What makes EYSC Competitive level soccer different than Recreational?
Most players in EYSC play at the Recreation level, which is classified by the California Youth Soccer Association (CYSA) as Division 4 soccer. EYSC Competitive soccer is for those players U-9 and above who are looking for a higher level of play and possess the skills necessary to compete at the CYSA Division 1 or US Club NorCal level. Those players wishing to play at the Competitive level must attend tryouts and be selected to play on a Competitive team. The Coach is usually a parent, he or she must have an F and E coaching license, have a background check through Live Scan, and be certified with the Positive Coaching Alliance. Most EYSC Competitive teams also hire a paid Professional Soccer Trainer to improve technical/tactical play aspects like foot skills, passing, and game strategy. Teams play 10 regular League games, and most teams participate in pre and post season tournaments. Just like in the Recreational program, EYSC Competitive soccer teams do adhere to the Placer Youth Soccer League (PYSL) 50% play rule ensuring that all players play at least 50% of the game.
Can a child play on an EYSC Competitive team if he or she doesn’t live in Granite Bay?
Yes. EYSC has open tryouts. We see players from Folsom, Rocklin, Roseville, Loomis, San Juan and even Gold River! Tryouts are free, and we often host pre-tryout clinics so all players can "try us out" before tryouts. We strive to hold tryouts that do not conflict with other clubs so athletes can make it to their local club as well as EYSC's tryouts to determine the fit that is best for them.
When are EYSC Competitive Soccer try-outs?
Tryouts for 2013 are scheduled for February 23/24 and March 2 for the U9 to U14 players. The U-15 and U-19 age groups will tryout in May (dates to be determined). The requirements, tryout times, and selection process for U9-U14 are posted under "Competitive Tryouts" on our Home Page.
Who conducts the tryouts and who makes the decisions on teams?
Typically, our long term Trainers will run the drills and exercises during tryouts. The Coaches for each age group will be on the field evaluating and working together to place athletes on the teams most appropriate for the competition level exhibited during the sessions. We understand that tryouts can be stressful for young players and conduct the selection process to be sensitive to the feelings of those players who are not selected. Offers are typically made via telephone after the tryout sessions.
How are the Competitive Teams structured?
Competitive Teams have a volunteer Coaching staff (usually a Head Coach and an Assistant Coach). They are Coaches because they love to help kids develop a love of soccer, pure and simple. Our club promotes a culture beyond "play to win" to incorporate Life Lessons through sport. We believe in a 50% play rule to ensure every player has a chance to use the skills they're developing.
Competitive teams employ a paid Professional Trainer to focus on technical and tactical points of the game. Trainers typically run the practice sessions but do not come to games.
Team parents play an important role in each team. Volunteers will be asked to step forward and participate in the operation of the team, including things like coordinating a uniform order, ensuring benches and needed shade structures make it to the games, manage the team finances, handle applications for tournaments, plan team social functions, etc.
How long is the soccer season for EYSC Competitive Soccer?
Regular season play consists of 10 games from September through November. For many teams, training begins in early summer with tournaments beginning in August. Some teams choose to play in post-season tournaments including District Cup in December and Association Cup or State Cup in the following spring.
What is the cost for a player’s season in the EYSC Competitive Soccer program?
Cost varies by team, typically ranging between $200 to $1,000, depending on Trainer fees, uniform costs (if any), and tournaments. The Coach will provide an estimate of the season expenses at tryouts.