Q: Why do I have to register my child for soccer so early?
A: Uniform orders take 6 to 8 weeks. Teams must be formed before the order can be placed. Additionally, the paperwork to handle insurance, team roster and scheduling is monumental and takes time.

Q: What if I am out of town during registration?
A: The registration period lasts about 6 weeks and can be done over the internet in about three minutes. Go to www.westsidesoccer.org and follow the instructions.

Q: What if I don't have a computer and/or internet access?
A: The Public Libraries have free access or you can call the office at 317-4501 to make arrangements.

Q: What does my registration pay for?
A: Fees pay for uniforms, trophies, insurance, field equipment, referees, training costs and all the other things required to run this type of program.

Q: Why are some teams practicing and my child hasn't heard from a coach?
A: Older and advanced (or select) teams often start early. Many of the coaches for younger children will not begin until 2 weeks before opening day.

Q: What will my child need for practice?
A: Shinguards are a must. Additionally, Comfortable clothes for exercise, sneakers or soccer cleats, and a drink (Gatorade or water) are needed. Your coach may also ask you to bring a ball. U-5 through U-8 use size 3 balls, U-10 through U-12 use Size 4 and older players use size 5.

Q: Does my child need cleats to play?
A: Although shinguards are required, cleats are not. Many younger children are more comfortable in their sneakers. Older children will want the traction that their cleats provide.

Q: Can my child play with jewelry or beads in their hair?
A: No jewelry or anything that could cause harm to other players or themselves can be worn. This rule includes hair beads and barrettes and even casts. We recommend that ears be pierced between seasons, because earrings must be removed to play. This is a Florida Youth Soccer rule and not discretionary for the referees or club officials.

Q: Can my child bring a friend to practice?
A: Only players and coaches registered to can participate in our practices and games. Other are not covered by our insurance.

Q: What can be done if a referee makes a bad call?
A: All referees are trained and certified, unfortunately they are also humans. Bad calls will happen. They usually do not affect the outcome of the game. Also calls will be made and not made that you will disagree with. Sometimes, it is just a matter of what the referee sees. Sometimes, it is just a matter of advantage to the team that is fouled. If there is a truly bad situation, find the referee assignor or send an email to the club and the situation will be addressed. Remember that you are a role model for our players and arguing with a referee does not set a good example or get calls in your favor.

Q: What is the difference between recreational and advanced (Select) soccer?
A: Commitment! Advanced players are selected at a tryout and are committed for the entire year. They often hire trainers and go to tournaments. For these players, soccer is priority one. The focus of Recreational soccer is fun. The skill and commitment requirements are more relaxed.

Q: Why are the teams and spectators on opposite sides of the field?
A: Players and Spectators are kept separate to aid the coach and referees in team management. It helps the coach to have all the players in one place. It helps the player to understand that his instructions come the coach during the game if he does not have the distractions of family around.

Q: Why can't I stand near the net or behind the goal line during matches?
A: This is first and foremost a safety issue. Players have been injured, not to mention goals scored or not scored, because of the distraction of people behind the goals.

Q: Why are there no trash cans at the fields?
A: There are trash cans by the exits. Trash cans near the fields can cause litter and safety issues.

Q: The team I want my child on is full, but the coach is willing to add my child.  Why can't we just do that?
A: There are 2 reasons. First, on a recreational team, coaches are forbidden to select their own players to prevent team stacking. Second, the coach may not have the overall division picture when you ask him. There may teams in need of players. Also, in recreational soccer, players are guaranteed 50% play time during each match (assuming practice attendance, good health and good behavior), so a team playing 4v4 cannot have 9 players on their roster.

Q: How can I find out about special clinics and camps sponsored by Westside Soccer?
A: We try to publicize all upcoming events on the website and in newsletters and emails. You can also check the bulletin boards at the field.

Q: Who do I contact if I would like to coach a team?
A: Sign up on the website under coach registration. You wil then need to come into the office to fill out a coaches card for your background check.

Q: Can I get educational information about coaching?
A: Yes, Westside Soccer has manuals, books and a few videotapes. We also provide coaching courses and clinics on a regular basis.  Contact the office for additional information.

Q: How do I become a referee?
A: Go to FSR-Inc.com to register for the next 18 hour Grade 8 training course in our area. You must be 12 to take the class. This is a great way for teenagers to earn money and learn responsibility and people skills.

Q: What is a traveling recreational team?
A: A traveling recreational team plays with other teams in North Florida Youth Soccer League, instead of just Westside Soccer Club. Some travel is involved but it is all within an hour and half of home.  Teams start traveling at the U12 age level for both boys and girls.

Q: Who can try out for advanced teams?
A: Anyone U-10 or above.

Q: What does a team parent do?
A: Team parents are the organization people. They also are the communication link between the club and their team. They hand out the newsletters and photo packets and organize the snack schedule, end of season party and coaches' gift.

Q: Why do some matches have 3 referees and others have only one?
A: Only matches where off sides are called require Assistant Referees.

Q: Who sets up the fields on Saturday?
A: Volunteers on the Fields and Equipment Committee paints the fields on Fridays. The first teams to play on Saturday are responsible for setting up the fields and the last teams to play on Saturday are responsible for breaking them down.

Q: Can my daughter play on an all girls team?
A: Westside Soccer offers and encourages all-girl teams beginning at U-10 and above.

Q: Who are North Florida Youth Soccer League and Florida Youth Soccer Association?
A: NFYSL is the local league that schedules travel games and handles discipline for North Florida. FYSA is the State Organization that sets the rules and regulations and handles the insurance.

Q: Who are the people in the red shirts?
A: Westside Board members have been provided red Westside Soccer Tee shirts to improve Board visibility. If you have questions or concerns during game day please visit the Tee shirt booth by the concession stand.