Frequently Asked Questions

  1. When does the soccer season start?
    The Soccer year begins July 1st. for fall and continues through to the following Spring. The Soccer year is divided into the Fall and Spring seasons. Click here to see the calendar. An additional $15 early registration discount applies to all applications for a future season received prior ot the soccer celebration of the current season. All registrations received after the pre-season coaches meeting are subject to a late registration fee of $30 and assignation to the team in the age group with the greatest need for additional players. This may not be in your desired practice area. These fees apply only to the recreation division. Other fees may apply to the travel division.
  2. At What Age Should My Child Begin Playing Soccer?
    This is a judgment call you, as the parent, will have to make. Click here to see an age chart. Kids develop at different rates, and so quickly at a young age. U6, or under six is the youngest age group we have currently. This means that the players in this age group are under four years old. Most new players begin playing at the U8 and U10 age groups, however, we usually have new players at every age level every season. It is never too late to start playing soccer.
  3. How do I get Started?
    Everything is driven by the registration process. You must be registered to participate. Click here for the Registration Form.
  4. Who can register?
    Registration is currently open to anyone between the ages of 3 and 17 in the recreation league. A recreation soccer player is any child willing and able to be a part of a team, learn the basic skills and fundamentals of soccer in the least competitive environment available. The emphasis is placed on participation and fun. We currently have U4 (Under 4 years old) through U18 (Under 18 years old) teams divided in two year increments. (U4, U6, U8, U10, U12, U14, U16, U18)
  5. Do I have to Live in Chatham County to Play?
    No. We just want kids to have the opportunity to play. We have had players from Chapel Hill, Sanford, Apex, Hillsboro, and Fuquay-Varina just to mention a few.
  6. Are there multiplayer or family discounts?
    No. Unfortunately we do not offer a multi child discount. We make every effort to hold our costs down for everyone so there is no "extra cushion" from which to take the funds that would be needed to cover the cost of offering a multiplayer or family discount.
  7. What age bracket am I in?
    The age brackets (Click here for an age chart.) are set by the United States Youth Soccer Association the largest member of the United States Soccer Federation, the governing body for soccer in the United States under FIFA, the international governing body for soccer around the world. Our League has U4, U6, U8, U10, U12, U14, U16 and U18 recreation teams. If you find your child is in an odd year age bracket, they are considered to be in the next highest age bracket. (e.g. U5 players play in the U6 age bracket, U7 players play in the U8 age bracket, etc.). If siblings are in the same age bracket they are typically assigned to the same team to make things easier for you, unless you request otherwise.
  8. What Team will I be on?
    The initial team assignment process is a random one. Each Fall, all players are randomly assigned to new teams within their age group by the registrar. All recreation teams are coed. Players are assigned by the registrar according to geographic region or practice area. Coaches do not make team assignments or changes to rosters. We have many talented coaches in our league and it would be unfair to the players if we deny them the experience of being on different teams and being coached by different coaches. Preliminary rosters are distributed to the coaches at the pre-season coaches meeting if there are enough coaches for the number of players who have registered. If there are not enough coaches for a given area in a given age group, a list of all the registered players in that age group for that practice area is given to the existing coaches and area coordinator and all of the players in that age group continue having Age Level Practices until the needed coaches are identified. When we have enough coaches the registrar gives the coaches their preliminary rosters so they can then contact the players on their preliminary rosters and begin practicing as a teams. New players are added to these preliminary rosters as late registrations are received by the registrar, until teams are full. One week before the first games, coaches are given their final rosters. Final rosters may be different from the preliminary rosters as new teams may be formed or teams may need to be combined. If teams are combined and the combination results in too many players for one team, the players that registered last will have to move to teams in other practice areas, provided that those other teams have room. This is why it is important to register early. Players remain on the same teams for the Spring season unless it is necessary to combine teams due to participation levels.
  9. What do I need?
    You will need the appropriate sized ball, shin guards, and appropriate shoes. U4 through U8 players use size 3 balls. U10 through U12 use size 4 balls. U13 and older use size 5 balls. Shin guards should cover the shin and be worn under and completely covered by the socks. You must wear shin guards whenever you play or practice soccer. The referee will not allow you to play in any game without shin guards. Appropriate shoes can vary from tennis shoes, soft soled cleats, to soccer shoes. The shoes must fit properly. Avoid shoes designed for baseball or American football as the single front "toe" cleat can pose a danger, and therefore are not allowed, when playing soccer. (hint: the single front cleat can easily be cut off of some of these shoes making them appropriate. Soccer shoes can be used for baseball and football without modification.)
  10. Where and when are my practices?
    After you have registered (Click here for Registration Form) you may participate in practices. At the beginning of each season, we have Age Level Practices. Everyone in a practice area comes together with those in the same age group for practice. These Age Level Practices are used to get the season going. We can set this schedule well in advance. Check the website for the Age Level Practice schedule (Click here for the calendar) After two weeks of Age Level Practices we have the pre-season coaches meeting. We hand out preliminary Team rosters, provided we have identified enough coaches for the number of registered players, first aid kits, uniforms, and balls, and have a short clinic on coaching at the pre-season coaches meeting. After the pre-season coaches meeting, the coach, assistant coach, or team manager (click here for coaching information) will contact you with practice times and locations. Team practices typically begin the week following the coaches meeting. We typically have two weeks of team practices before the first games. If you have not heard from a coach within the week following the pre-season coaches meeting, Contact Us. If there are not enough coaches for a given area in a given age group, a master roster is given to the existing coaches and all of the players in that age group continue having Age Level Practices until the needed coaches are identified. One week before the first games, team rosters are finalized. These team rosters may be different from the preliminary rosters if new teams have to form or if teams have to be combined. The registration process allows you to select a desired practice location. Every effort is made to honor practice locations (click here for directions to fields) provided there are enough players from a given practice area to form a team, with priority given to those that register first. Registering late may lead to your being placed on a team outside your preferred practice area. Most coaches will have two practice days a week, typically Monday-Wednesday, or Tuesday-Thursday, and practices typically run from 5:30-6:30pm but this can vary depending on daylight, the coach and the age of the players. U-4 and U-6 practices are typically 45 minutes. U-8 practices are typically an hour. U-10 practices are typically and hour and 15 minutes. Length and times of practices vary from coach to coach and season to season as daylight allows. Practice Schedules are listed on the website once they have been confirmed with the coaches.
  11. What should I bring to practice?
    Your child will need to bring a ball, shin guards, appropriate shoes, and water. Make sure your child is wearing comfortable practice clothes. For yourself, if you plan to stay for the duration of practice, bring a comfortable blanket or lawn chair to sit on and maybe a notebook to jot down notes if you are trying to learn more about the game.

    Oftentimes, coaches will need help from parents at practice, whether it means keeping kids contained during activities or "shagging balls" (collecting balls that have missed the goal). Assistant coaches are always needed. If you are willing to be a coach or an assistant coach, please let us know (click here to Contact Us). Each team's head coach may receive one scholarship for one player. If you want to step up your involvement with your child's team, talk to the coach about anything he or she needs accomplished at practice or games. You could also be in charge of sending out e-mails to all the players? parents or making a snack schedule (a snack schedule template is available on the coaching resources page). It depends on the coach how he or she will prefer to delegate all of the duties that come with coaching youth soccer. The Chatham Soccer League is an all volunteer organization and as such needs your help. Click here for volunteer information.

    Sometimes the coach may assign a parent to a job of Team Manager, Team Mom, or Team Dad, or the coach may split up all duties among a number of parents. There are always ways to get involved and learn more about the game of soccer. The Chatham Soccer League is an all volunteer organization and is always in need of those who are willing to help (a href="contact.html">click here to Contact Us). Did I mention we need volunteers???
  12. Where do I get a Uniform?
    The coach is given a complete set of uniforms at the     Fall Coaches Meeting for the new teams which are formed each fall. Players will receive their uniforms the week before the first games when rosters are finalized. Players that play in the fall use the same uniform if they play on the same team in the Spring. New players and returning players that have been assigned to different existing teams by the registrar will receive a new uniform to match the team they are joining. New uniforms are ordered after the coaches receive their rosters at the Spring Coaches Meeting. The cost of uniforms are included in your registration fees. If you need a replacement uniform or parts of a uniform, they are available for purchase ($25/set + shipping ($8)), pair of socks ($3.95), shorts ($8.95) or jersey ($15.95) plus the cost to ship. The coach or team manager will order the uniforms that are needed. It takes approximately 2 weeks to receive an order after it is placed with our uniform supplier (Score). Make sure you let your coach or team manager know as soon as possible that you need a uniform. If you registered late or missed one of the first practices please be patient, your uniform order may be delayed.
  13. Why don't we use T-shirts for Soccer?
    The fabric used for the recreation uniforms is a brand new high tech high performance fabric Called Wembley. It's the newest addition to Score's collection of sports specific fabrics with body climate control. It is a soft lightweight breathable 100% polyester diamond design jacquard knit that is specifically designed to pull away or wick away body moisture and move it to the outside for efficient cooling and quick drying even on the hottest days. Cotton absorbs moisture and holds it, actually hindering the evaporation process. It is the evaporation, drying, process that actually cools the body. What is the last thing to dry in the dryer on laundry day? It's usually the cotton stuff. Cotton is great as a towel, but you wouldn't want to wear that damp towel. It is not the fabric of choice for optimum physical performance. Another reason not to use cotton or cotton blend is that soccer is played in the rain. Cotton's absorptive characteristics make it too heavy and actually more clingy when wet. Our uniforms do not wrinkle or fade like cotton. Players usually out grow their uniforms before they wear them out. Don't be surprised if your young players want to wear their jersey to bed
  14. How many Games are there?
    We try to have at least an eight game season (click here for the calendar). This is affected by the school calendar. We do not schedule games on Holiday weekends, or on long weekends when the players are out of school on the Friday before or Monday after the weekend.
  15. What happens on Game Day (Recreation)?
    You should arrive at your game early (U-4 & U-6 15 minutes, U-8 20 minutes, U-10 25 minutes, U-12 30 minutes, U-14 and up 30 minutes). Your coach may want you there earlier than the recommended time. I have had my teams show up earlier for some games and turned that time into a mini practice session, especially if the weather has prevented a normal practice week or there is something in particular I wanted to work on . Check with your coach. You will want to be there in time to listen to the coach, warm up, stretch, and undergo the equipment check by the referee before each game. Every player must wear shin guards to play. All jewelry must be removed. Parents and spectators need to be aware of the Technical area (click here for Rules). This is an area in the middle, between the two fields where only coaches and players are allowed. Spectators may bring blankets or chairs to sit on outside the technical area. The coach will assign players to start the game. For U-8 and above, the coach will pick team captains who will meet with the Referees at the center spot for the coin toss. The captains will choose "heads or tails". The winner will pick the goal they want to defend or to have the first kick off. Since we play two games at the same time, side by side, both sides will play the same direction. Both games should start at the same time to make substituting between them easier. Both games should start at the time on the Game Schedules. Each team will provide a game ball, one for each side. Each team will supply two club linesmen. These people watch the sidelines and indicate to the Referee when the ball goes out of bounds.

    Quarters: At the U-4, U-6 and U-8 Levels the game is broken into quarters (click here for Rules) there is a two (2) minute break between the first and second quarters and the third and fourth quarters. Players will return to the Technical area (click here for Rules) for WATER, rest, and to receive direction and encouragement from their coach.

    Half Time: This break happens in the middle of each game and the time allowed varies with each age level (click here for Rules). This break is longer than the breaks between quarters. It too is a time for water, rest, and receiving direction and encouragement from the coach. Some teams plan refreshments during half time. This is up to the discretion of the coach. If you do plan refreshments other than water (See the section below on Sports drinks and Water) don't give anything heavy to avoid cramping or stomach aches. Ideal half time snacks are oranges or bananas cut into manageable pieces and WATER. Most teams save refreshments until after the game. These after game snacks usually consist of chips, crackers, cookies etc. and a juice box, fruit drink, or sports drink, and WATER etc.

    After The Game: It is important for all the players and coaches to thank the Officials. All the players from both teams will line up along the center line of one of the fields, one team on each side of the center spot and outside of the center circle. The coaches and team managers follow the players. It is tradition for the Head Coach to be the last in the line with the captains at the front of the line. The teams will walk in a line towards each other, walking just left of the center line with their right hands extended out above the center line. One team will be on each side of the line. As the players pass each other over the center spot they will shake hands and exchange positive words about the game and wish each other good fortune in the future. I have always encouraged my captains to turn and get behind the other team's coach so they are now facing their own team and can speak to each of their team mates. Usually, the team follows and everyone congratulates everyone. It is unsporting behavior to make any disparaging comments. Even though the game is over the Referee still has the authority to issue warnings to players. (Ok, who am I kidding?....... the kids will run past each other, somewhere on the field, slapping each others hands to a resounding chorus of "good game, good game...."). The teams return to the technical area for their after game snacks and words of praise from their coaches and parents who are now allowed into the technical area. Coaches may use this time to inform parents about upcoming events or schedule changes. Be sure to clean up after your snacks. If each team is responsible for its own clean up, the last home team to play that day won't have as big a job cleaning up the field at the end of the day. Be aware that the next team is waiting to set up for their game. Extended post game discussions should be moved out of the technical area and off of the field.
  16. How do I know if my game is cancelled?
    Games may be cancelled for many reasons. See Cancellation Policy.
  17. What is small-sided soccer and why do youth teams play this way?
    Young teams use small-sided soccer as a means to teach beginner soccer players the basics of soccer dribbling, passing, and shooting, without the confusion of playing on a very large field with 21 other players. Instead of having 11 players per team, 22 total, (FIFA Rules) on the field at a time, a team will send out three (U4 Rules & U6 Rules), four (U8 Rules), or five (U10 Rules, U12-18 Rules) players, depending on the team's playing level and ages of the players.

    Leagues play small-sided soccer (3 v. 3, 4 v. 4, and 5 v. 5) with their younger players to focus on the simple and basic aspects of soccer. Young players cannot see more than one or two teammates, and the basic building blocks of soccer involve triangle passing and small numbers of players. With fewer players on each team, players can learn the fundamental concepts of passing, spacing and scoring. Small-sided soccer allows coaches to pay more attention to individual players during games and while at practice.

    When leagues used to play full-sided games with younger children, the bunching of players throughout the game was inevitable and prevented the children from learning anything constructive about passing, spacing and field positions. Small-sided soccer was created to simplify the more complex aspects of soccer so younger players can learn and play based on rules that are within their realm of understanding. Small-sided soccer has proven to be the best format for player development.
  18. How many people should be on each team roster?
    The team roster, or number of players on each team, should not exceed 10 for U6, 12 for U8, and 14 for U10 and up recreation teams. The reason for this is to ensure that every player gets ample game time. If you are on a team which exceeds these maximum numbers you are not getting as much playing time as you should. We want to see players asking to to be substituted out because they are tired, rather than having players on the sidelines begging to be put in. The goal is to have everyone play and play a lot.
  19. What happens on Picture Day?
    We usually have pictures taken on two Saturdays towards the end of the season. Each team will be assigned a time for their team picture. Players will need to arrive at the Picture location 15 minutes before their scheduled time in their team uniform. Team Pictures will be taken at the time scheduled. Those desiring individual pictures will have them taken immediately following the team picture. Picture Schedule
  20. How Big is the Chatham Soccer League?
    The Chatham Soccer League covers all of Chatham County and slightly beyond in some cases. The league is open to any player wanting to play and not limited to Chatham County residents. The Chatham Soccer League has been growing at a rate of over 33% per year for the last four years (as of the 2004-2005 season). We expect to continue to grow as more and more people discover this wonderful game.
  21. What do I do if I want to coach?
    We rely on volunteer coaches and are always looking for those willing to coach (click here to Contact Us). The Chatham Soccer League feels so strongly about coaching education that we will pay the tuition for any coach wanting to become licensed as a soccer coach.

    Our goals and expectations are for all U4, U6 & U8 recreation coaches to hold a Youth I license. All U10 & U12 recreation coaches need a Youth II license. All U14 and up recreation coaches need a State E license. Challenge level coaches need a State D License. All Classic level coaches need a minimum National C License.
    The Job Descriptions for all volunteers are available in the CSL Job Descriptions Manual.
  22. What is Classic and Challenge Soccer? (known also as travel teams)
    Classic Soccer is the highest level of competition for youth soccer in North Carolina and a prime environment for players to develop to their fullest potential in the sport. It competes regionally, statewide and occasionally nation-wide.

    Challenge Soccer is a step below classic but still maintains a higher level of competition than a recreation league. It is more localized competition that fosters skills and player development in the younger age groups and helps introduce them to the classic level of play. Click here for information on Challenge Soccer.
  23. What is ODP?
    ODP stands for the Olympic Development Program. The Olympic Development Program is designed to identify players of the highest caliber on a continuing and consistent basis for the purposes of developing their skills; abilities and creating sustained success for the U.S. National Teams in the International arena. Every year ODP centers are held all over the state of North Carolina and in the other states. The best players from each geographic region of the state come to these centers for training sessions conducted by the state ODP staff. The best players are identified and selected to represent the state of North Carolina in regional competition (State Select). The best players on the state teams are selected to represent the four regions of the United States. The best players from the regional teams are selected to represent us at the national level. These national teams go on to represent us in international competition. These players form the player pools for our Olympic and world cup teams. To learn more, contact Lex Alvord LandscapesByLex@hotmail.com, Director of player development and Coaching for the Chatham Soccer League and State ODP staff coach or visit the U.S. Youth Soccer Web site.
  24. How do I keep my shin guards from stinking?
    A problem faced by all of us is how to keep our shin guards, shoes, and feet from stinking. Body odor is the byproduct of bacteria that live on our bodies. The sweat our body produces to cool us offers this bacteria an ideal medium in which to multiply. A simple solution is to put deodorant on the shin guards before each use. Deodorants contain chemicals that inhibit bacterial growth. No bacteria, no smell. You can also apply deodorant to your feet to keep them from smelling too. It's important that you only use deodorant and not an antiperspirant. Antiperspirants inhibit perspiration, as the name implies, and therefore reduce our bodies ability to cool itself.
  25. Sports Drinks or Water?
    Plain water, which is easily absorbed by the body, not only is perfectly adequate but is the best beverage to drink. Leading sports physiologists have found that the difference between sports drinks and plain water is meaningful only to people who push themselves to the activity level of elitist, dedicated athletes. Those who train or participate in events for four hours or more, may benefit from drinking a diluted sports drink. It is the water we need most. Replenishing the body's electrolytes, which is a major selling point of sports drinks, is less important than the ads would have you believe. It is true that sodium, which helps regulate the body's fluid balance and plays a role in muscle contraction, is lost in sweat. Except, however, for athletes who compete in endurance events, exercisers needn't worry about running short on sodium or potassium. Both of these nutrients are plentiful in the American diet.
  26. Here are some tips to keep from "running dry".
    • Drink water before exercise. Drink water, diluted fruit juice or diluted sports drink during exercise, practice and competition.
    • During exercise, drink about eight ounces of fluid every 15 to 20 minutes. Cold drinks are absorbed most rapidly.
    • If you exercise vigorously for less than one hour, or moderately for less than two hours, water is all you need. Add a squeeze of lime or a splash of juice for variety.
    • If you exercise strenuously for more than one hour, or moderately for more than two hours, you can benefit from an energy drink. Be sure the carbohydrate content doesn't exceed eight percent by weight. More than that will slow absorption and may cause stomach cramps.
    • Refuel your muscles within two hours after exercise.
    • Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol which are thought to have a dehydrating effect. Carbonated drinks tend to make you feel full, making it difficult to drink enough.
    • Never restrict fluids during exercise.
    • Always make fluids a part of your exercise routine.
  27. Are Scholarships Available?
    Yes, full and partial scholarships are available. The league may also allow you to pay your fees over time. You must complete a registration form and circle the words "Scholarship Requested" on the form. All scholarship requests are confidential and individually reviewed by the Scholarship subcommittee of the Chatham Soccer League Board. Proof of need is required for consideration. Click here to Contact Us.
  28. What is the Academy Program
    The Chatham Soccer League is pleased to announce the addition of the U10 Academy Program to the available levels of play this fall. Academy programs seek to improve individual player development, satisfaction and retention, and to build a less pressured youth soccer environment for coaches, adult spectators, and match officials. The U10 Academy Program is supported by United States Soccer Federation, US Youth Soccer and the NC Youth Soccer Association. This program is open to U9 and U10 boys and girls interested in focusing on skills development in a fun, pressure free environment.

    The Academy Director, Frank Fitzgerald, has coached many of the players participating in the program at the recreational level. Coach Fitzgerald states, “Each of these players possesses the desire to improve their game and have the attitude we are looking for in this program. Additionally, their families are willing to make the commitment to make this program a success. We are thrilled to offer this to our soccer community.”

    The practices will be conducted in a group environment for up to 32 kids this fall. Several experienced, licensed coaches have volunteered to work with the players in a variety of skills stations at each practice. No scores, results or standings will be kept for the academy teams during matches. The focus is on individual development and enjoyment free from standings and the pressure of results. Teams will be mixed up for game day to allow for like skilled players to compete against similar players. The competition will be players from other local academy programs located in the Triangle area. CSL will host some of the matches and will travel for some. During the season, there will be four weekends of play that will each consist of two matches on either a Saturday or Sunday. The league plans to expand the Academy Program to add up to sixteen U8 players in the Fall of 2010.

    Click here for more information about the U10 Academy Program is available on the NCYSA website or questions can be sent to Frank Fitzgerald.
  29. What do I do if I have volunteered?
    CSL is run by volunteers. We are always looking for people interested in helping kids and making the league bigger and better. The Job Descriptions for all volunteers are available in the CSL Job Descriptions Manual.
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