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Registrar's Workshop in Columbia
The Registrar's Workshop will be held in Columbia on April 26, 2008, at the Hilton Garden Inn (434 Columbiana Drive) located behind the Harbison Mall. Two sessions will be held: the first in the morning from 8am-12 noon; and the second from 1pm-5pm. Both sessions will be identical in content - rule changes, review of forms, a live demonstration of Demosphere online registration system with Carol and Jay Baker, representatives for the company, followed by a question/answer period.

It is only necessary you attend one of these sessions. Please email Simmonsregistrar@aol.com to let Jane Simmons me know what session you will be attending so that she can make appropriate meeting room arrangements. If you are not attending because you are not returning as the registrar, please forward this message onto the appropriate person.

Thank you for all the tremendous work and time that you put into the registrar position so that ultimately the players can have a great time on the field playing soccer.

- Jane Simmons, SC Youth Soccer Registrar
Archived 1-MAY-2008

Positive Parenting for Youth Soccer DVD Now Available
Nation's Largest Youth Sport Organization Releases Latest Instructional DVD for Parents: US Youth Soccer today announced Positive Parenting for Youth Soccer, the second title in a series of instructional youth soccer DVDs.

>>Order Online

President's Report to SC Youth Soccer Members
The SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors held its annual Planning Meeting and regularly scheduled Board of Directors meeting on January 26th and 27th 2008, in Columbia, SC. The two day Planning Meeting evaluated matters of concern presented during the three Presidents’ “Open Forum” meetings, in addition to other issues of importance presented by the Board of Directors and staff.

Listed below is a summary of relevant matters considered by the Board of Directors at both the Planning Meeting and the Board of Directors meeting.

The Board agreed not to increase any existing registration fees for the 2008 / 2009 seasonal year.
The Board agreed to utilize DEMOSPHERE as the official on-line registration provider for SC Youth Soccer, commencing with the 2008 / 2009 seasonal year.
The Board approved a proposal to absorb the $250 initial set-up fee for any affiliated organization signing with DEMOSPHERE for the 2008 / 2009 seasonal year, by September 1, 2008.
The Board will consider a proposal at the March meeting to add a “surcharge” fee of $2.00 to register a player from an organization not utilizing the DEMOSHERE on-line registration process for the 2008 / 2009 seasonal year.
The Board discussed our present SC Youth Soccer policy on “illegal recruiting” and will consider a proposal for change at our next meeting.
The Board agreed not to increase any State Cup fees for the 2008 / 2009 seasonal year.
The Board will consider a proposal to revise its present State Cup hosting agreement at our next meeting
The Board of Directors will select the hosting organization for State Cups without regard to District rotation beginning with the 2008/ 2009 seasonal year.
SC Youth Soccer will apply to host a “C” license course in May of 2009
SC Youth Soccer is considering the purchase a commercial office in Columbia to relocate the State Office and discontinue renting our present office space.
The new ’08/‘09 SC Youth Soccer calendar was approved. (see attached)
A committee was appointed by the President to evaluate and consider various methods to better promote and market SC Youth Soccer. Members of this committee are: Barry Bynum, Steve Cothran, Doug Gaddis, Van Taylor and Steve Ballentine.
The next scheduled edition of SC Youth Soccer E-NEWS is scheduled for March 2008

2007 US Youth Soccer Volunteer of the Year
John Duvall, Kentucky Youth Soccer Association
Brief bios of the regional winners. >>MORE

Second Annual Girls Elite Soccer Program (ESP)Adidas ESP is the premier youth development program that provides soccer’s next generation of stars with a platform to showcase their skills. Ellie Smith, from Greer, SC is on the 1992 ODP State Team and will participate in this event. Adidas and Cal Poly Pomona will host the event February 21-24.

This year's invite-only camp will kick off with a speech from former US Women's National Team Captain, Kristine Lilly, to motivate and inspire the nation's top 96 female athletes.

Adidas ESP, a sanctioned US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program, identifies the country's best high school-aged players and provides them with a top level field training program along with a diverse off-field educational curriculum. Over 60 coaches from colleges and universities are expected to scout the players.

Adidas ESP is staffed by an experienced and well rounded group of coaches from the collegiate and professional levels. Former U.S. Women's National Team and current U-20 National Team head coach, Tony DiCicco, will serve as Technical Director for the girls program. The coaching staff includes former Women's National Team members Keri Sanchez, Cindy Parlow, Danielle Fotopoulos and Thori Bryan. Archived 3-MAR-2008

Win Tickets for MLS in Charleston

Major League Soccer returns to the Lowcountry as the Charleston Battery hosts the fifth annual Carolina Challenge Cup March 15 – 22 at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island. SC. The 2008 pre-season tournament features Major League Soccer’s, New York Red Bulls, Toronto FC and the San Jose Earthquakes plus the USL First Division Charleston Battery. This is the premier pre-season soccer tournament in the United States and offers a chance for you to see the very best players up close and personal at Blackbaud Stadium. SCYSA has 6 tickets for each game and you can WIN them by emailing: Battery@CharlestonBattery.Com, subject line SCYSA Winner. Entries must be received before March 1, 2008 – winners will be notified via email. Tickets for the Carolina Challenge Cup are on sale now priced at just $15 – $25; discounts are available for series tickets (includes all 6 games), for 2008 Charleston Battery season ticket holders and for groups (special soccer team rates are available). For more information please visit www.charlestonbattery.com
Archived 1-MAR-2008

SC Youth Soccer State Council Meeting, Presidents’ Workshop, & Awards
Education and Risk Management were the key features during this year's annual meeting, not to mention a very special celebration to acknowledge 30 years of SC Youth Soccer and the past President's who gave birth to the organization three decades ago. And let us not forget the awards banquet with a keynote address from Mark Berson, University of South Carolina Men's Soccer Coach.

The SC Youth Soccer State Council meeting held scheduled elections for the positions of SC Youth Soccer Vice President and Treasurer. In addition to education and operation training, a review of SC Youth Soccer's overall financial state was delivered by Rick Cunningham. Barry Bynum continues to drive the importance of safety on the soccer field, with important information concerning goal safety and the necessity to inspect soccer fields before every practice and game. Pat Pullen of Pat Pullen Insurance Services, Inc. delivered the details on SC Youth Soccer coverage and the finer details of claims and liability. Everyone was reminded that 15-Passenger vans are NOT covered by SCYSA because of the likelihood of turnover on the road.

Presidents from soccer Clubs across the state joined to trade information and hear changes to player registration procedures from Jane Simmons. Other important information was delivered during the Workshop, including State ODP Administrator Mary Bynum and Steve Cothran who had a few words about the Red Card Ejection Reporting.

This year's administrative workshop topics was followed by the Awards Luncheon, sponsored by Pullen Insurance Services, Inc. Barry Whittington was honored as the 2007 Coach of the Year while Neil Veloso received the Publix Parent of the Year award. Significant contributions to the ever-challenging task of refereeing came from Stephanie Gauthier and Dalton Betzen who took high honors as the Female and Male Youth Referees of the Year.

Ramsey Selected to Represent SC Youth Soccer
Alex Ramsey has been invited to the Region III Developmental Camp to be held February 20-26 at Cal Poly Tech University in Pomona, CA in February. Region III Girls' ODP Chairman, Karen Flanagan, reported the good news to Alex.

There have been 36 players from each region in the '92 and '93 age group pools selected for this event. Especially good for Alex and good for South Carolina!

Hockey Coach Knows Parents
With more than 60,000 downloads on YouTube.com, Hockey Head Coach Don Lucia's speech has captured the attention (and sympathy) of coaches in the Soccer community who empathize with his experiences. >>VIEW VIDEO

10-Year Old Virginia Boy Killed in Soccer Accident
Police and school officials in Virginia are trying to determine how a soccer goal post fell on a 10-year-old boy, killing him. Bass-Hoover Elementary School sent a letter home with students Tuesday identifying the boy as Hayden Barnes Ellias, a fourth-grader at the school near Stephens City. >> MORE

Goals need to be anchored and are not climbing toys:

Coaches should inspect goals prior to any activity to make sure they are secured. Special attention is needed at practices.
All clubs/leagues should implement a goal safety program.
Coaches need to warn players and all parents of the dangers of goal posts.
Parents need to be attentive and responsible for their children.
Do not allow horseplay on or around goals.
Referees should inspect goals prior to a game.

Let's make sure a tragedy like this does not occur in again. It is everyone's responsibility!

Report on SC Youth Soccer Board Meeting
The SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors held its regularly scheduled meeting on Sunday, September 9, 2007 in Columbia, SC. Listed below is a summary of relevant matters considered by the Board of Directors at this meeting.

The Directors and Officers Insurance ( D&O ) policy has been approved, providing coverage for all SC Youth Soccer affiliated organizations.
A new “Conflict of Interest” was approved for the SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors, District Cabinet members and committee members.
Hosting for the 2007 / 2008 SC Youth Soccer State Cups has been approved and awarded to the Columbia United Soccer Club.
There will be an ODP information night on September 17th at the Columbia United Soccer Club.
SC Youth Soccer has committed to send our two qualifying ODP teams (’91 Boys and ’91 Girls) to the Region III ODP Championship Tournament in Houston in January.
Approval was given to proceed with the Demosphere on-line registration program.

Fall 2007 State Cup Schedules and Information

To access schedules and information for the November 10 and 11th South Carolina Presidents Medal Classic State Cup and the American (recreation) State Cup Click on the link below.

>>South Carolina Youth Soccer State Cup Schedules and Information.

The Cup is November 10 and 11 in Columbia. We will be using multiple soccer complexes with the Tournament Headquarters at the BB&T complex in Ballentine. I will keep posting information as it comes available.

Publix Welcomes Soccer Players

This September Publix is taking Youth Soccer Month to the shelves. To make things a bit easier for soccer families on the go, foods and drinks—perfect for the busy season—will be highlighted up and down the aisles. So come help us celebrate September’s Youth Soccer Month and see what else we have in store.

President’s “Open Forums”
This year’s President’s “Open Forum” meetings began on September 30th in the Coastal District. These meetings are held by the SC Youth Soccer President in each of the three Districts in an effort to allow organizational members to present and discuss issues of importance and provide valuable insight into SC Youth Soccer matters.

This is the third year for these meetings. In the past they have proven to be a significant resource of information to the Board of Directors. Many important changes in SC Youth Soccer rules and programs are a direct result of the input received during these previous “Open Forum” meetings.

All members are encouraged to attend this meeting in your District and bring ideas and suggestions to talk about SC Youth Soccer. While it is not practical to assume everything suggested will be implemented into our programs, it is reasonable to expect that all suggestions will be given serious consideration.

Thanks Publix!
Publix supermarket, a proud sponsor of SC Youth Soccer ,has gratiously donated over 350 portable tents ot our member organizations.

The tents are a beautiful “publix” green and have the SC Youth Soccer logo in place. Allocation of the tents to our members was based on their player registration numbers.

Most of the tents have already been distributed to our member associations. Remember to shop at Publix!

Mandatory - SC Youth Soccer State Council Meeting, Presidents’ Workshop, & Awards
The SC Youth Soccer State Council Meeting, Presidents’ Workshop and Thirtieth Anniversary Awards Luncheon will be held August 4, 2007, from 9 to 4 pm at the Embassy Suites in Columbia. This function is mandatory and every affiliated Club and League must have their President or designated officer in attendance. Registration 8 – 9 a.m. with meetings to follow.

The SC Youth Soccer State Council meeting will hold scheduled elections for the positions of SC Youth Soccer Vice President and Treasurer. Nominations for these two positions will be open and accepted from the floor of the assembly.

The SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors will present a workshop to cover SC Youth Soccer administrative topics: Changes to our Registration Rules, State Cup manual and SC Youth Soccer Insurance with updates on our Risk Management and ODP. All topics will be covered thoroughly with adequate time to answer questions.

Again, you or a representative from your association must attend this workshop, which is being conducted in an effort to educate, inform and advise our members of SC Youth Soccer for TODAY and the future.

Your association will be billed $100.00 for the workshop and the awards luncheon for one person. Additional members from your organization are welcome to register and attend the Presidents’ Workshop at no additional cost. There will be an additional $20 per person charge for the Awards Luncheon.

Please encourage other members from your association to attend the Annual SC Youth Soccer State Council Meeting, Presidents’ Workshop and Awards Luncheon. Remember the location is the Embassy Suites in Columbia, SC.

Date: August 4, 2007
Place: Columbia Embassy Suites, Columbia, SC
Address: 200 Stoneridge Drive (Near Columbia Zoo)
Registration: 8-9 a.m.
Workshop: 9-4 pm with lunch between 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm 1-OCT-2007

President’s Report 2007

This year marks the 30th anniversary of SC Youth Soccer, and we continue to provide the highest quality soccer programs in South Carolina. To help celebrate our 30th anniversary, SC Youth Soccer has developed and approved a new logo to better represent and market our organization. We believe this new logo will go a long way to help us “Celebrate our Past and Chart our Future” for the next 30 years.

Our Leagues, State Cups, National Championships and ODP programs allow teams and individuals players to participate at all levels of competition and advance to their highest echelon with everyone competing on a level playing field. These are without a doubt the best soccer programs available in South Carolina and we will continue to keep them that way.

At this year’s Southern Regional Tournament in Oklahoma City, SC Youth Soccer qualified five teams to advance to the quarter finals. We are very proud of all of our teams who competed at this tournament; they represented SC Youth Soccer very well, on and off the field.

We are extremely proud of our Boys and Girls ODP teams for their performance at this year’s Regional Camps. For the first time two of our teams, ’91 Boys and ’91 Girls, qualified to advance to the Region III ODP championships to be held next January. Also, many SC Youth Soccer ODP players were selected from the Regional camps to the
“pool teams”. This is quite an accomplishment and endorsement to the success of our ODP programs.

Our Risk Management Program continues as an effective mechanism for protecting our members. Criminal background checks are performed on all volunteers, coaches, administrators and referees over 18 years of age, to ensure that individuals with questionable or criminal backgrounds are not allowed to participate in our programs.
Requirements to maintain safe and secure soccer facilities, and keep all portable soccer goals securely anchored, are also a mainstay of the SCYSA Risk Management Program.

We certainly must recognize and acknowledge our sponsors. SC Youth Soccer continues to maintain our affiliation with SCORE America Equipment Co. Their many years of loyalty and commitment to SC Youth Soccer have been an enormous asset and we extend our gratitude to them for their allegiance to our organization ... THANK YOU.

PUBLIX Super Market’s first year with SC Youth Soccer has been nothing short of tremendous. The PUBLIX philosophy of “grass roots” community involvement goes hand-in-hand with SC Youth Soccer's mission to provide quality soccer programs at every level throughout the state. PUBLIX has gone “above and beyond” with their support and commitment to SC Youth Soccer and we greatly appreciate all of their efforts to our program ... THANK YOU.

SC Youth Soccer remains committed to our philosophy of open communication with our membership. The “Open Forum” meetings held in all of our Districts continue to provide valuable insight to the BOD regarding ways to advance and improve our programs and policies. These meetings will continue again this year as a means for SCYSA to listen and learn from our membership.

The SC Youth Soccer website (www.scysa.org) continues to provide an excellent source of information to our members. As we strive to improve and expand this web site, I would like to suggest you become frequent visitors to this site and utilize it as a resource center for all SC Youth Soccer programs and policies. Let me add a special thanks Richard Wright our “webmaster” for going above and beyond the call of duty to implement and improve this website.

It has been my honor and privilege to serve SC Youth Soccer as its President the past three years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our volunteers at every level: coaches, team managers, administrators and everyone who gives their time and effort to make youth soccer and SC Youth Soccer the “Game for All Kids”.

I am especially grateful to our BOD for their countless hours of volunteer service to this organization. SC Youth Soccer is very fortunate to have such a dedicated group of volunteers and administrative staff who are always ready to meet the challenge and do “whatever it takes” to carry out our many programs.

Respectfully submitted,
Steve Ballentine
SC Youth Soccer President
1-OCT-2007

US Youth Soccer Blog
The US Youth Soccer Blog recently added another blogger to the mix in John Thomas. John is the assistant director of coaching education for US Youth Soccer and will be a weekly blogger for US Youth Soccer on Wednesdays.

John joins Sam Snow, director of coaching education for US Youth Soccer. If you aren’t familiar with the Blog take a look and see what’s out there. Feel free to add your comments to the posts and check back shortly as new blogs will be popping up soon. Would you like to be a blogger, click here and tell us what you’d like to blog. Get to it by visiting http://usyouthsoccer.blogspot.com 1-OCT-2007

Report on SC Youth Soccer
The SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors held its regularly scheduled meeting on Sunday, March 18, 2007, in Columbia, SC. Listed below is a summary of relevant matters considered by the Board of Directors at this meeting.

The Board agreed to pay the entry fees for all SC Youth Soccer State Championship and Reg. III Premier League Championship teams attending the 2007 Southern Regional Tournament in Oklahoma City.
The Board agreed to pay the entry fees for all Presidents’ Medal Cup State Championship teams attending the 2007 Region III President’s Cup in Tampa, Florida.
As required, the Board agreed to pay the travel and lodging expenses for 11 referees and 3 referee assessors to attend the 2007 Southern Regional Tournament in Oklahoma City. It was also agreed to provide a stipend and a tournament shirt for these same referees and assessors.
The Board approved changes to SC Youth Soccer Rule C-10, Guest Player Roster, which will require;
• A player’s present team coach must sign the Guest Player Roster before the player is allowed to participate as a guest player for another team.
• Any player who guest plays for another team is not allowed to transfer to that team during the current seasonal year, unless their present coach approves of the transfer.
The Board approved changes to SC Youth Soccer Rule, C-31 Transfers; which will not allow a player to transfer to another club until all documented financial obligations to their present club have been satisfied. The present coach’s signature on the transfer, releases the player from all obligations to the team.
The SC Youth Soccer Spring 2007 State Cup events will be held at the Summerville Soccer Club complex in Summerville SC. Applications are available on the web site www.scysa.org
The Board approved for SC Youth Soccer clubs to advertise their tournaments on the SC Youth Soccer web site at a reduced fee of $100 per event, per calendar month.
SC Youth Soccer District Council meetings will be held on Sunday, April 29th in their respective districts. Contact District Commissioners for specific information regarding these meetings.
SC Youth Soccer Registrar will hold registrar certification meetings in all districts as scheduled. Refer to the SC Youth Soccer calendar on the web site www.scysa.org for exact dates, times and locations.
US Youth Soccer announced they will require a fee increase from all State Associations for the ’08 / ’09 seasonal year. This will be a 100% increase from $1.00 to $2.00 per registered player. US Youth Soccer will also require an additional fee increase of $.50 per player for the ’10 / ’11 seasonal year.
This year the SC Youth Soccer will celebrate its 30th anniversary during the 2007 Presidents’ Workshop which will be held on August 4, 2007 at the Embassy Suites in Columbia, SC.

1-OCT-2007

Open Forum
The Coastal District “Open Forum” meeting will be held on Sunday, September 30, 2007 in Charleston at the Hilton Gardens Inn, 5265 International Blvd. from 4:00 – 6:00 PM.

This meeting is open to all members of SC Youth Soccer to discuss general matters of importance ... please try to attend. 1-OCT-2007

Report on SC Youth Soccer Board Meeting of June 24, 2007The SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors held its regularly scheduled meeting on Sunday, September 9, 2007 in Columbia, SC. Listed below is a summary of relevant matters considered by the Board of Directors at this meeting.

The Directors and Officers Insurance ( D&O ) policy has been approved, providing coverage for all SC Youth Soccer affiliated organizations.
A new “Conflict of Interest” was approved for the SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors, District Cabinet members and committee members.
Hosting for the 2007 / 2008 SC Youth Soccer State Cups has been approved and awarded to the Columbia United Soccer Club.
There will be an ODP information night on September 17th at the Columbia United Soccer Club.
SC Youth Soccer has committed to send our two qualifying ODP teams (’91 Boys and ’91 Girls) to the Region III ODP Championship Tournament in Houston in January.
Approval was given to proceed with the Demosphere on-line registration program.

Archived 30-SEP-2007

SCSCL, PMSL Meetings in Columbia
Meeting on Sunday August 5, 2007 to discuss Fall 2007 SCSCL and PMSL Schedule:

8:30 AM - U18 BOYS,U18 GIRLS - SCSCL,PMSL
10:00 AM - U17 BOYS,U17 GIRLS - SCSCL,PMSL
11:30 AM - U16 BOYS,U16 GIRLS - SCSCL,PMSL
1:30 PM - U15 BOYS,U15 GIRLS - SCSCL,PMSL
3:00 PM - U14 BOYS,U14 GIRLS - PMSL
4:30 PM - U13 BOYS,U13 GIRLS - PMSL

Location of the meeting:
Columbia Embassy Suites
200 Stoneridge Drive(Near Columbia Zoo)
Columbia, SC, 29201

>>SCSCL and PMSL Scheduling Meeting Information

SCYSA Teams with Darkness to Light

Sexual misconduct is the #1 reason for coach firings in the U.S., resulting in millions of dollars in lawsuits each year. Darkness to Light offers Stewards of Children, a comprehensive sexual abuse prevention training program that educates adults to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse.

• Designed for organizations that serve children and adolescents.
• Provides prevention training for staff, volunteers, parents, and other interested adults.
• Provides the training necessary for an effective risk management approach.
• Ideal for response to insurance requirements regarding risk management.

Darkness to Light has trained 3 SCYSA Facilitators who can act as a liaison by leading group discussion during in-person trainings and by guiding coaches through the creation and implementation of policies and procedures.

For more information regarding educational classes for your club, contact SCYSA Piedmont District Commissioner, Michele Jenkins at 864-244-7006.

The Stewards of Children training program will be available in an on-line version, eliminating the need to schedule in-person trainings, coming in 2006. Please visit their web site at darkness2light.org.
Archived 7-2007

Congratulations Spring 2007 Publix Palmetto Cup & KOHLs American Cup State Champions

U10 Boys - LRSC Fast and Furious	U10 Girls - JIYSC Reds
U11 Girls - LCSC Storm	U11 Boys - Bridge FA Academy Gold
U12 Boys - Florence Firebolts	U12 Boys - MPSC Inferno
U12 Girls - LCSC Diamondbacks	U12 Girls - MPSC Maroon

Archived 7-2007

Top Ten Sports Parenting Myths
There is so much misinformation and misleading advice that parents often don’t know where to turn. As such, take a moment to view a special US Youth Soccer list of the more common sports parenting “myths,” so that parents and coaches can get a better lay of the land when it comes to working with their kids. >> DOWNLOAD ARTICLE (PDF)
Archived 7-2007

U.S. Referee Department
U.S. Soccer Federation’s Referee Membership has grown tremendously in the past decade and at the conclusion of 2004 the total number of referees – including instructors and assessors – registered through the USSF surpassed 140,000. This figure is one of the largest among the 204 nations belonging to FIFA. U.S. Soccer Referees call games at every level of the sport in the United States, including youth, amateur and professional games, as well as sanctioned international competitions.

American referees are playing an increasing role in CONCACAF and continue to get more and better appointments to work international matches. In2004, U.S. Soccer referees worked 185 international matches in the United States alone, as well as officiating in numerous international tournaments outside of the U.S.

Some of the events at which the United States was represented included the Algarve Cup, the Four Nations Tournament, the Toulon Tournament, the 2004 Olympic Games and numerous CONCACAF qualifiers and international friendlies outside of the United States. Director of International and Professional Development, Esse Baharmast, supervises the development of referees for international assignments.
>>MORE
Archived 7-2007

Test Your Laws!
Referees, players, coaches and soccer aficionados can dissect plays, make calls and test their referee skills on ussoccer.com’s “You Make the Call” interactive video site. The presentation allows referees of all ages and grade levels to reinforce their knowledge of “The Laws of the Game,” while allowing players, coaches and fans to put themselves in the referee’s place and learn more about the reasoning behind decisions that officials make.

Users will be able to watch a video clip of a foul, along with a summary of the incident. The user is given four choices as to what the referee’s decision should be. Upon submitting an answer, players will get a summary of the results, the reason for the decision according to “The Laws of the Game,” and a short explanation of the correct answer.

The game is also a great venue for players, coaches and fans, because it gives insight into the application of “The Laws of the Game.”

Participants also have the option of signing up to receive e-mail alerts when a new video is posted.

The 25 most important things to know about officiating
The task was simple enough: Come up with the 25 most important things to know about officiating. We started with a brainstorming session that resulted in a list of more than 200 items. After combining the ones that were similar and deleting the ones that were specific only to a particular sport, we were left with about 150.

Now, after dozens of meetings, arguments and votes, we narrowed the list down to the essence. The following statements, tips and advice, presented in no particular order, are a referee' most important things to know about officiating and should serve as the foundation for any official's career. >>MORE

International Women's Soccer Tournament to Alabama, April 22-28th!
2007 Futbol Internacional April 22-28th, 2007 China, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Mexico, USA*

The first 5,000 US Youth Soccer will receive a FREE ticket to a match! 9 games! 7 days! 6 cities!

Click Here

Birmingham, Huntsville, Decatur, Tuscaloosa, Montgomery, Mobile Only International women's soccer event of its kind in the USA!

For tickets and more information: www.2007Futbolinternacional.com

Registrar workshops for seasonal year 2007-2008
Recreational Workshops:
~~April 28 9am-12noon at Mount Pleasant Recreation Dept~~
April 28 9am-12noon at Hampton Inn Mt. Pleasant, Isle of Palms Connector

Classic Workshops:
~~April 28 1pm-4pm at Mount Pleasant Recreation Dept~~
April 28 1pm-4pm at Hampton Inn Mt. Pleasant, Isle of Palms Connector

Directions:

From Myrtle Beach: Go Hwy. 17 South: Turn left on the Isle of Palms Connector (Hwy 517). At first light, Hungry Neck Blvd., turn right. On the right there is an access road that runs in front of Bi-Lo, turn right. We are the 2nd entrance on the right.

From Hilton Head Area: Go Hwy 17 N: Upon crossing the Ravenel Bridge, bear to the left (towards Georgetown) for 4.7 miles. There will be an access road on your right, between Bank of America and Blockbuster Video, turn right. We are on the left hand side of the road just past Taco Bell.

From I-26: Take I-526 E (Exit 212C) towards Mt. Pleasant. Take the Hwy17N/Georgetown/Myrtle Beach exit. At the light proceed straight ahead; this will put you on Hungry Neck Blvd. On the left, just passed the Bi-Lo grocery store there will be an access road, turn left. We are the 2nd entrance on the right.

Updated 26-APR-2007

MLS Schedules Announced
Major League Soccer, together with its national television partners – ABC, ESPN, Univision, Fox Soccer Channel, Fox Sports en Espaсol and HDNet – unveiled its 2007 regular season schedule. In the League’s 12th season, each of the 13 clubs will play 30 regular season games, for a total of 195 matches from April 7 to Oct. 21. The season kicks off April 7, live on ABC at 3:30 p.m. ET, when four-time MLS champion D.C. United visit the Colorado Rapids in their brand new stadium, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The 2007 season will conclude on Sunday, Nov. 18 with MLS Cup 2007, live on ABC from RFK Stadium in Washington D.C. at noon ET.

The 2007 MLS season will feature the most comprehensive national television schedule in League history, with a total of 113 live matches. Fans will find it easier than ever to follow their favorite teams and players as each of the four national broadcast networks has anchored its live broadcasts on a certain night of the week, providing destination viewing for all sports fans. Throughout the season ESPN2 will broadcast “MLS Primetime Thursday,” while Fox Soccer Channel, Fox Sports en Espaсol and HDNet will each air an MLS match on Saturdays. Univision’s family of networks, which includes TeleFutura and Galavisiуn, will air MLS matches on Sundays.

Also for the first time in League history, every regular season game will be televised, either through national or regional broadcasts. The entire MLS schedule, including individual team schedules, is available. >>MORE

Carolina Challenge Cup Tickets & Schedule

The Charleston Battery will host the fourth annual Carolina Challenge Cup March 24 – 31 at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island. This year’s pre-season features the 2006 MLS Cup Champions the Houston Dynamo, MLS’s New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC plus the USL First Division Charleston Battery. Tickets are on sale now priced at $15 – $25; discounts are available for series tickets (includes all 6 games) and for 2007 Charleston Battery season ticket holders. The potential tournament roster received a major boost this week as the New York Red Bulls agreed to terms with former US captain Claudio Reyna. >>MORE

Report on SCYSA Board Meeting
The SC Youth Soccer Board of Directors held its regular meeting on Sunday, January 14, 2007 in Greenville, following the Planning Meeting on January 12th and 13th. Below is a summary of matters the Board considered of general applicability.

E-NEWS – The next scheduled publication date for the SC Youth Soccer E-News Blast is March 1, 2007
State Cup – The Board approved for the 2007/2008 State Cups to be hosted and managed by the Board of Directors. A new hosting agreement will be completed and distributed.
State Cup Fees – The Board agreed not to increase fees for the 2007/2008 State Cup events.
Palmetto League – Due to the limited number of applicants, the Palmetto League will not be active this spring. Steve Cothran and Dennis Cook will assist those applicants to find leagues in which to participate.
Red Card Notice – The Board approved adding a new section to the Red Card Ejection Notice for reporting when red card suspensions are served. This will become effective for the fall 2007 season.
Scheduling meeting – The SCSCL & PMSL spring “scheduling meeting” is set for February 3rd. Times and location will be posted on the SC Youth Soccer web site www.scysa.org
Transfers- Proposed changes to the transfer rules and guest player rules were discussed at length, but no changes could be agreed upon at this time.
Registration Fees – The Board agreed not to increase registration fees for the 2007/2008 seasonal year.
Club Coach Pass – The Board approved a new Club Coach’s Pass to be defined in SC Youth Soccer Rule C -21: US Youth Soccer Pass may be issued to any classic coach in your club that holds a minimum of a “D” license. This pass allows any club coach the ability to coach one of their club’s teams during league play only without having to be listed on the official SCYSA team’s roster. There may be no more than four (4) coaches on the player’s bench.
Recreation Teams – The Board approved changes to SC Youth Soccer
Rule F-5 to read as follows: For all recreation teams (U08 and above), the US Youth Soccer player/coach passes shall be issued. Any U10 and above recreation player/coach participating in an interhouse or league game are required to have either their state signed and sealed roster or their player/coach pass at the field.
Coaching License – The Board approved for all Licensing / Certification courses to be hosted only by SC Youth Soccer “organization members”. Certifications and licenses will only be issued to US Youth Soccer members.
Coaching License – Agreed to add on-line registration for coaching certification and licensing courses.
Coaching License – The Board agreed to support the proposal to host a National Youth Module Course in South Carolina.
Medical Release Form – The Board approved for Social Security Numbers to be removed from the Medical Release Form.
Calendar – The Board approved the 2007 / 2008 Calendar which will be posted on the web site as soon as possible.
Label Fees – The Board agreed to increase the fees for the purchasing our mailing labels.
Indoor Soccer – The Indoor Soccer Committee presented a proposal for SC Youth Soccer to sanction indoor soccer along with proposed indoor soccer rules and registration information. Revisions are to be submitted to the Indoor Soccer Committee Chairperson by March 4th. A revised proposal will be presented to the Board during the March meeting.
Code of Conduct – The Board approved to added wording in the SC Youth Soccer - Code of Conduct, banning the use of alcohol at any SC Youth Soccer event.

The Board of Directors next scheduled meeting is March 18, 2007, in Columbia.

US Youth Soccer ODP Boys Rosters Announced for 2006 adidas Super Group
US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (US Youth Soccer ODP) rosters for the adidas Super Group at Disney’s Soccer Showcase in Lake Buena Vista, Fl., were announced. Congratulations to South Carolina's own Enzo Martinez from Rock Hill whose home club is the Discoveries Soccer Club. US Youth Soccer ODP players participating at the adidas Super Group at Disney’s Soccer Showcase on December 27-30 have been selected through a series of trials at local, State Association and then Regional levels.
>>Team Roster

Coaching Recommendations on preseason training US Youth Soccer Coaching Department offers a number of programs to educate new youth coaches and enhance the skills of current coaches, continuing the progress of the game. Don't forget to check out the latest offering from US Youth Soccer the Parents Guide - An Introduction to Youth Soccer, complete with online presentation, quiz and printable certificate of completion.

An additional program is the Coaches Connection, established to educate and further the flow of information between the coaches across the nation, the Connection connects you to the US Youth Soccer Coaching Education Network. Open to anyone, the Coaches Connection is for coaches, parents, referees, administrators…you.
>>Click here

Alaska joins South Carolina to Make Coaching Licenses Mandatory
Alaska State Youth Soccer has recently made big strides to update their state association. First, all coaches will soon be required to be licensed. Also, to help with the mandatory licensing, three youth modules will be held at each club annually, for free. And, to further help the membership, if players pre-register for US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (US Youth Soccer ODP) tryouts in Alaska, there isn’t a charge.
>>SCYSA Mandatory License Requirements

Remember RICE!
(Rest – Ice – Compression – Elevation)
R = Rest
Resting an injured area is necessary to allow the body time to get the effects of the trauma under control and avoid additional stress and damage to the injured tissue. The period of rest required will vary depending on the severity of the injury (e.g. days to weeks). People who do not rest an acute (sudden or traumatic) injury can prolong the inflammation period and increase the healing time required, thereby delaying the recovery.

I = Ice
Ice applied promptly to an injury can slow down or minimize some of the inflammation. The cold causes a closing of the arterioles in the tissue, which reduces the bleeding. The local tissue metabolism slows down reducing its need for oxygen and nutrients, and the nerve impulses are slowed considerably to reduce the pain that’s felt, providing a numbing effect. Examples of ice treatment include using an ice bag or ice bucket for 15-20 minutes or ice massage for 7-10. Heat should only be applied after you are sure that the bleeding and swelling has stopped completely; otherwise, an individual’s recovery time will be delayed.

C = Compression
Compression is an application of an Ace Bandage or similar item around the injured area. Its purpose is to help control swelling and to provide mild support. Any wrap should be applied carefully. Too tight a bandage could constrict or interrupt vital circulation to the area.

E = Elevation
Elevation involves raising the injured area above the level of the heart as much as possible. This position promotes the lessening or elimination of swelling through the use of gravity and lymph drainage system.
>>MORE

Open Forum Meetings a Success
The total attendance for all three District “Open Forum” meetings was 31 individuals, from 11 different clubs representing nearly 9,000 registered SC Youth Soccer players. The overall discussion and comments from those in attendance was very positive and constructive. A general summary and overview of the comments, concerns, and suggestions are noted below by category. While the number of participants was somewhat small, it did not diminish the interest or enthusiasm of those in attendance. It is my recommendation that we continue these open forum meetings next year in each District to continue improving communications with our membership.

The following comments and suggestions presented at these three meetings will be taken into consideration at the SC Youth Soccer BOD “Planning Meeting” on January 12 – 13th, 2007. I would like to thank everyone who participated and invite everyone to attend next year’s sessions.

Respectfully submitted,
Steve Ballentine
SCYSA President

STATE CUPS & LEAGUES
• Revise the process for the SCSCL and PMSL pre-season scheduling meeting

• Concerns about the high number “club” tournaments held during league season, which takes time away from league play

• Player card requirements for league play and possible alternatives, such as utilizing a certified team roster as proof of membership and identification for league play

• Change the policy of the “Club Coaches” pass to allow any “Club Coach” the ability to coach one of his teams during league play without having to be listed on the team roster. Still require a maximum of 4 coaches on the sidelines

• Develop a “promotion & relegation” system for the SCSCL and PMSL in age divisions where possible

ADMINISTRATIVE
• Request to review and compare our present registration program (Logical Solutions) and consider an On-line registration process for web-based registration.

• SC Youth Soccer does not have any restrictions on affiliated club or team advertising on uniforms

• Discussed and clarified the Academy Division playing rules and how this pertains to player development

• International clearance forms from US Soccer Federation are required for exchange students to participate and take extra time for completion

• Coed Division not recognized by US Youth Soccer or SC Youth Soccer. Any team with girls and boys on the roster is considered a boys team

• Provide future SC Youth Soccer fee increases to clubs in a timelier manner to allow time for budget changes at the club level.

• Discussed ways to attract more participation from the Latino communities.

• Consider “dual rostering” players or an alternative means to allow some advanced players the opportunity to “play-up”

REFEREES
• Consider a post game evaluations of referees by the coaches and a referee evaluation of the matches

• Present to State Referee Committee - request ways to better control substitution “time wasting” during matches.

ODP
• Concerns voiced about of the small number of participants in the “boys” program and a lack of support from some affiliated clubs and coaches
Archived 24-JAN-2007

SCYSA Travel Forms Now Available
US Youth Soccer Region III State Associations recently approved a new travel form for any teams traveling within the Region III State Associations.

The US Youth Soccer Region III Interregional Travel Notice, will be used by all SCYSA teams traveling to tournaments or events outside South Carolina and within Region III. This form, with instructions, can be found in the Administrative Manual , which is now on the SCYSA website.
>>FORM DOWNLOAD

Red Card Ejection Notice
SCYSA recently approved the new RED CARD EJECTION NOTICE . Effective 8/12/06, this form must be used to report players who have been ejected or coaches who have been been "sent off" during any league matches or tournaments.

This form is listed in the Administrative Manual , which is now located on the SCYSA website.
>>DOWNLOAD NOW

Volunteer Disclosure Statement
Every Coach, Volunteer and Administrator in each SCYSA Club is required to complete and file a Volunteer Disclosure Statement with the SCYSA Risk Manager.

All forms must be submitted by October 15th, 2006 and its is mandatory for every association affiliated with SCYSA.
>>DOWNLOAD NOW

2006 Workshop PresentationsDid you miss the 2006 US Youth Soccer adidas Workshop and Coaches Connection? Catch up with these educational online presentations from Houston.

Administrative Presentations
Robert's Rules of Order: More Successful Meetings [doc]
2006 Youth Soccer Month - Celebrating Soccer in America [ppt]
US Youth Soccer Risk Management [ppt]
US Youth Soccer Risk Management Part II [ppt]
New Federation Policy 212-1 and Interplay [doc]
Marketing & Sales [ppt]
The American Competitiveness and Corporate Accountability Act of 2002 [ppt]
Document Retention and Destruction Policy [doc]
Fraudulent or Dishonest Conduct & Whistleblower Policy Statement [doc]

Coaching Presentations
International Youth Soccer Clubs [doc]
Club Best Practices [pdf]
New Trends for Warming Up and Cooling Down [pdf]
Team Building Activities [doc]
Team Building Drills [doc]
Teaching Games for Understanding [ppt]
Penalty Box Drills [pdf]
Coaching TOPSoccer Athletes [ppt]
TOPSoccer Drills [doc]
Soccer Fit [doc]
Nutritional and Dietary Plans for Soccer Tournament Play [ppt]
Prevention and Care of Injuries [ppt]
Common Soccer Injuries [ppt]
ACL Reduction with Dynamic Stretching [doc]
Growth, Maturation and Physique of Youth Soccer Players [ppt]
Implications of Early and Late Maturation for Youth Soccer Players [ppt]
Maturity-associated variation in the growth and functional capacities of youth players [pdf]
Height, mass and skeletal maturity of the elite Portuguese soccer players aged 11-16 [pdf]
Maturity-associated variation in sports-specific skills of youth soccer players [pdf]
ACL Prevention [ppt]
Pevent Injury and Enhance Performance Field Set-up [gif]
Prevent Injury and Enhance Performance Exercises [pdf]
Game Situations - The Base for appropriate exercises [pdf]
Improving Technical and Tactical Movements in Small-Sided Games [doc]
Practicing within Exercises Out of Game Situations [pdf]

SCYSA Risk Management Policy
As required by the SCYSA Risk Management Policy, all clubs are required to appoint a board member from their organization to serve as Risk Management Coordinator. This Coordinator will serve as the point of contact for the club and be responsible for assisting the SCYSA State Risk Management Coordinator in carrying out all SCYSA Risk Management Policies.

Get Connected with the Coaches Connection

US Youth Soccer has added another educational opportunity for coaches, referees, administrators and parents with the addition of the Coaches Connection. The Coaches Connection provides members with a link to the US Youth Soccer Coaching Education Network: The National Director of Coaching Education and staff, plus 55 State Association Directors of Coaching Education and their staff, as well as guest lectures from around the world! >>MORE

Offer them pizza and they will come!

The Upstate ODP Information night hosted by CESA soccer club was a huge success. We had club coaches, ODP staff coaches, college coaches, Region III staff coaches and players on the fields working together in training sessions. There was a “question and answer” session with the players and a separate one for the parents. Right at 400 players from the upstate participated and ODP has had its first district wide session getting its specific message to the players and the parents. >>MORE ODP NEWS

The colorful history of a fascinating game
The contemporary history of soccer spans more than 100 years. It all began in 1863 in England, when rugby football and association football branched off on their different courses and the world's first football association was founded - The Football Association in England. >>MORE

President’s “Open Forum” Meeting - Piedmont District
The Piedmont District President's "Open Fourm" meeting is scheduled for this Sunday, October 29th from 2-5 PM at the Greenville County Recreation District Administrative Office. The address is 4806 Old Spartanburg Road, Taylors, SC.

Please encourage any administrators, coaches, volunteers and DOC's from your organization to attend this meeting and discuss matters of SCYSA with the President and other members of the SCYSA Board of Directors.

Everyone’s thoughts, ideas and suggestions are welcome and encouraged, so please plan to attend this meeting and take advantage of this opportunity to meet with members of the BOD and discuss the future of SCYSA.

Please note that SCYSA members from any District are invited to attend these meetings, regardless of which District you are registered.

Battery season ends with 0-0 tie versus Rhinos
The Charleston Battery were held to a 0-0 tie by the Rochester Raging Rhinos Sunday night at Blackbaud Stadium. The game was the deciding match of a semifinal series; the Rhinos won the first leg 1-0 so with the tie the Battery’s season ends. Rhinos goalkeeper Scott Vallow was superb throughout, denying Ian Fuller from point-blank range in the 1st half and tipping a Stephen Armstrong free-kick wide in the 2nd. >>MORE

FIFA Women's World Cup China 2007

It is less than a month since China launched a nationwide publicity campaign to mark and celebrate the one-year countdown to the FIFA Women's World Cup 2007. This promotion also marked a stepping-up in the intensity of the Local Organization Committee (LOC)'s preparatory work and the timing was perfect for FIFA to dispatch an inspection team to provide expertise and guidance for their Chinese counterparts. >>MORE

SCYSA President's 'Open Forum' Meeting
The Mid-State District President's "Open Forum" meeting is scheduled for Sunday October 1st, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Columbia, from 2- 5 PM.

Please encourage any administrators, coaches, volunteers and DOC's from your organization to attend this meeting and discuss matters of SCYSA with the President and other members of the SCYSA Board of Directors.

Everyone’s thoughts, ideas and suggestions are welcome and encouraged, so please plan to attend this meeting and take advantage of this opportunity to meet with members of the BOD and discuss the future of SCYSA.

Similar meetings are scheduled in the Coastal District on October 22nd and the Piedmont District on October 29th. The exact times and locations for these meetings will be announced later. Please note that SCYSA members from any District are invited to attend these meetings, regardless of which District you are registered.

Thank you for helping to disseminate this information within your organizations. I’m looking forward to seeing you and other members from your organization there!

Publix Supermarket Field Days

This September Publix is celebrating National Youth Soccer Month. Publix has in-store signage that will be up all month long calling out "September Is Youth Soccer Month." Special in-store events will celebrate soccer families on September 23rd and include a fun treasure hunt for kids to play while their parents are shopping. If they complete the treasure hunt they will receive a prize. Also available will be sampling stations and different activities going on around the store.

US Youth Soccer a Common Thread Among All Players Selected to Residency
The U.S. Soccer Under-17 Residency Program recently named the 40 players selected to participate in the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. The 40 players are among the nations most recognized and in addition to their skills, determination and motivation to being the best, also share affiliation with US Youth Soccer, the nation’s largest youth sports organization and home to the national championships of youth soccer and the Olympic development program. >>MORE

Free Entrance to Furman's Weekend Games!
South Carolina Youth Soccer Will Celebrate Youth Soccer Month with Furman University Friday, September 8th at 6:00 for the Furman's men game and Saturday, September 9th at 3:00 for the women's. During the Furman Men's soccer tournament Friday night, there is free admission to all youth players wearing a team jersey. There will be USYSA giveaways during the game. On Saturday September 9th during the Furman Women's Tournament, SCYSA will celebrate Youth Soccer Month with the Lady Paladins with free admission for players in jerseys and a "Fun And Fitness" lap around the field. This will occur at both games. For more information, contact dgaddis@scysa.org.

SCYSA Teams with Darkness to Light
Sexual misconduct is the #1 reason for coach firings in the U.S., resulting in millions of dollars in lawsuits each year. Darkness to Light offers Stewards of Children, a comprehensive sexual abuse prevention training program that educates adults to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse.

• Designed for organizations that serve children and adolescents.
• Provides prevention training for staff, volunteers, parents, and other interested adults.
• Provides the training necessary for an effective risk management approach.
• Ideal for response to insurance requirements regarding risk management.

Darkness to Light has trained 3 SCYSA Facilitators who can act as a liaison by leading group discussion during in-person trainings and by guiding coaches through the creation and implementation of policies and procedures.

For more information regarding educational classes for your club, contact SCYSA Piedmont District Commissioner, Michele Jenkins at 864-244-7006.

The Stewards of Children training program will be available in an on-line version, eliminating the need to schedule in-person trainings, coming in 2006. Please visit their web site at darkness2light.org.

Preventing kids' sports injuries: A how-to for parents
As the weather warms up, the holiday that marks the traditional kickoff to summer is also an opportunity to teach active young people how to prevent injuries while playing the physically demanding games they love. >>MORE

Columbia Hosts Mandatory SCYSA Presidents' Workshop
The SCYSA State Council Meeting, Presidents’ Workshop and Awards Luncheon will be held August 5, 2006 from 9:00 to 4:00 pm at the Embassy Suites in Columbia. This function is mandatory and every affiliated Club and League must have their President or designated officer in attendance. Registration 8:00 – 9:00 am and meetings to follow.

Date
August 5, 2006

Place
Columbia Embassy Suites
200 Stoneridge Drive
(Near Columbia Zoo)
Columbia, SC 29201

Lunch
12:00 noon to 1:30 pm

>> Directions to Workshop
>> Download Notice

The SCYSA State Council meeting will hold scheduled elections for the positions of SCYSA President and SCYSA Secretary. Nominations for these two positions will be open and accepted from the floor of the assembly.

The SCYSA Board of Directors will present a workshop to cover SCYSA administrative topics, including new SCYSA Registration Rules, State Cup and League Play changes, SCYSA Insurance, Risk Management and State Select team updates. All topics will be covered thoroughly with adequate time to answer questions.

Again, you or a representative from your association must attend this workshop, which is being conducted in an effort to educate, inform and advise our members of SCYSA soccer for today and the future.

There will be a referee assignor certification course from 8:00 to 5:00 pm at the SCYSA State Office. Pre-registration for this assignor’s course is required by e-mailing Bob Wern at hey-ref@earthlink.net. Fee: no charge.

Your association will be billed $50.00 for the workshop and includes a ticket for one person to the awards luncheon. Additional members from your organization are welcome to register and attend the Presidents’ Workshop at no additional cost. There will be an additional $20.00 per person charge for the Awards Luncheon.

Please encourage other members from your association to attend the Annual SCYSA State Council Meeting, Presidents’ Workshop and Awards Luncheon. Remember the location is the Embassy Suites in Columbia, SC.

MLS to Arrive in Charleston

FC Dallas and Major League Soccer come to Blackbaud Stadium on
Wednesday August 2 for the fourth round of the US Open Cup

The Charleston Battery will host Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas in the fourth round of the 2006 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup; the game will be played on Wednesday, August 2 at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island with kick off set for 7:30 PM (gates 6:30 PM). At stake is a berth in the quarter-finals of US Soccer’s National Championship. FC Dallas is currently in first place in Major League Soccer’s Western Division. >>MORE

Italy Claim Fourth Crown
Italy recovered from the loss of an early goal to outscore France in a penalty showdown as the FIFA World Cup™ Final went the full distance for only the second time. For Zinedine Zidane there was double disappointment as his final ever game ended with a red card.
>>MORE

U.S. Captain Retires from International Soccer

U.S. National Team midfielder and longtime team-captain Claudio Reyna announced his retirement from international soccer on Friday in Hamburg, Germany. The official announcement was made just one day after the USA’s elimination from the 2006 FIFA World Cup. “This was my last game,” Reyna said. “I decided that before the World Cup. It was clear that four years was too much time for the next one, so it just makes sense to stop now. It’s a good time to stop playing at a good level."

>>Hear Claudio's Retirement Press Conference (mp3)

Widely hailed as the most skillful player ever produced in the United States, Reyna finished his career with 112 caps and eight goals. His cap total is fourth all-time in U.S. Men’s National Team history, and his 19 career assists ranks third. Reyna also played in a team-best 31 World Cup qualifying games (tied with Kasey Keller) and represented the United States at the 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006 World Cups, in addition to the 1992 and 1996 Olympics Games.
>>MORE

SCYSA ODP Events Payment Options
You may now go to https://ssl.demosphere.com/SCYSA/ for payment options for ODP Events. Fill out the online registration and pay by credit card. Please attach a note on all Region III forms required that you have paid online and send the forms to: Mary Bynum, 164 Chandler Rd, Easley, SC 29640. If you need assistance with the program, please email mary@bynumfinancial.com

Southern Regional Tournament Held

SCYSA would like to congratulate our Challenge State Championship teams for their outstanding performance as they prepare to meet their competition at the Southern Regional Tournament in Little Rock, Arkansas next week.

SCYSA has paid a total entry fee of $4500 for these teams to participate at this prestigious event, and each team has trained diligently to prepare themselves for this tournament. SCYSA would like to wish each and every team the best of luck in their endeavor to bring home a Regional Championship and advance to the US Youth Soccer National Championships.

SCYSA also sends a contingency of 15 referees to officiate at the Southern Regional Tournament. These referees are chosen for this event based on their grade and ability (two of the referees attending will be the 2006 SCYSA Youth Referee of the Year). All of these referees volunteer their services, and none are paid for officiating these matches. SCYSA pays all of their travel and lodging expenses, and provides a stipend for their meals. Many thanks to each of them for giving us a week of their time to ensure this tournament is well officiated.

You can follow your favorite teams and the tournament standing each day by logging on to the Southern Regional Tournament web site at www.usyssouthernregionals.com.

U19 Boys Challenge Cup Championship Saturday June 3, 2006
The U19 Aiken Fire won the U19 Challenge Cup in Columbia today. Aiken won both games today and will represent South Carolina at the Region III Championship later this month.

GAME 1 Aiken Fire 2 CESA 86 Premier 0
GAME 2 Aiken Fire 4 CESA 86 Premier 1

1993 Girls Sub Region Game Schedule Revised
USC-Upstate June 15 - 18, 2006

Thursday 8 v 8, 35 minute halves

Fields 1 2 3 5
Time
6:00pm T1 v A1 G1 v N1 S1 v T2 N2 v S2
7:30 T3 v N5 G3 v N3 S3 v N4 A2 v G2

Friday 8 v 8, 35 minute halves
Fields 1 2 3 5
Time
6:00 pm N4 v T1 S3 v A1 N3 v G1 G3 v N1
7:30 N5 v S1 S2 v T3 T2 v G2 A2 v N2

Saturday 11 v 11, 35 minute halves
Fields 1 2 3
5:30 PM T1 v A N2 v S2
7:00 PM G1 v S1 N3 v T2 G2 V N1
8:30 PM CoachesChoice StadiumField

Sunday 11 v 11, 35 minute halves

Fields 1 2 3
Time
9:00am N1 v T2 S1 v N3 N2 v A
10:30 G2 v S2 T1 v G1

Field #5 at Farm House. Field #1 furthest away. 6/16/06

D License Course Offered in Aiken
Contact Jason D. Spings to get reservations for this course offering in Aiken, SC, hosted by the Aiken Soccer Club: June 23-24, Cost: $125 (Checks made payable to SCYSA)
>>EMAIL FOR MORE INFO
archived 23-JUNE-2006

The World Cup is Here!

The long anticipated arrival of the 2006 World Cup in Germany has finally arrived. With the success of the U.S. National Team's journey four years ago to the quarter-finals (they lost a heartbreaker to Germany), the Americans have the confidence and experience to succeed once again. Are you ready?

GAME #1
U.S. versus Czech Republic: June 12th - 11:55am (ESPN2)
GAME #2
U.S. versus Italy: June 17th - 2:30pm (ABC)
GAME #3
U.S. versus Ghana: June 22nd - 9:55am (ESPN)

> 2006 FIFA World Cup | U.S. Roster
> Schedule of Games

State Cup Results
Archived 26-jun-2006
>> SPRING 2006 STATE CUP RESULTS
>> U10-U14 AMERICAN & CLASSIC CUP WINNERS
>>U13-U14 CHALLENGE STATE CUP WINNERS

Tournament Overview
Bridge FA 92 Boys Red
CESA 92 Girls Premier
LCSC Girls Lightning
CSC Burn 91 Boys Navy
CESA 91 Boys Premier

Bridge FA 91 Boys Gold
CESA 92 Girls Premier
LCSC Girls Burn
Mt Pleasant SC 91 Girls White
CESA 91 Girls Premier
Coastal Orange Crush Girls

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

(Archived June 3, 2006)
Region III Premier League - Restructured
Following input from the Region III Premier League State Representatives, the State Presidents of the Region III National State Associations have voted on the following changes, effective fall 2006. The Region III Premier League will be divided into three (3) sub-regions to replace the current (4) four sub-regions. The new structure is:

East	Central	West
FL	AL	NTX
GA	AR	OK
NC	LA	STX
SC	MS
	TN

Note: The entire state of FL is now in the East sub-region and the entire state of TN is in the Central sub-region.

It was also agreed the Region III Premier League would retain the current 40 slots at the Southern Regional tournament, and they would be allocated as follows to better reflect the relative strengths of teams from each sub-region:

East	15
West	15
Central	10

The additional five slots in the East and West will initially be for five extra boy’s slots in the West and five extra girl’s slots in the East, effective with the 2007 regional tournament. This allocation will alternate in succeeding years with the East having the five additional boy’s slots in 2008 and the West having the five additional girl’s slots. The league is confident these changes will produce stronger, more competitive sub-regions as well as more competitive teams in Southern Regional Tournament.

Lalas, Overbeck Elected to National Soccer Hall of Fame
Former U.S. National Team defenders Alexi Lalas and Carla Overbeck were named to the National Soccer Hall of Fame 2006 Induction Class. The two central defenders helped define their teams in the 1990s, and were known first-and-foremost for their World Cup exploits with the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams. >>MORE

(Archived June 3, 2006)
New Coaching Guide Available
U.S. Soccer’s Coaching Education Department has released a new publication designed to give youth and junior level soccer coaches in the United States a set of fundamental tools to help open up the game of soccer to young players in ways that celebrate the sport’s spontaneous qualities. The 70-page “Best Practices for Coaching Soccer in the United States” coaching book serves as the sport’s definitive new player development guidelines and is available now as a free download at ussoccer.com. >>MORE

(Archived June3, 2006)
SCYSA Classic Tryout Start Date Changed
The Classic tryout start date has been changed by the SCYSA Board of Directors in hopes to attract more soccer players prior to the end of their school year and prior to family vacations. Below we have listed when tryouts may begin. Clubs may not begin prior to this date. Recreation in-house or interhouse teams DO NOT have tryouts!

May 8, 2006
Classic U11, U12 and U16 through U18 Boys and Girls, may begin
SCYSA Registrars' Class
June 23, 2007
Lexington County Library (Irmo Branch Library)
6251 St Andrews Road
Columbia, SC

9:00am - 12:00 noon

Directions: I-26 to Piney Grove Road (exit 104). Turn left on Piney Grove Road. Follow this road to St Andrews Road about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto St Andrews Road. Library will be on your left about 0.5 miles. If you get to Irmo High School, you have gone too far.
For more information: Click Here

May 22, 2006
Classic U13 through U15 Boys and Girls, may begin.

(Archived June3, 2006)
Last Registrar Class to be in Columbia
The last registrar class for the up coming year (2006-07) will be held June 3 at Irmo library from 2-5pm. This class will be for all experienced and new registrars that have not yet attended a class to get certified for the up coming year.

(Archived May 10, 2006)
SCYSA Coaching Education Requirements
SCYSA provides service and support to our members by providing youth coaches with developmental and age appropriate methods and curriculum of coaching.

Our Coaching Education Philosophy
PLAY—Children come to play the game, not to work, not to listen to the coach lecture and not to discuss the game. They come to PLAY and playing equates to fun.

The game is the teacher—Players learn best by actually playing the game in an environment where they feel free to try new ideas.

Organized Spontaneity—Encouragement of free play by modifying the playing environment to small-sided games is ideal.

SCYSA believes in age and developmentally appropriate educational curriculum of coaching education. The needs of U6 players and coaches are different than those of U12 players and coaches. Developmentally appropriate methodology includes addressing the physical, mental, and social needs of all players. The goal of SCYSA is a commitment to provide educational materials and opportunity for education to every coach working with our youth.

State Courses

Certificate Courses
U-6 to U-8 Youth Module: This is a four (4) to six (6) hour course for coaches working with children in the U-6 (3 v 3 game format) and U-8 (4 v 4 game format) age groups. The course includes both classroom (theory) and field (practical) sessions.

U-8 to U-10 Youth Module: This is a four (4) to six (6) hour course for coaches working with children in the U-8 (4 v 4 game format), and U-10 (8 v 8 game format) age groups. The course includes both classroom (theory) and field (practical) sessions.

U-10 to U-12 Youth Module: This is a four (4) to six (6) hour course for coaches working with children in the U-10 to U-12 (8 V 8 game format) age groups. The course includes both classroom (theory) and field (practical) sessions.

“E” Certificate: This is an eighteen (18) hour course for coaches working with children in the Recreational U-13 and above and Classic U-11 to U-13 age groups in the 11 v 11 game format. The course includes both classroom (theory) and field (practical) sessions. The course includes practical sessions for the coach on the field. To pass a certificate course a coach must attend the course in its entirety and participate in the sessions.

License Course
“D” License: This is a thirty-six (36) hour course for coaches working with adolescent teenagers in the Classic U-14 and above age groups in the 11 v 11 game format. The course includes both classroom (theory) and field (practical) sessions. The course includes practical sessions for coaches on the field. The examinations include written tests and a practical coaching test on the field.

To pass the course a coach must attend the course in its entirety and participate in the sessions. Additionally, the coach must pass the course examinations.

Van Taylor is the SCYSA Director of Coaching. Coach Taylor holds a USSF "A" License, UEFA "A" License, NSCAA Premier Diploma and USSF National Youth License.

Referees find the Net

(Archived 4-2006)
The phenomenon that is the World Wide Web has revolutionised the way we work and communicate, much the same way as the telephone did in the last century. It has come as no surprise then to see the refereeing profession embrace this new technology in their quest for better communication and improved match preparation and performance.
>>MORE

Referee Dilemma: Player's Equipment
USSF has received a number of inquiries about how officials should handle situations where players wish to wear equipment that is not included in the list of basic compulsory equipment in FIFA Laws of the Game. >>MORE

USSF Clarifies Off-sides Changes
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) revised Law 11 (offside) effective July 1, 2005. Referees are reminded that the reference to “playing or touching the ball” does not mean that an offside infraction cannot be called until an attacker in an offside position actually touches the ball. >>MORE
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) revised Law 11 (offside) effective July 1, 2005. Referees are reminded that the reference to “playing or touching the ball” does not mean that an offside infraction cannot be called until an attacker in an offside position actually touches the ball.

Because of recent developments which appear to focus on “touching the ball,” there has been some confusion about the above statement. “Touching the ball” is not a requirement for calling an offside violation if the attacker is interfering with an opponent by making a movement or gesture which, in the opinion of the referee, deceives or distracts that opponent. What the International Board has recently emphasized is that, in the unlikely event an attacker in an offside position is not challenged by any opponent, the attacker should not be ruled offside unless and until the attacker physically touches the ball. This emphasis is both simple and easily implemented:

• An attacker in an offside position who is not challenged by any opponent and not competing for the ball with a teammate coming from an onside position who could, in the opinion of the officiating team, get to the ball first should not be ruled offside for interfering with play or gaining an advantage unless that attacker actually touches the ball. In a close race between an onside and an offside attacker, it would be necessary to see which player touches the ball before deciding if an offside offense has occurred.

• An attacker in an offside position whose gestures or movements, in the opinion of the officiating team, cause an opponent to challenge for the ball has interfered with an opponent and should be ruled offside whether the attacker touches the ball or not.

The International Board issued a Circular on August 17, 2005, which reaffirmed the above approach. As the Board stated: “A player in an offside position may be penalized before playing or touching the ball if, in the opinion of the referee, no other teammate in an onside position has the opportunity to play the ball.” Further, “If an opponent becomes involved in the play and if, in the opinion of the referee, there is potential for physical contact, the player in the offside position shall be penalized for interfering with an opponent.” Finally, the Board confirmed the requirement that the indirect free kick restart for an offside offense is taken “from the initial place where the player was adjudged to be in an offside position.”

All referees, instructors, and assessors should review these guidelines carefully. It is important that officials understand and handle the offside offense in a correct, consistent, and realistic manner. Personal interpretations which differ from the approach outlined here can only cause confusion and hard feelings on the part of players, team officials, and spectators. USSF will shortly distribute to the state associations and place on its website a PowerPoint presentation incorporating this clarification.

SCYSA Medical/Accident Insurance
(Archived 4-2006)
The South Carolina Youth Soccer Association (SCYSA) has medical accident and injury insurance coverage for our members while participating in any SCYSA or US YOUTH SOCCER affiliated event.

The South Carolina Youth Soccer Association (SCYSA) has medical accident and injury insurance coverage for our members while participating in any SCYSA or US YOUTH SOCCER affiliated event. This insurance coverage is available to all SCYSA registered players and coaches. Our SCYSA medical / accident insurance is secondary insurance with a $1000 deductible per occurrence. Please note, this deductible is in addition to your primary insurance deductible. If you do not have individual medical / accident insurance, this policy will serve as primary insurance with a $1000 deductible per occurrence. Claims must be filed within 12 months of the accident or injury and all treatments must be completed within 1 year from the date of the accident / injury. Pre-existing conditions are not covered under this policy. Claim forms may only be acquired from the SCYSA State Office in Columbia and must be returned for processing. When filing a claim, one should retain copies of all invoices and expenses being submitted with the claim form.

ANY CLAIMS SUBMITTED DIRECTLY TO THE INSURANCE CARRIER WILL BE REJECTED AND RETURNED FOR PROPER FILING.

Freddy Adu to Play in Charleston, S.C.

(Archived 3-2006)
The Charleston Battery will host the third annual Carolina Challenge Cup March 18 – 25 at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island. The 2006 pre-season tournament will feature 2004 MLS Cup Champions DC United, Major League Soccer's MetroStars, the new Houston franchise (recently relocated from San Jose) and the USL First Division Charleston Battery. DC United's 16-year old soccer sensation Freddy Adu is expected to make a return visit to the tournament. Tickets are on sale now priced at $15 – $25; discounts are available for series tickets (includes all 6 games) and for 2006 Charleston Battery season ticket holders. >>MORE

This History of Modern Soccer in the U.S.
(FIFA.com) - Before the modest evolution of its successor, Major League Soccer, there was the bluster and bravado of the North American Soccer League (NASL) - a name that draws equal parts glory-day nostalgia and rueful dismay from those in the States old enough to remember it. Like a shooting star, it didn't last long but it sure shone brightly. >>MORE

FIFA World Ranking: U.S. tied at 6th, Africa advances
The February edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking is heavily influenced by the CAF Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria (12th, up 12), Cameroon (16th, up 7) and Egypt (17th, up 15) all make it into the top 20. >>MORE

USA hang on to pip Japan

A goal and two assists from attacking sensation Taylor Twellman helped the United States earn a 3-2 victory over Japan, despite a brave second-half fightback from the visitors in San Francisco. Early Japanese pressure proved a false dawn at a near-capacity SBC Park as the hosts quickly found their rhythm and began to pen the Asian champions back inside their own half. In only the 13th minute some clever work from midfield revelation Clint Dempsey earned a free-kick from which stand-in captain Landon Donovan had Japan goalkeeper Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi scrambling across his goal, Donovan's low drive fizzing just past the post. >>MORE

Boys 1991 Player Pool at Sub Regionals in Concord, NC

Click right for high res | photo credits: Cheryl Moore

SCYSA Girls '92 Select/ODP take a pizza break. HIGH RES

SCYSA ODP Administrator,Mary Bynum, pictured with Region III coaches David Rubinson and Kevin Dempsey. HIGH RES

It was a very successful Girls ODP Sub-Regional event at the Summerville Soccer Club January 14-15. Teams and coaches from Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina were there to compete in this well-organized and smoothly-run event.

US Youth Soccer National coaches and Region III coaches were also there to evaluate the players. "I must admit, it was my first Sub-Regional in many years, and I was extremely impressed with every aspect of this competition," commented SCYSA President Steve Ballentine. "However," he added, "there was one driver who had a few problems "driving" the bus—but we can talk about that later."

Thanks again to both Mary and Barry. Great Job!

SCYSA Cup Schedules and Scores
Online scoring available here for Fall 2005 Cups >>MORE

National Team World Cup Draw

The U.S. Men’s National Team has been drawn into Group E with Italy, Ghana and the Czech Republic in the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. The Final Draw took place at the Congress Center Leipzig in Leipzig, Germany. >>MORE
>>Player Quotes
>>Arena's Reaction - MP3
>>World Cup Schedule - PDF

2006 MLS Super Draft Results MLS Logo

PHILADELPHIA, PA - (Friday, January 20, 2006) – Marvell Wynne was selected by the MetroStars with the first overall selection in the MLS SuperDraft, held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The MetroStars acquired the No. 1 pick from Chivas USA at the start of the SuperDraft in exchange for the fifth overall selection and defender Jason Hernandez. Wynne’s father, Marvell, played baseball for San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates. >>MORE

No 15 Passenger Vans!
The South Carolina Youth Soccer Association (SCYSA) does not authorize the use of non-owned 15 passenger vans for any sanctioned events, approved travel, or any affiliated activities of SCYSA due to a history of rollover accidents associated with this specific vehicle type. The SCYSA liability insurance underwriter prohibits the use of non-owned 15 passenger vans for any SCYSA activities or event under any circumstances.

United States Youth Soccer Association

Most Americans remember 1974 as the year President Richard M. Nixon resigned from the White House amid the Watergate Scandal. Today 1974 represents the beginning of a vision that has grown to establish the largest youth sports organization in the United States. >>MORE

U.S. National Team Smashes Norway
MLS
(USSOCCER.com - Jan. 30, 2006) - It was a win for the record books on many levels, and all_access video was there for all the excitement in the 5-0 win vs. Norway. Watch highlights on the U.S. Soccer Video Network. >>MORE
>>View Video