Mad River United Club Handbook club... · Playing on Multiple Teams ... MRU gives players a choice between playing year-round ... Mad River United takes these issues very seriously

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Mad River United

Arcata, CA

Club Handbook Last updated Wednesday, 31 May, 2017

Please visit www.mrysl.net for more Mad River United information

M a d R i v e r U n i t e d H a n d b o o k

Last updated 31 May 2017

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Contents

Contents ...................................................................................... i

Mad River United Mission Statement ......................................... 3

About Mad River United ........................................................................ 4

MRYSL Contact Information ...................................................... 6

Registration & Fees ..................................................................... 1

Registration: .............................................................................................. 1

Payments ................................................................................................... 2

Refunds ..................................................................................................... 2

Move up Policy ............................................................................ 3

Conditions to Grant a Move-Up Request ........................................... 4

Team Formation and Player Recruitment/Additions................. 6

Playing on Multiple Teams .................................................................... 8

Recruiting Players From MRYSL’s Rec Program: ............................. 8

Player Movement During the Season: .................................................. 8

Other Policies .............................................................................. 9

Coach Licensing Expectations ................................................. 10

Coach Responsibilities & Code of Conduct: ............................. 11

Coach’s Administrative Responsibilities ............................................ 11

Coach’s Team Responsibilities ............................................................ 12

Volunteer Jobs and Responsibilities ......................................... 15

Team Manager ....................................................................................... 15

Team Treasurer ...................................................................................... 15

Team Travel Coordinator .................................................................... 16

General Information .................................................................. 17

Game Day ............................................................................................... 17

Equipment .............................................................................................. 17

Uniforms ................................................................................................. 17

Uniform Policy....................................................................................... 18

Practices .................................................................................................. 18

Rain .......................................................................................................... 18

Changing scheduled games .................................................................. 19

Tournaments .......................................................................................... 19

Resources ................................................................................................ 20

Expenses and Budgeting .......................................................... 21

Volunteer Rebate: .................................................................................. 21

Tournament(s): ...................................................................................... 21

Coach Travel: ......................................................................................... 21

Equipment: ............................................................................................. 21

Team Fundraising and Financial Planning & Management Policy ................................................................................................... 22

Team Name Policy .................................................................... 24

Player Responsibilities & Code of Conduct .............................. 25

Player Responsibilities: ......................................................................... 25

Parent Responsibilities & Code of Conduct ............................. 27

Basic Expectations ................................................................................ 27

Sideline Behavior (Games or Practices) ............................................. 27

Coach and Post-Game Dialogue ........................................................ 28

Sportsmanship ........................................................................... 29

Signs of a Good Sport: ......................................................................... 29

What to Expect .......................................................................... 31



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Mad River United Mission Statement

Mad River United (MRU) Soccer Club is the competitive travel extension of

Mad River Youth Soccer League, Inc (MRYSL). MRYSL is a non-profit

organization focused on youth athletic development and soccer training in

Humboldt County, California.

MRU’s mission is to provide a focused, safe and positive soccer

environment for developing youth players. We strive to develop players so

they are capable of competing at the appropriate level of youth soccer in

the Northern California region, while also preparing them for the next level

of competition. This includes opportunities for Silver- & Gold-level

competition for middle school age players and college-level preparation for

high school age players.

We will make every effort to provide Mad River United players an equal

opportunity to participate in a supportive and rewarding environment. We

will develop a player's skills, knowledge and appreciation for the game of

soccer by incorporating the best training, structure and development

through positive and professional coaching.

We will strive to help players mature as people through experiences derived

from playing competitive soccer, and we will encourage the development of

important life skills such as good sportsmanship, teamwork, goal-setting

and fair play.

1. The good of the player, as determined by Mad River United, is the

first priority. This applies to all players within the organization.

2. Mad River United is an inclusive Club, open to all players who

have a serious interest in and commitment to soccer.

3. Team rosters will be established annually, based on evaluation, with

players assigned to a developmentally- and age-appropriate

environment.

4. Players will be allowed to “play up” according to the MRU Move-

Up Policy, and by consensus of the committee, the player, and the

player’s parents or guardians.

5. A training-only environment is available to players who are still

progressing in their soccer skills and development.

6. Teams will compete in the League/Division deemed appropriate

by the MRYSL Mad River United Committee.

7. Coaches are representatives of Mad River United at all times, and

are expected to model sportsmanship, act responsibly, conduct

themselves with integrity, honesty, and keep in mind the best

interests of all players and the Club. All coaches need to agree to

abide by the Mission Statement and any and all guidelines and

policies established by the MRYSL Board of Directors and Mad

River United.

ABOUT MAD RIVER UNITED

Also see What to Expect, page 31

We provide the youth of Humboldt County opportunities to maximize their

soccer potential by offering inclusive programs to all interested, committed

youth soccer players.

At ages 10 to 13, MRU gives players a choice between playing year-round

and playing during the primary soccer season only. Spring and summer play

may include Leagues or Tournaments, or a combination of both.

We offer two choices so that youth athletes have development

opportunities that incorporate other sport interests. There is a lot of

research showing the benefits of being a multi-sport athlete, including a

reduction in injuries. But it is also important to support and offer

established year-round plans and structure for those committed players who

wish to play and train all year.

Players beyond 13 years of age are expected to make a year-round

commitment to playing high-level competitive Club soccer in the Northern

California region.

If players wish to make it to and past a high-school level and on to college

preparation, they must commit to training year-round. If they do not, they

will not be competent at their desired level. Competitive travel soccer

exposes players to high levels of play, college coaches, ODP and PDP



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programs, and fellow athletes with similar goals. In additional, the financial

commitment to travel and competition must be matched by the player’s

attitude, commitment, and personal goals.

MRYSL Contact Information

Mad River Youth Soccer League Office

Check online for current hours

(707) 822-3333

[email protected]

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 103

Arcata, CA 95518

Office Location:

1309 11th St

Suite 202

Arcata, CA

See MRYSL website for additional contact information



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Registration & Fees

To register for any Mad River United program:

1. Create account on our website.

2. You will need a copy of your birth certificate the first

time you register for MRU. Either upload to your web

account or bring to the MRYSL office (email, in

person, or snail mail).

3. Register for the desired program(s) or send an email

request to the MRU Chairperson if it is outside the

registration period.

4. Arrange for payment through your web account. You

can pay by credit card online, or select the pay by check

option and deliver your payment to the MRYSL office.

5. Once your online registration is complete, the league

registrar will complete the registration process.

6. Uniforms and practice shirts will be ordered once

initial payment has been received. If a late registration,

the entire fee plus late fee is due before player pass or

uniform will be issued.

Please keep in mind that NorCal Premier state cup players are cup

tied and roster changes are subject to limitations Please also keep in

mind that the turnaround time for a player card or new uniform can

be 3 weeks or more.

REGISTRATION:

Registration fees will be set by MRU and MRYSL. Registration fees

will cover player and staff registration, insurance, staff pay, field

costs, and membership fees (see Game Day, p 17 and Practices, p

18 for number of hours paid for by the club). Beginning in Fall

2017, a portion of all Club Registrations will be allocated to each

team for their team account. However, additional funds will likely

be needed to cover team expenses, as budgeted and approved by

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all families and MRU. See Expenses and Budgeting on page 21 for more

information.

PAYMENTS

All amounts past due must be paid before registering for another

season

In order to train or be placed on a team, the past due amount

PLUS the current minimum payment amount must be paid

A minimum payment of $100 is due at registration

In order to remain in good standing with the league, all future

payments must be made by the date specified in any payment plan

If there is a past-due balance outstanding when teams are formed,

that player may not be assigned to an MRU Team

There will be a $35 late charge for any registrations, initial

minimum payments, or late payments received after the payment

due date

Balances greater than 3 months past due may be referred to a

collections agency

Any other payment policies passed by the MRYSL board also apply

REFUNDS

After teams are formed but before the playing season begins, full refunds

(minus a $35 refund fee and minus personalized gear costs) will be given for

the following scenarios:

A player is injured and will be unable to play that season

There are not enough players to field a team

A player moves from away the northern Humboldt county area

No refunds will be given for a player who chooses not to play on the team

after team assignments have been made, or who chooses to not attend

practice or training sessions.

For all other refund requests, submit in writing to MRU and the MRYSL

office the reason you wish a refund and how many weeks the player

participated in the program. Requests for refunds will be considered but are

not guaranteed.



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Move up Policy

1. A player must submit a formal request to move-up if

they wish to play above their actual age group.

o A formal move up request consists of a letter

requesting a move up from the parents/guardian

submitted to the Director of Coaching and MRU

Committee. This letter should explain why a move

up is being requested.

2. Move ups will be for those players who are noticeably more

skilled than their peers AND who would have a positive

impact on the older team (why move up if you are not

going to play a LOT, and why displace an appropriately-

aged child if the moved-up player isn't a needed player?).

Mad River United takes these issues very seriously.

The following criteria will be considered for each move up

request:

o The player’s level of skill, commitment, and

maturity

o Potential impact on player’s development

o Potential impact on affected team(s) and players

o No player may move up unless it is physically and

emotionally safe for the player to do so

2. The Mad River United Director of Coaching will recommend whether the player should be moved up or not. If the Director of Coaching is a Coach for either affected age group and the Coaches do not agree, the MRU Committee will decide whether the player can move up. If the MRU Committee cannot agree, the MRYSL Board of Directors will have the final say.

3. All fall move ups must be decided by June 1st. No move-up

will be considered after either team has started practices.

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4. Approved move ups are effective for one playing year.

5. The Coach of an older team cannot “recruit” a player from a

younger team. No poaching. The appearance of poaching is enough to deny

a move up.

Exception: The MRU Committee may move up players within one year of

their age group in order to form combined age groups for the benefit of the

players and Club. For example, if there are not enough players in a given

age group to form a team and those players would not have a team if age

groups were not combined, MRU will maximize the number of teams that

can be formed so the maximum number of players can play.

1. Players cannot move up more than two age groups (i.e., a U12

player may be approved to play with the U13 or U14 age groups,

age group but not the U15) for fall League Play.

o Exception: Special considerations may be made for

Spring or Tournament Teams at the high school level only.

CONDITIONS TO GRANT A MOVE-UP REQUEST

1. If there is no age-appropriate team:

a. A formal move up request must be submitted to the MRU Director of Coaching and Committee.

b. The player must attend at least one evaluation and/or tryout session.

c. If moving up the player would displace an appropriately-aged player with an equivalent skill level, the move up request will be denied.

2. If there is an appropriately-aged team:

a. A formal move up request must be submitted to the MRU Director of Coaching and Committee.

b. The player must attend at least one evaluation and/or tryout session.

c. The age-appropriate Coach, the Coach of the older team, and the MRU Director of Coaching must agree that the player will benefit from play at an advanced level.

d. If the player is not within the top 8 players on the older team’s roster, as evaluated by both coaches and the Director of Coaching, the move-up request will be



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denied. It would be detrimental to the player and the club to move up a starting player and have them ride the bench on an older team.

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Team Formation and Player Recruitment/Additions

Coaches, team managers, or anyone else involved in youth soccer are

encouraged to recruit players for MRYSL’s Mad River United Soccer Club.

Please note the following:

The MRU Director of Coaching assigns players to teams based on MRU

and MRYSL policy and evaluation results. Simply because a Coach recruits a

player does not mean that the player will be assigned to that Coach’s team.

The MRU Committee works with the Director of Coaching to determine the

team rosters.

1. Team formation is based on the following priorities:

a. Age groups. The first priority is to keep age groups

together.

b. If there are enough players in an age group that 2 or more

teams can be formed, teams will be formed based on

development level.

i. EITHER balanced teams will be formed and

teams will compete at the same level in the playing

league (i.e., gold, silver, etc.)

ii. OR tiered-level teams will be formed (i.e., A and B

teams). IF tiered-level teams are formed, those teams

will NOT compete at the same level in the playing

league; they will be registered at the appropriate

level of challenge for each team.

c. A training-only environment may be offered to players

who are still progressing in their soccer skills and

development.

2. If agreement cannot be reached within the MRU Committee, the

MRYSL board has the final authority to draft teams based on MRU

policy and guidelines. MRU Committee members and MRYSL

Directors with a conflict of interest (parents, coaches) in MRU

team formation will not be allowed a vote on team formation if

team formation has to take place at the board level.

3. All MRU players must participate in evaluations: Players who do

not participate in MRU evaluations will not be added to MRU

teams for that season, except:



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a. Players new to the area after evaluations have been

held;

b. Shortage of players in a particular age or gender

group;

c. Legitimate, provable reasons for the player not

participating in the MRU evaluations, such as:

injury, illness, pre‐existing commitments, or a

demonstrated excusable lack of knowledge of the

evaluation/tryout process.

4. The MRU Committee may also exempt players from

evaluations, in the following circumstances:

a. The Team on which the player will be rostered will

be a tournament only team (US Club registered); or

b. There are only enough registered players in the

age/gender/skill group to form one team.

A player who did not participate in an MRU tryout or evaluation

session pursuant to one of the three exceptions above may be added

to a MRU team by the MRU Committee, provided that doing so

complies with CalNorth, CCSL, NorCalPremier or US Club rules

(whichever is applicable). The MRU Committee may require the

player to participate in a special evaluation prior to deciding whether

to add the player and to which team the player will be rostered.

The MRU committee will decide whether to allow the player to

register with MRU and to which team the player will be added. MRU

Committee decisions on adding a player must take into account the

following criteria:

1. Whether adding the player will be consistent with MRU

policy

2. Impact of the new player on current players on the

team

3. Impact on the team’s league affiliation, current

age/gender/skill level (such as, will the team have to

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re‐register at an older age group, different gender, or different

playing level)

4. Team roster size

PLAYING ON MULTIPLE TEAMS

Where permitted by the Playing League’s rules, players may be rostered to

more than one team, but only with the express prior approval of the MRU

Committee and the MRYSL registrar. Some Playing Leagues do not permit

guest players; please be aware of the rules in the league in which you are

playing. In the appropriate circumstances, a player may be rostered to one

US Club Team and one CYSA Team, but only with the approval of the

MRU Committee. In deciding whether to approve such an arrangement, the Committee

must take into consideration the criteria stated above, and whether the number of practices

and games for that player may be excessive for that age.

Players rostered on one team may be able to play on another team if allowed

under CalNorth, CCSL, NorCal Premier or US Club rules (whichever is

applicable). It is each Coach’s responsibility to be sure that the limit on the number of

games the player may play in a day (maximum is 2 games) and minimum rest period

between games (1.5 hours) are strictly followed.

RECRUITING PLAYERS FROM MRYSL’S REC PROGRAM:

After July 1 of each year, no one associated with MRU or MRYSL (coaches,

parents, board members, etc.) may attempt to recruit a player who is

registered with MRYSL’s rec program without first obtaining the permission

of the MRYSL rec program coordinator or chairperson, and the Coach of

the rec team to which the player is rostered. If permission is granted, and

the player’s parents approve, then that player may be added to an MRU team

in accordance with the procedures set forth above.

PLAYER MOVEMENT DURING THE SEASON:

The Director of Coaching and the league registrar must approve the

movement as being allowable under CalNorth, CCSL, NorCal Premier or US

Club rules (whichever is applicable) and following MRYSL/MRU policy.



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Other Policies

Any policy passed by Mad River Youth Soccer League that pertains

to all players automatically includes Mad River United players.

MRYSL policies are available on the MRYSL website. These

policies include, but are not limited to:

Coach Compliance Requirements

Policy against Abuse

Heading Policy

Volunteer Background and Verification

First Aid, CPR, and Concussion Awareness Training

Concussion Awareness and Testing

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Coach Licensing Expectations

Age Group Minimum License Level

10U USSF F or NSCAA 7v7/9v9

12U USSF E or NSCAA 11v11

14U & older USSF D or NSCAA National

MRU expects all coaches to hold a coaching license and participate in

coaching development courses and continuing education.

Any coach approved by MRU but not holding a requisite license

will not be paid and cannot be considered a professional coach. An

unlicensed but approved coach is limited to a trainer or assistant

coach role. Every team should have at least one licensed coach as

outlined above

Teams may need to have a licensed training head coach and a

parent game coach. The reality of our location means it is often not

feasible to expect a non-parent coach to travel 4-5 hours every

weekend to coach the team. At least not for what we can afford to

pay.

o In this scenario, it is imperative that the licensed coach set

the training goals and lessons during the week, in addition

to playing time and other behavioural expectations for

players on travel weekends.

o The game coach will work at the direction of the licensed

head coach, and will be be responsible for communicating

game outcomes and perceived individual and team needs

based on game performance. This is especially important

to counter the parent coach effect that may be present for

the game coach’s child(ren) and the other players on the

team.

o The head coach will listen to the evaluation of the game

coach when he or she can’t be present at games.



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Coach Responsibilities & Code of Conduct:

In addition to Mad River United’s Responsibilities and Code of

Conduct, the Coach is responsible and expected to be aware of and

follow the Codes of Conduct of the Playing Leagues or

Tournaments in which he or she is participating.

By being hired to coach for MRU, you understand and agree that

you are coaching for the Club, and not for a particular group of

children. The MRU committee may move children from team to

team, and may also move coaches based on what is best for the

individual children’s development and the interests of the Club.

COACH’S ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

3. The Coach must comply with all background check requirements, and must at all times be in good standing under the background check policy. Background requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

a. The Coach must be fingerprinted prior to the first practice

b. The Coach must complete the background check required by the Playing Leagues in which the team will participate.

4. The Coach may be immediately terminated or suspended without pay if arrested, charged with a crime, or convicted of a crime.

5. The Coach agrees that player passes, team official passes, and rosters are the property of MRYSL and the Coach will immediately return all passes and rosters to the MRYSL office at the request of the MRU Director of Coaching, MRU Committee, the League Registrar, or the League President

6. The Coach agrees to promptly report on all issues or problems that arise with respect to Coach, Team, Official, Player, Parent, or individual conduct or compliance using the MRYSL’s chain of command:

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1. MRU Director of Coaching 2. MRU Committee 3. MRYSL League President 4. MRYSL Board of Directors

7. The Coach will make a good faith effort to attend all coaches’ meetings, seminars, clinics, and tryouts that are established by the team and/or MRYSL. It is the duty of the Coach to advise the team and/or MRYSL if an event cannot be attended.

8. The Coach is responsible for knowledge of the club-wide policies and curricula. This is essential to the long-term success of all of our players and teams.

9. The Coach is responsible for knowing all league and tournament rules.

10. The Coach will notify the Director of Coaching and MRU Committee of tournament plans prior to registering. When possible, it is better to send multiple teams to the same tournament for club spirit and notoriety.

11. The Coach agrees to work in cooperation with Assistant Coaches and Trainers that are assigned by MRU.

12. Assistant Coaches and Trainers agree to work under the direction of the Head Coach.

13. The following actions are NOT permissible:

a. Recruiting players specifically for their team or promise to

place players on their team as a condition of registering

with our program.

b. Promising a player or players positions on future teams (e.g.,

spring teams, or teams in the following fall season).

c. Recommending players leave the program without first

gaining approval by the MRU Competitive Committee.

d. Offering assistant coach or trainer positions to anyone

without the approval of the MRU Competitive Committee

or MRYSL Board of Directors

14. The League Registrar makes all final decisions about matters relating and pertaining to player and Coach Registration

COACH’S TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The Coach should acknowledge and understand the



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importance of providing players and MRYSL and MRU with useful and constructive feedback, through evaluations, for each and every player on his/her team throughout the season.

2. Coaches are expected to provide feedback to players on a regular basis as part of the clubs commitment to player development.

3. The Coach will follow MRYSL and MRU policy on concussions and training for headers.

4. The Coach agrees to participate in at least 2 training sessions per week and be present at league or tournament games involving their team.

5. When a conflict arises, the Coach will work with their team and MRYSL to arrive at an appropriate solution.

6. The Coach will use positive coaching methods to encourage players. Training sessions will be run in a positive, structured, professional manner, stressing soccer skills and tactics.

7. The Coach will arrive early enough to greet the players and preset for the practice.

8. The Coach will be evaluated once a year by the Director of Coaching and receive a written review. The retention of the Coach shall be at the discretion of the Director of Coaching and the MRU Committee.

9. The Coach is responsible for the actions of assistant coaches, trainers, parents, and players prior to, during, and after every game, practice, and event.

10. The Coach must check email on a weekly basis in order to remain in contact with their players and families, and to help facilitate club policies and initiatives.

11. The Coach will work with team parents to appoint a Team Manager, Team Treasurer, and Team Travel Coordinator at the beginning of each season. These positions are essential to the organization of the team.

12. The Coach is required to maintain accurate records of all player rosters, equipment, medical releases, parent/guardian

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information and emergency information. The Team Manager should help create and maintain this information.

13. The Coach agrees to watch over the wellbeing of each player. This includes making sure each player is picked up from a team function by an adult. Do not leave players at the field to watch over themselves.

14. It is the responsibility of the Coach to ensure that at least one member of the coaching or management staff is present at practices, games, or any event.

15. The Coach is required to wear appropriate coaching/training gear at all team functions (practices, games, tournaments, etc.).



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Volunteer Jobs and Responsibilities

Every MRU Team requires parent volunteers to ensure the season

runs smoothly. Every team needs a Team Manager, a Team

Treasurer, and a Team Travel Coordinator. Without the hard work

of our parent volunteers none of this would be possible, so thank

you for your continued support in helping MRU grow and develop.

TEAM MANAGER

Registration: For league, tournaments, etc. communicate

with registrar to ensure all required materials are taken care

of.

Communication: Training, games, events, etc.

Communicate with team through phone, email, and printed

documents. Ensure everyone is aware of schedule and any

possible changes.

Team Calendar: Create calendar complete with training

schedule, game/tournament schedule, and other events.

Coordinate Fundraising (Optional): May be assigned to a

Team Fundraising Manager or Team Treasurer..

Help facilitate club policies and initiatives.

Act as a “go between” for parents and coaching staff.

Responsible for tournament registration and check in. Read

the tournament rules carefully so that all proper materials

are brought to the tournament. (Player cards,

Registration/Liability Release Forms, Goldenrod, etc.)

Maintaining GotSoccer or other league

registration/scheduling online Team Page.

TEAM TREASURER

Coordinate Fundraising (Optional): May be assigned to a

Team Fundraising Manager or Team Manager.

Process Team deposits. See Expenses and Budgeting on

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page 21 for more information.

Process Team expenses.

Collect payments.

Track individual player balances.

Track Team income and expenses.

Ensure funds are available for expenses.

Ensure all players pay their Team fees.

o Team fees need to be agreed upon by all participating

families at the beginning of the playing season.

TEAM TRAVEL COORDINATOR

Organize group hotel rates.

Distribute directions to all events.



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General Information

GAME DAY

Each Team needs:

Game card: Check with the Playing League

(NorCal Premier or CalNorth/CYSA).

Player Passes: Every player, Coach, and manager

needs their own laminated and stamped pass.

Registration Forms: These forms contain medical

release and emergency contact information and

must be on hand for all games and practices.

Game Balls: The home team needs to provide 3

game balls. Be sure they are properly inflated and

make sure there is a pump on hand.

Corner Flags: The home team also provides corner

flags. Each Coach is responsible for setting up

their own field. Corner flags are required to be at

least 1-inch in diameter and five-feet high. Please

contact the MRYSL office if you need help

obtaining corner flags.

Mad River United will pay for 2 hours of field

reservations for home games and cover referee

costs.

EQUIPMENT

Coaches provide their own equipment. If additional equipment is

needed it should be worked into each individual team budget.

Consult the team treasurer/manager for budgeting needs.

UNIFORMS

Players are responsible to come prepared to each game with both

home and away jerseys, shorts, and socks. Additionally, players

provide their own footwear and shin guards. Read the Uniform

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Policy for uniform details.

UNIFORM POLICY

A uniform may be requested each registration period using the online

registration platform. The cost of the uniform will be added to the

registration fee. Families have the option of returning their uniform in good

condition to the Club and receiving $40 towards their next uniform

purchase.

Uniform orders will be sent in by the Club or Uniform Coordinator in a

timely manner that ensure uniforms are received by August 15th. Late

registrants should not expect to receive their uniform the same time as the

rest of the players, and there is no guarantee a late registrant’s uniform will

be ready in time for the Team’s first competition.

1 Pair of Orange Shorts

1 Pair of Orange Soccer Socks

1 White Jersey

1 Navy Jersey

It is the player’s responsibility to replace any missing pieces. Our local

uniform supplier is Hits and Kicks in Arcata so they will be able to handle

ordering replacement pieces. Mad River United will also store returned,

used uniform pieces, and will offer those pieces at a reduced cost to any

interested player.

PRACTICES

Coaches need to have Registration/Liability Release Forms and/or

Player Passes on hand at all practices.

Mad River United/MRYSL pays for a maximum of four (4) hours of

field reservations for team practices. Additional practice hours are to be

covered by team fees. Teams may need to share fields for practices.

RAIN

Practices and games need to be immediately delayed or cancelled if

lightning is seen in the sky. Safety is the first priority in these cases.

Practice and game cancellation assessment must be based on field

conditions.



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Any Field Closed signs posted by the field owner must be

obeyed. Your team will be billed for any damages or fines

assessed by the field owner if you fail to follow the posted

sign(s).

Coaches need to contact the field owner to check on status.

The MRYSL website will also be updated with field

conditions as much as possible.

It is the Coach’s responsibility to notify parents in the event

of a cancellation.

CHANGING SCHEDULED GAMES

Be sure to know and follow the rules set forth by the Playing

League (NorCal Premier or CalNorth/CYSA) for rescheduling.

Simply not showing up for a scheduled game is not permitted and

may result in fines and/or other penalties being assessed. The team

will be held responsible for any fines billed by the Playing League

for failing to follow their policies.

TOURNAMENTS

Each team needs to determine how many tournaments they

want to enter during each season. Parents must approve this

decision.

Lists of potential tournaments are available online at several

websites, including GotSoccer. The best tournaments are well

organized and have a level of play comparable to each team.

The best way to find out which tournaments suit each team’s

particular needs, location, skill, etc. is to talk to the other

coaches at MRU.

Once a list of possible tournaments is assembled, notify the

Director of Coaching who will inform the MRU Committee

The goal is to send as many teams as possible to the same

tournaments to develop club pride and notoriety.

The team Manager is responsible for tournament registration

20

and check in. Read the tournament rules carefully so that all proper

materials are brought to the tournament. (Player cards,

Registration/Liability Release Forms, roster, etc.)

All team names must be approved by the Mad River United committee

and the MRU Director of Coaching (DOC). All official MRU team

names must start with the phrase, “Mad River United”, which shall not

be abbreviated. The purpose behind this requirement is to promote Mad

River United and be known in communities.

If a team is going to a tournament the registration cost is divided

among players, not families, on the team.

RESOURCES

The best resource we have is our great Director of Coaching and all the

Coaching Staff. If you have a question or need some advice don’t hesitate

to seek the advice of the people around you. There are also coaching

resources available on our website as well as in the office. A download link

to US Soccer’s Best Practices Guide can be found here:

http://www.ussoccer.com/coaching-education/resources

http://www.ussoccer.com/coaching-education/resources



21

Co

aches &

Man

agers

Expenses and Budgeting

Team budgets and team fees are to be agreed upon by all families at

the beginning of the season. Each family should have access to the

team budget for review, and the budget should be submitted to Mad

River United for review and record keeping.

VOLUNTEER REBATE:

Year-round team managers are eligible for a $100 rebate per playing

year. Contact MRU before the playing year ends to receive the rebate.

TOURNAMENT(S):

If a team is going to a tournament the registration cost is divided

among players, not families, on the team.

COACH TRAVEL:

Coaches may have their fuel costs and hotel paid for by the team.

This expense is divided and paid among players on the team. (This

will not be paid unless there is money in the team account to cover

it. It is not the responsibility of MRU to pay a Coach’s travel; it is

the team’s responsibility.) The team must agree to this in their team

budget. We recommend parent coaches cover their own travel

expenses.

EQUIPMENT:

The purchase of equipment can be included in a team’s budget. The

team must approve these purchases.

After your team budget is completed please submit to MRU

Committee Chair for review and record keeping.

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Team Fundraising and Financial Planning & Management Policy

1. A representative of each team intending to raise funds shall submit

a detailed team budget to the MRU Program Chair who will give it

to the MRYSL treasurer and bookkeeper, prior to the

commencement of any fundraising activities. The team should

clearly define any planned fundraising activities, including the

solicitation of cash sponsors, and the team’s intended use of any

money raised.

2. The team budget will identify an email-friendly Team Treasurer

who will function specifically in a financial capacity. The Treasurer

will be responsible for providing detailed information regarding

money received to MRYSL.

3. All checks and all cash received by the team will deposited in the

league office by the Treasurer. A deposit form should be filled out

and relevant documents attached. MRYSL will be responsible for

depositing funds into the MRYSL account, and the MRYSL

bookkeeper will track team activity and balances. All team money

is to be deposited with the league office. There is a deposit

form there. The memo line on all checks to be deposited should

read "Team Name, Birth Year (Coach Name)", e.g., “MRU Blue

03/04 (Smith)”. We strongly encourage team treasurers to

photocopy checks before deposit.

4. Player registration/membership forms, with the original

parent/guardian signature, shall be present at all team fundraising

events when parents/guardians are not present.

5. Teams should make every effort to have a zero balance remaining

at the end of each season (June 30). No team may carry over a

balance from one season to the next. Any excess funds at the end

of the season will be transferred into the MRU financial assistance

fund.

6. All monies will be paid out on a team’s behalf by MRYSL. The

league will issue 1099s annually.

7. Fundraising money can be used for team equipment, travel,

Coach’s expenses, trophies, end-of-year party, tournament fees, or



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Players &

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ilies

any other expenses approved by the MRU program chair

(as described in the team’s budget). The budget and

fundraising activities and expenditures must be made by

consensus of the team.

8. To make payments from your team account, fill out a check

request (available in the office). Relevant invoices must be

included with all check requests.

9. Under no circumstances may any individual open an

account, or deposit money into a personal account, in lieu

of following league deposit and reporting rules.

10. Regardless of its own budget and financial situation all

MRU teams are required to assist club-wide fundraising

activities (e.g., tournaments, auctions).

11. Individual teams may apply for exceptions to these

provisions (e.g., extension of time period allowed for fund

expenditure). The proposal for exception must be made in

writing and submitted to the MRYSL board for

consideration during its next regularly scheduled board

meeting. Approval or denial of the proposal will be by

simple majority.

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Team Name Policy

All team names must be approved by the Mad River United committee and

the MRU Director of Coaching (DOC). All official MRU Team names

must start with the phrase, “Mad River United”, which shall not be abbreviated.

The purpose behind this requirement is to promote the program and the

Mad River United brand.

The MRU committee has the authority to decide whether to permit unique

names for MRU teams. The MRU committee may also restrict teams to use

only “Orange” “White” or “Blue” following the name “Mad River United”.

If the MRU committee or DOC decides to permit unique names after the

phrase “Mad River United”, teams may propose such names. In deciding

whether to approve a specific proposed team name, the MRU committee or

DOC will take into consideration the following:

Team names must not reflect an exclusive skill or standing (such as

“elite”, “all star”, “premier”, “gold”)

Team names must not infringe upon a copyright or trademark;

Team names must not be the same as team names used by other

Humboldt County travel teams (such as “Breakers” or “Rapids”)

Team names must not be offensive, insulting or profane, or create

confusion with another team.

If a proposed team name is not approved by the MRU committee,

then it may not be used.

In the event there is no unique name for a team, that team’s official name

will be “Mad River United” followed by a Club color (Blue, Orange, White)

and birth year and gender, followed by the head Coach’s last name in

parentheses (e.g., Mad River United Blue 98 (Smith), or Mad River United

White 03/04 (Lee).

All press releases and social media postings must refer to teams using their

official name, and include the statement, “Mad River United is a program of

the Mad River Youth Soccer League, a 501(c)(3) organization.”



25

Player &

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ily

Player Responsibilities & Code of Conduct

It is a privilege for all Mad River United players to be involved with

travel soccer. Playing soccer for MRU is a privilege, not a right, and

it must be treated as such.

The physical and mental aspects are both equally important and the

coaching staff will work to improve each player as a whole.

It is the responsibility of each player to act accordingly so that the

entire team, and club, can continue to improve and grow as a

competitive club.

PLAYER RESPONSIBILITIES:

Arrive at least 5 minutes prior to scheduled time.

When arriving at practice or games be mentally prepared to

work.

If arriving late to a practice or game, be sure to have your

gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, etc.) already put on so that

you can jump into action the moment you arrive.

Notify your Coach as early as possible that you will not be

attending a team function.

Each player must have proper equipment including:

appropriate training attire (clothes/footwear), shin guards,

and properly inflated ball.

All team events (practices, games, tournaments, meetings,

events, etc.) are mandatory unless excused by the Coach.

Respect your Coach and teammates at all times.

Do not talk while your Coach is giving direction.

Give 100% of your energy every practice/game.

Take care of yourself during off days. Eat properly and get

enough sleep. Poor choices made between practices can

eliminate all of the growth achieved at practices.

Play soccer anytime you can. Even juggling a ball for a few

26

minutes each day will go a long way to improve your abilities. Do

you think the best players in the world only played soccer when it

was mandatory?

Watch as much soccer as you can. Seeing how the best players in

the world move and work will help you learn.

If you have a grievance, you should wait 24 hours after a specific

incident for emotions to cool and then raise the topic with your

coach.

o If you feel the coach does not address your grievance,

bring your grievance to the MRU Director of Coaching.

o If you feel the Director of Coaching does not address your

grievance, bring your grievance to the Mad River United

committee.



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ily

Parent Responsibilities & Code of Conduct

BASIC EXPECTATIONS

Drop child off at least 5 minutes prior to event and pick up

your child on time.

Honor the Game. It is important to set a good example for

your child. No matter what others may do, parents must

show respect for all involved in the game including

coaches, players, opponents, opposing fans, and officials.

Officials make mistakes. If the official makes a "bad" call

against a team, Honor the Game and be silent!

All monthly club dues should be paid to the Team

Treasurer at the beginning of each month.

You are responsible for receiving and acting upon Team

Communications and attending all Team Meetings.

SIDELINE BEHAVIOR (GAMES OR PRACTICES)

Stand or sit at least 5 yards back from the touchlines on the

side of the field opposite the player benches.

Cheer, encourage, and support the team. DO NOT yell

specific instructions such as, “Pass it,” “Shoot,” “Clear

the ball,” “Tackle him,” etc. This can be extremely

confusing for the player and possibly different from the

Coach’s instruction. Players are learning to independently

problem solve & develop their creativity, and they do this

by playing without fear of doing something wrong.

Do not comment about members of the opposing team

unless they are complimentary.

Do not speak out against referees or linesmen about fouls

either real or imagined. Our program maintains a zero

tolerance policy for abusive language and/or conduct

directed towards any official.

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COACH AND POST-GAME DIALOGUE

If you have a question or comment for a Coach relating to a game

or practice, please wait at least 24 hours before addressing the

Coach.

Refrain from making negative comments about your child's Coach

or teammates in front of your child or other parents. Doing so

plants a negative seed in your child's head that can negatively

influence your child's motivation and overall experience. If you

have a concern you should raise the issue with the Coach.

Encourage your child to speak directly to the Coach for most

matters including: playing time issues, inability to attend trainings,

etc.

If you have a grievance, you should wait 24 hours after a specific

incident for emotions to cool and then raise the topic with your

coach.

o If you feel the coach does not address your grievance,

bring your grievance to the MRU Director of Coaching.

o If you feel the Director of Coaching does not address your

grievance, bring your grievance to the Mad River United

committee.

By registering your child to play at Mad River United you agree to abide by

the aforementioned Parent Code of Conduct. Failure to follow these

policies may result, but is not limited to, the following disciplinary actions:

Verbal warning, written warning, parental game suspension, parental season

suspension, as determined by the PAD Committee.



29

Player &

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ily

Sportsmanship

Mad River United believes that youth participation in sports is an

opportunity to help shape the character of our children in positive

ways. As coaches, parents and league administrators we have an

obligation to educate our youth in positive ideals of fair play and

respect for all involved in the game of soccer.

Discuss sportsmanship on a regular basis with your team.

Communicate clearly to your team how important it is, including

stopping practice and bringing the team in to talk if

unsportsmanlike behavior is occurring, or subbing a player out of a

game who is displaying poor sportsmanship.

Seek out ways to reward and recognize sportsmanlike behavior.

Have your team make practicing good sportsmanship a part of your

normal routine. Demonstrate the behavior you expect to see in your players.

Sportsmanship: conduct (as fairness, respect for one's opponent,

and graciousness in winning or losing) becoming to one

participating in a sport -Merriam Webster

SIGNS OF A GOOD SPORT:

Plays by the rules.

Humble in Victory, Gracious in Defeat.

Treats competitors, teammates and all involved as she/he

would want to be treated. (The Golden Rule).

Uplifts the game by acknowledging good play on all sides.

Does not taunt, brag, gloat, or in any way seek to demean

or put down a fellow competitor.

Shows courtesy and good manners on the field, just as one

would off the field.

Keeps a cool head, especially when others are losing theirs.

Respects the referee’s decisions, does not argue, does not

blame others for results, and takes full responsibility for the

30

outcome of a contest.

Understands that winning is beyond their control, but playing their

best is in their control.

Strives for the excellence within their capabilities.

Understands that it is just a game, and that good relationships with

those involved matter more than the score of the game.



31

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What to Expect

The Mad River Youth Soccer League offers soccer opportunities

for both recreational community soccer and competitive travel

soccer. The competitive travel soccer branch of Mad River Youth

Soccer League is the Mad River United Soccer Club.

In order for players and families to benefit fully from participating

in Mad River United, we ask that all members - families and players

- recognize the following:

Players need to be able to focus and follow instructions to

be successful at this level of play. Players are expected to be

attentive and follow the coach’s instructions; therefore, an

age-appropriate level of maturity and commitment is

required.

The decision to join a travel team should not be taken

lightly. It is unfair to the team, Coach, and any players that

might have been excluded due to roster limits if a player

does not commit to his or her team.

o Travel teams require a commitment from both

the player and the player’s parents or guardians. By

accepting a place on a travel team, the player

commits to being at practices and games, both

home and away, unless he/she is ill, injured, or has

a major and unavoidable family event or

emergency. If a player cannot make practice or a

game for any reason, he or she needs to inform the

coach or team manager before the practice or

game is missed.

Families should be aware that during the soccer season

practices, scrimmages, games, etc. may be scheduled on

short notice.

Players’ families must attend team meetings and be

responsible for receiving and acting on team

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communications.

In Humboldt County, we need to stress the travel part of Travel

Soccer. Expect to travel as much as 4 hours for away games. While

we actively pursue avenues to limit excessive away games farther

than one hour, the fact is teams outside of Humboldt County

sometimes are not required to travel here, so Home Games might

turn out to be Away Games too. A dedicated effort on the part

of team Managers, Coaches, and other volunteers is necessary

to limit long travel.

The cost of being on a travel team is not insignificant, and includes

registration fees, a Club membership fee, seasonal program fees,

plus individual team fees. Fines levied by the Playing Leagues

against a team are also a possibility of the travel soccer programs. If

there are not enough players to field a team for a match, your team

will be fined for late cancellation of a game and for forfeiting the

game. There may also be a fee for rescheduling the game, as well.

These fines are the responsibility of the team and are determined

by the Playing League, although Mad River United reserves the

right to issue additional fines for egregious actions. If not paid in a

timely manner, the team could be expelled from the Playing

League, in which case another sizable fine would be assessed.

o Players with demonstrated financial need are eligible for

Mad River United financial aid, which covers 50% of the

player’s program fee if, and only if, there are funds

available in the Financial Aid Fund. Donations are

ALWAYS welcome!

Playing time for travel players will not always be equal, and is up to

the Game Coach’s discretion. However, Mad River United has set

recommended minimum playing time standards that all coaches

are expected to follow. As long as a player is healthy and fit, he or

she should play no less than 30% of the game. Mad River United

recognizes that a player’s continued growth and development as a

soccer player comes as much from playing the game as attending

practices. However, playing time is also an incentive for hard

work, dedication, and demonstrated coachability.

In return for your commitment to Mad River United, you can expect a

program dedicated to the principles of player development, sportsmanship,

https://clubs.bluesombrero.com/Default.aspx?tabid=147170&donationid=591&mainctl=PayDonation



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and fair play. Coaches, Trainers, and Players are representatives of

Mad River United at all times, and are expected to model

sportsmanship, act responsibly, and conduct themselves with

integrity and honesty.

If you have any questions, you should speak with the coach or

manager of the team that your player is interested in joining, as well

as any other parents or community members associated with Mad

River United, before you sign your player up. Once your player is

on the team roster, Mad River United and your team assume that

you are completely committed to the team for the playing season, as

described above.

Documents

Mad River United Club Handbook club... · Playing on Multiple Teams ... MRU gives players a choice between playing year-round ... Mad River United takes these issues very seriously