How is soccer organized?
WYSA is registered with Indiana Youth Soccer Association (IYSA) which
in turn is part of United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA). USYSA is a division of
the United States Soccer Federation, the governing body of soccer in the U.S. Affiliation
with IYSA provides insurance and training support for WYSA participants.
How come there’s only 3 (or 4 or 5) players on the field?
Soccer has traditionally been played with 11 players on the field but
studies have shown that players develop faster and have more fun if fewer players are on
the field at one time. This prevents a player from getting lost in the crowd and allows
him to get more touches on the ball. WYSA was one of the leaders in the switch to
"small-sided" soccer and many surrounding clubs are now switching. We currently
offer small-sided soccer up through U12.
What’s all this "U" stuff and how are teams formed?
"U" stands for Under (U8 is under-8). Players are assigned to
divisions based on their age as of August 1, 2001. For example, the U8 division consists
of player’s who were 7 years old on August 1st. Team assignments are made by the
division commissioners who attempt to balance teams. Factors include age, previous playing
experience. WYSA does not allow players to play "up" in an older age group.
Can my three year old play?
No,
the child must be 4 years old by August 1, 2002, to play in the fall 2002 and
spring 2003 seasons.
When do they play and practice?
All games (except makeup games) will be held on weekends. Games run
from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. on Saturdays and 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. on Sundays. Your coach will
distribute your schedule. Practices will be set by the coach but will generally be on
weekday evenings. U5s and U6s will practice one evening per week. U7/U8 practices are 1 or
2 days per week while older teams will typically practice twice per week.
Where do they play?
All recreational games and practices will be held at Habig Fields
located at 156th and Carey Rd. (Approximately 1 mile east of Rt 31 on 151st Street to stop
sign at Carey Rd then left 1/2 mile) and travel games will be played at the Habig Fields
or the Shamrock Springs Fields (corner of 161st and Springmill Road).
What kind of equipment does my child need?
While soccer is a relative inexpensive sport, their are a couple of
items required to ensure your child’s safety. Shin guards must be worn for games and
practices. In addition, your child should wear soccer socks over the shin guards to
provide padding for other players. Regular gym shoes are fine although soccer cleats may
offer an advantage under certain field conditions (mud!). WYSA supplies a T-shirt but we
ask that you get your child a pair of black shorts and socks for games.
We also suggest that you child bring a soccer ball to practice. Balls
come in 3 sizes: U5 thru U8 uses a #3 ball; U10 thru U12 use a #4 ball and older players
use a #5 ball. Note: Don't forget to mark your player's name & phone number on the
ball with a permanent marker.
How long is the season?
In 2002, the fall season will be about 8 weeks for
the Recreational teams and a few weeks longer for the travel teams.
What about rain?
Soccer is an all weather sport. Unless the weather conditions are
dangerous (i.e. lightning), we will try to get the game in. While the parents may not
enjoy watching games in the rain, most children enjoy playing in the mud and getting
dirty. We may also close the fields to prevent damage if large amounts of standing water
are present. The general rule of thumb is to show up unless you hear from your coach.
What can I do to help my child?
WYSA is a volunteer organization. Without parental support, we
couldn’t exist. In addition to providing moral support for your player and
demonstrating good sportsmanship, we’d like you to get involved with our program. We
are always looking for coaches to help with the teams. As your soccer knowledge grows,
consider becoming a referee. WYSA offers referee courses throughout the year.
Finally, please cheerfully offer your help if you are
contacted to help with one of our fund raising tournaments. WYSA will be holding it’s
16th Habig Classic in June 2003. This tournament has grown to over 150
teams from across the Midwest. While the tournament is primarily for travel teams, the
revenue generate from this event subsidizes the recreational program. Your help during
these events helps keep our fees among the lowest in the area.
Need More Info?
The officers for the 2001/2002 season are listed below. Please feel
free to call them with any questions you may have. In addition, WYSA holds a monthly board
meeting to conduct league business. The meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of the month
at 7:30 P.M. The meeting is in the Westfield High School Cafeteria. Have a good season.
