AYSO Information

The Team

A team has a maximum of eleven (11) players on the field at any one time, although a game can be played with as few as seven on each team. In younger age divisions, Regions use short-sided teams which gives players more "touches" on the ball and the ability to learn skills quicker. The kids find it more fun too!

The 4 positions in soccer are:

	Goalkeeper: also known as the "keeper," this position is responsible for guarding the team's goal and preventing the opposing team from scoring.
	Defender: this position's primary duty is to prevent the opponent from having a good shot at the goal. The defender also works to gain possession of the ball and pass it to a teammate for an attack.
	Midfielder: also known as the "halfback," this position plays a "transitional" game from defense to offense and vice versa. Usually the midfielder is the most active player on the field and key to maintaining team continuity.
	Forward: this position has the primary responsibility of scoring and also assists the midfielder in shifting play from defense to offense.

It's important to remember that any player may score a goal, regardless of position.

Team assignments of players shall be made by those persons delegated such task by the Regional Board. Retention of players on any team shall be limited to the head coach's child(ren). Otherwise there shall be no automatic retention of players on any specific team or with any specific coach from the previous season. Every attempt shall be made to balance the skill level of teams within each division. Once teams are formed, no transfer of any player from one team to another may be made without the approval of the coaches of both teams involved, the Age Division Manager, the Regional Commissioner and the parent or guardian of the player. In the case of inter-Regional play no transfer of any player from one team to another, after such teams are formed, may be made without the additional approval of the Area Director and, if affecting section play, the Section Director.