At last we are playing!

On Saturday I got to visit a few fields, and I saw a lot of what makes AYSO special. Coaches cheered goals for their own team and for the other team. Coaches hurried from one field to the next so more kids could get on the field and play. Parents cheered for their players and let the coaches coach. That's the spirit we want, and it comes from you.

To keep every game played that way, here are three reminders:

1. Be kind to our referees, especially the young ones.

Many of our referees are teenagers who are just learning the job. How we treat them decides whether they come back next season. Please keep every conversation with a referee calm and respectful, even when you disagree with a call. We need referees as much as we need coaches.

2. No "goal-hangers" in 6U and 8U.

At these ages, please don't have a player stand in front of the goal as a stand-in goalkeeper. Every child should be running, touching the ball and learning the whole game. Keep everyone moving and rotate positions.

3. Keep the score in check.

If you get about four goals ahead, ease off. Change positions, set a passing challenge, or give your newer players a chance to shine. A lopsided game isn't fun for anyone, including your own players. AYSO is about every child wanting to come back next week.

These are small things, but together they keep kids, parents and referees coming back. That's also why you keep coming back.

You give up your evenings and weekends to make this happen, and it shows. Thank you for everything you do. If you ever need help, ideas or someone to talk a problem through with, just reach out. I'm here for you.

See you on the fields,

Coach John