Gilbert Youth Soccer Association > Recreation > Rec FAQ

Coaches & Practices

Q.	Who will coach my player's team?
A.	Recreational coaches are parents that volunteer to coach a team at registration time. Every season GYSA has to search for additional people to coach because there are never enough coaches to cover all of the teams. Most of the recreational coaches are a parent of a player on the team. Coaches volunteer their time to work with your player during practices and games. Some coaches grew up playing soccer, some have watched their children play, and some have never played soccer (or coached soccer before). GYSA offers coaching classes and clinics before and during the season to help all of the coaches, no matter what their prior experience is. GYSA does not condone or approve the use of paid coaches/trainers for teams participating in our programming. This is in direct conflict with GYSA's philosophy of enabling children the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful game without the financial burdens that have become commonplace in our society.

Q.	What day and/or time will my player's team practice?
A.	The coaches are able to choose the day(s) and times for practices as they were kind enough to volunteer their time to coach the team. U5 through U7 teams usually practices one day a week for about 1 hour. U8 through U12 teams usually practice either one day a week for 90 minutes, or two days a week for 1 hour each. Practices usually start sometime after 5:00pm to give parents time to get home from work and get the players to practice. Practice times may vary due to the coach.

Q.	Where will practices be held?
A.	Practice location is determined by the coach. Coaches generally choose to hold practice in the general neighborhood where the team is located, the GYSA soccer fields, or at a location specified by the coach.

Q.	When will practices be held?
A.	Practice days and times are established by the coach. The coaches select day(s) and time frames that conform to their busy personal/work schedules.

Q.	What equipment is needed for practice/games?
A.	Shin guards covered completely by socks with soccer cleats or sneakers. Baseball/softball or football cleats are not allowed (cleat in center of toe). No jewelry of any kind. Earrings may not be covered with Band-aids or secured with flat posts. They must be removed. Medical bracelets must be taped down. A soccer ball (it's more fun when everyone has one!) Water

Q.	Our team needs more players, can we pick up players?
A.	No, if your team is in need of additional players, please contact the Registrar to see if there is anyone on the waiting list that can be placed on the team. All players must be registered and paid through GYSA in order to play. Teams can not pick up any players with out the approval of the Registrar. Players need to be registered and insured before they can practice or play in games.