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FAQ

Coaches: Our goal is skills improvement and better play; not a score.

Clubs & Coaches,

The question of playing time has been brought to my attention. There seems to be a varying degree of understanding among members and coaches within the Association regarding the requirement of "Playing Time" for our players in the NSYSA Recreation Fall 2015 Season. The premise or intention of the rule directing play for the recreational player is intended to apply fairness to all players. The primary rule stipulates that all players registered to a NSYSA League Recreation team have the right to participate in all practice and games scenarios, provided there is no physical impairment. This rule is implemented to assure that the recreational player receives reasonable practice / participation in these events.

This rule can be further interpreted for the understanding that players may not receive limited time for such things as participation or attendance at practice. Coaches are reminded that playing time may not be an element of team management. Disciplinary issues should not be a matter of awarding playing time. With the exception of extreme measures and players safety, playing time shall not be compromised. Coaches are encourage to use other means of mitigation vice restricting playing time.

Although the rule is not written the same for the Full Sided game and Small Sided game, the purpose of the rule remains the same. Recreational Players play! The desire of this rule and NSYSA intention is to assure equitable opportunity for all to participate.

If demonstrated that this expectation is not met for a team, administrative sanctions are implemented. The outcome may be the declaration of a match being forfeited. Serious or continued violation may result in stronger sanctions. To be fair, we must accept that this is a Recreational League. The purpose is to provide fair and enjoyable time on a field while playing the game of soccer. The score must be the least concern in the game. The expectation is to teach and develop players to a measurable level of success. The outcome always includes a score. But when the score becomes the primary focus, the spirit of the game is lost.

Please share with your Club members. Perception is an evil device. Families come to the game to see their child play. There is no greater disappointment than to watch a family member warm the bench during a Recreational game. Please be just and be fair. Our goal is skills improvement and better play; not a score.

NSYSA Operating Procedures

ARTICLE 12. GAME CONDUCT

Section B. Substitutions/Playing Time

5. All players of a recreational team participating in NSYSA League competition, which are in attendance, in uniform, physically fit and eligible are required to play in the match, or the match will be declared a forfeit.

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NSYSA Operating Procedures - Small Sided

Law III Player Registration

Section F.1

F. Playing Time

1. Each player will receive meaningful playing time with a goal of 50%.

Substitutions will be allowed in order to give an opportunity for all players to get equal playing time and to balance rather than to run up the score.

v/rBob Bjornemo
NSYSA VP of Competition
nsysa.competition@nsysasoccer.org

(360) 509-9498