Recreational Season:
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at info@huntsvillesoccer.org if you cannot find an answer to your question.
GENERAL
Where are soccer practice and games?
All practices and games are at Kate Barr Ross Soccer Fields (180 Kevin Williams Rd, Huntsville, TX 77320
We have a scheduling conflict on the specific night(s) of the week. Can my child still play?
We recognize your kids have other weeknight activities and conflicts do arise. Please be aware that:
1. There will be some Thursday night games.
2. The practice schedule is determined by your coach.
Can my child play up a division to be with their sibling?
Yes, upon agreement of the parents and the league officials, a child may play up with siblings by one division. However, an older child may not play in a lower age bracket.
My Child is 3. Can he/she play soccer?
Yes! The 4U division is for beginners who are 2-3 years old.
SOCCER PRACTICE
When does soccer practice start?
Generally, 2-3 weeks before the first game, The soccer practice schedule is determined solely by your coach. Your coach will reach out to you in early September after registration ends to inform you.
How many times per week will practices be held?
Practice frequency is generally 1-2 sessions each week, 1 hour each. This may vary based on the age division and coach's preference.
What time will practices be held?
Sunday - Friday outside of school hours based on the coach's discretion. Weeknights on Monday through Thursday evenings are the most common practice times. Please communicate with your coach if you have a permanent conflict with the practice schedule to see if other arrangements can be made (i.e. practice with another team, leave early, etc.)
How will I know if practicers are cancelled?
We will send out a mass notification. Your coach will also notify you of changes/cancellations.
WEATHER
Will games be played in the rain?
Generally, no
Will games be played in cold or hot weather?
Yes. Games will be played in cold weather unless the temperature gets below 45 degrees. Games will proceed in hot weather barring exceptional circumstances. The Field Marshall will make the final call.
REGISTRATION
SPONSORSHIP & VOLUNTEERING
When is the last day to register?
Please look on the registration tab for more information.
My child has not played for HVYSA before. What is needed at the time of registration?
The following are needed to register your child.
1. Registration Fee
2. Verification of Date of Birth
What documents are acceptable for verification of date of birth?
1. Certified government-issued birth certificate
2. Passport
3. Alien Registration
4. Drivers License/State ID
How do I know my child's age bracket?
HVYSA plays 2 ages per division. We have teams for 4U, 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U. Children born in the same numerical calendar year (Jan-Dec) will always be in the same division. Our website huntsvillesoccer.org has document labeled "Age Matrix" to further answer this question.
What does my registration fee pay for?
Your registration fee pays for your child's uniform. It also helps cover referee fees, field maintenance, and fees to maintain compliance with South Texas Youth Soccer Association (STYSA)
SOCCER GAMES
When does the season start?
The first games will be on TBA on Facebook/Website
When does the season end?
The last games will be in late November or early December, depending on makeup games and playoffs
What days of the week will games be held?
Most games will be played on Saturday morning and a few Thursday nights. Make-up/rainout games will be scheduled on Thursday nights.
What time will the games start?
Games will start at 9:00 AM on Saturdays and 5:45 PM on Tuesdays/Thursdays.
Will my child's game be at the same time each week?
No, game time will vary each week.
When will the game schedule be available?the games start?
The game schedule will be posted on our website three weeks before opening day.
Are there snacks available?
The concession stand is open during every game. There are a variety of affordable drinks and snacks, including popcorn, Powerade, hot dogs, and nachos, to name a few. By making a purchase there, you are helping to support HVYSA!
How will I know if games are canceled? Will canceled games be rescheduled?
HVYSA will notify coaches via text and post on social media if games are canceled. Games will be rescheduled for the following Tuesday/Thursday when available.
UNIFORM & EQUIPMENT
What equipment will my child need?
Essential equipment is soccer cleats, shin guards, a soccer, and a water bottle.
What size soccer ball does my child need?
Size 3 for 4U, 6U, and 8U
Size 4 for 10U and 12U
Size 5 for 14U and up
Will my child receive a uniform?
Yes, he/she will receive a jersey, shorts, and socks. The uniform is included in the registration fee.
When will uniforms be ready?
Most uniforms will be ready the week before or the week of opening day.
When/where do I pick up my child's uniform?
Your coach will notify you of the appropriate uniform pickup process.
Who oversees HVYSA?
HVYSA is led by unpaid volunteers and parents who are passionate about youth soccer in Huntsville. We welcome you to join us.
How can I get involved?
Here are a few ways you can get involved:
1. Spread the word. Most new players join because they have a friend or classmate who plays. word of mouth works!
2. Volunteers for the concession stand.
3. Volunteer to coach. Send an email to John Tanksley at jtanksley@huntsvillesoccer.org to indicate interest.
Who operates the concession stand?
The concession stand is operated by HVYSA volunteers and all profit goes directly back into the association. All parents/grandparents are welcome to work a shift in the concession stand before or after their child's games. any help is greatly appreciated!
Are corporate sponsorship available?
Yes. We welcome the support of local businesses and have several corporate sponsorship packages that are available. Reach out to our Director of Sponsorship at jgirouard@huntsvillesoccer.org for more information.
FIELD RULES & SAFETY
What age will goalkeepers start?
At the current time, we introduce goalkeepers for the 10U division.
Is heading the ball allowed?
Heading the ball is prohibited for the younger age groups, but it is allowed beginning at 12U.
Who is allowed to coach?
Our league depends on recruiting and equipping new coaches each season. Anyone is welcome to apply - parents especially! All coaches must pass a background check and complete online safety training. Only coaches are allowed on the bench side during games. They will be wearing a name badge to confirm their certification.
Am I allowed to sit with my child during the game?
No. The players' and coaches' bench area is on the opposite side of the fields from parents by design to facilitate gameplay and security for all.
Am I allowed to smoke at the fields, games, or practices?
Smoking, including vaping and e-cigarettes, is prohibited on the fields, but allowed in the parking lot.
Are alcoholic beverages allowed at the fields, games, or practices?
NO!!! Alcohol is not permitted on the soccer fields.