GYSA TRAVEL POLICY HANDBOOKApproved by the Board of Directors on April 11, 2016
P.O. Box 526, Gorham, Maine 04038 or [email protected]
Website address: www.gorhamyouthsoccer.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE
PAGE NO.
ABSENTEEISM, ETC. ...................................................................................................... 1
ANTI-DISCRIMINATORY POLICIES ............................................................................ 1
Equal Employment Opportunity ..................................................................................... 1
Harassment Policy .......................................................................................................... 1
Sexual Harassment .......................................................................................................... 2
Discriminatory Harassment ............................................................................................ 2
COCAHING ....................................................................................................................... 3
Head Coach Selection Process ........................................................................................ 3
Assistant Coach Selection Process.................................................................................. 3
Coach Licensing & Certification .................................................................................... 3
Coach Disciplinary Actions & Procedures ..................................................................... 4
Red/Yellow Card Actions ............................................................................................... 4
Fall Player Evaluations ................................................................................................... 4
CODES OF CONDUCT ..................................................................................................... 5
Code of Ethics for Coaches............................................................................................. 5
Players ............................................................................................................................. 6
Parents ............................................................................................................................. 6
Coaches ........................................................................................................................... 6
EQUIPMENT AND UNIFORMS ...................................................................................... 7
Uniforms ......................................................................................................................... 7
Players’ Equipment ......................................................................................................... 7
Other Equipment ............................................................................................................. 7
FUNDRAISING ................................................................................................................. 7
MISCONDUCT POLICY ................................................................................................... 8
At GYSA Sponsored Events ........................................................................................... 8
Actions That May Be Taken by GYSA .......................................................................... 8
Other Penalties or Sanctions by Other Authorities ......................................................... 9
PLAYER ELIGIBILITY .................................................................................................... 9
Age Requirements ........................................................................................................... 9
Residency & Boundary Requirements ............................................................................ 9
Residency Waivers........................................................................................................ 10
Double-Rostering .......................................................................................................... 10
Other Exceptions ........................................................................................................... 10
PLAYER SELECTIONS – TRYOUT PROCESS ........................................................... 10
Dates for Tryouts .......................................................................................................... 10
Player Evaluation Guidelines ........................................................................................ 10
Players Missing Tryouts ............................................................................................... 11
Team Formation ............................................................................................................ 12
Player Age Group Movement ....................................................................................... 13
POLICIES ......................................................................................................................... 14
Alcohol Policy .............................................................................................................. 14
Drug Policy ................................................................................................................... 14
Smoking Policy ............................................................................................................. 15
RAINOUTS AND CANCELLATIONS........................................................................... 15
REFEREES ....................................................................................................................... 15
How Referees are Assigned .......................................................................................... 15
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE
PAGE NO.
Payment of Referees ..................................................................................................... 16
PREMIER SOCCER OPPORTUNITIES ......................................................................... 16
SCHEDULING OF GAMES ............................................................................................ 16
General Information ...................................................................................................... 16
Ground Rules ................................................................................................................ 17
TEAM FEES AND REGISTRATION ............................................................................. 17
Fees ............................................................................................................................... 17
Refunds ......................................................................................................................... 17
Registration ................................................................................................................... 17
TEAM SIZES.................................................................................................................... 18
Training Players ............................................................................................................ 18
TOURNAMENTS ............................................................................................................ 18
CHANGES TO GYSA POLICIES ................................................................................... 19
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A – SOCCER MAINE ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICY
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ABSENTEEISM, ETC.
It is the expectation and policy of the Gorham Youth Soccer Association (GYSA) that all
players (both rostered and training) will attend all practices and games. Playing travel
soccer involves a heavy time and physical commitment for the players and their parents
and everyone needs to know in advance what is expected. Other than school related
functions or serious family issues, players are expected to be on the field with the rest of
their team and they are expected to be on time. If that doesn’t happen, players can expect
some sort of penalty in the form of reduced playing time (potentially including sitting out
an entire game) or “homework” or “extra work” from the coach.
GYSA will provide great latitude to its coaches regarding their coaching style and how
they handle their individual team. However, GYSA expects that each coach will
establish and communicate a policy for his/her team before the first practice that clearly
outlines his/her expectations and the penalties for noncompliance. Above all, GYSA will
then expect that the coach consistently and equitably follow their policy. The Board of
GYSA reserves the right to review individual team policies.
The reason for this requirement is threefold:
1) This is a competitive soccer program with a high level of commitment, training, and
game play. The Town of Gorham offers an exceptional recreational program for
those who do not want the extra commitment.
2) It isn’t fair to your teammates if you are not there or even worse, if the coach doesn’t
consistently follow a policy; and, most importantly
3) We will not cheat players who may have been cut who would have made the
commitment and greatly appreciated the opportunity to play for and be part of the
travel team.
ANTI-DISCRIMINATORY POLICIES
Equal Employment Opportunity
The GYSA is committed to equal employment opportunity and employs all qualified
persons without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, handicap, or any
other classification protected by the federal, state or local laws. This statement applies
whether compensated financially or not. If you feel you have not been treated in
accordance with this policy, you should contact the President, Gorham Youth Soccer
Association, P.O. Box 526, Gorham, ME 04038. The Association assures all employees
that no individual filing a complaint will be discriminated against as a result of their
complaint.
HARASSMENT POLICY
It is the responsibility of the GYSA to ensure an employee/volunteer’s right to a work
environment (whether compensated financially or not) free of all forms of discriminatory
harassment. Harassment of employees/volunteers on the basis of their sex, race, color of
skin, age, disability, national origin, religion, or creed is a violation of both state and
federal civil rights laws. Therefore, GYSA hereby affirms its interest in maintaining an
environment free of discriminatory harassment.
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SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment is a violation of Section 703 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of
1964, as amended. It is defined as: “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.” Sexual harassment is
illegal when submission to, or rejection of, such conduct is used as a term or condition of
employment/participation, or is used as a basis for employment/participation decisions.
Conduct that has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an employee’s
work performance in creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment is
also illegal.
Examples of sexual harassment include:
1. Requesting or offering sexual favors in return for job or other benefits;
2. Repeated acts of cornering, patting, pinching, or brushing up against a person’s body
that is sexual in nature;
3. Open speculation or repeated inquiries about a person’s sex life;
4. Jokes, remarks, or innuendos that are sexual in nature about a person or women and
men in general; or
5. Displaying of sexually explicit material in the workplace or at GYSA sponsored
activities.
DISCRIMINATORY HARASSMENT
Examples of discriminatory harassment include:
The following are examples of discriminatory harassment when the conduct regards
certain classes of employees and volunteers on the basis of their race, color, age, sex,
disability, national origin, religion or creed:
1. Abusing the dignity of an employee or volunteer through insulting or degrading
remarks or conduct;
2. Threats, demands or suggestions that an employee’s work status is contingent upon
the employee’s toleration of such behavior;
3. Subjecting an employee/volunteer to demeaning and/or degrading activities in order
to gain coworker/volunteer acceptance, e.g., hazing; or
4. Disciplining or terminating an employee/volunteer because of worker/volunteer
incompatibility that is caused by prohibited discrimination, e.g., prejudiced or biased
behavior.
If you feel you have been harassed, it should be reported to the President, Gorham Youth
Soccer Association, P.O. Box 526, Gorham, ME 04038.
GYSA assures all employees and volunteers that complaints will be handled as
confidentially as possible, and that no employee or volunteer will be retaliated against for
filing a complaint. It is the Board of Directors’ responsibility to make a reasonable effort
to prevent all forms of discriminatory harassment from occurring and to take immediate
and appropriate corrective action when harassment is brought to their attention. GYSA
affirms the rights, in accordance with this policy to discipline any administrator,
supervisor, employee, volunteer, or director who engages in harassment, and to discipline
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any administrator, supervisor, or director who fails to act on employee/volunteer
complaints or on personal observations of harassment.
COCAHING
HEAD COACH SELECTION PROCESS
1) In winter of each year, the Coaching Director will start the process of soliciting for
interested coaches for the following fall season. A notice will be published on the
GYSA website and all coaches and assistants from the prior year will be notified to
express their intent no later than a set deadline.
2) The Coaching Director will enlist at least one other Board member and review the list
of potential candidates and determine whether a formal interview process will be
needed. This determination will be based on the number of applicants, their
qualifications, experience with youth sports and their experience with GYSA.
Typically, interviews will take place if there are multiple applicants for a given agelevel position, the candidates are unknown, or there are other mitigating
circumstances. If any candidates in a given age group are interviewed, all candidates
in that age group will be interviewed. If a determination is made to have interviews,
the Coaching Director will establish a committee of Board members and schedule
interviews.
3) At a spring Board meeting, the Coaching Director will present the slate of candidates
to the Board with recommendations. The Board will vote on the coaches to be named
and the selected coaches will be notified by late winter or early spring.
4) After selection, all coaches will complete the Risk Management form online, agree to
subjection to a background check, and sign the GYSA Coaches’ Code of Conduct
prior to any involvement with any team or player.
5) Coaches selected will fully understand that they will be required to meet mandatory
licensing requirements prior to the beginning of the season (1st practice), unless
mitigating circumstances prevail.
ASSISTANT COACH SELECTION PROCESS
1. Assistant Coaches are selected by the head coach and approved by the Coaching
Director.
2. After approval, all assistant coaches must complete the Risk Management Form,
agree to subjection to a background check, and sign the GYSA Coaches’ Code of
Conduct prior to any involvement with any team or player.
COACH LICENSING & CERTIFICATION
1. All head travel coaches are required to take the Youth Module from Soccer Maine to
coach at any level. It is highly recommended that they take the U.S. Soccer
Federation (USSF) “E” license certification also.
2. All head travel coaches U11 or higher (in co-coach situations, the head coach for
Soccer Maine purposes must be licensed) must take a licensing course from Soccer
Maine and be certified at the “E” license level or higher. It is highly recommended
that coaches pursue higher levels beyond the “E” level.
3. It is highly recommended, but not mandatory, that assistant coaches be licensed.
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4. Any course costs associated with required coach licensing will be reimbursed by
GYSA.
COACH DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS & PROCEDURES
1. Coaches are bound by the GYSA Coaches’ Code of Conduct and any other policies or
regulations of GYSA. It is important to remember that no one has a right to coach. It
is a privilege. All coaches are required to have their signatures on file annually
indicating a copy of and agreement to adhere to the Coaches Code of Conduct.
Coaches acknowledge their responsibility in discussing this with their
children/players and parents annually.
2. In cases of misconduct, coaches will fall under the same rules as any Board member
or other volunteer. Please see section on Misconduct Policy.
RED/YELLOW CARD ACTIONS
Coaches are required to notify the Coaching Director or President whenever a card is
issued to a player or themselves as well as any other actions by game or tournament
officials toward players, coaches, or parents. This must be done within 24 hours of the
occurrence. If the Coaching Director or President determines that additional discipline
may be required, the Coaching Director or President will convene a meeting of an ad hoc
GYSA Board Disciplinary Committee to consider any additional sanctions. The
Disciplinary Committee will be appointed by the President or Coaching Director and
must include at least one non-coach board member. The Disciplinary Committee
meeting shall take place within one week. All decisions made by the committee are final.
Minimum sanctions:
The following minimum sanctions will be imposed should a coach or player receive a red
or yellow card: A red card will result in a mandatory suspension from the next officially
scheduled and sanctioned match. Two yellow cards that result in suspension from a
game will result in the same penalty as a red card.
FALL PLAYER EVALUATIONS
It is recommended that each GYSA Travel Soccer Coach complete a player evaluation
form by October 30th of the Fall season (see below). The completed forms will be
provided to the player and/or the player’s parent(s). It is extremely important that
coaches complete these forms, as those who neglect to complete the player evaluation
may not be chosen as head coach in the following season. The coach will evaluate the
players based on his/her experience during the last season. Each coach will be evaluating
his/her team only.
Criteria as follows:
Technical: First touch Passing, Dribbling, Defending
Tactical: Decision-making, Awareness, Communications, Positional sense
Psychological: Concentration, Attitude, Composure, Desire, Attendance
Physical: Strength, Speed, Stamina, Aggressiveness
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CODES OF CONDUCT
The GYSA exists for the express purpose of providing an opportunity for the youth of
Gorham to experience a high quality program of competitive soccer. Soccer, and all
other sports in which children become involved, enable our youth to experience many
important lessons which will help form their adult lives. The adults involved, whether as
spectators or coaches, have a critical role in assuring that these experiences for our youth
are positive and appropriate. To this end, the GYSA believes that the following standards
of behavior for players, parents, and coaches are essential to our goals.
CODE OF ETHICS FOR COACHES
Coaching a team of young athletes for a Soccer Maine affiliated travel program is a high
privilege that carries with it great responsibility. A coach should always demonstrate the
highest ethical character and should serve as a role model for the players on his or her
team. A coach must always remember the influence that he or she has over young
athletes. The game is for the players. If at any time Soccer Maine or the GYSA Board of
Directors shall determine that a coach has failed to fulfill these expectations and
standards, that shall be cause to discipline, suspend, or remove the coach.
Soccer is the players' game. The paramount concern of coaches is the holistic
development, welfare, enjoyment and safety of their players. A coach should never place
winning above character or good treatment of athletes. While striving to win, a coach
should deal honestly and fairly with players with regard to team selection and playing
time, while remaining free to make decisions based on the best interests of the team as a
whole. Coaches bear responsibility for teaching their players to strive for success while
playing fairly with the highest levels of sportsmanship, observing the laws and the spirit
of the game. Coaches shall treat officials with respect and dignity, and shall teach their
players to do the same. Our opponents are worthy of being treated with respect. Coaches
will model such respect for opponents and expect their players to do likewise. In both
victory and defeat, the behavior of a coach shall model grace, dignity and composure.
Coaches shall adhere to the highest standards and the regulations of the institutions they
represent: GYSA, Soccer Maine, U.S. Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), and USSF.
The position of head coach assumes knowledge of the rules of the game, of registration
and rostering requirements, of tournament rules and other requirements of Soccer Maine
and affiliated travel programs and organizations. The coach is responsible for
compliance with all rules. Coaches shall model inclusive behavior, actively supporting
cultural diversity while opposing all types of discrimination, including, but not limited to,
racism and sexism, at all levels of soccer. Coaches should take a role in educating their
players about sports nutrition and fitness and about prevention of drug, alcohol, and
tobacco abuse. The coach should avoid the use of alcohol or tobacco products when in
contact with players or at other times while in official capacity as coach. Coaches shall
refrain from all manner of personal abuse and harassment of others, whether verbal,
physical, emotional or sexual, and shall oppose such abuse and harassment at all levels of
soccer. Coaches shall respect the declared affiliations of all players, and shall adhere to
all guidelines and regulations on recruiting established by GYSA, leagues and Soccer
Maine. Coaches shall seek to honor those who uphold the highest standards and
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principles of soccer and shall use appropriate protocol to oppose and eliminate all
behavior that brings disrepute to the sport - violence, abuse, dishonesty, disrespect and
violations of the laws of the game and rules governing competition.
PLAYERS
GYSA will not tolerate behavior that brings the association, team, or game into disrepute.
To this end, players must abide by the following minimum standards at all times:
1. Be respectful towards teammates, opponents, coaches, referees and the
playing/practice field. Conduct yourself with honor, dignity, and self-control.
2. Play the game for the fun of the game, the challenge, and the chance to show your
best. Be gracious when you lose and generous when you win.
3. Accept decisions of coaches and referees with class and dignity. Believe in their
judgment and honesty.
Players who do not abide by these expectations will be disciplined by game officials,
their coach, and in extreme situations, the Board of Directors. See the Misconduct
Policy for additional information.
PARENTS
GYSA will not tolerate behavior that brings the association, team, or game into disrepute.
GYSA believes that the attitude shown by parents toward the coach, the referees, the
opposing players and the importance of winning vs. losing are of paramount importance.
Inappropriate comments or actions by adults bent on short-term success rather than the
long range benefits undermines the essence of competition and introduces stresses which
are inappropriate for children:
1. Encourage your player by word and example. The athlete is counting on you as their
primary teacher, in soccer and in life!
2. Accept the decisions of referees and coaches with style and dignity. Never criticize a
referee’s integrity, honesty or judgment. They are there to do an honest job which
few others are willing to undertake.
3. Applaud good play by all players. Opponents are friends for without them your child
could not play.
4. Avoid “coaching from the sidelines”. Game strategy, players’ roles within that
strategy and providing player feedback is the sole per view of the coaching staff.
Parents who provide this type of direction from the sideline will confuse players and
may counteract the efforts of the coaching staff. Parents with questions or concerns
about the above should seek out the coach at an appropriate time with questions,
concerns or ideas.
Parents who do not abide by these expectations may be required to leave the field by the
referee, the coach, or any board member of GYSA. See the Misconduct Policy for
additional information.
COACHES
GYSA will not tolerate behavior that brings the association, team, or game into disrepute.
GYSA has high standards for the conduct of its coaches. They must be the standard
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bearers of good sportsmanship, conduct and ethical behavior at all times. The association
believes that the coach must set and maintain an example for all players and spectators to
follow:
1) The spirit of the game and its laws are non-negotiable. Coaches need to work hard to
create success for the development of players and the team by following the rules and
their intent.
2) Respect towards game officials, opponents, and players is absolutely required.
Coaches must expect to be treated with respect, honor, and dignity and must
demonstrate the same at all times.
3) The conduct of the players is a reflection of the coach. The coach is expected to
uphold high standards of sportsmanship for all players at all times and remember that
the reputation of the organization and town is formed by the behavior of all its
representatives.
Coaches who fail to abide by these expectations will face disciplinary action by game
officials and the Board of Directors. See the Misconduct Policy for additional
information.
EQUIPMENT AND UNIFORMS
UNIFORMS
Each player is required to purchase the official GYSA Uniform. These uniforms will be
owned by the player and do not need to be returned. Additional equipment such as
jackets and backpacks will be available for sale through the club by contacting the
uniform coordinator. There are no refunds for uniform, jacket, backpack or other
clothing purchases.
PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT
Each player is required to bring his or her own soccer ball, shin guards, soccer cleats and
a water bottle to every practice and game. Players who fail to bring and wear the
required equipment would be prohibited from playing or practicing.
OTHER EQUIPMENT
 Each team will receive game balls, pinnies, cones and a first aid kit as needed at the
start of the season. Coaches are responsible for this equipment. At the end of the
season the equipment should be turned into the Coaching Director for inventory.
Some coaches, if planning on coaching the next year, do at times keep the equipment
until the following season. This equipment still should be included in the inventory
so coaches please contact the Coaching Director at the end of season.
 Budget permitting and subject to Board approval, each coach and assistant coach will
receive a coach’s jersey/shirt to keep.
FUNDRAISING
GYSA conducts at least one club fundraising event annually, and all players and parents
are expected to participate. Fundraising is an important component for the Association as
proceeds raised are used to fund the program costs of the club, including, but not limited
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to, the cost of outdoor field maintenance, referees, club trainer, player training, indoor
field time, administrative expenses, and other expenses approved by the GYSA Board of
Directors.
Teams can do fundraising separately from the GYSA club events. However, all requests
for fundraising must be approved by the Board prior to the event. Additionally, all
monetary transactions must flow through the GYSA Treasurer.
MISCONDUCT POLICY
AT GYSA SPONSORED EVENTS
Unsporting like behavior by a coach or player while participating in a match will be dealt
with by the participating referee crew. Unsporting like behavior by parents and others
may also be dealt with by the participating referee crew or by club or league officials.
Any unsporting like conduct by those not directly participating in the match such as a
coach, referee, player, administrator, parent, spectator, or others in attendance at a GYSA
sponsored event or other youth soccer event is strictly forbidden. Unsporting like
conduct includes but is not limited to physically or verbally fighting, arguing, use of
derogatory remarks, or the use of foul language directed at a referee, player, coach,
parent, another spectator, or game/tournament officials.
Any act of unsporting like conduct, as determined by the GYSA Board, a Soccer Maine
official or officials from an opposing club, by any person on or near the field of play shall
be reported to the game/tournament officials. The game/tournament officials will, if the
misconduct is verified, ask the party(ies) to leave the complex for the remainder of the
game/tournament. If the party(ies) refuse to leave the premises, the game/tournament
officials shall summon the civil authorities for assistance. Coaches are responsible for
the conduct of team supporters and are expected to assist the referee and
game/tournament officials in his/her efforts to control the sidelines. GYSA is ultimately
responsible for all their members including spectators and are expected to act promptly to
ensure that a positive standard of conduct and ethical behavior are enforced. This policy
does not supersede any Soccer Maine, USYSA or USSF bylaw, rule or regulation
pertaining to misconduct. The USSF now has adopted a “ZERO TOLERANCE” policy
relating to conduct which is included in this handbook (see Appendix A). Additionally,
the Soccer Maine/USSF policy for handling grievances, disputes, and appeals of actions
taken by USSF officials or Soccer Maine is also included in this handbook.
ACTIONS THAT MAY BE TAKEN BY GYSA
1. In all cases, misconduct will be reported to the GYSA Board of Directors and they
will in turn take action of some sort.
2. Any instances of misconduct will be dealt with by the GYSA Board of Directors.
Upon receiving a complaint, an ad hoc Board Disciplinary Committee appointed by
the President or Coaching Director will conduct an investigation of the proposed
misconduct. Upon completion of the investigation, the committee will present its
findings to the full Board. The Board will review the results of the investigation and
make a decision on the appropriate action that should be taken.
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3. If the complaint of misconduct is found to be valid, the Board may impose
disciplinary action. Depending on the seriousness of the offense, the discipline may
be as minor as a verbal reprimand or as serious as removal of the player or coach
from the program, which may include a ban of participation at any league-sponsored
event either home or away. Parents and other spectators may be banned from
attending any GYSA or Soccer Maine sanctioned activity. Consideration will be
given for previous offenses, history with GYSA and youth sports, and other
mitigating or compensating factors.
4. The Board may also seek advice of counsel if deemed necessary.
5. In cases where criminal activity may be implicated, law enforcement may also be
notified.
6. The decision of the Board is final and not subject to appeal.
OTHER PENALTIES OR SANCTIONS BY OTHER AUTHORITIES
In addition to any penalties initiated by GYSA, depending on the type of misconduct,
actions may also be taken by civil authorities or by Soccer Maine or the USSF.
PLAYER ELIGIBILITY
AGE REQUIREMENTS
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Players must be 13 and not turn 14 before August 1st of the given year to try out for a
U14 team;
Players must be 12 and not turn 13 before August 1st of the given year to try out for a
U13 team;
Players must be 11 and not turn 12 before August 1st of the given year to try out for a
U12 team;
Players must be 10 and not turn 11 before August 1st of the given year to try out for a
U11 team;
Players must be 9 and not turn 10 before August 1st of the given year to try out for a
U10 team; and
Players must be 8 and not turn 9 before August 1st of the given year to try out for a
U9 team. Additionally, players born after August 1 who are entering the third grade
in the Fall are also eligible to play for U9 teams.
Players who do not meet the July 31 birthday deadline and who have historically “played
up” with their grade-based peers will be allowed to do so throughout their GYSA careers.
RESIDENCY & BOUNDARY REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible to play on any GYSA team, a player must reside within the established
geographic boundaries established by GYSA annually and reported to Soccer Maine. For
the purpose of defining residency, the player must prove that either of their parents (or
legal guardians) reside in the Town of Gorham and that they reside with that parent or
guardian at least 50% of the time. Because a player goes to Gorham schools (public or
private) does not make the player eligible to play for GYSA. Residency is the key factor
in determining eligibility.
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RESIDENCY WAIVERS
Per Soccer Maine eligibility rules, a player whose residence is in another community may
only be waivered to play in (or a Gorham player to play for another community) if:
a) The town in which such player resides does not have a travel soccer club to join.
b) The town in which such player resides does have a travel soccer club, but such club
does not offer a team for such player’s age group or, for U11 and up, within one year
of such player’s age group.
c) Such player tried out for a team offered by the club in the town in which they reside
and such player was not selected for such team.
d) In all cases where exceptions are granted, the player’s host club (the club in the town
where they reside) must sign a written waiver signed by the host club, GYSA, and
Soccer Maine.
DOUBLE-ROSTERING
A player is not allowed to “double-roster”. Any player may not be a member or guest
player on any other organized youth soccer team while being a member of any GYSA
travel team. If it is found that a player is double-rostered once practices begin, the player
will be removed from the team and all funds paid to GYSA will be forfeited. (Exception:
the player is playing on a school or premier team).
OTHER EXCEPTIONS
Any other exceptions to the player eligibility requirements must be brought before the
Board of Directors for review. The decisions of the GYSA Board are final.
PLAYER SELECTIONS – TRYOUT PROCESS
DATES FOR TRYOUTS
Selections/player assessments will take place in the spring and the specific dates will be
published on the GYSA website. Tryout sessions will last between 60 and 90 minutes
and tryouts for each team will be held in either one or two sessions, at the discretion of
the GYSA Board. Selection dates may vary based on age. Generally players must attend
to be considered for selection to a travel team (see Players Missing Tryouts section
below for exceptions to this policy).
GYSA is fully supportive of all kids playing soccer. We are very fortunate to have an
outstanding recreational program in Gorham and are confident children will find
opportunity on either the travel team or the recreational team. The evaluation process
described below helps to ensure children are placed in the appropriate program for their
skill level.
PLAYER EVALUATION GUIDELINES
1) Evaluations are made by the observation of players performing in related practices,
skill drills and small sided games. This format closely resembles actual soccer game
situations and provides the best opportunity to observe individual soccer skills.
2) At the discretion of the Coaching Director, the player evaluation process will be run
by either a team’s head coach or the Coaching Director. The Coaching Director will
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have the discretion to either determine the tryout format or allow coaches to use their
own format (subject to the Coaching Director’s approval).
3) Player evaluations are scored by both GYSA coaches and qualified, experienced, and
independent evaluators. There might be 2 independent evaluators and two coaches
for each group. Each evaluator will be scoring each player in each area of
assessment. Each evaluator’s score will count equally in the total tryout score.
4) There are formal expectations for the evaluators. They are expected to work
independently of each other. The independent evaluators are expected to excuse
themselves if they have any relationship to any players, coaches or parents in the
group they are evaluating. The independent evaluators will work separately from the
coach evaluators and none of these evaluators should collaborate.
5) The following criteria are used to assess the players. It includes, but is not limited to
the points mentioned in each area of assessment. Each category is given a score of 19, with 9 being the best, by at least four different evaluators in each area of
assessment. The total score for each evaluator will be the sum of all scores.
The following criteria will be used:
Technical – This category of skill includes elements like dribbling, passing, and
first touch on the ball. These are the most basic components of soccer skills.
Tactical – Elements in the tactical category being evaluated are decision-making,
awareness, communications, and positional sense.
Physical – The physical portion of the evaluation is based on strength, speed,
quickness, stamina and aggressiveness.
6) The data from evaluators will be handed to the Coaching Director who will compile
the information with at least one additional GYSA Board member monitoring the
process.
7) Parents who are not involved in the player evaluation process are not allowed in the
tryout facility.
8) Some age groups might need to be blended with other age groups due to the number
of players in each group in order to accommodate as many participants as possible.
PLAYERS MISSING TRYOUTS
It is expected that all players trying out for a team will attend tryouts. Players who do not
attend tryouts will be considered for selection to a team under three scenarios, as outlined
below:
A) Returning Players – A returning player missing tryouts due to an unavoidable
scheduling conflict or medically documented injury must receive an excused absence
from the appropriate GYSA Board member (President, Vice President or Coaching
Director). The player is then eligible to be a Coach Selection Pick, which allows the
player to be selected as either a roster or training player (at the discretion of the head
coach and Coaching Director) without a supplemental tryout session. Each head
coach is allowed one coach selection pick that may be used at the time of tryouts or at
any time during the season. Coaches will be granted more than one coach selection
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pick only with the consent of the GYSA Board of Directors. Players who have not
played with GYSA previously are not eligible to be Coach Selection Picks.
B) Players Who Are New to GYSA – Players who have not played for GYSA in prior
years and who are unable to attend tryouts will be considered for selection to a team if
(i) no players were cut from the team he or she would be playing for, and (ii) there is
room on the roster (either as a roster player or a training player) for the player; and
(iii) the head coach and Coaching Director determine either through a separate tryout
or through participation in team training sessions that the player possesses the
necessary technical, tactical and physical skills to play with the team.
C) Players Relocating from Another Town – Players who were not living in Gorham on
the date of tryouts may later be considered for selection to a team if (i) no players
were cut from the team he or she would be playing for, and (ii) there is room on the
roster (either as a roster player or a training player) for the player; and (iii) the head
coach and Coaching Director determine either through a separate tryout or through
participation in team training sessions that the player possesses the necessary
technical, tactical and physical skills to play with the team.
Any exception to the above policy shall require GYSA Board approval.
TEAM FORMATION
A) When multiple teams exist at the same playing level at U13 and above, a more
competitive team and a less competitive team will be formed (A and B team). The A
team will play in the Division 1 league, and the B team will either play in the
Division 1 or 2 league. The decision to compete in the Division 1 or 2 league will be
made by the head coach and Coaching Director. In addition, in order for the Club to
field two teams in an age group, there must be a sufficient number of players on each
team to meet the Club’s minimum Team Size requirements.
B) Rules for Top Team Formation – U13 and Above. The top team in each age group
for U13 and above will be formed from the top 15 - 22 players (depending upon the
size of the pool of players) that try out for that age group, as determined through the
Player Evaluation process with input from the head coach. The exception to this rule
is that any player from a younger age group that tries out must be ranked within the
top six positions or top 33% of the older group in order to be eligible for that team as
described under Player Age Group Movement.
C) Rules for Other Team Formations – U13 and Above. After a top team is selected at
each age group, the next top 22 players at each age group will enter the next level
team. This process continues until all teams are formed at each age group. At the
discretion of the Board of Directors, players from adjacent age groups (e.g., U13 and
U14) may be combined in order to form a second team in an age group, with the
combined team playing at the higher of the two age groups.
D) Rules for Team Formation – U9 – U12. When there are multiple teams in these age
groups, even-skilled, balanced teams (not A and B teams) will be formed. The
Coaching Director with input from head coaches and at least one other Board member
will coordinate and oversee player assignments during balanced team formation to
ensure players are distributed evenly between teams. When there are multiple teams
in an age group, the teams will be “rebalanced” annually. Unless specifically
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approved by the GYSA Board, there will be no more than two teams in any
age/gender group. If three teams are selected in an age group, that age group will be
allowed to have three teams in subsequent years if sufficient player numbers support
it.
E) Any exceptions to these rules must be approved by the GYSA Board.
PLAYER AGE GROUP MOVEMENT
Under “exceptional” circumstances, there may be situations or requests for a player to
play up to the next age group. This may be based on a parental request, players with
superior skills, insufficient player numbers on an older age team, or simply to allow
better balance of players. The intent of this process is to make roster decisions that are
fair, equitable, and balance the interests of players, teams and the club in concert with
GYSA's mission: "to develop well balanced, successful individuals in a team
environment through instruction of the technical, tactical, physical and psychological
aspects of soccer.”
Players who are eligible to play U11 and above may try out for an older age group, but
must be ranked within the top 33% (as determined by the above described player
evaluation scoring system) of the team roster size in order to be eligible for that team.
Players must also try out for his/her natural age group. In the event that the player does
not rank in the top 33% of the older age group, the player will be placed in his/her natural
age group. The only exception to this rule is for players that are playing up with their
school grade level or peer group (generally players born after July 31 in each calendar
year), in which case the player will be evaluated with both age groups and placed on the
roster according to ranking and roster availability at a given level.
Exceptional decisions for players to play up will be based on the following:
A)
Situation #1: Player with Superior Skills
a) Request must be submitted in writing no later than one week prior to the
tryout date by the child’s parent. If eligible, player will only be allowed to
move up one level.
b) Player must try out for both the older age group and for his/her natural age
group each year.
c) To be considered for the older age group, the player's skills must be rated in
top 33% of the higher age players.
d) Player may take roster spot of higher age team, even if higher age player must
be cut to make room on the team.
e) Final determination shall be made by the GYSA Board with input from each
impacted coach and the Coaching Director.
B)
Situation #2: Coach Request
a) Players will only be allowed consideration for moving up one level.
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b) Consideration will only be made if there are available slots on the older team
(i.e., no players shall be cut). Available slots are defined as less then 18
players for U13 and U14 and 14 players for U12.
c) Consideration will not be made if the lower aged team will be left with an
insufficient number of players.
d) If the above criteria are met then the following rules apply:

Opportunity must be presented to every player on the lower team(s).

It must be clear how many slots are available on the older team.

Player selection will be decided between the two affected coaches and
Coaching Director. Selection will be based on the following:
o Skill level.
o Attitude.
o Needs of both teams.
o Commitment.
o Social ability (maturity).
e) Head coach's immediate family member: A player within the head coach's
immediate family (or household) may play on that coach's older age team if
all other criteria are met.
f) Final determination shall be made by the GYSA board with input from
affected coaches and Coaching Director.
POLICIES
ALCOHOL POLICY
It is the policy of the GYSA that no alcohol be sold or brought to GYSA sanctioned
youth soccer games. It is the responsibility of the affiliated coaches, teams, organizers,
sponsors and spectators of Gorham youth soccer events to ensure that this policy is
strictly adhered to. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in suspension of sanctioned
events and/or placing the offending coach, team, organizer, sponsor, or spectator in bad
standing with the Association.
DRUG POLICY
It is the policy of the GYSA that no illegal drugs or substances be brought to GYSA
sanctioned youth soccer games or that any volunteer of GYSA be under their influence
while in an official GYSA capacity. It is the responsibility of the affiliated coaches,
teams, organizers, sponsors and spectators of GYSA youth soccer events to ensure that
this policy is strictly adhered to. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in suspension
of sanctioned events and/or placing the offending coach, team, organizer, sponsor, or
spectator in bad standing with the Association and the civil authorities.
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SMOKING POLICY
The following smoke free policy will be implemented by the GYSA in an effort to
promote an active, healthy tobacco-free lifestyle. Recognizing coaches and other adults
as role models for our players, we will discourage tobacco use by all persons during
games, practices, and other GYSA or team-sponsored activities. Understanding that
tobacco look-alike products that are packaged to look like tobacco products encourage
children to emulate tobacco-use behavior, there will be a ban on the sale of tobacco lookalike candy at league games and tournaments. To eliminate the mixed messages youth
receive from coaches, players and others who wear shirts, hats, and other gear that
display tobacco logos, a dress code that prohibits the wearing of this type of clothing at
games, practices, and other GYSA or team-sponsored activities will be followed.
Support for efforts of staff, volunteers, and even players who are trying to quit or curtail
their use of tobacco around the team, including links to cessation services. A resolution
to promote the Smoke-Free Kids and soccer lifestyle by: displaying the logo at our home
field, encouraging coaches to promote an active, healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle among
their players and encouraging coaches to follow through with one or more of the youth
activities from Coaches' Handbook.
RAINOUTS AND CANCELLATIONS
Normally, coaches will be responsible for making a determination of whether they will
practice or play a home game due to inclement weather. Good judgment should prevail
with the foremost consideration being the safety of the kids. In the event that a game is
cancelled for any reason, please notify the players and the Referee Assignor immediately.
It is important that notifications, especially to referees, can be made promptly to save not
only travel but also money for the club. Any game cancelled within 24 hours of the
scheduled game time still requires payment of our referees by GYSA coaches. Therefore
it is very important to make notification as soon as possible. On some occasions, GYSA
may cancel games due to field conditions and the club’s desire to preserve its fields. In
those cases, coaches will be notified as soon as a decision to cancel is made.
REFEREES
HOW REFEREES ARE ASSIGNED
1) All GYSA travel games will be officiated only by licensed/certified USSF referees
assigned by a Certified Referee Assignor. If no USSF licensed referee is available,
the game may not be officially played. By officially played, this would mean that the
game could be played if the coaches desire but the results could not be reported in any
official standings and the coaches assume any liability associated with playing an
unofficial game. A “club linesman” may be used in place of Assistant Referees
(linesman) if no licensed/certified USSF referees are available. In no case will GYSA
sanction an uncertified/unlicensed referee as a Center Referee. They must also be
assigned by the Certified Referee Assignor.
2) For U9 and U10 games, a one Center Referee system will be used. Assistant
Referees (linesman) should not be used.
3) For U11 through U14 games, a three referee system will be used (one Center Referee
and two Assistant Referees (linesman)).
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4) A “two person” referee should never be used during GYSA games, as directed by
Soccer Maine.
5) All officials must be assigned by a Certified Referee Assignor, period. There are no
exceptions to this rule.
6) For insurance and liability reasons, no uniformed USSF licensed referee should
officiate or be paid for any scrimmages or unsanctioned non-game situations (this
does not include club sanctioned “friendly” matches).
7) Referees will be paid in most situations when games are cancelled within 24 hours of
a scheduled game time.
8) Referee training and certification courses will be offered annually around the
southern Maine area and notification of these courses will be made through the
Soccer Maine website.
9) No referee under the age of 14 years may be paid directly for services per Maine child
labor laws.
PAYMENT OF REFEREES
The home team pays for half (½) of the referee’s expenses and the away team pays for
the other half (typically the home team pays the full amount to the referee(s) and is then
reimbursed by the away team). GYSA has adopted the following policy for handling
referee payment: Coaches are given money at the beginning of the season to cover referee
costs. Any money not used for referee fees at the end of the season needs to be returned
to the Treasurer. It is the expectation that this money given to coach is used for nothing
other than referee payment. Coaches are responsible for paying half (½) of the referee
fee at every game, home and away.
PREMIER SOCCER OPPORTUNITIES
GYSA will not formally endorse any particular premier soccer club. We will, however,
support additional offerings of soccer training to our players. Those offerings should be
directed to the Board and passed through the Board for support. Parents who are
interested in premier soccer opportunities are encouraged to research the premier clubs
online. We offer links to almost all premier club offerings from our website. Guest
coaches from premier teams are acceptable in GYSA training environments only
following approval by the Board and subject to all Soccer Maine recruiting policies being
adhered to at all times.
SCHEDULING OF GAMES
GENERAL INFORMATION
We are in the Metro District in the Soccer Maine structure and each team will be
scheduled one game each week, to be played on Saturday and/or Sunday, by the Metro
District coordinator for each age/gender group, for a total of six (6) Soccer Maine district
games. Coaches are expected to coordinate with coaches from other towns (either within
or outside the Metro District) to put additional games (“friendlies”) on their schedule.
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GROUND RULES
1) Upon the release of the Soccer Maine district games schedule, coaches will work with
the GYSA field assignor to tentatively schedule field times. Coaches are required to
submit their completed schedules, using the sample schedule format on the GYSA
website, to the field assignor as soon as they have games lined up. Time slots will
remain tentative until the coach confirms the slot with the GYSA field assignor
during the week prior to the game. It is expected that all GYSA teams will do their
best to balance friendly home and away matches. No team shall monopolize fields or
officials, and the Referee Assignor, President, Vice President and Coaching Director
shall have the ability to limit the number of home games available to any team based
on field and referee availability.
2) Until all of our teams are through the initial scheduling process, all matches are
subject to change. The scheduling of district and friendly games both home and away
involves significant logistical challenges that will often result in confirmation of
game times with just a few days notice.
3) COACHES MUST NOT SCHEDULE THEIR OWN GAMES ON OTHER FIELDS
OR AT TIMES WHEN IT APPEARS THAT NO ONE WILL BE AROUND.
COACHES SCHEDULING AN UNASSIGNED/UNSANCTIONED GAME MAY
BE PERSONALLY LIABLE FOR ANY UNFORESEEN PROBLEMS THAT
OCCUR OR MAY FIND THAT THEY GET THERE AND DON’T HAVE A
FIELD.
TEAM FEES AND REGISTRATION
FEES
Fees for participation in GYSA will be set on an annual basis by the Board. Those fees
will be posted on the GYSA website. The registration fee includes the cost of
participation in a Columbus Day tournament, but does not include the cost of any other
tournaments (which may be entered at the coach’s discretion) or the cost of a uniform.
REFUNDS
A player offered a roster spot within their age group will be ineligible for a refund. In
extenuating circumstances, e.g., relocation, the Board can approve a refund. Players not
offered a roster spot will be refunded in full.
There shall be no refunds for uniform, jacket, backpack or other clothing purchases.
REGISTRATION
All players must register and pay the entire registration fee through the GYSA website by
the registration deadline published on the site. Prospective players who are not selected
for a GYSA team will be refunded 100% of the registration fee.
All new players to the club will be required to include a copy of their birth certificate
with the completed registration form and fee. Existing player birth certificates are kept
on file while being a participant. At time of registration it is expected that parents sign up
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for at least two hours of volunteer work for the season. We ask for help as all involved
are volunteers. Thank you!
TEAM SIZES



U9-U10
U11-U12
U13-U14
9-14 players
12-16 players
15-22 players
Unlike many other communities, Gorham has a very active and respected recreational
soccer program. We encourage and fully support all players who are not selected to
participate in GYSA to participate in the Town’s recreation soccer program, if available
in their age group. GYSA is not obligated to fill a maximum roster size.
TRAINING PLAYERS
At the discretion of the coach and GYSA Board, extensions to the published roster limit
may be considered. Training players can be supported in some instances. The
parameters for Training Players are defined below.
Training Players:
 Intended to allow the players the opportunity to develop soccer skills with the
team and are expected to participate in all practices.
 Strongly encouraged to participate in the Town’s Recreation Soccer Program at
the same time, if available in their age group.
 Cost is reduced due to limited participation in games.
 Allowed to play in all friendly games.
 Not allowed to play in Soccer Maine scheduled (district) games or in any playoff
games.
TOURNAMENTS
GYSA teams will participate in a tournament in October over Columbus Day weekend.
Labor Day weekend tournaments or other weekend tournaments are optional for the team
at the coach’s discretion. The GYSA Board will determine annually in August (i) if all
GYSA teams will attend the same Columbus Day tournament, and (ii) which
tournament(s) club teams will be attending. While the Board will be responsible for
registering teams and paying tournament fees, team managers and coaches are
responsible for gathering and providing additional tournament-specific information (e.g.,
medical release forms, official Soccer Maine rosters) and providing it to the tournament
director. Fees associated with the Columbus Day Tournament are included in the
registration fee. Any additional tournaments are not included in the registration fee. The
team manager and/or coach are responsible for collecting and paying the fees if the team
is entered in additional tournaments.
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CHANGES TO GYSA POLICIES
The GYSA policies and practices described in the GYSA Handbook are subject to
change at the discretion of the Board.
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APPENDIX A
SOCCER MAINE
ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICY
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Soccer Maine
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Effective January 1, 2004
Applicability:
Each coach is responsible for his/her actions, the actions of his/her players and bench
personnel. Each coach, player, and spectator shall at all times support the referee and
assistant referees. Failure to do so will undermine the referee’s authority, and has the
potential of creating a hostile environment for the players, spectators, coaches, and
referees alike. No one is to address the referee in a negative manner during or after the
game.
Coaches’ communications with the referee and assistant referees:
Coaches and/or bench personnel may NOT address any member of the referee crew
during play except for:
 Responding to a referee initiated communication.
 Making a request for substitutions.
 Pointing out emergencies or safety issues, such as an injured player on the field.
 To request clarification of any call provided the request is courteous and
nonargumentative.
 First infraction: Referee may stop the game and remind the coach or bench personnel
of Soccer Maine’s zero tolerance policy.
 Second infraction: Caution. (No yellow card shall be shown to any coach or bench
personnel). The referee may issue a final warning that a third infraction may result in
an ejection.
 Third infraction: Ejection. (No red card shall be shown to any coach or bench
personnel). The referee may instruct the coach or bench personnel to leave the field.
Thereafter, the ejected person must depart to a distance where he or she can no longer
see or hear anything to do with the match. If the ejected person fails to leave the
field, the referee may abandon the game.
 Nothing in this rule may be construed to limit the referee’s discretion as granted by
FIFA Laws of the Game.
Spectator communications with the referee and assistant referees:
Negative or critical comments directed to any member of the referee crew will not be
tolerated.
 First infraction: Referee may stop the game, request the assistance of both coaches,
and remind the spectator of Soccer Maine’s zero tolerance policy.
 Second infraction: Referee may stop the game and issue a final warning that a third
infraction may result in an ejection.
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 Third infraction: The referee may instruct the coaches to direct the spectator to leave
the field. If the ejected person fails to leave the field, the referee may abandon the
game.
 Nothing in this rule may be construed to limit the referee’s discretion as granted by
FIFA Laws of the Game.
Notification: Should a referee eject any player, coach, bench personnel or spectator,
and/or abandon a game, he/she shall notify the Soccer Maine office by phone at 9420950. If a game is abandoned prior to completion, the referee will make no
determination as to the outcome of the match. A written report of the pertinent facts
should be sent to the Soccer Maine office within 24 hours. The Soccer Maine office will
refer the matter to its disciplinary committee for further action, if necessary, and/or to the
appropriate competition committee for disposition of an abandoned game.
SOCCER MAINE
Policies With Respect to Grievances, Disputes and Appeals
I. Preamble
A. United States Youth Soccer Association
1. Soccer Maine is an Organization Member of the United States Youth Soccer
Association (USYSA).
2. Pursuant to Bylaw 701 of USYSA, each Organizational Member shall have
grievance, disputes and appeals provisions in its bylaws, rules or other documents that
clearly state the procedures under which adjudication of appeals and other
disciplinary matters shall occur.
3. The purpose of this policy is to implement this USYSA mandate to Soccer Maine.
B. United States Soccer Federation
1. Soccer Maine is a state association as that term is defined in Bylaw 109 of the Bylaws
of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF).
2. USSF bylaws (Bylaw 213) require each state association to provide equitable and
prompt hearing and appeal procedures to guarantee the rights of individuals to
participate and compete.
3. The purpose of these rules is to implement the mandate of the United States Soccer
Federation to Soccer Maine.
4. Each member club, league player, coach, trainer, manager, administrator or official of
Soccer Maine has the right to appeal any discipline imposed upon them in accordance
with USSF bylaws, policies and requirements, except decisions which arise out of the
application of the rules of competition which are made in the course of competition,
and have no consequence beyond the competition.
5. The policy of USSF with respect to the following discipline is adopted: Policy 531-9
pertaining to misconduct against game officials (minimum 3 month suspension for
minor referee assault, 6 months for all other assault and minimum 3 match suspension
for referee abuse).
C. Bylaws of Soccer Maine, effective April 13, 2002, Article XVI provide that the rights
and privileges of any member may be suspended for cause by the President.
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1. The responsibility for disciplining players, coaches, trainers, managers,
administrators, officials and teams rests in the first instance with the match referee
and then, either with the President or the director of the tournament in question.
Disciplined members may appeal all decisions to the Appeals Committee of Soccer
Maine, other than the match specific decisions identified in section B(4), above. The
Board of Directors of Soccer Maine is charged with the responsibility of establishing
an Appeals Committee to provide any disciplined member with a reasonable and fair
opportunity to present such information and to confront such allegations of
misconduct as may be relevant to the issue at hand.
2. The purpose of this rule is to implement Article XVI of the Bylaws of Soccer Maine.
II. Exhaustion of Remedies
A. No member may invoke the aid of the courts of the United States or of a state without
first exhausting all available remedies put forth under these rules and as provided
within the rules of USSF and USYSA, where applicable.
B. For violation of this rule, the offending parties shall be subject to suspension and
fines and shall be liable to Soccer Maine for all expenses incurred by Soccer Maine
and its officers and members of the Board of Directors in defending each court action,
including the following:
1. Court costs;
2. Attorney’s fees;
3. Reasonable compensation for time spent by Soccer Maine officials and employees
in responding to and defending against allegations in the action, including
responses to discovery and court appearances;
4. Travel expenses; and
5. Expenses for holding special meetings of Soccer Maine, necessitated by court
actions.
III. Responsibility of Membership
A. All Soccer Maine member associations are charged with the responsibility of seeing
that these rules are distributed to every coach, team staff member, administrator and
referee. Parents of youth players and spectators should be made aware of these rules.
B. All members and participants in Soccer Maine programs have requested to participate
in these programs. Therefore, these participants shall be deemed to have agreed to
abide by these rules, the constitution, bylaws, policies, procedures, rules and
regulations of FIFA, USSF, USYSA and Soccer Maine.
IV. Discipline
A. Discipline is a four step process
1. Investigation
2. Preliminary case review
3. Hearing
4. Appeal
B. Each step is critical to a fair disposition. Each step must be completed before the next
step is undertaken. The process shall be administered by the Soccer Maine Discipline
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Committee and as delegated, when appropriate, to the appropriate Club President,
Soccer Maine’s Review Panel or to a Hearing panel in accordance with this rule.
C. Investigation
1. Any person may submit a signed, written complaint to Soccer Maine alleging
misconduct on the part of any member, employee or volunteer of Soccer Maine,
of an employee or a volunteer of any organization affiliated with Soccer Maine or
of any person in attendance at a Soccer Maine sanctioned event.
2. The Soccer Maine Discipline Committee shall be appointed by the President and
shall serve as a standing committee of Soccer Maine to review all complaints and
oversee the four step disciplinary process by delegating each step to the
appropriate individual(s) or committee(s), tracking the progress through he four
step process, informing interested parties of the status of each complaint, and
ensuring that each complaint is administered consistent with these rules and all
applicable rules of USYSA and US Soccer.
3. The Discipline Committee shall delegate to the appropriate association President
the task of investigating all complaints of misconduct pertaining to that
association, its employees, its volunteers, or of persons in attendance at
association events sanctioned by Soccer Maine.
4. Association Presidents shall recommend to the Discipline Committee that the
complaint proceed to preliminary case review by Soccer Maine or be dismissed if
the President concludes, after investigation, that the matter does not constitute
misconduct subject to sanction under Soccer Maine rules, (a) The Association
President shall notify the Discipline Committee, the complainant and the person
who is the subject of a complaint of the recommendation, in writing within thirty
(30) days of receipt of the complaint. (b) The notification shall briefly and
generally state the reasons for the recommendation and shall advise the parties
involved that, upon written request made within thirty (30) days of the receipt of
the notification, the recommendation will be reviewed by a panel of Soccer Maine
appointed for the purpose of conducting preliminary case reviews. (c) Upon
timely request, the Review Panel may approve, disapprove or modify the terms of
the recommendation.
5. Any complaint which (1) is not delegated to an Association President for
investigation or (2) is so delegated, and in the absence of a timely
recommendation, shall be investigated by the Disciplinary Committee, which
shall issue a recommended decision and communicate the same in a manner
consistent with the procedure outlined in Part IV, section C(4) hereof.
6. Each recommended decision shall:
a. Outline the specific alleged rule violation,
b. Specify Soccer Maine’s jurisdiction, authority and rules,
c. Outline the extent of the investigation, and
d. Recommend dismissal of the complaint or to proceed with a disciplinary
hearing. If dismissed, the grounds for dismissal should be explained briefly.
D. Preliminary case review:
1. If a complaint is not dismissed following investigation, the recommended disposition
shall be presented to the Soccer Maine Review Panel appointed for the purpose of
conducting preliminary case reviews.
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2. Any person who is the subject of a complaint shall be given a copy of the complaint
and the recommended decision and shall, upon request, submit an informal response
for consideration by the Review Panel.
3. Preliminary case review before Soccer Maine’s Review Panel shall not be open to the
public and shall be confidential. Neither the complaint nor the person subject to the
complaint shall be present. The panel shall review the complaint, and any response
submitted thereto, and the recommended disposition.
4. If the Review Panel does not find cause to believe that misconduct subject to sanction
under Soccer Maine Rules has occurred, the panel shall dismiss the complaint and so
inform the Disciplinary Committee who shall inform all interested parties.
5. If the Review Panel finds cause, but that the misconduct is minor, that there has been
no injury to the complainant, or to youth soccer, and that there is little likelihood of
repetition, the Review Panel may recommend that the President of Soccer Maine
dismiss the complaint with a warning. The President shall, in his or her discretion,
either (i) deliver a notice of the dismissal, together with the terms of the warning, to
the accused and shall notify the complainant of the fact that the complaint has been
dismissed with a warning, briefly stating the reasons for the dismissal, or (2) refer the
matter to the Appeals Committee of Soccer Maine.
6. A dismissal with a warning after preliminary review may not be appealed.
7. If the Review Panel finds cause to believe that misconduct subject to sanction under
Soccer Maine Rules has occurred, the Review Panel shall direct the Disciplinary
Committee to prepare and present a formal complaint seeking disciplinary action
before the Appeals Committee of Soccer Maine for the purpose of conducting public
disciplinary proceedings.
E. Public disciplinary proceedings
1. The Disciplinary Committee’s complaint shall set forth specific charges of alleged
misconduct and the rules or policies of Soccer Maine applicable to the complaint.
2. A copy of the complaint, together with a copy of these rules and a notice setting a
time for answer not less than Thirty (30) days after mailing, shall be mailed by the
President to the person subject to the complaint, with restricted delivery and return
receipt requested. The person responding to the complaint shall file an answer within
the stated period.
3. In the event that the person subject to the complaint fails to file a timely answer, the
facts set forth and the misconduct alleged in the Disciplinary Committee’s complaint
shall be taken as admitted, but the responding person may participate in the hearing
on the question of discipline.
4. The Appeals Committee shall hold a hearing on the complaint, within 30 days of the
date the answer is due.
5. The hearing shall be open to the public except to the extent that the complaint
involves a person under the age of eighteen, in which case only the hearing panel, the
complaining parties, the accused and their legal representative may attend. Witnesses
shall in such cases be sequestered. The deliberations of the hearing panel following
any hearings shall not be open to the public.
6. At the public hearing, a member of the Disciplinary Committee designated for such
purpose shall present such evidence in support of the complaint as he or she deems
appropriate. The person subject to the complaint may be represented by counsel, may
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cross examine the witnesses, and may present evidence. Evidence shall be relied
upon by the Appeals Committee in evaluating the complaint, if it is the kind of
evidence upon which reasonable persons are accustomed to rely in the conduct of
serious affairs.
7. Either the Disciplinary Committee or the person subject to the complaint may arrange
for a stenographically or electronically recorded record of the proceedings. Such
arrangements shall be at the expense of the party requesting a transcription of the
hearing.
8. The Chair of the Appeals Committee conducting the hearing shall preside and have
the power to control the course of the proceedings and regulate the conduct of those
individuals appearing as counsel, parties or witnesses.
9. Following the hearing, the Appeals Committee may dismiss the complaint if it finds,
on the evidence and arguments presented, that no misconduct subject to sanction
under Soccer Maine Rules has occurred.
10. If the Appeals Committee finds that the misconduct subject to sanction has occurred,
but that the misconduct is minor, there has been no injury to the complainant or to
youth soccer, and that there is little likelihood of repetition, the Appeals Committee
may dismiss the complaint with a warning.
11. If the Appeals Committee finds that misconduct subject to sanctions under Soccer
Maine Rules has occurred and that none of the conditions justifying a dismissal with a
warning exists, the Appeals Committee shall either issue a written reprimand or a
suspension of the person subject to the complaint from Soccer Maine sanctioned
events for a specific period of time. The Appeals Committee may also condition
reinstatement upon satisfaction of clearly stated conditions or proof of conformity
with Soccer Maine rules, if appropriate.
12. Decisions of the Soccer Maine Appeals Committee shall be considered final decisions
rendered by a State Association pursuant to By-law 705 of USSF.
V. Appeals to USSF
1. Within ten (10) days after receipt of a written reprimand or a suspension pursuant to
these rules, the disciplined person may file a petition for review by the U.S. Soccer
Appeals Committee.
2. Appeals shall proceed consistent with USSF By-law 705 and the rules of the U.S.
Soccer Appeals Committee.
3. Decisions of Soccer Maine which arise out of the application of the rules of
competition, which are made in the course of the competition and have no
consequence beyond the competition are not appealable.
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