Philosophy & Policies
STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
The Highlands Ranch Soccer Association (HRSA) exists to provide the youth of Highlands Ranch and surrounding areas an opportunity to play soccer. The organization will promote the development of its players, coaches, and teams. Team goals include developing good sportsmanship and teamwork.
PLAYER ELEGIBILITY
All eligible individuals who apply within the deadline will be assigned to a team on a space available basis. There will be no tryouts or other requirements to play except payment to HRSA.
TEAM FORMATION
Players are set up by gender/age groups/divisions. Players born August 1st through July 31st of the following year are grouped together. Players are then grouped in area (town/city), school, and special request (coach, friend, etc) as long as they have met the deadline. Players are then added to a team until the proper size of the team has been met. Every effort will be made to assign your child to a team located close to your home or school. Only HRSA Staff can assign a player to a team, coaches cannot guarantee or offer a place on a team. Roster limits will be adhered to in order to maximize each child’s playing time.
SELECTION OF COACHES
The success of this program depends on volunteer coaches for the teams. HRSA will assign a coach to each team and when available an Assistant Coach will be assigned. No experience in soccer is required; however, all coaches are required to attend one coaching clinic per year in order to provide age specific and consistent coaching methodology.
TIMES TWO
All teams will be assign no less than two adults, per team, to be present at all team functions such as games, practices, picnics, etc. No Exceptions!
1. The adults assigned can be a combination of coaches, snack coordinator, parents, etc.
2. While the focus of this policy is the child it also provides protection for the volunteers in case of misunderstandings.
3. SAY has for a long time recommended that volunteers not provide transportation for non-family members. This was more of an insurance issue but now has implications in regards to the intent of the "Times Two" policy.
COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT
Coaches are expected know and abide by the HRSA Rules and Procedures. In addition, these rules should govern the behavior and demeanor of the coaches:
1. The possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances in the field area is prohibited. A coach should not arrive at a practice or game field under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance.
2. The consumption of tobacco products at the practice or game fields is prohibited.
3. All criticism addressed to players should be constructive criticism.
4. A coach will not physically, mentally or sexually abuse a player.
5. A coach will be punctual for his practices and games, prepared, and neatly attired.
6. In all things a coach will set, through word and action, the highest standard of sportsmanship for his or her team.
7. All coaches will sign and return to HRSA a volunteer disclosure statement at least once per seasonal year (spring--fall).
PARTICIPANT CODE OF CONDUCT
We expect all participants to treat all individuals with respect and courtesy. By registering your child with HRSA you are agreeing to abide by their standard. All adults must stay off the field and away from the goals. It is the expectation of the HRSA that all participants (player, parent, coach, referee, spectator) will adhere to the following standards of conduct:
1. Comments that are negative in nature will not be directed toward any referee, opposing player or team members or team parents.
2. Complaints regarding HRSA Coaches/Assistant Coaches should be addressed to the HRSA Administrator. If resolution is not satisfactory, document your concerns in writing to the attention of the HRSA Executive Committee.
3. Concerns regarding your child’s team should be directly addressed to the HRSA Administrator. If resolution is not satisfactory, document your concerns in writing attention of HRSA Executive Committee.
4. The highest standards of sportsmanship will be evident at all HRSA functions. Any negative behaviors, which include but are not limited to: spitting, derogatory comments directed at opposing players, refusal to shake hands at the end of games, throwing of objects, can result in a child’s suspension from the next HRSA event (game, tournament play, etc.)
5. Concerns regarding the HRSA should be documented in writing and sent to the HRSA to the attention of HRSA Administrator.
6. Any breaches of the above standards of conduct can result in your child’s suspension and a participant’s removal from the HRSA. Comments and behaviors of any participant, which contradict the mission statement, disrupt the functioning of a team or the HRSA can result in suspension and/or removal from the HRSA, on the recommendation of the Executive Committee.
REFUNDS
It is the policy of HRSA to refund registration fees only if you move out of the southern Denver metro area prior to the start of season or if the child is unable to participate due to injury or illness as documented by a physician. Refunds granted are subject to a $20.00 handling fee. If we are unable to honor a special request registration there will be no refund. Conflicts with practice schedules are not grounds for a refund. If HRSA is unable to place your child on a team, a full refund will be issued. Refunds granted between seasons are subject to the handling fee and the single season fee. No refunds will be granted after the first scheduled game.