COACH MANUAL
Coaches need to know guide to outdoor soccer
U8 Community
Contents
Section 1
EMSA North Information ......................................................................................................... 4
1.1
EMSA North Office & Hours .......................................................................................................... 4
1.2
Office Staff .................................................................................................................................... 4
1.3
Executive ....................................................................................................................................... 4
1.4
EMSA North Responsibilities......................................................................................................... 4
1.5
Board of Directors ......................................................................................................................... 5
1.6
Community Soccer Director Responsibilities ................................................................................ 5
1.7
Season Related Information ......................................................................................................... 5
1.8
Chain of Command........................................................................................................................ 6
1.9
EMSA North Contact with Coaches............................................................................................... 6
1.10
Contact Information for Opposing Teams .................................................................................... 6
Section 2
2.1
Coach Information .................................................................................................................... 6
Documents Required for Team official Registration..................................................................... 6
2.2 Documents Required for Team ........................................................................................................... 7
2.3
Coaching Courses / Training ......................................................................................................... 7
2.4
Dress Code for Coaching Staff....................................................................................................... 7
2.5
EMSA Soccer Portal ....................................................................................................................... 8
Section 3
Codes of Conducts .................................................................................................................... 8
3.1
Coach / Volunteer Responsibilities ............................................................................................... 8
3.2
Coaches’ Code ............................................................................................................................... 9
3.3
Players Code.................................................................................................................................. 9
3.4
Parent’s Code ................................................................................................................................ 9
Section 4
The Xtreme Program ............................................................................................................... 10
4.1
What is the Xtreme Program ...................................................................................................... 10
4.3
How do Player’s get on the Xtreme FC Team ............................................................................. 10
4.4
Trialists ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Section 5
Important Dates ................................................................................................................. 11
5.1
Season Play Dates ....................................................................................................................... 11
5.2
Automatic Rain-out Schedule ..................................................................................................... 11
5.3
Seasons Tentative Round Format ............................................................................................... 12
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5.4
Post Season Information ............................................................................................................. 13
5.4.1 Post Season Vs No Post Season ................................................................................................. 13
5.4.2
City Finals ............................................................................................................................ 13
5.4.3
Inter-Cities........................................................................................................................... 13
5.4.4
Provincials ........................................................................................................................... 14
5.5
Tournaments ............................................................................................................................... 14
5.5.1
Summer Sizzler .................................................................................................................... 14
5.5.2
EMSA North Fall Cup ........................................................................................................... 15
5.5.3
EMSA Tim Horton’s Jamboree ............................................................................................ 16
Section 6
Field Information..................................................................................................................... 16
6.1
Long Grass ................................................................................................................................... 16
6.2
Field Maintenance ...................................................................................................................... 16
6.3
Field Do’s and Don’t .................................................................................................................... 17
6.4
Team Practices ............................................................................................................................ 17
6.5
City of Edmonton Field Status Website ...................................................................................... 17
6.6
Closed Fields................................................................................................................................ 18
6.7
Open Fields ................................................................................................................................. 18
6.8
Poor Field Quality........................................................................................................................ 18
6.9
Lightening Policy (as outlined by the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA)) ................................ 19
6.10 Air Quality Health Index .................................................................................................................. 20
6.11
Field Lists ..................................................................................................................................... 21
6.12
Field Lining .................................................................................................................................. 21
6.13
Field Seating Arrangement ......................................................................................................... 22
Section 7
Game Day information ............................................................................................................ 23
7.1
Team Officials on the coaching bench ........................................................................................ 23
7.2
Late Arrival and Failure to No show ............................................................................................ 23
7.3
Notice of No show....................................................................................................................... 23
7.4
Concussion Management ........................................................................................................... 24
7.5
Fair Play ....................................................................................................................................... 25
7.6
Game Day Do’s & Don’ts ............................................................................................................. 26
Section 8
U8 Program ............................................................................................................................. 26
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8.1
Game Day Format ....................................................................................................................... 26
8.2
Equipment ................................................................................................................................... 26
8.2.1 Players ........................................................................................................................................ 26
8.2.2
8.3
Coach................................................................................................................................... 26
U8 Rules ...................................................................................................................................... 27
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Section 1
1.1
EMSA North Information
EMSA North Office & Hours
Office Location:
204, 9006-132 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5E 0Y2
Phone: 780-406-0798
Fax:
780-406-0825
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday 9am-4pm (Subject to Change)
1.2
Office Staff
Executive Director – Kylee Webster
Phone: 780-406-0798 X 1
Email: [email protected]
Accounting & Bookkeeping – Edina Hooper
Phone: 780-406-0798 X 2
Email: [email protected]
Volunteer Coordinator – Erika Lindsay
Phone: 780-406-0798 X 3
Email: [email protected]
Scheduling Coordinator – Carl Barton
Phone: 780-406-0798 X 4
Email: [email protected]
1.3
Executive
The EMSA North Executive and executive committee members represent EMSA North on a higher
level. The list of the EMSA Executive members, the executive committee and their role can be found
on the EMSA North website.
1.4
EMSA North Responsibilities
EMSA North’s job is to run the soccer program for all communities that declare teams in the North
Zone.
EMSA North does NOT put the teams together or take player registrations in the office, the
communities declare the teams. It is the responsibility of the communities to place teams together.
This is not a responsibility of EMSA North to facilitate.
EMSA North’s job is to ensure the safety of all of the children playing and run an organized
program for the entire zone.
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During the outdoor season EMSA North has approximately 400 teams to manage, which is why we
use a chain of command for questions or concerns which must be followed.
1.5
Board of Directors
EMSA North is run by a Board of Directors which is made up of a representative from every
community that runs a soccer program as listed on our website. Each community with a soccer
program holds one vote. Only the Board of Directors has the authority to make changes in the
program. A list of all Community Soccer Directors can be found on our website
EMSA North implements the program but the Board of Directors are the ones who pass the motions
that make up the rules. If you do not like something that is happening please contact your
Community League Soccer Director who has a voice to request a change. Soccer Directors are
directly involved with planning for the upcoming season. A planning session is held in January or
February for the outdoor season and in June or July for the indoor season. The soccer directors are
asked to provide suggestions or concerns approximately 2 months prior to the session, so please
provide any concerns or feedback to your soccer director.
1.6
Community Soccer Director Responsibilities
 Any matters arising within the current season your Community Director is your primary
contact. Please ensure you follow the proper chain of command.
 Registering children from the community and forming soccer teams with age appropriate
children
 Inputting all players into our soccer program for proper management
 Maintaining a current up-to-date database of all soccer players/coaches in our soccer
management program
 Declaring teams to EMSA North
To ensure the program’s integrity this should be the coaches’ first point of contact for any comments
or concerns.
1.7
Season Related Information
Communities hosting a U4 program schedule the games independently from EMSA North. EMSA
North runs the outdoor program for the U6-U12 age groups. EMSA Main runs the program for the
U14-U18 groups. It is our suggestion that you review the following websites in the order that is
shown in order to find the information you are looking for. If one website is silent on the issue –
please go to the next website for more information.
EMSA NORTH WEBSITE
(Edmonton North Zone Soccer Association)
www.emsanorth.com
↓
EMSA WEBSITE
(Edmonton Minor Soccer Association)
www.emsamain.com
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1.8
Chain of Command
In order to submit a complaint or a question the following chain of command must be followed. Should
one of these steps be missed, your enquiry or complaint will not be looked at.
Step 1
Have you waited the 24 hour cooling off period for any complaints?
EMSA North Discipline Committee will NOT review any complaint that is less than 24 hours after the
incident.
Step 2
Have you followed the proper chain of command on who you should contact?
Parent/Player
↓
Team Coach / Manager
↓
Community Soccer Director
↓
EMSA North Office – Discipline Committee
With few exceptions, the EMSA North discipline committee will only address complaints that come
from soccer directors.
1.9
EMSA North Contact with Coaches
All communications/correspondence from the EMSA North office will be sent out in email form. It is the
team’s officials and parent’s responsibility to ensure that they check their email regularly for
information sent from the EMSA North office. The email address that is provided in the EMSA Soccer
portal will be the email that the EMSA North office uses for contact.
1.10 Contact Information for Opposing Teams
EMSA North will NOT be releasing contact information for other teams in the pool. There should
be no need to contact the opposing team.
Coaches and Directors are NOT permitted to contact the opposing team to arrange a new play date
or reschedule the game.
Section 2 Coach Information
2.1
Documents Required for Team official Registration
EMSA North requires each team official (coach/assistant coach/manager) to complete the following
in order to be added onto the roster:
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Completed Team official registration on the EMSA Soccer Portal (must be completed each
season)
o Security clearance and third party authorization forms (valid for 3 years in most cases):
o These forms can be completed with your community soccer director or at the EMSA
North office from 9-4pm Monday – Friday. 2 Pieces of Government issued photo ID are
required one of which must be picture ID.
o Please note that in the event the EPS requires further information from you, you will be
contacted personally by EPS then it is your responsibility to provide this information for
EPS. Once this is completed EPS will send the results of your clearance direct to you and
it is your responsibility to submit to the to the EMSA North office. This must be done no
later than 4 weeks after the season start date in order to avoid removal from the roster
If you reside outside of the city of Edmonton, you must obtain your clearance at your local
RCMP center. You will need a signed letter from EMSA north stating the reason for the clearance
request. You can obtain this letter by contacting the volunteer coordinator at
[email protected] the results of this clearance must also be submitted to EMSA North
by yourself no later than 4 weeks after the season start date in order to remain on the roster.
2.2 Documents Required for Team
You will find your team information in the EMSA Soccer Portal under your team official role once you
have been cleared as per the information above as a team official.
The following form is also required to be submitted for your team if it applies, not later than May 12th:
 Withdrawal of Post Season Commitment Form (For U10 & U12 Teams only)
o If this form is not submitted to the EMSA North office and your team qualifies it is
expected that your team must attend post season play.
2.3
Coaching Courses / Training
A minimum of one (1) coach per team participating in the EMSA programs regardless of age, group, tier,
or gender must obtain at least one of the coach qualifications as follows;
1. Certification by ASA (ASA/NCCP Courses): The ASA Soccer for Life course is mandatory for any
community team U12 and up that may be eligible for tier 4 provincials. All teams must have at least one
coach that has taken the ASA course Soccer for Life. EMSA North is hosting a Soccer for Life course April
29th & 30th. Please visit our website for more information on how to register.
2. Certification by EMSA: EMSA Offers 2 levels of courses. EMSA Level 1 for U6-U10 coaches and EMSA
Level 2 for U12-U18 coaches. Please visit their website for more information at www.emsamain.com
2.4
Dress Code for Coaching Staff
It is expected that persons directly involved with youth in soccer in EMSA North including
coaches/assistant coaches/bench parents, etc. present an appropriate image to their players,
opposing teams and the general public. Clothing including, (but not limited to): tank tops/low cut
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t-shirts, short shorts, etc. do not belong on a soccer field/bench especially considering the age and
gender of those we coach.
Please ensure that all shirts/short/hats that are worn while coaching are suitable for the age group
you are coaching.
The discipline committee will step in should we find any coaching staff wearing inappropriate
clothing.
2.5
EMSA Soccer Portal
The EMSA Soccer Portal was developed as a database to allow parents to register and pay for
soccer, allow team officials to register online and allow administration staff to manage teams,
players and officials in a streamlined fashion using one database.
Players and coaches are activated by the EMSA North staff once all required paperwork is in place.
Activated players and coaching staff will appear on your team roster. If you do not have access to
your team roster or are missing a player or an official this could be related to missing documents or
an incomplete step in registration. If you note an omission please follow the chain of command and
contact your community league soccer director for more information.
What can you do/see in EMSA Soccer Portal?




See your player’s information
See your team’s roster
Set Scores (only for U10 & up)
Get your ASA Roster
Section 3 Codes of Conducts
3.1
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Coach / Volunteer Responsibilities
To remember that you are an ambassador for the Edmonton Minor Soccer Association
(EMSA), your Zone, and your Community, as such, carry oneself with respect, dignity and
pride.
To accept and work within all parameters set forth by the EMSA. To act in accordance with
the Aims and Objectives set forth by EMSA.
To demonstrate a commitment to a role chosen (coach, assistant coach, team manager, etc.).
To act in accordance with all EMSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations and Policies.
To carry out one’s duties and responsibilities in a manner exhibiting the utmost
professionalism, dignity and respect.
To respect and honor the EMSA Codes of Conduct.
To carry out one’s responsibilities efficiently, accurately and to the best of one’s ability.
To be accountable for the behavior of one’s team (if affiliated to one (1)) including all its
coaches, players and parents.
To be accountable for all team-related activities including the accurate completion and
timely submission of game sheets, the proper registration of players, the proper use of
trialist players and the meeting of all league imposed deadlines.
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3.2
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3.3
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3.4
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To respect the authority and dignity of ALL EMSA game officials including game referees,
board of directors, staff and other volunteers.
To comply with any mandates handed down, including all player / coach suspensions.
To treat all EMSA Board of Directors, staff, fellow volunteers / coaches, players and parents
with the utmost dignity and respect.
Coaches’ Code
Soccer is a game for happiness.
The laws of soccer should be regarded as mutual agreements, the spirit or letter of which no
one should try to avoid or break.
Visiting teams and spectators are honored guests.
No advantages except those of superior skill should be sought.
Official and opponents should be treated and regarded as honest in intention.
Official decisions should be accepted without looking angry no matter how unfair they may
seem.
Winning is desirable, but winning at any cost defeats the purpose of the game.
Losing can be a triumph when the team has given its best.
The ideal is the greatest good to the greatest number.
In soccer, as in life, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
EMSA Rules and Regulations – 2016 Outdoor and 2016-17 Indoor Page 50
Players Code
Play the game for the game's sake.
Be generous when you win.
Be gracious when you lose.
Be fair always, no matter what the cost.
Obey the Laws of the Game.
Work for the good of the team.
Accept the decisions of the Officials with good grace.
Believe in the honesty of your opponents.
Conduct yourself with honor and dignity.
Honestly and wholeheartedly applaud the efforts of your teammates and opponents.
Parent’s Code
Children have more need for example than criticisms.
Make athletic participation for your child and other a positive experience.
Attempt to relieve pressure of competition, not increase it. A child is easily affected by
outside influences.
Be kind to your child's coach and officials. The coach is a volunteer giving personal time and
money to provide a recreational activity for your child. The coach is providing a valuable
community service, often without regard other than the personal satisfaction of having
served their community.
The opponents are necessary friends. Without them your child could not participate
meaningfully. Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.
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Section 4 The Xtreme Program
4.1
What is the Xtreme Program
Xtreme FC is EMSA North’s Premiere/ Club Program. The program is geared toward players seeking
a greater degree of challenge with opportunities to take their skills to the "club level" from U8-U18.
4.3
How do Player’s get on the Xtreme FC Team
Xtreme FC holds open try-outs before each season where interested players can demonstrate their
skills. All community players are welcome. If you have a player who is looking for a more
competitive level of play please direct them to the Xtreme FC program.
4.4
Trialists
Players that have the skill and talent should be playing at a premiere level. Coaches scout
community teams throughout the season. You may be approached by an Xtreme FC coach asking if
certain players on your team would like to play as a trialist. Any player can be brought up to play a
maximum of five (5) games and games must be pre-approved by the lending coach each time a
trialist is borrowed
Players on loan to Xtreme FC return to their community teams stronger and with a better sense of
game IQ. It is an advantage to both the player and lending team to encourage players to accept the
challenge of playing as a trialist.
Xtreme FC is your North Zone club program; only coaches from Xtreme are permitted to discuss
playing as a trialist on a Premiere team.
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Section 5
5.1
Important Dates
Season Play Dates
SEASON START DATE
Season start date is set for May 1, 2017 however if the fields are open sooner we will start sooner.
Schedules will be released around April 27, 2017 – however this date may change.
TENTATIVE PLAY DATES
Age Group
U6
U8
U10
U12
Day 1
Tuesday
Monday
Monday
Tuesday
Day 2
Thursday
Wednesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Rain out Day
n/a
n/a
Sat/Sun
Sat/Sun
* Tentative dates: Please note that these playing days above are still tentative and are subject to change! You may play games on
Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Victoria Day as well.
SEASON LENGTH
Outdoor season runs from approximately May 1, 2016 to June 30, 2016.
*City-Finals are tentatively scheduled July 3-9th organized by EMSA.
* Inter-Cities are tentatively scheduled July 22-23rd by EMSA
*Provincials are tentatively scheduled July 21-23rd by ASA.
5.2
Automatic Rain-out Schedule
There will not be any reschedules for U6 & U8 games. U10 & U12 games will follow the automatic
reschedule procedure as follows below.
U10
Original Schedule
Day
Original Schedule
Tome
Automatic
Reschedule Date
Automatic
Reschedule Time
Location
Monday
6:00/6:15/6:30
Saturday
11:00am
Same Location
Monday
7:00/ 7:15/7:30
Saturday
12:30pm
Same Location
Wednesday
6:00/6:15/6:30
Sunday
11:00am
Same Location
Wednesday
7:00/7:15/7:30
Sunday
12:30am
Same Location
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U12
Original Schedule
Day
Original Schedule
Tome
Automatic
Reschedule Date
Automatic
Reschedule Time
Location
Tuesday
6:00/6:15/6:30
Saturday
11:00am
Same Location
Tuesday
7:00/ 7:15/7:30
Saturday
1:00pm
Same Location
Thursday
6:00/6:15/6:30
Sunday
11:00am
Same Location
Thursday
7:00/7:15/7:30
Sunday
1:00pm
Same Location
5.3
Seasons Tentative Round Format
EMSA North provides 14-16 games during the months of May to June however the total number of
games will depend on the weather, field status, the City of Edmonton and the number of teams
declared.
Some teams may get Exhibition games as part of their schedules due to an uneven number of teams in
the pools. All exhibition games MUST be treated as a normal game – including scoring and game sheets
(U10&U12)
U6 & U8 Teams will play one large round with the schedule set for the entire season, no advancement to
post season for these age groups although there may be the opportunity for a Jamboree wrap up.
The following is tentatively how the scheduling for U10 and U12 will look for the 2017 Outdoor Season:
Round 1:
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

Schedules released April 27, 2017
Plays from May 1st to May 26th
Consists of 7-8 games
Withdrawal from Post Season Commitment forms due May 12 (after 4 games played). All teams
are considered committed to attending all post season commitments unless this form is
completed and submitted by the deadline.
Round 2:

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
Schedules released by May 28th
Tentatively Plays from May 29th to May 14th
Consists of 4-5 games
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Round 3: Tournament of Champions
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Schedules released by June 17th
Tentatively Plays from June 19th-June 25th
Consists of 3-4 games
All concessions will be made to make games for this round during the week but depending on
rain outs and reschedules some games may fall on the weekend.
Seeding from the previous 2 rounds determines placement in this Tournament of Champions
Although this round determines which teams will be advancing to post season, all teams must
participate even if they submitted a withdrawal from post season.
Note: All information is tentative and could be impacted by weather, rain outs, reschedules and
number of teams in a group. Any deadlines for schedule release dates will be adhered to however if
the North Zone office is able to release schedules earlier it will be done.
5.4
Post Season Information
5.4.1 Post Season Vs No Post Season
On or before May 12, 2017 teams must decide if they are going to remain as a Post Season team or
withdraw from Post Season Activities. The following will need to be completed on or before that date
based on the decision you make:
a. Situation #1
i. Attending CITIES, INTER-CITIES and/ or PROVINCIALS
- do nothing
b. Situation #2
i. Not attending CITIES (which disqualifies you from Inter-Cities)
- submit Withdraw of Post Season and sign Confirmation Statement #1
c. Situation #1
i. Attending CITIES but not attending INTER-CITIES
- submit Withdraw of Post Season and sign Confirmation Statement #2
5.4.2 City Finals
Outdoor city finals competition will be held in Edmonton on July 3rd to 9th. Results from the Tournament
of champions will determine which U10 & U12 teams advance to city finals.
EMSA north is given a certain number of spots at City finals. This will be determined later on in the
season and will be posted on our website once confirmed.
5.4.3 Inter-Cities
Inter-Cities are held in Edmonton & Calgary and the results of the cities championship will determine
who advances in this competition. Inter-Cities is only open to U12 and older tier 5 & 6 Teams.
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For more information and to see how to qualify visit the EMSA main website.
5.4.4 Provincials
Provincials will be held within the Province of Alberta. This tournament is hosted by Alberta Soccer
association. Results of city finals will determine which tier IV team(s) advances to provincials. Provincials
are open to Tier 4 and older U12 community teams only.
5.5
Tournaments
5.5.1
Summer Sizzler
SUMMER SIZZLER 2017
June 9, 10 &11, 2017
REGISTRATION OPENS: enzsasummersizzler.com
March 1, 2017
EARLY BIRD DATE (NORTH ZONE TEAMS ONLY):
MAY 5, 2017
PAYMENT DUE DATE / REGISTRATION CLOSES:
May 19, 2017
SCHEDULING BEGINS:
May 19, 2017
SCHEDULES POSTED (TENTATIVE):
June 5, 2017
ENTRY FEE:
U8 - $110.00
U10 - $440.00*
U12 – U18 $490.00*
DISCOUNTS:
*A $25.00 early bird discount code is offered to EMSA North Teams only if you register your team before
May 6, 2016. This discount will only be applied if you enter in the coupon code online when registering
for the tournament. You are responsible to enter in the coupon code in order to receive the savings the
zone office does not have the means enter the discount after the fact if you fail to enter in the code.
Coupon Code: NORTHTEAM2016 (This code must be entered in in all caps) Here is an example of
how it will appear when you enter in the discount code:
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5.5.2
EMSA North Fall Cup
EMSA NORTH FALL CUP
September 11 to September 30, 2017
REGISTRATION OPENS: emsanorthfallcup.com
May 1, 2017
PAYMENT DUE DATE/REGISTRATION CLOSES:
August 31, 2017
SCHEDULING BEGINS:
August 31, 2017
SCHEDULES POSTED (TENTATIVE):
September 8, 2017
ENTRY FEE:
U10 - $500.00
U12 - $500.00
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5.5.3
EMSA Tim Horton’s Jamboree
Saturday, June 17th, 2017 (Rain Out Date is Sat. Jun 24)
Registration Opens
May 1, 2017
Registration Closes
June 2nd at 9am (space may fill up prior)
Open to:
U6 teams
Location:
EMSA WEST Complex, 10058 – 231 Street NW
Cost: $30.00
$30.00 per team (entries will not have a confirmed spot until payment has been made). Payment can be
made by cash, cheque or credit card.
Each team will have one 30 minute fun soccer game and at the end of their game each player will have
a season medal officially presented to them. There will be fun bouncers and face painting for the
players!
Section 6 Field Information
6.1
Long Grass
If you attend the field and the grass is very long – please feel free to put in a 311 call to the City of
Edmonton and ask them to mow it. You do not need to contact the office regarding this as we have no
influence with the City when it comes to mowing.
The City of Edmonton cuts grass on a rotating basis and can take weeks for them to return to a specific
field or area.
6.2
Field Maintenance
Many times you will get to a field and there are problems for example, a dangerous hole in the
ground, unstable nets, etc. We would ask that you please report this to the City as you will have
first-hand knowledge of the problem. Pictures are most helpful when dealing with them.
Please visit: www.edmonton.ca
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Go to FIELDS then FIELD MAINTENANCE
On the RIGHT hand sign you will see some online tools:
Please make a request for Sports Field Maintenance
6.3
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6.4
Field Do’s and Don’t
Pets at soccer games – As per the City of Edmonton bylaw, no pets of any kind are to be
allowed at fields or playgrounds so coaches need to ensure parents are reminded to leave
their pets at home. For more information visit the City of Edmonton link:
http://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/documents/PDF/Parks_For_Paws_Guide.
pdf
No smoking at the games/sidelines especially by the coaching staff.: City of Edmonton
Bylaw 14614
Sunflower seeds, if your parents are bringing these to snack on at the games please ask
them to bring a baggie for the shells being left behind. Not only are the shells creating a
huge mess but they are attracting birds which are snacking on them and then leaving their
own “mess” behind
All other snacks and drinks – please remind your families to clean up after
themselves. There have been many wrappers/napkins/juice boxes and general garbage
being left behind on the fields.
Please walk the field: If you are the first team on a field during the startup of the season take
a walk around in the field, especially near the goal area, looking for glass and other unsafe
objects on the field.
Team Practices
The City maintains a field availability webpage. Teams found practicing or playing on a
closed field could result in the team official being levied a $2,500.00 fine from the City of
Edmonton. Teams wanting to hold practices prior to the season opening should find a
suitable greenspace to play on.
6.5
City of Edmonton Field Status Website
The City of Edmonton determines every day at 4:00p (weekdays) and 10:00a (weekends) if the City
of Edmonton fields are playable. The City of Edmonton has the final determination on this.
Every coach/manager/assistant coach/parent MUST check the status of the City fields before each
and every game (if they weather has been bad) to determine if the fields are open or closed.
The status of the field can be checked at www.edmonton.ca or by phone at: 780.496.4999. You can
also subscribe to e-mail notifications with the City of Edmonton.
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City Website:
*Make sure you subscribe to both the Northeast and Northwest fields.
6.6
Closed Fields
If the City of Edmonton closes the fields or EMSA cancels the games, the game will be replayed for
U10 and U12 as per the Automatic Reschedule Process.
Also please note if the Zone Websites says Game’s Canceled for the night PLEASE DO NOT GO TO
YOUR GAMES. EMSA North has a group of 6 Directors that will determine if the games shall
continue that night or not due to severe weather or other factors affecting game play.
6.7
Open Fields
The EMSA North has created a Rainout Committee. If the City keeps the fields open, the Rainout
Committee has the authority to cancel the games if the weather is terrible. STEP 1 (a) is to check
the EMSA North website to see if the Committee has cancelled the games. This information will be
posted on the front page of our website by 4:30pm that day. You do not need to arrive at the field if
the committee has cancelled your game, please just follow the automatic rainout procedure.
6.8
Poor Field Quality
If the fields are open and the weather is unfavorable, coaches must still attend the field to
determine the status of the field condition. Please have the children stay in the vehicles while the
coaches determine whether it is safe or not to play.
PLEASE NOTE: Just because it is raining does NOT mean the game cannot go ahead.
Please remember that we do live in Edmonton and weather can change hourly and where you are
and where the field is – the weather can be completely different.
The following 2 situations would deem a field unplayable
 Large amounts of pooling water on field
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
30/30 lightening policy
If a Field is unplayable the following should occur
Step 1
Each team must attend the fame at the game time (Kick off) and have the minimum number of players
present
Step 2
If a Referee is present: The referee has the final say on the field as to whether or not the game goes
ahead.
If no referee is present: The coaches must mutually agree that the field is unplayable based on the 2
reasons listed about. The game should not begin and only then can it be abandoned.
Step 3
The home team must complete the game abandonment form online:
https://fs4.formsite.com/socceroffice/form58/index.html
The home team submits game sheets as per any regular game (for U10 & U12 Teams only)
The automatic rainout procedure would apply for the U10 & U12 teams
6.9
Lightening Policy (as outlined by the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA))
The safety of players, coaches, management and spectators is the primary concern in any weather
event that occurs during all matches. By understanding and following the information below, the
safety of everyone shall be greatly increased. Ultimately the referee has the final say over delaying
or restarting a match due to weather. Waiting to stop play or not waiting to start play may result in
a serious injury or loss of life. Referees are expected to act responsibly when dealing with such
events during matches they are controlling.
When lighting is detected, you can determine the distance of lightning in your area by counting the
number of seconds between the flash and the first sound of the thunder and dividing by five (5).
This will give you the distance in miles from your location. Remember, if you are in a higher
elevation, the lightning can come upon you much quicker and your reaction time is greatly
hindered.
30/30 Rule
When you see lightning, count the time until you hear thunder. If this time is thirty (30) seconds or
less, seek proper shelter. Wait thirty (30) minutes or more after hearing the last thunder before
leaving the shelter. If you cannot see the lightning, just hearing the thunder is a good back up rule.
Additional Information
Please note the following recommendations from Environment Canada:
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The existence of blue sky and absence of rain are not protection from lightning. Lightning can and
does strike as far as ten (10) miles away from the rain shaft. It does not have to be raining for
lightning to strike. Many lightning casualties occur in the beginning, as the storm approaches
because many people ignore initial precursors of high winds, some rainfall and cloud cover.
Generally the lightning threat diminishes with time after the last sound of thunder, but many
persist for more than thirty (30) minutes.
Lightning can strike ahead of the parent cloud – take action even if the thunderstorm is not
overhead.
Be aware of how close the lightning is occurring. The flash-to-bang method is the easiest and most
convenient way to estimate how far away lightning is occurring. Thunder always accompanies
lightning, even though its audible range can be diminished due to background noise in the
immediate environment and its distance from the observer.
Lightning awareness should be increased with the first flash of lightning or the first clap of thunder,
no matter how far away. This activity must be treated as a wake-up call to all. The most important
aspect to monitor is how far away the lightning is occurring, and how fast the storm is approaching,
relative to the distance of a safe shelter.
Recognize that personal observation of lightning may not be sufficient. Additional weather
information may be required to ensure consistency, accuracy and adequate advance warning.
6.10 Air Quality Health Index
An AQHI of 7 or higher will result in the EMSA north placing a message on the website advising
whether games will go ahead as planned or be rescheduled.
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6.11 Field Lists
The following is a list of fields that will be used this season and the applicable age groups they will
be used for.
U6
Belmont
Hairsine
Highlands Green Space
Overlander
Fraser green space A
Green Space Floden
Lago Lindo
St. Lucy
Dunluce
Elisnore
Klarevatten
Klarvatten Green Space
Caernarvon
Carlisle
Oxford Park
Greisbach
Lauderdale
Delton Green Space
Delwood
Cassleman
St. Dominic
John Barnett
York Green Space
Britnell Green Space
Horsehill Green
U8
U10
U12
Fraser
Floden Park
St Jerome
Belmont
Hairsine
Lago Lindo
St. Lucy
Dunluce
Elisnore
Klarevatten
Cearnarvon
Carlisle
Oxford Park
Greisbach
Lauderdale
Delwood
Casselman
St. Dominic
John Barnett
Fraser
Floden Park
St Lucy
St. Anne
Lago
Dunluce
Carlisle
Carlisle
Cumberland
Katherine Therrien
Lauderdale
Britnell Blvd
Kildare
St Vladamir
Overlanders Green
Space
Highlands Green Space
Green Space Floden
St. Lucy
St. Anne
Dunluce
Lago Lindo
Klarevatten
Klarvatten Green Space
Carlisle
Cumberland
Cumberland
Katherine Therrien
St Vladimir
Delton Green Space
Britnell Blvd
Kildare
York Green Space
Britnell Green Space
Horsehill Green Space
6.12 Field Lining
EMSA North has a crew that comes out to line the fields. We anticipate this happening 3 times per
season. It is quite costly to line the fields therefore the program sticks to the budgeted allotment of
lining fields 3 times per season. However with excessive rain or really dry weather conditions there
are times where the field lines may not last until the next scheduled lining date. We recommend
that you carry a bag of flour with you when you know conditions are not favorable for field lining,
this way you can mark areas such as the goal area or retreat line with flour.
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6.13 Field Seating Arrangement
The following should be followed by teams for field placement
The HOME TEAM chooses which side that they would like to be on
U6 &U8 teams will play on EMSA North lined U10 & U12 fields. This allows for the 2 U6 games to take
place on one field. Some communities have chosen to line green spaces for their teams. This decision
was made in order to assist with some confusion in the past on field size and location when these age
groups were using unlined green space.
Net Team A
Team A
Parents
seating
Team B
Parents
seating
Net Team B
Net Team C
Team C
Parents
seating
Team D
Parents
seating
Net Team D
For U10/U12 games the following format should be followed. Note: there may be some U12 games
hosting referees in training as assistant referees. Please leave space for the referee to run the touch line.
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Section 7 Game Day information
7.1
Team Officials on the coaching bench
In EMSA North league play up to 4 (four) team officials are allowed on the bench, one of which must
be the same gender as the team, and registered on the EMSA Soccer portal. This means that for
mixed teams there must be at least 1 male and 1 female registered team official.
It is mandatory for all teams to have at least one bench attendant or coaching staff member who is
the same gender as the team at game time.
7.2
Late Arrival and Failure to No show
A team will be provided with a 10 minute grace period for late arrivals or no shows. If after 10 minutes
the minimum amount of players to run the game is not present then the team will be considered a no
show and a default win will occur for the team ready to play. There will be no reschedules for Now
Shows. If both teams fail to show the game will go down as not played and will NOT be rescheduled.
Soccer Directors will be advised when a team fails to show to a scheduled league game.
Minimum Amount of Players Needed:
U6 – 4 players
U8 – 5 players
U10 – 6 players
U12 – 6 players
Process In the Event of a No Show
 The team that showed up must send in the game abandonment form online
https://fs4.formsite.com/socceroffice/form58/index.html
 For any U10 & U12 games the game sheet of the team that showed must be sent into the office
 For any U10 & U12 teams the team that showed up will be awarded a default win of 5-0
 Any teams that no show will be subject to a $100.00 no show fee.
A no show penalty will apply for any no shows to regular season, automatic reschedule and exhibition
games.
7.3
Notice of No show
In the event that your team is unable to make a game 48 hours notice must be provided to the EMSA
North office in order to avoid the $100.00 No show fee. However, even if you provide notice of the no
show the reason must meet certain criteria in order to qualify for a reschedule. If the reason for the No
show does not meet the criteria below then your game will still go down as a forfeit loss:



Soccer Tournament
Graduation
Final Exam
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Procedure:






7.4
The team requesting the reschedule request must contact emsa north via email at
[email protected] and advise the zone of the reason for the no show.
EMSA north will accept or deny the reschedule
If accepted the coach will be provided with the contact information of the opposing
team so that a suitable reschedule date can be determined
EMSA North must be provided with 1 weeks’ notice of the rescheduled date in order to
arrange a suitable field and / or referee
Once the game is rescheduled EMSA North will contact both affected teams with the
reschedule details
All reschedules MUST be completed before the end of the current round.
Concussion Management
Below is the easy to follow concussion protocol tool, please click HERE for more information from ASA
on concussion management.
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7.5
Fair Play
As coach it is critical to understand that you are role model to the children under your guidance. You
hear all the time this is “Community Soccer”. What does that truly mean? Community Soccer is meant as
a place where every child can play regardless of skill level, race, gender or religious beliefs. Typically the
commitment is two games a week and a possible practice for U6 and U8. For U10-U18 the expected
commitment is two games a week and one practice. The Club system caters to players and Coaches that
want more of a competitive atmosphere where winning is a primary focus. The skill level of the players
is higher and the time commitment is greater. Coaches are able to “select” their players at try-outs.
Community Soccer has its own element of competiveness to strive for. There is the Tournament of
Champions for the U10 and U12 teams, City Finals for teams in U10-U18, Tier 4-9 .There is Inter-cities
for most U12-U18 Tier 5-7 teams. There is Provincials for U12-18 Tier 4 teams. Club teams focus on
qualifying for Provincials and Nationals for the Tier 1, U15 and U17 teams. In some aspects community
soccer has a more competitive element than Club with the multitude of different opportunities for post
season play. It’s perfectly fine for community soccer to play with a goal of qualifying for post season
play; the question is when does competitiveness cross the line to become unacceptable in reaching for
this goal.
Within EMSA North there is a disturbing trend emerging that community coaches are playing to win,
regardless of cost. Sadly this is done at the expense of lesser skilled players as coaches are trending to
play more strongly skilled players without consideration to fair or equal play. As these players age,
weaker players are seeing less and less playing time and cannot develop their skills. The number of
parent complaints received by EMSA North is increasing each season resulting in upset parents who are
demanding refunds from their communities and players are leaving soccer, demoralized because they
are not getting the opportunity to play. This tactic of playing your best players at the expense of weaker
players does not make you a good coach; it just means you know who your best players are. The best
coaches recognize the need to develop, encourage, promote and play all players, regardless of skill level,
so they can all contribute to the team’s success. The very best coaches know and understand the role of
community soccer and encourage fun and enjoyment over a win at all costs attitude.
As you are gearing up to the start of you season please try and keep these points in mind on how you
can promote Fair Play while attempting to achieve team success:
As the coach you have the right to explain the rules and expectations of your team. Before the start of
the season clarify with the players and their parents exactly what is expected of them and also what
they are entitled to expect from their coach. Explain possible consequence if expectations are not met
i.e. benching, reduced playing time, dismissal from the team.



I will give all players equal playing time and equal opportunity to play in all positions on the
field.
I will ensure that all players receive equal instructions and support.
I will remember that players respond to a coach they can respect. Be generous in praise and
lead by example.
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




7.6
I will obtain knowledge of the game and the rules of the game according EMSA and ASA.
I will teach my players all aspects of Fair Play; to play fairly, to respect the rules, referees, our
opponents and spectators.
I will ensure that my team, their parents, and fans understand that the team may be penalized
for their inappropriate behaviour.
I will teach my players that it is not did we win or lose but how we conduct ourselves as a team.
I will work in cooperation with the referees for the benefit of the game.
Game Day Do’s & Don’ts
1. Home team gets a choice of which side their want their team and fans on.
2. Coaches please remind your families that they are not to be sitting behind the net for any
games. Parents are to be on the sidelines.
Section 8 U8 Program
8.1
Game Day Format
Age
Halves
Format
Ball Size
Minimum # of
Players
Maximum # of
Players
U8
25 X 1
5V5
3
5
10
The program will have a 25 practice followed by a 25 minute game split with a 10 minute break for
snack. This allows further development for the players which are normally not received at this age
group. We recommend having the parents share the task of bringing a snack each game for the group
8.2
Equipment
8.2.1 Players
1. Cleats are allowed for children at the U8 age group
2. SHIN PADS ARE MANDATORY and socks must cover shin pads
3. No player wearing a splint or cast will be permitted to play. Those players who wear a knee or
ankle brace will be permitted to play provided the brace does not have the potential to injure
others. This will be at the discretion of both coaches in seeing fit if it is dangerous or not.
8.2.2
Nets
Coach
A decision was made by the EMSA North Board of Directors to have all U8 teams in EMSA North
play with bow nets. Each team should be provided with one (1) bow net and must be brought to
each game. All teams have to play with Bownets.
Home Team is responsible for supplying/doing:
 Game Ball
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



Corner flags
Cones to mark the field
Net (as noted above)
Change of jersey (if colors conflict) – Pinnies are acceptable.
Away Team is responsible for supplying:
 Cones to mark the field if not marked
 Net (as noted above)
8.3
U8 Rules
Number of Players/Substitution
The game is played with 5 players on the field; substitutions can be made on the fly or every 3 or
4mins shifts and then change. The decision to move from 4 V 4 is an EMSA North decision made so
that players are not sitting on the side lines as long and thus receive more touches to the ball. We
also feel this is a natural progression from U6 at 4V4 all the way to U10 at 7V7
Off-Sides
There are no off-sides at the Under 8 level of soccer.
Goal Area
A line is made 8 yards from goal-line and 6 yards either side of center of field to make an area for
the sweeper-keeper to use his or her hands in only.
Goal Kick
When a player on the attacking side of the ball is the last person to touch the ball over the opposing
team’s goal line and not between the goal posts, then a goal kick is awarded. The ball is placed
anywhere inside the area for a restart.
Corner
When a player on the defensive side of the ball is the last person to touch the ball over their own
goal line and not between the goal posts, a corner kick is awarded to the attacking team.
Throw-ins
When a player touches the ball beyond the sidelines a throw-in is awarded to the opposing team.
Scoring
Scoring is from anywhere on the field, but cannot be scored directly from a kick-off, goal-kick, freekick or throwing.
Fouls
All fouls are IN-DIRECT; this means the ball must be first passed to another player before a goal can
be scored. Most fouls are not intentional, but rather due to lack of understanding or coordination.
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Sweeper/ keeper
Sweeper-Keeper is the last player in defense who will be allowed to use his or her hands in the goal
are only. Any player can use their hands in the crease and does not need to be designated as a
Sweeper/keeper.
Coaches, Parents
Any of the above can referee or run the game.
* NO REFEREES WILL BE SUPPLIED
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