The coach needs to establish clear policies on the following issues. We have provided examples listed below.

Practice Attendance: The number and length of practice sessions and scrimmages are determined by SAY. Teams can only play or practice twice a week. We have structured the 5-11 year olds' schedules for one day per week for a scheduled practice/scrimmage and then the other day for a game. Games and practices are scheduled for approximately 1-1/2 hours. Practice attendance is critical. Players are expected to attend each scheduled practice and scrimmage, unless they have a legitimate prior engagement or family commitment. If a player is unable to make it to a game, or scrimmage/practice, THE PLAYER should call the coach, in advance and inform him/her of their expected absence. Coaches are not allowed to consider practice attendance in determining playing time in a game. Stress to your players that they are important members of the team and their attendance is important to the success of the team.

Player Conduct: As a coach, you are responsible for the conduct of your team. Part of a player's development into a quality athlete is the development of good sportsmanship exhibited through their actions. It is expected that players will show respect to their opponents, the officials, the fans, and their teammates at all times. While you may experience teams that do not exhibit this respect, it is expected that our teams will,, regardless of the circumstances. Remember your team is representing HSP SAY both on and off the field.

Parental Conduct: Coaches should encourage parents to exhibit good sportsmanship at all times. Players look to their parents for team support and positive recognition. Coaches play an important role in directing responsible conduct on and off the field. All coaches are ultimately responsible for not only the behavior of the players, but also the parents. Parents at times may need words of encouragement to reinforce the importance of professionalism. The positive support by parents preserves the integrity of the team and is a proud reflection on our community.

Player Time in Games: HSP SAY in its approach and philosophy of meeting the needs of all it's members. Our recreational program is designed for players who are either in the process of further developing soccer skills, or for players who are interested in less time commitment than competitive soccer. All players are afforded equal playing time regardless of skill level. The emphasis at this level is on individual skill development.

Practice/Scrimmage: Teams made up of players 5-12 years of age will have scheduled practice/scrimmages once a week. Two teams will be scheduled for one field. The coach of each team will run a practice on their side of the field for 1/2 hour to 3/4 of an hour. Then the teams will come together and scrimmage for 1/2 hour or 1/4 hour with the coaches on the field coaching the players. Or if the coaches choose to just practice with their team, this is an option too.

Know Your Age Group: There is a vast difference between the mental, physical, and emotional capabilities of players as they grow from U6 to U19. It is vital that the adult coach understands and applies this knowledge in practice, games, and all team activities. Remember that these guidelines are only generalities and that different players may mature at different rates. Also, girls generally mature earlier than boys. It is important to attend the HSP coaching clinic specific for you age group, to learn the mental, physical, and emotional capabilities of the players on your team. We also have the Tony Waiter's books in the Howard library, which break down soccer training based on age group.