We want to thank all the players, parents and coaches for participating in the JTAA Recreation Soccer program. JTAA Recreation Soccer grows each year, with this season the biggest ever. With more than 1,275 players on approximately 91 teams, JTAA Recreation Soccer is the largest sports program in JTAA.
OUR MISSION
We want to introduce players and parents to the wonderful sport of soccer. The most popular sport in the world, soccer is gaining momentum in the United States thanks to more and more children having the opportunity to learn and play it, along with the
success of the men’s and women’s national teams in World Cup play.
We also want our players to learn the importance of teamwork and good sportsmanship.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
This is a Recreation league. We exist to teach the game of soccer to players of all skill levels while providing those players and parents with a fun, rewarding experience. Therefore, these are the goals that will guide all our actions:
- To have fun
- To learn the game
- To exhibit good sportsmanship
JTAA RECREATION SOCCER BOARD AND DIVISION DIRECTORS
Coaches and Division Directors are the key people one the season begins. Coaches handle their teams, and Division Directors are in charge of monitoring activities within their division.
If parents have any kind of question, concern or suggestion, their first communication should be with the coach. If the response is unsatisfactory, or more information is required, the next step is the division director. After that, please address concerns to the
league director.
SOME BASICS
PAYS CLASS:
Short for the Parent and Youth Sports Alliance, this video tells parents how they are expected to behave. The JTAA Executive Board requires that one parent of every player in any JTAA sport take the PAYS class at least once. If you are new to JTAA and have not taken the class, you will need to do so before the first game of the season on Sept. 14. We will set up sessions prior to that date and coaches will notify parents of the time and location of those sessions. The video is 20 minutes long and there is a $5 fee.
INSURANCE:
JTAA has purchased secondary insurance for all registered players, coaches and referees. Remember, this is secondary insurance. You must have primary insurance for your child.
EQUIPMENT/UNIFORMS:
Each player will be provided with uniform consisting of shorts, socks and jersey. Players must provide shin pads. Every player must wear shin pads for every practice and game. Proper shoes (no baseball cleats) are also required. Players should also bring their own ball to practice. For practices any size will do. For games, leagues use: U6 and U8 -- #3; U10 -- #4; U12 and up -- #5.
PRACTICES:
Practices are important, but not mandatory or essential. No player will be penalized for being tardy or missing a practice. We understand that homework, music lessons, religious services and other activities may take precedent over soccer practice. Please be on time to pick up your child after practice. Coaches will wait until all players are picked up, but please don’t keep them waiting long. They are volunteers and are already putting in a lot of time by directing your player’s team.
GAMES:
All divisions will have games on Saturdays. U10 and higher will begin midweek games (Wednesday or Thursday nights) halfway through the season. Referees will be provided for all but the U6 games, in which the coaches are the referees.
PARTICIPATION IN GAMES:
It is a league rule that every player plays at least half of every game. This is not a guideline, but a rule. Parents have every right to question a coach if this is not being followed. If the coach does not correct the situation, be sure and let the division director know. And it is also not up to parents to keep track of playing time. Coaches are supposed to monitor playing time and try and ensure equal time for all players.
PICTURES:
The registration fee includes a free team picture of each player and the team. Parents can purchase more pictures for additional fees. SNACKS:
After game treats are a player favorite in JTAA soccer. A designated parent (or parents, depending on how you decide to set it up) provide a drink and treat for each player after the game.
THE PARENT-COACH-PLAYER PARTNERSHIP:
It is important to remember that we all are in this together. And if we work together we will ensure an enjoyable and meaningful season.
Here is what the league promises to do:
- Create a positive, supportive atmosphere that emphasizes fun, learning and sportsmanship.
- Provide adequate training and support for coaches so they can teach players the game of soccer.
- Monitor practices and games to ensure proper guidelines are being followed.
Here is what the volunteer coaches pledge to do:
- Emphasize fun, learning and sportsmanship.
- Be a mode for the players by displaying proper behavior during practices and at games.
- Protect the health of players by ensuring the players are wearing proper equipment; by not allowing dangerous horseplay; and making sure they do not overextend themselves at practices or in games.
- Be sure players get equal playing time, with a minimum of half a game.
Parents need to:
- Take the PAYS class if necessary.
- Support your player and his/her teammates, and the players on the other teams. We are neighbors as well as soccer parents. Remember that as you watch games and offer encouragement. The players on all teams deserve credit for good play.
- Support your coach by:
- Communicating with him/her about any concerns you or your player may have.
- Pick up your child on time after practice.
- Help out at practice if you can, or volunteer to help out in other ways.
- Respect the referees.
Players need to:
- Listen to the coach, league directors, and division directors.
- Avoid horseplay or other activities that disrupt practices or games.
- Respect the referees.
- Remember the goal is to learn the game and have fun.
