funds.
2.
State
2.
Oversee classes.
3.
Write checks and maintain league' financial accounts.
Register teams in Recreational Tournament.
3.
Set up registration dates and oversee registration procedures.
3.
Work with assessors evaluating referees on an ongoing basis.
referee
rectification
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association 4.
Provide water or Gatorade for referees on game days.
5.
Oversee checking in and out of scrimmage vests on game days.
DIRECTOR OF FIELDS 1.
5.
Ensure trash around concession area is bagged and placed in dumpster.
6.
Count money and turn in to Treasurer in a timely manner.
7.
Ensure all fields and practice areas are properly laid out and maintained.
2.
Assign practice areas and nights.
3.
Make sure there is an ample supply of field materials (paint, sprayers, flags, nets etc.).
Parents Handbook 4.
5.
Responsible for boys coaches' training including securing licensing information and coordinating clinics.
6.
Design, distribute, collect and summarize boys coaches' evaluations.
7.
Handle parent / coach conflicts as they arise.
Maintain accurate records to determine profitability status of concessions.
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR 1.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
2.
Provide training for coaches.
4.
Coordinate Field Day.
3.
Provide soccer camps for players.
5.
Arrange for Porta-Johns to be supplied and service during season.
4.
6.
Arrange for weekly trash pickup.
Provide technical guidance for all WGSC/Atlanta United select and recreational coaches, players, and teams.
7.
Ensure that trash on fields is bagged and placed in dumpster.
8.
Act as liaison for the Board and the Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department for maintenance of fields.
5.
Provide guidance for Director of Boys Recreational Coaches, Director of Girls Recreational Coaches, Director of Select Coaches, and the Select Committee.
DIRECTOR OF GIRLS RECREATIONAL COACHES 1.
1.
Appointed through contract by the Board of Directors.
2.
Assign Teams' concession duties.
3.
Purchase food and supplies for concession stand.
4.
Oversee opening and closing of concession stand.
DIRECTOR OF BOYS RECREATIONAL COACHES 1.
2. 3.
Recruit one coach per boys team and one commissioner per boys age group. Provide list of boys coaches to the officers. Plan, prepare folders and preside over preseason coaches meeting.
Recruit one coach per girls team and one commissioner per girls age group.
2.
Provide list of girls coaches to the officers.
3.
Plan, prepare folders and preside over preseason coaches meeting.
4.
Preside over girls coach's commissioner meetings and prepare written report of these meetings to the officers.
5.
DIRECTOR OF CONCESSIONS
Preside over boys coach's commissioner meetings and prepare written report of these meetings to the officers.
6.
7.
Determine the number of select teams to be formed.
3.
Schedule and administer select assessments and team formation.
4.
Recruit the members of the Select Committee.
5.
Preside over the Select Committee.
6.
Provide the list of select coaches to the Officers.
7.
Responsible for select coaches' training and assuring that the coaches have proper licenses, and for coordinating clinics.
8.
Administer the select team matching training allowance program.
9.
Handle parent / coach conflicts as they arise.
10. Design, distribute, collect and summarize coaches' evaluations. SCHEDULER 1.
Schedule intra league games for recreational teams.
2.
Responsible for girls coaches' training including securing licensing information and coordinating clinics.
Attend state scheduler meetings in order to schedule inter league recreational games and select teams games.
3.
Design, distribute, collect and summarize girls coaches' evaluations.
Provide copies of schedules at team managers' preseason meetings.
4.
Handle parent / coach conflicts as they arise.
Provide list of contacts and maps for all travel teams.
5.
Handle rescheduling of games as necessary.
6.
Serve as contact person for the State Recreational Tournament.
DIRECTOR OF SELECT COACHES 1.
2.
Select one coach per select team for final Board approval.
DIRECTOR OF RECREATIONAL TEAM FORMATION
West Gwinnett Soccer Club aka Atlanta United Soccer Association 1.
Chair the committee.
team
formation
2.
Organize and implement the player draft per league policy.
3.
Provide rosters to the officers.
4.
Maintain and publish team standings on a weekly basis.
5.
Assist in organizing and implementing league recreational tournaments
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROGRAMS 1.
Organize and implement the TOP Soccer program.
2.
Provide rosters to the officers.
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS 1.
Manage all tournaments sponsored by the corporation or scheduled at the corporation' facilities.
2.
Oversee the scholarship recognition programs
3.
Coordinate any special events for the corporation.
and
DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEERS 1.
Solicit and maintain a list of volunteers for the officers.
2.
Manage and schedule the field marshal program.
WEBMASTER 1.
Maintain the United web site.
WGSC/Atlanta
To contact any Director of Coaches call (770) 271-8300.
To contact any Board Member or Officer call (770) 271-4525. or e-mail at [email protected] Visit our web site at www.WGSC.net
Parents Handbook
