WALNUT CREEK SURF SOCCER CLUB GENERAL INFORMATION PACKET
1 WCSSC Recreation Program Updated 2/19 EF GENERAL INFORMATION PACKET Revision 2, published 2/21/19 EF
Table of Contents
History of WCSSC - 3 General Information- 4 Tournaments- 21 End Of The Season- 23 (Appendix) Field Information- 25 Playing Rules- 28 Referees- 35 Complaint Process- 39 Rain Out Policy- 41 Positive Coaching- 43 Codes of Conduct- 44 Soccer Terminology- 45 Concussion Policy - 48 Field Maps 49
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History of WCSSC
The seeds of what was to become the Walnut Creek Soccer Club (WCSSC) were planted in the mid-1960s when several boys’ teams played under the auspices of the East Bay Youth Soccer League.
In 1974, our affiliation with the California Youth Soccer Association (CYSA) began. Also at this time, the “Recreation” league was created to give young people not interested or not skilled enough to play on competitive teams an opportunity to enjoy soccer. The group was now called the Walnut Creek Soccer Club and it had almost 600 players.
In 1976, the Association of Soccer Clubs (ASOC) was set up as an umbrella organization for competitive and Recreation league teams. ASOC provided fields, goals, field lining and referees for all games. Each league under ASOC had its own Board of Directors. In Walnut Creek, there were now about 1,000 children playing soccer. Girls’ teams also began playing at this time.
In 1979, the competitive and Recreation leagues within the ASOC merged under one name of the Walnut Creek Soccer Club, affiliated with CYSA. Other important milestones came along regularly: 1986 - the Walnut Tournament for Recreation teams was created; 1990 - U8 teams were separated for the first time on a gender- specific basis; and 1999 - the first Class 4 (Recreation) Winter League was formed. 2018 - Walnut Creek Soccer Club joins forces with the San Diego Surf Soccer Club and becomes an affiliate organization.
Today, the WCSSC provides recreational and competitive soccer opportunities for over 2,900 players. We continue to look for ways to enhance and enrich the quality of our programs and we hope you will participate with us as we bring the joy of soccer into the lives of our children.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Where to Go For Help
The Walnut Creek Surf Soccer Club physical address is 150 North Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek CA 94598 and our website is www.WCSSC.org. Mailing address is PO Box 3057 Walnut Creek CA 94598.
The website contains lots of useful information for you. If you, your players, or their parents have questions, please visit the web page for further information. For contact information for the Recreation program, please visit the “Contact Us” page on the Recreation area of the website.
Age Group Coordinators:
Each age group division has a coordinator specifically responsible for those teams. The age group coordinators recruit coaches, assign players for teams, and handle any issues that arise in the age group during the season. If you don’t know where to turn, start with your Age Group Coordinator. You can find your Age Group Coordinator and their contact information at the “Contact Us” page of the Recreation area of the website www.WCSSC.org.
Volunteer Opportunities
Walnut Creek Soccer Club is a non-profit organization that is run primarily by volunteers. With nearly 2,000 players expected to participate in our Recreation program this season there are many roles that need to be filled every season. If you are a parent who sees something that needs to be improved for our club, please get involved and help make it better! If you are a parent who loves everything about Walnut Creek Soccer Club, then get involved to help keep it great. Here are some ideas to get you started ... there is something for everyone.
Coaching
This league cannot exist without coaches. Coaching is a great way to work with the youth in our community. If you have interest in coaching, please contact the appropriate Age Group Coordinator for further information. Walnut Creek Soccer Club provides support to coaches by sponsoring free training and licensing clinics at various times during the year. In addition, our Director of Coaching and Age Group Coordinators are available to help during the season.
Officiating
League Play cannot exist without Referees. Officiating is also a great way to work with the youth in our community. Walnut Creek Soccer Club provides
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support to Referee Candidates by sponsoring free training and licensing clinics in June & July of each year. In addition, our Referee Director and mentors are available to help during the season. Youth players can start their referee careers once they are 14 years old. Note, referees are compensated for their work, so it is not technically a volunteer position. Please contact the Referee Director, for further information.
Registration and Tournaments
These events are labor intensive, and therefore we can always use some helping hands. Tables and equipment need to be set up and manned. Phone calls need to be made, schedules coordinated ... and the list goes on. For more information on volunteering, contact the Recreation Coordinator.
Age Group Coordinators
If you have been involved in the League for a while, perhaps as a coach, then you might consider being an Age Group Coordinator. This position involves recruiting new and returning coaches and working with them to prepare for the upcoming season. Age Group Coordinators stay active during the season working with coaches and parents, answering questions, and solving problems. Please contact the Recreation Program Coordinator or a board member if you are interested in this rewarding opportunity.
Other Board and Volunteer Positions
New volunteers and board members are needed each year to help with the Club’s website, publicity, organizing tournaments, managing club finances etc. Volunteer by contacting a current member of the Board of Directors. We solicit nominations for new board members throughout the year and hold elections at the Club’s Annual General Meeting.
Teams
There are many ways to volunteer on your child’s team. Teams need a Team Parent to help with the administrative details. They also need parents to help plan team events and to assist with goal setup and takedown. Our coaches work hard to have their teams ready for matches, please help them with the administrative side of the team if possible.
Goal and Net Set Up and Take Down
The first home team scheduled for a particular field is responsible for setting up the goals and nets for the day (nets and flags need to be picked up from their storage locations). Field set-up usually takes 20-30 minutes and requires several parents to work efficiently. It is recommended that the parents of the
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home team of the first game of the day show up at the field at least 45 minutes before the game for set-up.
Set-up also includes walking around the field before the game. Broken glass, sticks, golf balls, rocks and other hazards can be found on playing fields. A simple five-minute walk and chat over the field can help prevent injuries.
The home team playing on a field for the last match of the day is responsible for cleaning up the field and taking down the goals. Please be sure that the goals are securely locked and that all equipment is stored away in the lockbox. After the equipment is stored away, please collect any trash for the day (it is a good idea to bring a trash bag), as we are guests on the fields and our permits rely on our good stewardship.
WCSSC Finances
Registration fees generate most of the operating cash for club operations. The operating budget covers not only the basic needs of running a youth soccer program (equipment, goals, field maintenance, etc.), but also helps to pay for facility development and maintenance at the City and school fields that we rent. We are constantly looking for opportunities to improve the facilities we use.
Registration Process
Dates
Registration begins in early March and runs through May, with late registration from June 1st until teams are full or the season has begun. For current year registration dates, please view the website.
Fees
The registration fee is determined each January and is based on the club’s budget.
Registration
Registration is done online and can be accessed on the Club web site at www.WCSSC.org .
Play Ups
Players can request to play-up to the next age group. In order to be eligible, players must be born between August 1st and December 31st for their current age group. For example, a U7 player born on August 1st can apply to play up to the U8 age group. Players who do not meet the birth date requirements are not eligible to play-up.
Play-up Requests are granted after all players who are naturally in an age group have been placed on a team. After teams have been formed, play up 6 WCSSC Recreation Program GENERAL INFORMATION PACKET Revision 2, published 2/21/19 EF
requests are taken in the order they were received until no roster spots are available in the age group.
Play-up requests are not guaranteed and are based on roster openings in the requested age group.
Requests to “Play-Down” an age group are not permitted.
Levels of Play in Walnut Creek Soccer Club
WCSSC offers three different youth soccer programs – Recreation, Select and Competitive.
The Competitive program is designed for the soccer player who wants to play more soccer and at a higher level of skill. Roster spots on a competitive team are based on a tryout process. The typical competitive team will play nine months a year. Roughly 850 players ranging in age from 8 to 18 years participate in the club’s competitive program.
The Recreation program is designed for the majority of our soccer players, emphasizing sportsmanship, basic skill development, love of the game, and fun. Over 2,000 players ranging from 5 to 18 years of age play in WCSSC’s Recreation program each fall.
The Recreation program also includes the Select program. The Select program is for our recreation players who want to experience playing at a higher skill level but for shorter seasons than the competitive program. There are two Select seasons, one in the fall and one in the winter, each lasting approximately three to four months. Roster spots on a Select team are based on a tryout process.
Balanced Team Approach in the Recreation Program
The Walnut Creek Soccer Club makes a rigorous attempt to ensure that there is competitive balance between teams in the Recreation leagues. Age Group Coordinators assign players to teams based upon a variety of factors: The players skill rating (based on assessments from previous seasons, tryouts that players have participated in, etc.) Mutual friend requests Player’s school or neighborhood
There is no guarantee that a player will be assigned to a team, even if a particular team/friend is requested. All of these factors are considered in the team formation process so that each weekend presents every team with a realistic chance to compete. This enhances the enjoyment of the sport for players, coaches and parents.
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Coach Selection Volunteering to coach does not guarantee team placement. Coaches must successfully complete the following requirements each season:
1. Complete the online registration form. Note, this form is in addition to the registration form completed for your child.
2. Complete background fingerprinting check: If you have continuously been registered to coach for successive years, your background check with the club will remain current. However, if you have stepped away from coaching for more than one year, you will need to once again complete fingerprinting. All new coaches will need to complete the fingerprinting background check.
Important! - Our fingerprinting background check is only good for our club. If you have completed fingerprinting through other organizations, you still need to complete the WCSSC fingerprinting clearance.
Fingerprinting can be completed during one of the coaches meeting held in July. Check the club calendar for the specific meetings that provide fingerprinting as not all coaches meetings offer this service. If you are unable to complete fingerprinting at one of the coaches meetings, you will be responsible for obtaining clearance on your own, including the fee and time.
3. Concussion Education: Each coach needs to complete concussion education training and upload heir certificate. Information on concussion education requirements can be found on the website.
4. Attend a required coaches meeting: See calendar on webpage for your age group required coach meeting.
Our coaches are selected according to the following criteria (in order): 1. Coaches that have exhibited good sportsmanship and have shown the ability to convey the ideals of good sportsmanship and fair play to their players. 2. The coach with the highest coaching license. 3. The coach who has in the past or is currently providing volunteer hours to the club (in addition to coaching). 4. Coach with the most years of experience
Team Pictures
Please refer to the Recreation Calendar (on the web site) for the picture day date and location. Pictures are scheduled throughout the day so that there are no conflicts with scheduled games.
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Setting Up a Team
Your coordinator has attempted to create a team that is competitively balanced so that each weekend presents every team with a realistic chance to compete. This enhances the enjoyment of the sport for players, coaches, and parents. Your Age Group Coordinator assigned players to your team based on a variety of factors. This means that your roster of players will not be exactly the same from year to year.
Coaches Meeting and Equipment
Attendance at the coaches meeting is mandatory. If you are unable to attend, please arrange for another representative from your team (e.g. asst. coach, team parent) to attend the meeting.
At the coaches’ meeting you will receive a packet of material including:
Information on picture day (see previous section) Coach equipment: 1. Two game balls 2. Colored practice vests 3. Cones (for marking off fields or an area for practice) 4. First aid kit and extra cold packs
If you are missing any of these materials, or any materials need to be replaced due to loss or damage, please contact your Age Group Coordinator for replacement gear.
All of the coach equipment (except the balls) is to be returned to the club at the end of the season during the Walnut Tournament weekend. More detailed instructions will be provided by email in late October.
Coaches Code of Conduct
We take the role of our coaches seriously. While winning is important, the skills a coach develops with their team are just as important. Teaching the players sportsmanship, the values of hard work and practice, overcoming adversity just to name a few are important life lessons that are learned by playing a sport. We expect all coaches for WCSSC adhere to a code of conduct:
Be reasonable in your demands on your players time, energy, enthusiasm and performance on the field. Teach your players to abide by the Laws of the Game at all times. NEVER argue with a referee’s decision. Respect the ability of opponents, the judgement of referees and opposing coaches Ensure that your players soccer experience is fun and enjoyable (winning is only part of this). Players should never be yelled at or ridiculed for making mistakes or losing a game. 9 WCSSC Recreation Program GENERAL INFORMATION PACKET Revision 2, published 2/21/19 EF
Be generous with your praise when it is deserved. Children need a coach that sets good example for the team. Stay educated on principles of coaching and child development. Verify equipment and playing facilities meet safety standards and be appropriate for the age and ability of your players. Follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured child is ready to play again
Coach Training
Few Recreation league coaches are soccer experts, but our players will have a better experience if you can help them improve their skills in knowledgeable ways. This may require some homework on your part. We suggest the following: Attend one of the Recreation coach training clinics run by WCSSC. These clinics have been specifically developed for Recreation league coaches. Dates for the coaching clinics will be noted in the Recreation Calendar of Events and are posted on the Club website. More details on these clinics are available on the website and from your age group coordinator. Complete an online US Soccer Grassroots coach education certification course. WCSSC sponsors F or E license courses, the fees for these clinics are reimbursed upon completion and written request for reimbursement from our bookkeeper. The fees for attendance at other non-WCSSC clinics, is not refunded. Contact you age group coordinator, Recreation Program coordinator or other Board Members who can arrange assistance from current or former coaches.
Initial Team Meeting
When you receive your list of players, your first job will be to contact your player families immediately. They will be waiting to hear from you! After your initial contact, set up a team meeting to orient your parents and players to your coaching philosophy and the details of the season. Experienced coaches have suggested to us a format to follow in your meeting. Note, in some cases it may be best to wait to hold your team meeting (e.g. around the time school starts) as you will find that the early season practices are attended sporadically as many players will be away on vacation.
Suggested Format for Initial Team Meeting
Welcome and introductions (Coach, Parents and Players) Review your roster: List of players, parents, address, phone numbers, email addresses, should be prepared ahead of time if possible and handed out. Ask for corrections. Review the season outline: Schedule of games and tournament(s) and the practice schedule
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Request help from parents on various tasks. Involve as many parents as you can! The more help you get, the easier the work will be for everyone. Assistant coaches: Help with practices/games Party coordinator: Organizes beginning-of-season and/or end-of-season party Picture Day Coordinator: Distributes picture envelopes; makes reminder phone calls; helps at field on picture day Snack coordinator: Schedules families for game-day snack duty (Normal menu: orange slices & water for half time; drinks & snacks after the game) Field Set-up/Clean-up Coordinator: Organizes crew to pick up/return nets and set up/clean up field when assigned
Philosophy and plans of the coach Your feelings, hopes, and plans for the team Expectations for players’ development (See training curriculum in coach’s packet) LOGISTICS Practice - where, when, and how many Positions and playing time Uniforms - where to buy, what to buy, shin guards are required Ball Size
Parental conduct Enjoy the game as a spectator Don’t coach Positive re-enforcement for team, rather than individual goals Respect of referee and his/her job What parents can do at home to help their player
GOAL SET UP AND TAKE DOWN Safety first (adults only set up and take down) Be 45 minutes early to set up Stick around to help take down
Adjourn on a positive note! Post-meeting refreshments for players and parents are always good icebreakers.
Player Equipment
The Recreation uniform is a white jersey with royal blue numbers for away games and a blue jersey with white numbers for home games, both with the WCSSC logo, black shorts, and black socks. Shin guards are required and can be purchased at any sports shop. Athletic (non-cleat) shoes are allowed but soccer cleats are recommended for better traction. Baseball and football cleats are not allowed (baseball shoes have a cleat at the toe, soccer cleats do not).
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A player uniform can be purchased online from soccer.com. Please see information on the website regarding information to purchase a player uniform. Note, U6 players WILL NOT purchase their uniform online. They will receive from their coach a player jersey. Socks and shorts are not included for U6 players.
Players who must wear eyeglasses are encouraged to wear sports goggles. Players must wear glasses that are safe. Lenses must be unbreakable and frames must be unbreakable or sturdy metal. Absolutely no jewelry may be worn while participating in a game, practice, and try-out or training session. Earrings and other piercings cannot be taped.
Players wearing orthopedic casts, braces (metal, carbon fiber, hard plastic and like devices), or splints (air or metal) shall not be eligible to participate in any game, practice, try-out or training session.
Shin guards are required for all practices and games. They must be worn under the socks. Shin guards must cover a minimum ¾ of the shin, The shin runs from the ankle to the knee. Shin guards must be professionally manufactured, worn as intended by the manufacturer, cannot be modified and must be worn so they protect the lower portion of the shin. The practice of taping the shin guards up high on the shin is not allowed.
Players are encouraged to bring water bottles to both practices and games. Soccer is a sport that requires a high level of physical work and can result in dehydration, especially in hot weather.
Balls
Your coach kit includes 2 soccer balls for team use, which you can keep. Write your phone number and team name, gender and age group in indelible ink on the team balls. You also should encourage each child to have his or her own soccer ball and to bring it to each practice. Additional balls can be purchased at any sporting goods stores. The regulation size of the soccer ball varies by age group.
U6 - U8 Size #3 U9/10, U11/12 Size #4 U14 and older Size #5
Practices
Soccer is more fun for everyone if players have some skill at the game, knowledge of the rules, and familiarity with their teammates. Therefore, team practices are as important for developing player skills (and increasing their fun) as games are. Recreation teams are permitted to practice
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beginning August 1 (or as specified by the club) and are encouraged to practice throughout the season.
Practice schedules are left to the discretion of the coach and the team parents. On any given weekday afternoon/evening in the fall, each of the club’s designated fields will be shared by numerous teams. The club currently does not schedule practice times. Therefore, fields must be used as efficiently as possible to provide sufficient space for a reasonable practice session depending on the age group.
Practice field use is commonly one of the biggest areas of frustrations for coaches and players. WCSSC is not alone in this frustration. There is simply not enough supply to meet the demands for fields in our area. Coaches must work together to ensure fair field use.
The following guidelines should be followed regarding practice field use: . Field use is NOT first come first serve. You must allocate space evenly to accommodate for all teams on the field. For example, if you arrive to the field and there are no other teams, then you are welcome to take the entire space. However, if other teams show up, you MUST then reduce your space use to accommodate the other teams. You are NOT allowed to “cone” off field use in advance of your practice to “reserve” that space. . You cannot utilize unequitable field space for a scrimmage with your own or another team. This is not fair to the other teams on the field. . The most common days for practice are Tues, Wed and Thurs. If you would like more space to practice, then you are encouraged to practice at days and times with less field usage. . If there is an issue, please try and kindly work out with the other coach on the field. If it cannot be worked out, do not escalate the conflict and notify your age group coordinator as soon as possible.
Practice Goal Use: You may set up and use goals during your practices. However, just like field space, goals need to be fairly utilized. Goals MUST also be dismantled (when necessary), stored and locked in their designated location. Failure to comply with this policy may result in a prohibition of goal use during practices.
Fields You are free to practice on any field under permit for the Walnut Creek Soccer Club. WCSSC uses fields owned by the Mt. Diablo School District, the Walnut Creek School District, the City of Walnut Creek, and some private schools. A list of available fields and addresses are included as Appendix B, and also on the website. Required field permit documents for Walnut Creek School District fields are available by request. Send requests to the Recreation Coordinator. Illustrations showing field layouts and location of field
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boxes are on Appendix O. Teams are restricted to certain fields due to safety concerns. The field assignments are in Appendix P.
IMPORTANT INSURANCE INFORMATION: YOUR TEAM MAY PRACTICE ONLY ON FIELDS OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED AS WCSSC FIELDS. The club’s insurance does not cover other venues, and you could be personally liable if anything happens to one of your players there. In addition, if you practice on an unpermitted field, you are putting the owner of the facility, the WCSSC, and yourself at serious financial risk if an injury occurs.
We must comply with our hosts’ requests regarding use of fields if we are to preserve them for our players. Misuse in the past has resulted in withdrawal of fields we once used for soccer. If you see any improper activity take place, please contact your age group coordinator or Operations Director immediately.
DAY OF THE GAME
Setting Up Fields Your team will be assigned to play its games on a limited number of fields during the season (see Appendix C for more information). You will receive your game schedule for the season from your Age Group Coordinator by early August. The schedule will show your designated field for each game. The schedule will also be posted on the club website www.WCSSC.org
On each Saturday, the first home team scheduled for a particular field is responsible for picking up the nets from their storage location and setting up the field and goals for the games that day. Field set up usually takes 20-30 minutes and requires several parents to happen efficiently. Thus, it is recommended that the home team parents of the first game of the day show up at the field at least 45 minutes before the game for setup. Please take the time necessary to ensure that the nets are properly set up and secured to the goals. Nets that are not properly set up (e.g. large gaps) may result in a delay in starting the game to correct the situation.
Fields are lined on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday each week. If you find that a field has not been lined, please use flags, cones, or some other marker to delineate the field. Please contact your Age Group Coordinator if field lines are not present or need to be re-done.
Fields will be lined with a player area, technical area for the coach(es), and parent/spectator area. Parent/spectator area will be on the opposite side of the field directly across from their team’s sideline. Parents/spectators are not allowed on the same side as players and coaches.
In the event your game is suspended or abandoned because of rain, please take down nets and goal posts and return nets to the net storage immediately. If weather improves and games end up being played later that day, those teams can set up the field again.
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Nets In most cases, nets and flags are kept at the field; they are stored in bins near each of the fields. A list of the locations of the nets for each field is in Appendix C.
The U6-U8 program uses portable goals. These are stored at the field and will need to be assembled before the first game on each Saturday.
Please remember to return the nets if you are the last scheduled game of the day. If a team does not immediately follow you onto the field, you can assume that the last game of the days has been played on that field. It is your responsibility to take down the nets and return them to their proper storage location.
Should the nets not be at the proper location, or if the nets are the wrong size, or torn or damaged, please do the best you can for that day’s game and notify your Age Group Coordinator immediately following the game. This will give the club a full week to remedy the situation and ensure that teams will not experience the same problem the next week. DO NOT take nets designated for another field—that only moves the problem elsewhere.
Flags
Each field is equipped with a set of flags. One should go in each corner of the field. The flags are kept in the net containers. If you are missing flags or the flags are damaged and unusable, use cones and inform your AGC so that we can have them replaced.
Field Conditions and Hazards
Prior to each game, walk over the field looking for potholes, mud spots, sprinklers and other hazards and mark these locations with low cones to help protect your players. If there is accessible filler like dirt or mulch nearby onsite, this may be used to fill in holes. A set of cones is provided with your coach equipment.
No Dogs
Walnut Creek city policy #: WCMC sec. 11-1.402 “Dogs are not allowed on sports fields”. Schools have a “Dogs are not allowed on school property” policy. Please remind all parents to leave their dogs at home.
What do I do about field problems? In the event of a field issues, such as: pests (bees, gophers, etc.), excessive irrigation or mud, missing locks or chains, missing or damaged nets, or other problems, please notify the operations director or your AGC.
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Note, WCSSC does not control tall grass as the mowing schedule is controlled by the city or school district. If this is an issue, please notify your AGC or operation director to attempt to remedy the situation for future matches.
Goal Set Up In the past, goals have been damaged by careless assembly and transporting across the field. Please read this section carefully. In addition, you must be sure that all goals are securely staked to the ground. This is VERY important.
WCSSC has different types of goals at the fields. Why is this relevant? Because all goals have weaknesses and the more you know, the better you can help the club care for its property. Arbolado, El Divisadero, Heather Farm 1& 2, Tice Valley and Castle Rock: These fields have goals on wheels that can be moved easily by two adults. However, these goals can be damaged when tipped forward to attach the nets if they are allowed to hit the ground hard. For this reason, the Club is now leaving the nets attached to these goals during the week. While this risks net damage during the week, this is less costly than structural damage to the goals.
All other full-sized and U9/10 fields: Our other fields have 2” rectangular aluminum goals. These goals have three pieces that come apart – a crossbar and two uprights. The crossbar fits into the open ends of the uprights. These goals should be assembled only after they are moved into position on the field. The crossbar is a weak point – a 21’ or 24’ length of 2” aluminum bends easily. DO NOT allow players to hang on the crossbars. This can be dangerous for the player and damage the goal. A bent crossbar is extremely difficult to remove from the uprights and often has to be cut or hammered out. Once this occurs, the goal is no longer usable.
U6-U8 Fields: For U6-8 games, the club uses portable self set up goals that must be assembled at the field each Saturday.
Closing a Field
After the last game of the day, the home team is assigned responsibility for cleaning up the field. The team must take down the nets and flags and move the goals away from the playing field (typically against a fence or set of bleachers) and lock them. The team must return the nets and flags to the nets storage immediately after the game and lock the equipment box. Portable U6 - U8 goals also need to be disassembled and returned to their proper location. The club will periodically check fields each weekend. If you are the coach of the home team and you did not properly close the field, you will be contacted to return to the field to complete the job.
The home team of the final game must pick up any trash left on the field and any equipment left behind. If you find something valuable, please contact your age group coordinator so that the person who lost can be contacted. The 16 WCSSC Recreation Program GENERAL INFORMATION PACKET Revision 2, published 2/21/19 EF
club has no centralized lost and found for normal lost items like sweatshirts, soccer balls, or snack containers.
Goal Take-Down Procedures
All field providers – schools and the City of Walnut Creek – require that our goals be moved off of the field TO A SPECIFIC LOCATION AND LOCKED. The lock-down location for each field is noted on the Field Diagrams in Appendix O. The 2” goals are to be disassembled and stacked and locked at the lock-down point. Rolling goals are to be moved to their storage location (concrete pad) and locked down.
Locking Goals
All WCSSC goals (except U6-U8s) are secured to the lock down point at each field with a Master key and or dial lock and length of chain. For security reasons, the key or combination is changed regularly. Please call the Equipment Coordinator if you need a locked goal opened.
You (the coach) are solely responsible for unlocking and re-locking the goals. Unauthorized users that obtain a key do not treat our equipment with respect, tend to leave the goals on the field, and have caused the Club a great deal of time and expense for goal repairs – costs that are passed on to you and your players. In addition, an unlocked goal is an attractive nuisance that can result in serious injury or death.
Do not leave the lock unlocked on the ground; relock the lock with the chain. The club loses a number of locks each year because coaches leave them unlocked.
Rules of the Game
See Appendix D for the rules of the game for Class IV teams. Rules vary by age bracket. These rules are also posted on the WCSSC website. Share them with your players and parents!
Referees
WCSSC uses certified adult and youth referees for U9 and above matches. Like your players, these referees are doing the best they can. Please give them your respect and support. Abuse of Referees, especially Youth Referees is NOT tolerated by WCSSC. The WCSSC Referee Director has provided guidelines for dealing with referees and explanation of the more common game situations that will occur. Bring any Referee problem to the attention of the Referee Director and avoid conflicts over calls with the Referees. See Appendix E for more details. Any inappropriate behavior towards referees by parents or coaches will be reported and the coach will be contacted by the Recreation Committee for possible further action.
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Should there be a situation arising between the referee and yourself, the other coach, players on either team, or parents, please try to defuse the situation and contact your Age Group Coordinator after the game about the incident. The club has a set of grievance and disciplinary procedures in place for anyone who cannot stay within the bounds of civility. Penalties are outlined in Appendix D. The Club's grievance procedure is included here as Appendix F.
Coaching Passes and Game Day Policies Coaches will be required to submit to the referee and prominently display an official coach pass with their photograph. These passes will be provided to you prior to the start of the season. While each team may have more than two coaches registered with a team, NO MORE THAN TWO COACHES MAY BE IN THE TECHNICAL AREA DURING A GAME.
Player Medical Forms All coaches will need to have signed medical release forms filled out from every player. This can also be accomplished by printing the players registration form. This registration form/medical waiver must accompany you to every Club function— games, practices, scrimmages, and team parties. This form has emergency information on all your players and a medical release. Please ask each of your parents at the initial team meeting to update this information if necessary.
Rainy Days and Cancellations
WCSSC is not allowed to practice or play games on wet fields. This is the requirement of the school districts and the City of Walnut Creek. As a result, if it has rained recently, the fields will close and practices and games will be cancelled. If you have questions about the weather or if fields are open, call the City of Walnut Creek at 256-3574. We will also post this information on our website.
In general, rained-out games are not rescheduled unless it is 1) early in the season and 2) only one or two games are affected at the end of the day. Full details on the Club’s Rainout Policy and the Rescheduling of Games are in Appendix H.
Other than for rain, environmental conditions or poor field conditions (determined by the referee or the club), games are not to be cancelled for any reason other than religious holidays. The club’s policies are included in Appendix H and you must adhere to these policies.
Players, Parents, and Sportsmanship
It’s not about winning.
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Soccer teaches many things about effort, sportsmanship, teamwork, hard work, coping with success and failure. As the coach, you set the tone for your team. If you’re upbeat, positive, supportive, focused on skill development and good sportsmanship, your players will follow your lead. Most of the parents will too.
A post-game cheer for the other team and shaking hands with the other players, coaches, and referees is expected, no matter how the game turned out. A kind word to all your players, no matter how well or poorly they played will make them want to come back the following week. We have included an appendix on positive coaching in this packet (Appendix J) for you to review. We encourage you to discuss proper attitude with your players and parents regularly during the course of the season. To assist that, we’ve also included some guidelines developed by the American Youth Soccer Organization (Appendix K).
Despite this, problems can arise with over-zealous parents, aggressive or rough players, or fanatical coaches. If difficult situations develop, ask for help from your Age Group Coordinator.
If you observe recurring inappropriate coach or sideliner behavior, you may also consider filing a complaint. The process is outlined in Appendix F.
SCORING AND STANDINGS
U9 teams and above keep score at each game and enter results in an online system (U16 & U19 have a different scoring system). Each coach will be given login and password information to submit game scores online. Both coaches need to record the results on the online system. Online recording of game results must be submitted no later than 48 hours after the conclusion of the match.
Game Points
The point system for determining team standings corresponds to the “International” soccer scoring system.
Points Earned:
. Win = 3 points . Tie = 1 points . No points for goals . Shutout: No points awarded . Forfeited game = 3 points
Loss of Points:
. Exceed goal differential of 6: -3 points
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. Player red card (including aggregation of 2 yellow cards in a match) = -2 points . Coach/assistant coach dismissal (ejection) from match = -3 points
Standings Each week, the online standings for each division are updated based on results entered and confirmed by coaches. Teams are ranked based on the following: Total points Total goal differential Total goals scored against your team (fewest best) Total goals scored (max. 4/game)
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TOURNAMENTS
End of the Season Walnut Tournament
All Recreation teams in the U9/10, U11/12, and U14 play in the Walnut Tournament. Refer to the Recreation Calendar of Events for Tournament dates and rain out dates.
Each team plays a minimum of three games, two on Saturday and one on Sunday morning. Tournament format and awards will be determined at the time of the tournament and dependent on
Teams are seeded in divisions based upon their standings after Week 10 of regular season play. 1. Both teams must enter and confirm the match results of week 10 matches by Saturday evening 9 pm of their final game. 2. After the deadline, scores will be entered by the League in the following way. a. Matches with only one team entering the score will be accepted as entered. After the deadline, no changes will be made b. Matches with no score entered by either team will be accepted as a 0-0 tie. After the deadline, no changes will be made.
The Tournament Director will provide more detailed information in the fall. If you have any questions prior to that time, contact the Tournament Director.
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WCSSC Fall Classic Tournament
The WCSSC also hosts a tournament for U14-U19 teams, the Fall Classic. This tournament is held in late September and is open to all WCSSC teams and Class IV/Recreational teams from other clubs in the area. This tournament is a great way for your team to participate in a real tournament against teams outside the club. There is a registration fee required to participate, but the fee is minimal compared to other Class IV tournaments. The Fall Classic can accommodate up to 40 teams so don’t delay in registering for the tournament.
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END OF THE SEASON
Participation Awards
The club provides each U6-U8 player with a small participation award at the end of the season. The U6-8 Age Group Coordinators will contact their coaches at the end of the season about how to pick up these awards.
The club does not provide participation awards for older teams. Trophies and end-of- season gifts or mementos are left to the discretion of each coach and team parents.
Returning Equipment
At the end of the season, you will need to return the coaching equipment you received at the beginning of the season — goal key, ball bag, goal keeper jersey, practice vests, cones and first aid kits and cold packs. You may keep the balls. You will be expected to return the equipment during the Walnut Tournament weekend or as otherwise directed. . Your AGC will provide you with information on the date, time, and location of equipment drop off location toward the end of the season.
Team Party
Most teams will have a team party at a pizza place, someone’s home, or a park. This is always a good opportunity to recognize the degree to which players have improved over the season, thank parents for their help, and get feedback on what worked well and what didn’t for the team (after all, we hope you expect to come back and coach again next year!). We hope you will also suggest options to players for the following season—including WCSSC winter soccer, indoor soccer programs, and the possibility of trying out for competitive teams in the spring.
The club would also like any feedback you might provide on how you felt about the program. Things can improve only if we find out what didn’t work well. Please send that information through your Age Group Coordinator, the Recreation Coordinator, or the Club President.
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WINTER PROGRAMS
Winter Select Soccer
Winter Select Soccer is a development opportunity for enthusiastic U10, U12, and U14 Walnut Creek recreational players to enjoy playing their favorite sport beyond the typical fall season. The program provides for play at a more advanced level with other like-minded coaches and players. We know that the more time a player spends learning the game, the more he or she will build advanced skills. The ultimate goal of this program is to develop better players and identify coaches who might be able to extend a team beyond its potential. Some select players may choose to tryout for competitive teams in the spring, while other may elect to return to Recreation league play.
Games are played against teams from Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Concord, and Walnut Creek as well as teams from the Napa, Davis, and Sacramento areas. The program is designed to enhance the players’ experience with the excitement of playing out of the area on occasion.
The typical Winter Select season schedule consists of games played on Saturdays between January and March, with practices twice per week beginning around December 1. This might require a more serious commitment than the Fall recreational season, but we would expect that those players and coaches who are interested in this extended play would want to spend more time advancing their skill levels.
Winter teams practice locally with restraints on field availability and some impact from inclement weather. Sign-ups for interested players take place in October. The club also holds a Winter Tryout for those players who desire to play during the Winter Select season. Team selections are made after the Recreation season concludes. Players may have to qualify for those teams. The club will notify players and parents for try out dates..
Players and coaches who wish to participate in Winter Select Soccer may contact the Winter Select Coordinator, by email, leaving contact and age/gender information. If you have a desire to coach one of these winter teams, please contact the coordinator before the end of the season.
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APPENDIX B: Field Information (Equipment Storage, Field hours, and restroom facilities)
Copies of permits for fields can be provided upon request.
Practice Fields
Recreation Practice Fields for practice
Field Age Groups Bancroft U6-U12 Buena Vista U6-U12 Castle Rock 1** U14-U19 Castle Rock 2** U14-U19 Foothill U6-U12 Indian Valley Lower U6-U12 Indian Valley Upper U6-U12 Murwood U6-U12 Parkmead U6-U12 Rudgear U6-U12 Valley Verde U6-U12 Walnut Heights U6-U12 WCI 1* U12-U19 WCI 2* U12-U19 *U12s may practice on these fields **Castle Rock is restricted to U14-U19 teams only
Walnut Creek School District Fields (WCSD) Buena Vista Elementary – 2355 San Juan Ave., WC 94597 Indian Valley Elementary – 551 Marshall Dr., WC 94596 Murwood Elementary – 2050 Vanderslice Ave., WC 94596 Parkmead Elementary – 1920 Magnolia Way WC 94596 Walnut Heights Elementary – 4064 Walnut Blvd. WC 94596 Walnut Creek Intermediate (WCI) – 2425 Walnut Blvd., WC 94596
Mount Diablo School District Fields (MDUSD) Bancroft Elementary – 2200 Parish Dr., WC 94598 Valle Verde Elementary – 3275 Peachwillow Ln., WC 94598 Walnut Acres Elementary – 180 Cerezo Dr., WC 94598 Foothill Middle School – 2775 Cedro L., WC 94598
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City of Walnut Creek Fields
Competitive Heather Farms Park – 301 N. San Carlos Dr. @ Ygnacio Valley Rd., WC 94598 Tice Valley Park – 2055 Tice Valley Blvd., WC 94595 Arbolado Park – Arbolado Dr., @ Doncaster Dr., WC 94598 El Divisidero Park – El Divisidero @ San Carlos, WC 94598
Recreation/Recreation Rudgear Park – Rudgear Rd. & Dapplegray Ln., WC 94596 Castle Rock Youth Sports Park – 900 Hutchinson Rd. @ Pontiac Dr., WC 94598
Net Locations,
Hours Hours Hours Net Practice Field Keeper Toilet Notes Usage M-F Sat Sun Location WCSD Buena Field Recreation 4-Dark 8-7 PM 8-7 PM backstop Portable Vista Box Indian Field Valley Recreation 4-Dark 8-7 PM 8-7 PM backstop Portable Box (upper) Indian Field Valley Recreation 4-Dark 8-7 PM 8-7 PM backstop Portable Box (lower) See Murwood Recreation 4-Dark 8-7 PM 8-7 PM backstop Portable below* Field Parkmead Recreation 4-Dark 8-7 PM 8-7 PM backstop Portable Box After school Field Fence by WCI 1 Recreation 4-Dark 9-6 PM 9-6 PM Portable programs Box trail have priority After school Field Fence by WCI 2 Recreation 4-Dark 9-6 PM 9-6 PM Portable programs Box trail have priority Walnut Field Recreation 4-Dark 9-6 PM 9-6 PM back stop Portable Heights Box
Practice Hours Hours Net Field Hours Toilet Notes Usage SAT SUN Keeper Location MDUSD 4:30- Field Back Bancroft Recreation 8-7 PM 8-7 PM Portable Dark Box stop 4:30- Field Back Limited Parking Valle Verde Recreation 8-7 PM 8-7 PM Portable Dark Box fence Walnut 4:30- Field Recreation 8-7 PM 8-7 PM TBD Portable Acres Dark Box 26 WCSSC Recreation Program GENERAL INFORMATION PACKET Revision 2, published 2/21/19 EF
Practice Hours Hours Net Field Hours Toilet Notes Usage SAT SUN Keeper Location 4:30- Foothill Recreation 8-7 PM 8-7 PM NO NO NO Dark
Practic Net Hours Hours Field e Hours Keeper Toilet Notes SAT SUN Usage Location City of Walnut Creek 8- 1- Field Upper Arbolado Comp 4-Dark Restrooms Dark Dark Box field pole El 9- 12- Field Comp 4-Dark Field pole None Divisadero Dark Dark Box Rudgear - Recre 8- 8- Field 4-Dark Field pole Restrooms Field ation Dark Dark Box Rudgear - Recre 8- 8- Field 4-Dark Field pole Restrooms Ballpark ation Dark Dark Box 8- 8- Field Back of Tice Valley Comp 4-Dark Restrooms Dark Dark Box field Heather 3:30 8- Field YVR lock Comp 4-Aug Restrooms Farm #1 5:30 3:30 Box down Heather 8- Field Lock Comp TBD 4-Aug Restrooms Farm #2 Dark Box down CR#2 Castle Recre 8- 8- Field 4-Dark lock Restrooms Rock #1 ation Dark Dark Box down CR#2 Castle Recre 8- 8- Field 4-Dark lock Restrooms Rock #2 ation Dark Dark Box down
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APPENDIX D: Playing Rules
WCSSC PLAYING RULES FOR the Recreation Program
Number Minimum Maximum Age Ball Game of Number of Number Substitutions Group Size Length Players players of players U6* 3v3 2 (per field) 4 (per 3 4 x 10 min At any time field) quarters U7** 4v4 3 (per field) 5 (per 3 4 x 10 min At any time field) quarters U8*** 5v5 4 (per field) 6 (per 3 4 x 10 min At any time field) quarters U9/10 7v7 5 7 4 Unlimited see 2 x 25 min. section D halves below U11/12 9v9 7 9 4 Unlimited see 2 x 30 min. section D halves below U14 11v11 8 11 5 Unlimited see 2 x 40 min. section D halves below U16 11v11 8 11 5 Unlimited see 2 x 40 min. section D halves below U19 11v11 8 11 5 Unlimited see 2 x 45 min. section D halves below *Program consists of two simultaneous 3v3 ** U7 program consists of two simultaneous 4v4 games ***U8 program consists of two simultaneous 5v5 games
MANDATORY PLAYING TIME
Each player must play 50% of each game, REGARDLESS OF SKILL LEVEL. There are no exceptions to this rule unless for health, injuries, or disciplinary reasons. If there are disciplinary reasons for reduced playing time, they must first be approved by the AGC for the age group.
Eligible Players Only players registered in the current season for the Recreation Program are permitted to play in matches. A coach allowing ineligible players to compete shall forfeit the game and be subject to disciplinary actions.
SUBSTITUTIONS
You can substitute players at these times; 28
After a goal kick is called for either team, After a goal by either team, After a throw-in is called (for either team) At halftime At an injury time-out
Substitutions may only occur with the Referees permission and are at the discretion of the referee. You can call “sub” to the center referee or inform the AR of your desire to make a substitution. Players entering & leaving the field should only do so at the halfway line. Players must leave the field first before their substitute can enter the field
GOAL KEEPER PLAYING TIME
1. For U9 through U12 teams An individual player may play goal keeper for only one half of the game.
For U14 and older teams An individual may play goal keeper for the entire game.
COACH PROTOCOL
1. Coach Uniform All coaches are required to wear a WCSSC Shirt and coaching badge during game day when standing in the coaching box.
Coaches in the technical area Only 2 coaches are allowed in the coach box at a time. No coaching is allowed outside the coaching box.
FIELD AND EQUIPMENT
1. Field Set Up
The first home team of the day sets up the goals and nets. The last home team on a field takes down the goals and nets and returns them to storage. The home team at every match shall select its side of the field. The visiting team shall use the other side.
REFEREES
A referee has full authority over the game, including the ability to abandon a match, if a player, coach, or spectators become unruly or physically
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menace a referee or other spectators and/or players. Only team captains, may address referees during play and only when absolutely necessary. Coaches may address referees for clarification of decisions only at a stoppage, at the half or conclusion of the game, not to discuss the Referee's opinion of a decision. If you disagree with a Referee's decision, contact the Referee Director instead. (Note: Referees are not obligated to explain decisions or talk to any participant.) A person should avoid refereeing a game in which he has a personal interest; however, he/she remains qualified to referee that game if said conflict is duly noted on the game card.
In the absence of referees for games, the coaches must provide volunteer referees. No game may be postponed for this reason.
U9, and U10 RULES
Playing Field: Approximately 50 yards X 70 yards with a 6 yard X 18 yard goal box and 6 yard center circle.
Ball size: #4
Number of Players: Seven players, including 1 goalkeeper – a minimum of 5 players must be present to start a match. Note, player number rules may be modified by the league.
Duration: 2 X 25 minute halves.
Goal Kicks will be made from anywhere in the penalty area
Offside: Yes conforming to FIFA laws of the game.
Goalkeeper Rule: No player may play more than 50% of the game as goalkeeper.
Fouls and Misconduct: conform to FIFA laws.
The Build out line will be used to determine offside.
Defenders must be behind the Build out line when the keeper is in possession of the ball. Defenders may cross the line when the keeper has played the ball (with their hands or feet). Defenders who cross the Build out line will be called for a penalty resulting in an indirect free kick Note: if the keeper plays the ball quickly, before a defender can cross the Build Out Line, no penalty will be awarded.
Slide Tackles are allowed if done properly and in a non-dangerous manner. Generally, coaches should discourage sliding at this age level. They are difficult to do cleanly, and will more often result in a foul call or the player taking him/herself out of the play by being on the ground while the opponent goes on to make the play.
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UNDER 8 RULES
Teams: Teams will be made up of 14-16 players who will be divided up on game day to play on two 5v5 fields. All teams will have two parent coaches to each manage one field.
There will be a maximum of five players per field except for in 1-sided games. Each U8 team will play two simultaneous games on adjacent fields. There are goalkeepers. Goalkeepers are allowed to handle the ball with their hands regardless of which team has played the ball to them. Keepers play the ball back into the field by throwing it. Punting the ball is not allowed.
Substitutions are done "on the fly" like with indoor soccer. When a player gets tired or the coach wants to make a substitution, the player runs off the field and a new player runs on. There are no stoppages of play.
Training: Each team will look to train 1 time per week for a maximum one-hour practice session.
Game Field: Two 5v5 games will be played simultaneously on each half of the fields. The dimension for the 5v5 field will be a minimum of 20 yards; and a width of minimum 15 yards. The field will be rectangular in shape where its length will be greater than its width.
Game Length: The game will consist of 4 quarters that will each be ten (10)) minutes in length. There will be a 2-minute break between quarters one & two, and quarters three & four. There will be a 5-minute halftime break.
Ball: Size three (3) ball will be used. Each team will be responsible for providing game balls needed for play.
Officiating: There are no officials for these matches. Coaches will monitor and ensure that the game is being played fairly and safely.
Duration of the Game: Each game will have four, 10-minute quarters. There will be three minutes between quarters. The clock shall not be stopped for anything except a significant delay due to injury. Teams switch ends after the second quarter. Teams alternate the four kick-offs that start each quarter.
Start and Restart of Play: The ball is kicked off to start the game and after a goal from the exact center of the field. The defending players must be outside the center circle until the ball is played. The ball is in play once it is kicked and moved and may not be touched by the player who kicked off until another player from either team has touched it. This will result in a re-kick. Play is considered dead when the ball completely crosses the goal line or touchline (sideline). If any part of the ball is on the field or touching the line, the ball is still in play.
1. Whenever a ball goes leaves the field of play, the coach running that quarter will say "New Ball!" and roll another ball into play. 2. There will be no throw-in’s, free kicks, goal kicks or corner kicks
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3. The coaches will have 5-7 balls ready to re-start the play. Before the game they will determine which two-quarter’s each coach will introduce the New Ball. The ball is rolled into play, not bounced or thrown into play. 4. Putting a ball back into play - The 'new ball' should be introduced to balance the game in any one of four ways: a. Ball is rolled to neutral space b. Ball is rolled toward the disadvantaged team c. Ball is rolled to favor the team on the wrong end of a one sided game d. Ball is rolled to favor individual players who are not becoming involved in the game See the website for more information including a helpful video regarding the New Ball method.
When a goal is scored, the team scored upon re-starts the game with a kick-off from the center of the field. If the Game Monitor halts play due to injury or other event not covered in these rules, the game is restarted with a drop ball.
Method of Scoring: A goal is scored when the ball is kicked completely crosses the goal line and between the goal posts. Players can enter the “penalty area” located in front of each goal but they need to be cautious of physically running into the goal keeper.
Fouls and Misconduct: Fouls are as follows: Tripping (trips an opponent without first contact with the ball) Play (striking, kicking, pushing, and abusive language) Hand Ball (player uses hands or arms in a deliberate attempt to control the ball) Dissent (this includes disruptive behavior, failure to follow instruction from the Game Monitor, failure to retreat the Free Kick distance) If a foul is committed, the coach can briefly explain the infraction to the player. There are no free kicks and the ball will be restarted with a “New Ball”.
One-sided Games: If a team draws ahead by three or more goals, the team coaches should consider using methods to help make the game more even. This may include switching players from one field to another, asking players to make “X” number of passes before attempting to score, asking players to help a team mate score, etc. If a team draws ahead by four or more goals, the coach of the team that is behind may elect to add an extra player until the score difference is reduced to 3 or the play in the game becomes more even.
Playing Time: Each player will play a minimum of 50% of each game, although, the goal for each coach and team should be equal playing time throughout the season.
Offside: There will be no offside.
Slide Tackling: No slide tackling will be allowed.
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UNDER 7 RULES
Teams: Teams will be made up of 10-12 players who will be divided up on game day to play on two 4v4 fields. All teams will have two parent coaches to each manage one field.
There will be a maximum of five players per field except for in 1-sided games. Each U7 team will play two simultaneous games on adjacent fields.
All other rules and procedures will follow the same guidelines as U8 described in the previous section.
U6 PLAYING RULES
Teams: Teams will be made up of 8-10 players who will be divided up on game day to play on two 3v3 fields. All teams will have two parent coaches to each manage one field.
There will be a maximum of 3 players per field except for in 1-sided games. Each U6 team will play two simultaneous games on adjacent fields.
All other rules and procedures will follow the same guidelines as U8 & U7 described in the previous sections.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
The WCSSC Board of Directors shall act on all disciplinary matters and shall have discretionary powers in applying the following guidelines. The penalties outlined herein and assigned by the Disciplinary Chairperson and/or Committee are applicable to FIRST OFFENSES.
1. CAUTIONS (Yellow Card) a. Players or substitutes may receive a caution (yellow card) for: i. Unsporting behavior ii. Persistent infringement of the laws (PI) iii. Delay of the game iv. Dissent(arguing through words or gestures) v. Distance - maintaining 10 yard distance on free kicks vi. Entering field without the referee's permission vii. Leaving the field without the referee's permission viii. PENALTY: Confirm caution on the referee report b. Player three (3) cautions in a season. PENALTY: One (1) game suspension c. While a coach cannot technically receive a yellow card, a coach can be issued a warning for failing to act in a responsible manner. The same penalty will apply for coaches who accumulate multiple warnings for acting in an irresponsible manner.
B. SENDOFFS/EJECTIONS (Red Cards) Persistent Misconduct After a Caution (PMAC)
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Player who receives a second caution in the same game. PENALTY: U10–U19 players: one (1) game suspension.
Foul or Abusive Language (FAL) A player or team official sent off for FAL or gestures towards another player PENALTY: U10-U19: one (1) game. A player or team official sent off for FAL or gestures towards official PENALTY: U10-U14: one (1) game. U16-U19: two (2) games.
Serious Foul Play (SFP) Players sent off for Using excessive force; Fouling to prevent an obvious goal scoring opportunity; A hand ball to prevent the ball from entering the goal that results in sanction of a red card for denial of an obvious goal scoring opportunity PENALTY: U10-U19: one (1) game
Violent Conduct (VC) a) Players sent off for threatening gestures, attempting to fight or striking at another player, team official or spectator, or spitting. PENALTY: U10-U14: one (2) game. U16-U19: two (2) games. b) Player or team official sent off for fighting before, during or after a game PENALTY: U10-U14: two (2) games. U16-U19: three (3) games. c) Player or Team Official sent off for pushing or striking any referee, assistant referee or official. PENALTY: Automatic one (1) year suspension from the date of occurrence with review by Board of Directors
Suspensions may be appealed to the WCSSC BOD. They must be submitted in writing and received by the WCSSC President within seven (7) days after notification. Extreme cases of misconduct or violence may be referred to the Walnut Creek Police Department, CYSA-N and USYF for further sanctions and discipline including criminal charges.
While a coach cannot technically be shown a red card, a coach may be dismissed from further participation in the match for applicable misconduct described above. The following penalties will be levied: 1.1. Receiving a second warning and subsequent dismissal for irresponsible behavior – 2 game suspension 1.2. Foul and abusive language or gesture to an official, coach, player or spectator – 3 games 1.3. Violent Conduct- Threatening gestures or language, striking or attempting to strike or otherwise assault an official, coach, player or spectator – Minimum automatic 1 year suspension from the date of occurrence with review by Board of Directors. 2. In the event of a red card of a player or dismissal of a coach, the offending party must leave the field area and immediate surrounds. If the minor player does not have a guardian present to remove them from the playing area, they may remain under the control and supervision of the coach in the player substitute area.
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PROTESTS No protests are allowed in the Recreation League competition. Complaints regarding use of ineligible players should be made to the appropriate age group coordinator for investigation.
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APPENDIX E: Referees
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL YOUTH REFEREE
Soccer is a simple game with only 17 laws. So why is there so much disagreement about referee calls especially those of youth referees? These notes will provide background on the WCSSC Youth Referee Program and address some common misconceptions that often cloud the relationship between parents, coaches and referees. The document does not describe all the laws, if you want a copy of the current laws please visit: http://www.ussoccer.com/Referees/Laws-of-the-Game.aspx
The WCSSC has a wonderful track record in producing top rated youth and senior referees. Our Training Program is designed to expose youth referees to increasingly more challenging games while allowing them to learn from senior officials, to benefit from periodic observations and provide opportunities for advanced instruction. What WCSSC Parents, Spectators and Coaches Should Expect Referees To Do. Turn up on time, smartly dressed in uniform. Protect the safety of the players and properly apply the laws of the game. Deal with infractions by players, coaches or parents firmly and respectfully. Keep the games on time. What WCSSC expects of Parents, Spectators and Coaches. Treat the referee with respect, Refereeing is a difficult job and the referee is trying to do their best; however, sometimes mistakes will be made. Even the very best of refs make mistakes! Consider what it is like to be 14 or 15 years old and responsible for decisions that when correct, may upset 50% of the adults present. Yelling at the referee is not helpful. Remember that our young referees are learning and with constructive support will develop into better referees and more confident young adults. Please consider becoming a referee yourself. In Recreation league play, one parent from each side may be requested to serve as a non- neutral assistant referee. The non-neutral AR will be responsible for calling in and out of play only. Each referee has completed 18 hours of training and passed a 100 question exam. If you think you can help, contact WCSSC. We would be pleased to have you as a referee. Do not "lose your cool" with the referee; soccer is for the players, please set an example! Your coach can contact the Ref Director to discuss problems. Do not confront the referee!
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Physical Contact Soccer is a game of physical contact. If a player falls, it does not mean a foul has been committed. It is legal to charge shoulder to shoulder when playing for the ball. Ball in or out of play To be out of play (or to be considered a goal) the ball must wholly cross the touchline or goal line!
Handball Only the goalkeeper is allowed to play the ball with her hands. However, it is not necessarily a foul if the ball hits the hand or arm of a field player. This is an often difficult judgment call, and before whistling a foul the referee must judge if the player deliberately played the ball with her hand or arm or if the ball merely hit the hand or arm. Offside To be in an offside position the player has to be in the attacking half of the field and closer to the goal line than the second last defender. It is not an offense in and of itself to be on an offside position. A player cannot be offside if he is in his own half of play or behind the ball, even with the second to last defender, or receiving the ball directly from a goal kick, corner kick or a throw in. To penalize a player the referee has to judge whether a player was in an offside position when the ball was last played or touched by a member of his own team and also became “involved in active play” by interfering with play, or an opponent, or gaining an advantage. It does not matter if the ball is touched or deflected by a defender on the way to the offside player.
Dangerous play This foul is a judgment call by the referee and an indirect free kick is awarded. It is not an offense in soccer for a player on the ground to play the ball unless the player on the ground puts himself in danger or endangers others. A “high kick” is only an offense if in the opinion of the referee the kick endangers another player. Throw-Ins The throw-in must be taken from within a yard of where the ball went out of play. The thrower should face the field with both feet touching the ground on or outside the touchline. A smooth motion using both hands from behind and over the head is required. It is not a problem if ball spins after throw-in. The purpose is to restart the game without significant delay; rarely does a throw-in provide a significant advantage. Therefore, the referees will try to help the younger players on this mechanic; at higher ages, less attention may be paid to minor infringements of throw-in rules. Goalkeepers Goalkeepers (GK) cannot pick up the ball if it has been deliberately kicked or thrown to him by a teammate. After gaining control of the ball with his hands the GK has 6 seconds to release the ball into play. The GK cannot touch the ball again with his hands
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until the ball has touched or been touched by another player. In youth soccer, a GK can’t be challenged when in control of the ball. Safety The referee will stop play at once if she feels that there has been a serious injury. Otherwise at above U9 level, play does not stop until the ball goes out of play. Parents and coaches must never enter the field of play unless invited to do so by the referee.
If you have further questions, please contact your Age Group Coordinator.
Good luck and let’s make this an enjoyable season for all! Remember to praise a referee on a game well done.
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APPENDIX F: Complaint Process
WCSSC COMPLAINT PROCESS
If you have a complaint about a player, parent, coach or Board member, the Walnut Creek Soccer Club Board of Directors has set up a process for members who want to communicate their concerns about any part of our program. Because of the size of our membership, it is difficult to address problems if we are not informed. We have established this process to address your issues in a timely manner.
A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction with any part of your experience with the Soccer program that does not involve the Rules of the Game. Some examples are: Bad sideline behavior Parents interfering with the coach Recreation players not getting enough playing time A coach not sharing practice space
A complaint is different from a disciplinary problem. Disciplinary action is required when a player or team violates the documented rule of the Club or CYSA.
The WCSSC complaint process is as follows: 1. Express your concern to the person involved. Talking to the individual with whom you have an issue can solve most problems. The only standard exceptions are concerns about referees. All referee issues must be referred to the Club’s Referee Director. 2. Refer the problem to the Board. If personally talking with the person about your concern does not bring satisfaction, a Board member may be able to help. Most Board Member email addresses, titles, and area of responsibility are listed on the WCSSC website at www.WCSSC.org. In most situations you will contact the age group coordinator for the team. When your problem is about an administrative situation, you should contact the Board Member responsible for that duty. Examples are: Fields not lined...Contact Operations Director Safety issues, i.e. fields too wet, broken goal posts...Contact Field Maintenance Director Registration problems...Contact Registrar Mistakes on the schedule, i.e. team listed twice on one weekend...Contact Scheduler 3. Contact WCSSC Grievance Committee in writing. When matters cannot be resolved by talking with either the person involved or a Board Member, the Grievance Committee should be contacted in writing. It will be their job to serve as a mediator to bring serious concerns to a satisfactory conclusion. The grievance committee can be contacted by filling in the form on our website. The link is: WCSSC Grievance Form
The Board expects members to fully exhaust steps 1 and 2 before involving the Grievance Committee.
Complainants will receive a letter informing them of the solution reached if a Board Member or Grievance Committee becomes involved. If a hearing is warranted, the Grievance Committee will follow the procedures specified by CYSA Protest, Appeal & Disciplinary Manual, a copy of which is available on the CYSA website (www.cysanorth.org).
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The Walnut Creek Board of Directors hopes that each member of the Soccer Club will feel comfortable reporting any concerns with this process. To the best of their ability, the Board Members and the Grievance Committee will respect and maintain confidentiality of all involved in these situations.
Our Club can only continue to improve if we all work together.
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Appendix H Rain, Rainout Policy
Type of Cancellation Rule Full rainout. No games played. No makeup games.* Partial rainout, prior to Week 7: 1-2 games not played Makeup game if possible weeks. (see below) 3 or more games not played full or partial No makeup games.* rainout after Week 6. No makeup games.* Involuntary cancellation due to individual field conditions (a few games canceled on a single field):* Prior to Week 7 Makeup game if possible. (see below) After Week 6 * 1-2 games not played 3 or more games not played Makeup game within if possible. (see below) No makeup games.* Voluntary cancellation by a team Forfeit loss to team that cancels game. Exception: Cancellation for religious holiday. Teams to play game within 2 weeks. (see below)
* If 3 or more Recreation games are cancelled for one or more divisions, no scores will be counted in the affected division for that week. The Recreation Match Secretary will communicate this information to coaches by email and on the club website (www.WCSSC.org).
Reschedule Process All rescheduled games will be coordinated by the league All rescheduled games will be played according to field availability.
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APPENDIX J: Positive Coaching
Tips on Positive Coaching
The Double Goal Coach. A coach that simply wants to win-at-all-costs only has one goal: to win. That coach is concerned with teaching skills and developing strategy in order to win games without consideration for the players’ development as a person. Double-goal coaches are ones that want to win, but that also want to help players be successful in life as well as on the field. Helping players learn life lessons is the most important goal in coaching youth players. As a coach, you should always look out for your player’s development first.
Redefine “Winner”. You must make players believe that winners are not defined by a scoreboard, but rather by how they develop as players and people. A positive coach sees victory as a by-product of the pursuit of excellence. Positive coaches focus on effort rather than outcome, recognize that mistakes are important and inevitable, and create an environment where players are not afraid of making mistakes. These coaches teach players that a key to being successful is how they respond to mistakes. Positive coaches teach players that a winner is someone who gives their best effort, continues to learn and improve, and does not let mistakes stop them.
Fill Player’s Emotional Tanks. There are many ways to motivate players. There are also many different considerations to think about when using these methods. Age, skill level, maturity, and gender are a few of those considerations. What we want to stay away from is motivating through fear, intimidation or shame. We need to recognize that all players have “emotional tanks” that need to be filled in order for the player to perform at his/her best. Compliments, praise, and positive recognition fill these emotional tanks. As positive coaches, we need to communicate criticism in ways that each player learns and does not undermine their sense of self-worth.
Honor the Game. As coaches, we have an obligation to the sport we coach to honor that sport. We need to teach our players to Honor the Game. Positive Coaches need to teach respect for opponents, respect for officials (even when you disagree with the calls), and respect for your teammates. Teach the value of tradition in your sport and make your players feel privileged to participate, and show your players that you would rather lose honorably than win by dishonoring the game.
Some other tips: Smile. Use positive body language. Players will pick up on your moods. Don’t over coach. Teaching players to solve problems themselves is better than you solving problems for them. Be a good role model. Kids observe you, remember you, and emulate you. Control the “controllable.” Focus on coaching strategy, attitudes, playing time, not the weather, the officiating or the field conditions. Be there. Your team needs you most when they’re struggling. Help them then most of all.
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APPENDIX K: Codes of Conduct
PLAYERS CODE OF CONDUCT
Play for the fun of it, not just to please your parents or coach.
Play by the Laws of the Game.
Never argue with or complain about referees' calls /or decisions.
Control your temper. Most of all resist the temptation to retaliate when
you feel you have been wronged.
Concentrate on playing soccer with your best efforts. Work equally
hard for your team as for yourself.
Be a good sport by cheering all good plays, whether it's your team or
your opponent's.
Treat all players as you would like to be treated.
Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve your skills and feel good. Don't be a showoff or a ball hog. Cooperate with your coaches, teammates, opponents and the referees. PARENTS' CODE OF CONDUCT As a parent, you play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of youngsters.
Through your encouragement and good example, you can help assure that all the boys and girls learn good sportsmanship and self-discipline. In soccer, young people learn to work together, to sacrifice for the good of the team, to enjoy winning and deal appropriately with defeat - all while becoming physically fit and healthy. Best of all, they have fun.
SUPPORT YOUR CHILD Supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in their team is very important. Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than victory - that way your child will always be a winner despite the outcome of the game!
ALWAYS BE POSITIVE Parents serve as role models for their children. Become aware of this and work to be a positive role model. Applaud good plays by your child's team as well as good plays by the opposing team. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sports activities.
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REMEMBER: YOUR CHILD WANTS TO HAVE FUN Remember that your child is the one playing soccer, not you. It's very important to let children establish their own goals - to play the game for themselves. Take care not to impose your own standards and goals on them.
Don't put too heavy a burden on your child to win games. Surveys reveal that 72% of children would rather play for a losing team than ride the bench for a winning team. Children play for the fun of playing.
REINFORCE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve their goals and their natural fear of failure. Nobody likes to make mistakes. If your child does make one, remember its all part of learning, so encourage your child's efforts and point out the good things your child accomplished.
DON'T BE A SIDELINE COACH OR REFEREE Coaches and referees are usually parents just like you. They volunteer their time, to help make your child's youth soccer experience a positive one. They need your support too. That means refraining from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. As a volunteer organization, there's usually always an opportunity for you to take your interest in coaching or refereeing to the next level and become one yourself!
COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT
Be reasonable in your demands on a young player's time, energy, enthusiasm and performance on the field.
Impress on your players that they must abide by the Laws of the Game at all times.
NEVER argue with a referee’s decision. Develop team respect for the ability of opponents and for the judgment of referees and opposing coaches Ensure that your players' soccer experience is one of fun and enjoyment (winning is only part of it). Players should never be yelled at or ridiculed for making mistakes or losing a game. Set a good example and be generous with your praise when it is deserved. Children need a coach they can respect. Keep informed of sound principles of coaching, growth and child development. Check your equipment and playing facilities. They should meet safety standards and be appropriate for the age and ability of your players. Follow the advice of a physician when determining when and injured child is ready to play again.
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Appendix N: Soccer Terminology
Goal Keeper: A Keeper’s job is to stop shots taken by the other team. He or she is often the last line of defense to keep the opposition from scoring. Defenders: Defenders stick close to the other team’s forwards and midfielders in an attempt to keep them from scoring. They also play an important part in their team’s offense because they often start attacking moves, especially if the goalie gets the ball to them. Midfielders: This is often called the most demanding position in soccer because midfielders are the transitional link between offense and defense and thus must cover a lot of ground. They require great stamina in addition to soccer skills. Forwards: Forwards are the players responsible for the offense of the team, and are often called strikers to reflect this responsibility. In addition to skills with the ball, they need to be fast so that they can beat the defense and get in their shots on goal. Indirect Free Kick: An indirect free kick is usually awarded by the referee for a relatively minor infraction of the rules (e.g., obstruction). With the indirect free kick, the player who takes the free kick cannot attempt to kick a goal; rather he or she can only kick the ball to another player. Direct Free Kick: The direct free kick is generally awarded for more flagrant fouls (e.g., tripping, handball). With the direct free kick, the player can shoot on the goal directly; the ball does not have to touch anyone before it goes into the net. Penalty Kick: A penalty kick is awarded when a flagrant foul occurs within the penalty area (the marked box on the field just in front of the goal). The penalty shot is taken from the penalty spot 12 yards from the center of the goal. Offside: This is a very difficult rule to understand, but it is essential for the fluidity of the game. The offside rule prevents attacking players from simply standing in front of the goal and waiting for the ball to be passed to them. With this rule, an attacking player must be either in front of or level with the last defender when the ball is passed. The important phrase here is when the ball is passed. As long as the player is “onside” at the moment the ball is passed, the player may run past the defense and receive the ball. Out of bounds: To be out of bounds, 100% of the ball must cross the line (99% means the ball is still in play). How the ball is returned to play depends on where the ball went out of bounds and which team last touched the ball
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Throw-In: This technique is used to put the ball back into play after it goes out of bounds along one of the two sidelines. The thrower must use two hands and keep both feet on the ground. The ball must be released above the head and in a fluid motion. You cannot simply drop the ball at your feet. Goal line - Corner Kick for Attacking Team: If the ball goes out of bounds at the goal line (end of field) and the defending team last touched the ball, the attacking team puts the ball back into play from the corner of the field. This can be a very exciting set play if performed with skill. Goal line - Goal Kick for Defending Team: If the ball goes out of bounds at the goal line (end of field) and the attacking team last touched the ball, the defending team puts the ball back into play by kicking the ball from the top of the 6-yard box, just in front of the goal.
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Appendix Q: WCSSC Concussion Program
Walnut Creek Soccer Club Policy for the Management of Concussion and Head Injury
For Updated Concussion and Head Injury Policy, please see the Health and Safety section of the website.
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Appendix O: Field Maps
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