Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions section. Click on any of the titles below to expand and view more information. If you have any additional question, feel free to contact us.
Pre-registration Questions
In which age group or division will my child play?
Players are placed in age divisions 5U jamboree, 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 19U (U stands for Under that age. For example: 12U means children that are 12 years of age or younger.)
Use our Age Group Calculator if you need help determining your child’s division.
Is my child the right age for AYSO soccer?
Children between the ages of 4 and 18 can play AYSO soccer.
What makes AYSO different?
Our mission is to provide quality youth soccer programs where everyone builds positive character through participation in a safe, fun, family-oriented soccer environment. AYSO’s six philosophies separate us from the pack:
- Everyone Plays
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
What other soccer expenses can I anticipate this year?
Not included in the registration fees are the required shin guards, appropriate shoes, and a strongly recommended practice ball. In addition, the team parents will possibly request a small amount to cover the expenses of a team banner, hair pieces (for the girls), end of season team party and a small gift for the coach. Also, each family is often requested to bring snacks for the team at one game during the season.
My child does not meet the minimum age range for the AYSO Fall season, but he/she is very [big/strong/athletic/coordinated] for his/her age. Can we still sign up for the upcoming Fall season?
No. AYSO is a national organization with very strict guidelines regarding age requirements. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players being the proper age to play and being placed in their age appropriate divisions. Children who do not meet the age requirement are not permitted to play. Be patient – they’ll grow up before you know it!
In school, my child is with classmates who are [younger/older]. May my child “play down” in a younger division or “play up” in an older division to be on teams with kids with whom he/she goes to school?
No. AYSO is a national organization that determines the player divisions based on birth dates. The AYSO “year” runs from August 1st through July 31st. AYSO’s accident and liability insurance depends on the players placed in their age appropriate divisions. Many children are in “different” divisions than their school classmates. We encourage you to view this as a positive experience – it will allow your child to broaden his/her relationships outside of school and enjoy making new friends.
Game & Player Related Questions
When and where are games played?
All games are played on Saturdays between 8AM to 3PM at Beaumont’s Sports Park (1692 Beaumont Ave. Beaumont CA, 92223)
When are practices?
Practices are usually twice a week in the evening at a local Beaumont park (12U and above practice at the Sports Park.) Practice time and location is set by the volunteer head coach and based on her/his schedule.
What is the duration of the games?
For the younger divisions, the games take about 1 hour to complete. For the older divisions, the games take about 1.5 hours to complete.
What should I bring to my child’s practices and games?
Shin guards (required), soccer shoes, a soccer ball, uniform (games only) and water. Also, bringing a well rested, well hydrated, nutritionally balanced child with a positive attitude and willingness to learn is highly recommended!
Do I have to get soccer shoes for my child to play?
Soccer shoes are not mandatory but are highly recommended (regular athletic shoes with no cleats are the alternative). When buying soccer shoes, they cannot have a toe cleat (baseball shoes have a toe cleat). Generally speaking, nearly all players at all age levels use soccer shoes for practices and games.
What size soccer ball should I get for my child?
- Divisions U5 through U8 use a Size 3 ball.
- Divisions U10 and U12 use a Size 4 ball.
- Divisions U14 and above use a Size 5 ball.
Why are the children required to wear their soccer socks over their shin guards?
Safety is the primary reason. Some types of shin guards are hard shell instead of soft, and may have sharp edges that could cut a player. By wearing their socks over the shin guards, players protect each other. Also, wearing the socks over the shin guards prevent the shin guards from shifting during running or when being kicked, which allow the shin guards to protect the areas they are supposed to.
Is it OK for players to wear jewelry during practice and game?
No. Jewelry of any kind (necklaces, watches, earrings, rings, bracelets, etc.) cannot be worn during practice or games.
There is an exception for Med-Alert bracelets, but they must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band for the safety of your child and all the other players.
The doctor said that my child can play with his arm splint. Will AYSO allow him/her to play?
No. While the doctor may be representing your son’s interest appropriately, the risk to other players mandates that he limit his participation to that of moral support on the sidelines. Players may not wear casts or splints which could possibly cause injury to himself/herself or another player. NO EXCEPTIONS. This applies at the games as well as at practices.
What about eyeglasses and hearing aids?
Glasses, hearing aids, and med-alerts may be worn to practices and games. The use of an eyeglass holder/strap or sports-glasses is recommended. As stated above, Med-Alerts must be completely covered with tape or a soft cloth band as a safety measure.