Practices FAQ

When will I find out about my practices?

How often do teams practice? How long?

Why is my practice field so crowded?

Why is no goalkeeper for U6, 7, 8?

A: Team assignments are announced at the end of August. The coach will contact you with all the details about the team, including coach name and contact information, practice times, and when the first practice is. Most teams begin practicing about the time school starts, though some start the week before. It is up to the coach. Most coaches hold a parent meeting before things get going.

Q: How often do teams practice? How long?

A: Teams ages Under-7 and older practice twice a week on weekdays. Under-6 does not have practices separate from their Saturday afternoon sessions. Most practices are in the late afternoon, because most coaches have work responsibilities before that. The length of the practice depends on the age group and the coach but usually is around an hour for the younger players and an hour and a half for the older ones. Practices may be shortened after the time change in October.

Q: Why is my practice field so crowded?

A: Each team is assigned a particular practice location and days, and AYSO holds city field permits for the fields and times assigned. Usually there are two teams assigned to each field, and they work out how to share the space. There may be multiple teams at the elementary school or park sites. There is a limited amount of field space in Palo Alto and many groups wanting to use the space. School expansion and construction in recent years has reduced the amount of field space available or has taken it out of usage for extended periods. We are currently using our practice fields allotment to capacity.

Q: Why are no goalkeeper for U6, 7, 8?

A: Players in these age need to be taught basic soccer skills. Let them learn the value of teamwork by motivating them to score, but most importantly let them have FUN!