A Word on Playing
From a general perspective, U6-U11 programs are not about winning; it’s about providing opportunities for children to develop as soccer players while having fun in balanced, fair competition. Our programs focus on teaching solid skills as our players progress through the age divisions, all the while engaging them with the essence of soccer — FUN.
Fair Competition
That said, it’s natural for players at all ages to want to compete. The role of coaches and coordinators in this regard is to manage the competition so that it’s balanced and fair. After a game, players from all teams should feel that they were given a fair chance to participate, and that their team had a fair chance of winning, whether they did or not.
Lopsided Results
Occasionally, games in U6-U11 may still produce lopsided results, depending on player illnesses or absences, despite early season efforts to balance teams. Whatever the reason and whatever the outcome, coaches and parents are always encouraged to use “wins” and “losses” as opportunities to teach their players about the larger aspects of sportsmanship, character and perseverance in sport. Whatever happens, soccer is still just a game — there will always be more games, and games are meant to be FUN.
Parent & Coach Comments
As coaches and parents, the verbal and non-verbal messages we give our players can have a profound effect on how they feel about themselves, and subsequently, how effectively they develop in soccer and sport in general. Kitimat Youth Soccer Association asks coaches and parents to carefully consider their speech and conduct at all times around their young players. Keep it positive, keep it upbeat, and your children will not only participate in soccer and sport longer, they may even win some medals and trophies one day in the future! Fun can be a driver for achievement — just ask any Brazilian soccer player.
EQUIPMENT
Basic Equipment
- Protective shin pads, covered by knee-length soccer socks
- Soccer shorts
- A KYSA soccer jersey is provided for games, any athletic shirt or t-shirt is good for training.
- Soccer boots/cleats.
Important Notes (this is in our mission statement)
o Players must wear shin guards and soccer shoes in all games – NO EXCEPTIONS. Do not put referees in the position of not allowing your child to play because they are not outfitted properly.
o Team jerseys are provided by the generous sponsorships of local businesses. Be sure your child has his/her team jersey at every game.
o Players are NOT allowed to alter their team jersey in any way. This means rolling up the sleeves and tying the shirt in the back.
o Any jersey belonging to KYSA not returned at the end of the season will incur a $50 charge payable by the parent/guardian on the player.