What is the U5 Program?
The U5
Program is an introductory soccer program for 4-year olds conducted in
the "jamboree" format recommended by the AYSO National organization. The
jamboree format differs from the traditional team-based approach used
at the older divisions.
In jamboree a parent or other adult will work 1-on-1 with the player to
introduce basic soccer concepts and skills. Teams are formed each week
based on player turnout. An organizing coach will lead the session. The
coach will introduce a game/activity designed to practice a certain
skill or concept using explanation and demonstration. Each player/parent
pair will then attempt the activity while the coach circulates and
provides feedback and assistance. The session will end with your child
participating in a 15-20 minute short sided game of 3 vs 3.
Player Trophies will be available for order.
The two primary goals of the U5 Program are:
- To allow the players to enjoy the activities
- To let the game be the teacher
There
are typically eight U5 sessions during the Fall season and eight more
sessions in the Spring. U5 sessions run about one hour and begin the
first week of scheduled games.
Our Sessions are held on Friday evenings at 6:30pm
Your child must wear the following equipment:
- AYSO uniform (Available before first session, cost is 25.00)
- Shin guards (available anywhere sporting goods are sold)
- Socks large enough to cover the shin guards (soccer socks are preferable as they are purposely over-sized)
- Size 3 soccer ball
The following are not required but recommended:
- Soccer shoes or cleats
- Water or other drink
The U5
program is an extremely popular and age-appropriate way to introduce
young children to the fun of soccer and it will help prepare them for
the team-oriented U6 program the following year.
It is Important to understand U5 soccer at AYSO337 does not have set teams, set Coaches or additional practice time. U5 soccer is not competitive in anyway. We are introducing 4 year olds to the game of soccer, in a fun atmosphere.
A note from the U5 Division coordinator:
Introducing the U5 division coordinator, Lee Stewart. Lee has been with the AYSO organization for several years. He has been the Regional Commissioner of Region 337, the Area B Director, and most recently the Section 5 Director. We are extremely excited to have Lee returning to his home region of 337. Lee is enthusiastic about the U5 program and is ready for a fun season.
In the U5 program we ask for a lot of parent involvement. Parents are encouraged to participate in the drills with their players, but this is in no way mandatory. With that stated, AYSO does mandate that anyone who is going to be on the fields with the players to register as an AYSO volunteer. Parents can register as a volunteer at www.eayso.org. You will NOT be able to assist the players on the field, until the volunteer application has been submitted online. This not only protects AYSO, but it more importantly protects the children!!
The first practice/game will be on Friday, September 5th at 6:30. We are asking ALL parents to arrive at 6:00pm for check-in. We currently have over 50 players in the U5 program, so we want to make certain we are able to get all players checked-in and ready by the scheduled practice/game time of 6:30pm. Additionally, we will have jerseys for sale on the 5th for $25. You may purchase a jersey, after you have checked-in your player.
What players need to bring on the first practice/game day of Friday, September 5th:
· Shin guards – players will NOT be able to participate, unless he/she is wearing shin guards and socks to completely cover shin guards.
· Size 3 soccer ball
· Jersey
· Water/drink
· Cleats are optional!!! We do recommend players wear cleats, but it is not required.
We are looking forward to a wonderful season!!
Lee Stewart
U5 Division Coordinator
AYSO 337
[email protected]