It is important that you understand and implement AYSO's philosophy, for it is you who will have the most contact with and impact upon our young participants and their parents.

First, make sure you know the game and the coaching techniques found to be most successful. We have several publications which can help you and we will hold a series of clinics coordinated by me. It is imperative that you participate in one or more of these clinics so that you can promote the very best and latest in instruction to the players on your team. (See Coach Calendar). I will be glad to assist you personally in any way I can.

Second, remember that we are playing the game for fun and for the fun of the children. While you should encourage the very best performance out of your team, never lose sight of the fact that it is just a game and played for fun within the AYSO philosophies of Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Positive Coaching and Good Sportsmanship.

Third, remember the "Everyone Plays" rule. Every one of your players must play at least half of each game. It is suggested that the same players should not always sit out the first quarter of each game, so that they do not think of themselves as permanent substitutes, and that, if possible, players should play at least three-quarters of some games.

Fourth, cooperate with the referees. They are volunteers like you and are called upon to make judgments like you. Please insist that the parents of the players maintain decorum at all times. Remember-we do not allow protests.

Fifth, present an attitude of good sportsmanship, in both word and action, to your players and their parents. We desire to create a positive environment based upon mutual respect, rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude.

Sixth, and finally, hold practices once or twice a week, depending on field availability and your own time commitments. The practices mean more than the games. Plan your practices in advance, as time is limited.

Have a great season and best of luck to your team.

Yours in Soccer,

Mark Andrews
Regional Coach Administrator (RCA), Region 44
(408) 730-6931
rca@ayso44.org

Please be aware that volunteering to coach does not guarantee you will be given a team to coach. On rare occasions we have too many coaches and cannot make that determination until late August when all the teams are formed. If your child will only play with you as his/her coach, contact your division coordinator immediately to ensure you will be notified in a timely manner of your coaching status.