The season will run from August 13 through early November. There will be two practices per week and one game per week. Games will begin in early September. There will be a total of eight games and possibly one tournament (Montville on Labor Day weekend).
Basic Team Philosophy and Sideline Conduct
The basic philosophy of the team will be that every child will participate in games and practice. Practice is as essential (if not more) to player development as is games. This is a learning stage for each player and the only way a child will improve and enjoy the great game of soccer is if they are able to play.
We will do our best to teach each child how to play the game while at the same time doing our best to make sure they are competitive. As parents, we hope that you will support us in this effort by providing only positive reinforcement for the players from the sideline no matter what the score is and how the game is unfolding. Please do not "coach" from the sideline; giving instructions to players may contradict the coach’s and confuse the players. We will do our best to ensure that each child has a positive and successful experience.
We also expect players and parents to treat our teammates, coaches, opposing teams, and referees with respect. The League, East Lyme Soccer Club and the Team have a no tolerance rule for inappropriate sideline behavior by parents and coaches. Referees can and will issue monetary fines to clubs for inappropriate sideline conduct. Inappropriate conduct includes verbal or physical harassment of referees, players, and coaches.
Cancellations (practices and games)
If practice or a game is cancelled, we will e-mail everyone who has supplied an e-mail address. For those who do not have e-mail, we will call them as soon as possible. Please let us know if you do not have Internet access and require a phone call. All cancellations will be posted on the Team’s website.
Equipment
Each player must bring the following items to all games and practices:
1. Water bottle with plenty of cold water.
2. Shin Guards - no player can practice or play a game without wearing shin guards (this rule is strictly enforced).
3. A soccer ball (size 4).
4. Soccer cleats that fit properly. Please remember that soccer cleats can be used on a baseball field but baseball cleats can not be used in soccer. If you have any questions on the proper fit of soccer shoes, please do not hesitate to ask me.
5. Dress appropriately for the changing weather conditions. Remember it easy to take off a layer of clothing but you can't put on a layer clothing that you did not bring. All players will be required to wear shorts during games. However, if the weather is cool, sweats may be needed when the player comes off the field.
Uniforms
Complete uniforms (ELSA issued game jersey, shorts and socks) are required for games. As a team policy, uniforms should not be worn to practices. Team colors are reserved for games only.
Player Identification Card Photos
If you did not supply a photo with your registration, a digital picture of your child will be taken at our first practice. This photo will be used for a Connecticut Junior Soccer Association Player Identification card that the league requires all coaches to produce upon request of the referee at each game. The ID card is proof that the player has been properly registered with our soccer club.
Transportation
Each parent or guardian is responsible for transporting their player to practices and games. Car pooling may be possible by contacting other parents. You will be receiving a roster that will list everyone's name and phone information (see the attachment). Directions to away game fields will be posted on the team website. If needed, we will meet any parent(s) at a predetermined site so that they may follow us to the away field.
Team Contact Information
Christine Greeley will act as the team manager. Christine will be able to answer all questions regarding, schedules, cancellations, practices, website postings and other team issues. If you would like to volunteer to provide orange slices (or other fruit snacks) for halftime or if you have questions or concerns, please contact her by phone or by email at csgreeley@sbcglobal.net.