More FAQ

Do we play in the rain?

How will I know if a practice / game is cancelled?

How do I request a refund?

Can players wear earrings? Casts? Tattoos?

How can I resolve a problem?

A: No. Games and practices are cancelled if it is raining or if there has been significant recent rainfall. While it is lots of fun to play soccer in the rain, Palo Alto playing fields are heavily used, and the city closes the fields in rain conditions to avoid damage. Holding practice or games on closed fields risks losing our field permits. See weather policy details.

Q: How will I know if a practice / game is cancelled?

A: Check with your coach. The Division Commissioners will inform coaches on game days. The web page and the AYSO hotline (650-324-0863) will have up to date information as much as is possible.

Q: Can players wear earrings? Casts? Tattoos?

A: Players may not wear anything that is dangerous to any player. This includes earrings, even taped. Jewelry, wristwatches, hard hair fasteners, splints, and casts are other example of items not permitted. The referees' player equipment page goes into some detail about this. Teams often designate somebody to hold jewelry and watches during the game. The referee has the final word on allowability of any player apparel.

Tattoos are not considered dangerous to players, at least in a soccer context.

Q: How can I resolve a problem?

A: In most cases, the place to start is with your coach. He or she can help resolve the problem or direct you to the right person. After that, the age group Division Commissioners can help. There is also a Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate.

For more serious problems, a formal committe for discipline and problem resolution will be convened upon the receipt of any written request. Such a request should be sent to the Regional Commissioner. This committee consists of the Regional Commissioner, Assistant Regional Commissioner, Coach Administrator, Referee Administrator, and Boys' and Girls' Commissioners. In addition, the Regional Commissioner may request an independent fact-finding committee to be formed consisting of impartial AYSO members.

Contact information for these people can be found on the Palo Alto AYSO Board of Directors page.