SCCYSC Boys U9 Team Tryouts & Program

Dear Parent:

This handout describes how Division 3  and U9 differs from ‘rec’ soccer and answers many frequently asked questions about Division 3 soccer.

Division 3 Play is at a level that exceeds “rec” play and accordingly requires a higher level of commitment and intensity by players, parents and coaches. During league play, each player will play at least half the game. Enjoyment of the game is still a primary coaching objective, though we do ask for and expect a more focused effort (in practice and games) from the players than in ‘rec’. Division 3 play is an opportunity for each player to more fully develop their soccer technique, game sense, team play and sportsmanship. Greater demands are made on player and parent time and sometimes locations of training / games. The U9 games are played in county. Half our games will be at home, and half are away. At older ages, division 3 league play involves some travel, usually to the San Jose area. Practices will be held twice per week, starting in early August. League games run from early September to early December. We will play in three jamborees, the first on Labor Day weekend, the District Cup in mid-November, and an indoor at the end of the season. The Division 3 player and supporting parents / adults should be prepared to meet these additional demands.

During the tryout sessions we expect every player:

• To arrive on time.
• To have the required equipment.
• To bring a positive attitude: use no put down comments or unsportsmanlike conduct of any form.

We are looking for:

• Positive attitude
• Personal skill and ability to work with other players
• Love of soccer
• Playing intensity
• Support of other players
• Coachability
• Desire and commitment to playing on the SCCYSC U9 team

There will be no cuts during the scheduled tryout sessions. The roster of 11-12 players will be determined within two weeks of the last tryout session.

If your son makes this team, the following will be expected:

• The parent to provide at some future time, the amount of approximately $100 towards uniforms, equipment and jamboree entry fees, etc. This fee is in addition to the normal SCCYSC registration fee.Fundraising or sponsorships may be obtained to cover some or all of these costs. Some financial aid is also available. No child will be refused a place on this team due to lack of money.
• The player should be prepared to train / practice a minimum of two times a week, starting in early August. If a player is involved in late season baseball (tournaments, all star play) during early training, we expect that the baseball activities will take priority over soccer activities. If we have late season overlap with other sports, we expect the commitment to our program to take precedence.
• The player to participate in 2-3 jamborees commencing in August, one of which is in San Jose.
• The parent to provide assistance to the team and / or SCCYSC in the organization of team and club activities.
• Whenever the team travels, the responsibility for the care off the field, and transport to and from the games, of each player lies with the players parent / responsible adult.

Coaches’ soccer background and expectations for parents:

Chris Wentzien: I have played soccer for many years from rec and youth leagues up through the professional level. I was fortunate enough to spend two seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes. I also played with other professional teams. I have trained youth teams and coached in the SCCYSC Boys U8 rec league last season. I am married with two kids (ages 23 and 8). My week days are spent working as a financial planner with a small firm in Cupertino.

Tony Sloss: I’ve played rec and competitive soccer from grade school through college, and still play in the Sunday league. I obtained my USSF ‘C’ License in 1978, and have coached many seasons of youth soccer, summer camps, and at Soquel High, where I taught science classes. I am also the rec coaching coordinator for the SCCYSC, and am a strong proponent of the Positive Coaching Alliance. I am married with three soccer-playing boys, ages 7, 8, and 12.

We emphasize ball control, teamwork, hustle, and enjoyment of the game. With the U9 age, we measure success by the effort, learning, and fun we have, while trying to build a strong team. Game time is for the players to play - it is their chance to make decisions and use what they’ve learned in practice and elsewhere. We on the sidelines need to allow them this chance. Players are distracted by instructions during the game, especially when they're involved in the play. Thus we do not instruct much during the game. Parents please refrain from any coaching as well; offer encouragement and praise instead. Talk to a coach if you feel something needs to be said to a player. That way, the coaching will be consistent and in a language all players can benefit from.

Remember: you are a model of behavior, and the children are listening - be respectful of the ref and both teams at all times. Please call either of us with any concerns or information about your child you would like us to know.

In Summary

Players, now you know what is expected, if you are up to it, go out and show the world. We realize it is not always easy to mentally relax and have fun while someone is watching. However, soccer is just a game, we all have to go back to work or school every Monday morning after our soccer activities. Don’t be afraid to have fun in your tryout drills and games.

Best of Luck,