Dear Parents

We are super excited to announce that your child’s soccer season is underway and we are looking forward to seeing everyone on the fields!

The below information is to help answer any questions you may have and we’ll continue to update this as the season progresses with common questions.

Code of Conduct

Soccer is an exciting and passionate game. We should always remember that the objective is to have fun and learn the game of soccer. It is important that all participants conduct themselves in a positive and responsible manner. 

As a parent, or spectator, I will set a good example in accordance with the following:

• I will do my very best to have my child on time and prepared for every match. 

• I will refrain from engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct or negative communication with players, coaching staff or families of the opposing team.

• I will not openly criticize the referees before, during or after games. I understand that unacceptable behaviours will be addressed using the 'Take 5’ Initiative, summarized below; 

1. First Incident - game is paused, spectator(s) given a warning. 

2. Second Incident - game is paused for 5 min.

3. Third Incident - game is abandoned. 

• I will leave the coaching to the coach, and refrain from giving instruction during games or practices. I agree to remain on the spectator side of the field. 

• Unless there is an immediate health or safety concern of a player, should I have a soccer-related concern, I agree to reflect for at least 24 hours before raising the concern with a West Elgin Soccer Executive - coaches shall not be approached directly. 

Coaches

Your team leaders may consist of a Coach, Coach Assistant and Team Managers who are there to help coordinate your team to have a successful season.  If you are passionate about soccer and having fun then feel free to reach out to lend a helping hand.  For more information, visit our 'Volunteers' page.

Our soccer coaches are dedicated parents, just like you. They balance work, family, and life’s many responsibilities, all while giving their time to help your child grow and enjoy the game of soccer. Please remember that our coaches are not professional trainers, but they are doing their best to provide a positive experience for everyone on the team.

We ask that you show kindness and patience with your coach. They strive to be on time, organized, and supportive, but sometimes life gets busy. If you see an opportunity to help out, please reach out – we are all in this together!

A team cannot play without a coach, and we are grateful for those who step up to guide the players. Thank you for your understanding, support, and respect for the volunteers who make it all happen!

Communication 

Stay up to date with the latest news from West Elgin Soccer through our website and Facebook page. We will be using the Power Up online system for registration, schedules, and updates. You may receive emails from us, so please remember to check your junk mail for communications from both West Elgin Soccer and your team leaders.

Uniform

We will be providing your child with a uniform, shorts, and socks. The arrival of uniforms at the start of the season can vary.  Please note ahead of time that the uniforms may or may not fit as we are limited by sizing.  

What to Bring  

All children must have shin pads.  We strongly encourage your child to have cleats because the grass can get very wet and kids slip and slide.  Shin pads and cleats help prevent injuries. Please bring your own child’s water, and snacks.  You may also want to have a change of clothes, hair elastics, wipes, bug spray, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, umbrella, sweaters, jackets, etc. 

Jewelry 

For everyone’s safety, we ask that players do not wear jewelry during soccer. For U4 to U10, if jewelry cannot be removed, earrings and friendship bracelets may be securely taped. For U12 to U16/U18, all jewelry must be removed before play, and taping is not allowed. This includes watches, bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings. Thank you for helping us keep all players safe on the field! 

Medical Conditions

If your child has special medical conditions that you feel the coaches should know about, please let the coaches know. 

For safety reasons, players are not permitted to participate in games while wearing a cast. The wearing of any type of cast during game play is prohibited to reduce the risk of injury to the player and others.

Kids

We know that kids are just kids.  Sometimes young kids get distracted and walk away from the field or have to go to the washroom, we ask for your help with these situations. 

Weather

If it is raining, the soccer game can still go on.  If it is thundering or lightning, the referee, West Elgin Soccer, and/or West London Soccer League will decide to either sit the storm out or cancel the games.  We will make every attempt to send out notifications prior to the game. Notifications may come through PowerUp, email or social media.  Please see our "Weather Policy".

Referee

We have young referees.  Some referees will have experience and others will be new to the job.  Be mindful as they are still learning.

Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the "Take 5" Initiative which is being used by many leagues across Ontario. Our referees will be implementing this when necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable game.