Frequently Asked Questions

When do registrations open?

Fall registrations usually begin in June and end in July.  Spring registrations usually begin in November and end in January or February.

 Why do registrations end so early?

Registration deadlines are placed in order to enable our registrars to confirm coaches, place teams, order uniforms, hold coaches meetings and enable ample practice before the first game.  Our board generally needs 4-6 weeks to facilitate all these processes.

 What does the "U" mean? 

 "U" stands for "Under"; so U8 is for children under the age of 8 years old.  The annual cut-off date is July 31st.   So if your child turns 8 before or on July 31st of this year, they will play in U10 with other 8 and 9 year olds.

 How do you make the teams?

Our registrars look at a variety of factors in making up the teams.  The teams are generally made of of kids from the same school, which is why we ask which school your child attends on our registration forms.  We try to honor special requests for carpooling and coaches as long as we aren't aware of conflicts.  Special requests must be made at the time of registration.

 What do our registration dollars pay for?

There are many expenses related with the successful administration of a non-profit soccer club.  Our recurring expenses, include but aren't limited to uniforms, player and coach insurance, goals, balls, cones, coaches folders, medals, field lining paint, referees (U10+), printing, postage, website maintenance, credit card processing, phone expenses, coach training and more.

 Why do you need sponsors if we pay for the registrations?

Sponsorships allow us to keep our fees as low as possible.  Without these community partners, our registration fees would not cover all the costs as listed above.   If you know a business or individual who is community minded and would like to support our efforts, please contact our Sponsorship Coordinator, Sheri Johnson, at info@canyonoptimistsoccer.com.

 I'm interested in volunteering; how can I help?

We are always looking for coaches for our teams!  Contact registrar@canyonoptimistsoccer.com if you're interested in coaching at any level.  We are also in need of additional sponsors and other general league volunteers.  Visit our Sponsorship or Volunteer pages for more information.

 What time commitment is involved if I register my child?

For the U6 & U8 Divisions, you can generally figure on two practices per week (45-60 minutes) and weekly Saturday games for 7-8 weeks.  The U10 and older divisions can have 2-3 practices per week with up to 90 minutes per practice.  U11 and older teams practice 2-3 times per week and have mostly Saturday games.  Half of their games are at our home field (Brothers Park) and half are away.

 Where are practices held?

Coaches are responsible for setting practice days and times.  We ask that coaches pick a practice location either at the school where the players attend or central to where the majority of the players live.  Practice locations and times cannot always be convenient for everyone!  Coaches will try to work with you as best as they can, but they also have schedules and families of their own they must accommodate.

 My child's never played soccer before.  What do we need to have for him/her to play?

Our club provides the uniform jersey for games and equipment for practices.  The things you'll need to provide are: soccer cleats (not baseball or football!) or athletic shoes, shin guards, soccer socks to cover the shin guards, and shorts or sweats as appropriate for the weather.  There are many days when it is cold and windy, so please be prepared so your child will stay warm and healthy.  Please make sure your player always has a  full water bottle available at practice and games.

Why do you require a copy of my child's birth certificate?

We have to verify your child's age and ensure that they are playing in the correct age group.  This becomes even more important when older kids play in tournaments.  The registrar has to have a birth certificate on file as proof of age.

How are the birth certificates handled and kept safe?

When we receive a copy of your child's birth certificate it is scanned into an electronic file by the registrar.  The paper copy is then kept in a locked fire proof safe.  As your child gets too old to play in our club his/her birth certificate will be shredded.

If you have a question that wasn't answered here...check out the rest of our website or e-mail info@canyonoptimistsoccer.com.