Coaching Policies

SAFETY

1. Coaches will arrive at practice sessions and games at least 10 minutes prior to the time the team is expected to arrive.
2. Two adults (at least one of which has completed a background check) are present at all times during all games, practices and other events. (Coaches should encourage team parents who think they may be actively involved at practices or games to have a background check done at the beginning of the season).
3. Fields will be inspected for hazards before practices and games.
4. Playing in unsafe conditions including lightning storms will be avoided.
5. Players will use proper equipment and gear.
6. Players will stay well hydrated.
7. Coach will not leave until all players are picked up or accounted for.
8. A copy of the Medical Authorization form for each player will be on hand at ALL games AND practices.
9. Players without the appropriate player registration card, if applicable, will not be allowed to participate in games.
10. Understand & abide by the Mandatory Reporting Rules & Procedures, Details Here

CONCUSSION AWARENESS

Coaches must be familiar with and have available the following documents pertaining to concussion awareness and management:

1. Sideline Concussion Management Quick Reference  (pdf)
2. Sideline Concussion Management Policy & Checklist  (pdf)
3. Sideline Concussion Documentation  (pdf)
4. Return to Participation Form  (pdf)

HEADING RULES

(1) No Goalkeeper Punts for U9 & U10 (3rd grade and 4th grade)

(a) A goalkeeper who has taken possession of the ball in his/her hands may not put the ball in play by punting or drop kicking the ball.

(b) If a goalkeeper punts or drop kicks the ball, the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick from the edge of the penalty area nearest to where the goalkeeper took the kick.

(c) Players from the defending team (team without the ball) must retreat to the halfway line to allow the GK to distribute (Throwing or placing on ground and kicking) the ball.

(d) If the GK CHOOSES to distribute the ball while the defending team has not retreated to the halfway line, the ball is live as this was the choice of the GK.

(2) All players 6th grade and younger (U6-U12) cannot head the ball in games. This means in all games at 9v9, 7v7, 4v4 and 3v3.

(a) A player may not use his/her head to play the ball.

(b) The penalty for playing the ball using the head is an indirect free kick at the spot of the infraction. If a defending player in the defender’s penalty area commits the infraction, the free kick will be taken from a spot on the penalty area line parallel to the end line that is nearest to the spot of the infraction.

(c) The infraction consists in intentionally playing the ball with the head. If the referee determines that the ball struck a player in the head when the player is not trying to play the ball, the referee should allow play to continue.

(3) Only players who are in 6th, 7th and 8th grades (U12-U14) may practice heading, however, all heading practice must be limited to no more than a maximum of 30 minutes per week.

(4) Players who are in 7th and 8th grade (U13-U14) playing 11v11 may head the ball in games.

(a) There are no restrictions for games in this age group and above.

CONDUCT

1. Maintain a positive and professional attitude at all times when representing SESC
2. Set a high standard for sportsmanship, respectfulness and fair play with all players, referees, parents and coaches.
3. Understand and behave at all times under the standards set forth by mission, philosophies and rules of SESC
4. Understand and behave at all times under the standards set forth by respective league and organization in which team is participating.
5. Keep updated on PYSA, FIFA, and other applicable rules and regulations.
6. Monitor and manage parent sideline behavior.
7. Communicate with SESC Head Coach (Director of Coaching) with concerns, questions or clarifications.
8. Work closely with a parent manager to facilitate off-field activities of the team.
9. Hold a parents meeting at the start of the season. This can be done before or after a practice or game.

ADDITIONAL COACHING POLICIES

1. Coaches will complete and pass a Club designated Background Check.
2. Encourage a balance of family, school and soccer
3. Encourage parent involvement in the support functions for the teams. Maintain open communication with parents.
4. It is highly recommended that all coaches complete first aid training