Rec Fall 2016 Week 8

From Jeff Widmark, Director

Coaches (please read through as there is important info for spring)

A sincere thank you to all coaches for another successful soccer season.  The feedback from most of you has been very positive.  There will always be isolated incidents with the size of the league, number of coaches and parents, referees, US, state, and league rule changes, but overall the season went well.  The transition to 4v4 was fairly smooth.  Here are some changes and reminders for the spring.

1.  We will have the coaches’ meetings AFTER the coaches have been selected.  The board has agreed to try it but coaches must still attend one meeting per calendar year to comply with Zach’s Law regarding goal safety.  There are numerous reason coaches miss the meetings but if you  want to keep your assignment, please attend one of the 4 meetings scheduled during the year.  If you can attend one of the meetings in winter, don’t wait until summer.
2. It needs to be CLEAR that you are playing kids equally, and in different positions throughout each game (forward in the first half, back in the second, etc.).  When they get to 7^th grade and up, they may play a more offensive or defensive position which will happen when they get to high school.
3. It needs to be CLEAR to the opposing team that you are using tactics to limit scoring in games when you are up by 5 or more goals.  Saying that they are kids and you can’t control them is not acceptable.
4. Players in the 1^st and 2^nd grade RecPlus will play on RecPlus teams and play up an age level in the spring.  This is a change from the fall. 
5. Second grade will continue playing 6v6, including a keeper.  Next fall, second grade will play 4v4 with no keeper..

The experience the kids have at the grass roots level in training is the basis for their development of a love for the game.  We greatly appreciate the time and effort you put in to make it a great experience.   Look for information on the dates for meetings in February.  Have a blessed holiday season and we always welcome the positive and constructive feedback!

Sincerely, Jeff