FAQ
Q: Can I Coach?
A: YES! Please contact us at coaching@southernlehighsoccer.com to make us aware of your interest in volunteering.
Q: When does the season start and how long will it last?
A: The Fall season generally starts in mid August and has historically lasted until the 2nd week of November. The Spring season usually starts in April and lasts until mid June.
Q: When are practices?
A: Practices, per the insurance year, may commence as early as August 1st of the given year, through July 31st of the following calendar year. Generally travel and recreation will practice 2x per week with a game on the weekend. Intramural U5/6 will do a 30/30 practice/game one weekend day per week. Intramural U7 will practice one week night and have a game on a weekend day.
Q: What equipment does a player need?
A:
Shin guards (mandatory - the ones with anklebone padding offer additional protection)
Ball (U5/6-U8's use a size 3, U9-U12's use a size 4, U13's and up use a size 5.)
Soccer Cleats (no metal cleats and no toe cleat like baseball). For U9 and up, referees will check for uniforms, shin guards and proper cleats before the game begins.
A water bottle.
SLS jerseys will be provided by the club. Black shorts are recommended.
Q: When will I find out what team my child is on for Travel soccer?
A: Annual Try Outs are typically conducted during the last two weeks of April, weather permitting; and resulting roster determinations are consequently shared during the first two weeks of May.
Q: How will I know if a game is cancelled due to inclement weather?
A: Coaches will contact their teams in the event of canceled games or practices due to inclement weather. Always check your email prior to leaving for a practice or game if weather is a factor. *Most leagues will also post for weather cancellations.
Q: What is my role as a parent for my child's soccer team?
A: Parents are critical to the success of the team and club! Parents volunteer for the roles of coach, officer, chauffeur, cheerleader, photographer, manager, food preparer, field marshal, linesman, committee member & There are many things a parent can do to make the soccer experience a pleasant one for both their child and themselves.
Once in a while, we need to find a coach for a particular age group. Parents are asked to step in and coach a team. Experienced coaches are happy to help new coaches get started. Coach courses and training are available throughout the year with any fees reimbursed by the Club.
Please be prompt in delivery of your child to practice and games and in picking him/her up. Please stay and watch practices and games. It means a lot to your child to show an interest in what they do.
Please check in with your child's coach periodically to see if there is any information that you need. If you will be missing a practice or a game, please let your coach know as soon as possible. All of our coaches are more than happy to address your concerns or questions. After practice is an ideal time to do this.
Be available to kick the ball around with your child at home. The more touches a child has on the soccer ball, the better his/her skills will become. Have them teach you what they learn in practice.
Avoid material rewards such as paying for goals or treats for a good job on the field. Try to instill an attitude that reflects the importance of team play and the joy of the game as the reward.
Be a good listener for your child.
Be a positive spectator and respect both teams and the referee. Practice good sportsmanship.
After the game, whether they win or especially if they lose, don't critique or instruct your child. Positive reinforcement works best. Saying, "Great effort" and "Did you have fun?"; de-emphasize the final score, but rather focus on the fun of the game. Avoid blaming others too. Make your child feel important and let him/her know that he is contributing to a team effort.
Allow your child to be a child and enjoy the game without pressure from you to perform.
ENJOY YOUR SOCCER EXPERIENCE!