AYSO Region 286 – Frequently Asked Questions
QUICK ANSWERS
- Registration opens the first week of May and covers both Fall and Spring seasons
- No tryouts. Everyone plays, regardless of skill level
- Season includes up to 14 games (Fall + Spring) (weather and holidays permitting)
- Most games are played at Emma Russell Park in Roy
- Practices are typically 1 to 2 times per week depending on age group
- Volunteers are always needed. No experience required
REGISTRATION & SEASONS
1. Can I register my player at any time?
No. AYSO Region 286 operates on a yearly registration cycle.
Fall registration opens the first week of May each year and covers both seasons:
- Fall Season: 6 to 7 games (weather and holidays permitting)
- Spring Season: 6 to 7 games (weather and holidays permitting)
2. If I missed fall registration, can I sign up in the spring?
It depends. Spring registration is not guaranteed and is opened on a case-by-case basis.
We typically use spring registration to:
- Fill open roster spots from players who moved or chose not to continue
- Build new teams if there is enough interest
- Balance divisions with uneven team counts
3. When does the fall season start?
The fall season typically begins late August or early September, around Labor Day.
4. When does the spring season start?
The spring season typically begins late March or early April, around Easter.
FEES & EQUIPMENT
5. What does the registration fee include?
Your registration covers the following:
- Fall and Spring games (up to 14 total games)
- AYSO National Player Membership
- Roy City field usage fees
- Field painting and maintenance
- Coach and player equipment and supplies
- Referee program supplies and fees
6. What does my registration fee NOT include?
Your registration fee does not include the following:
- A Region 286 uniform
- A soccer ball (correct size based on age: 3, 4, or 5)
- Shin guards (required at all practices and games)
7. Do I need to buy a uniform every year?
No. We keep the same uniform style for multiple years to save families money.
- New players will need to purchase a uniform
- Returning players can reuse their current uniform as long as it still fits
TEAMS, COACHES & PLAYER EXPERIENCE
8. Does my child have to be good at soccer to play?
No. AYSO is built for players of all skill levels. Anyone is welcome.
We follow the 6 AYSO Philosophies:
- Everyone Plays
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
9. Does my child have to try out to play on a team?
No. AYSO CORE is a recreational program that is not based on skill level.
All players are welcome, including:
- Players who have never played before
- Players returning to the sport
- Players who have played in advanced or competitive leagues and want a fun, low-pressure environment
AYSO focuses on development, participation, and enjoyment of the game rather than scores or standings.
10. Can I request a specific coach or teammate?
AYSO follows a Balanced Teams philosophy and does not allow "team building" or "stacked teams" of players that stay together for multiple years, or highly talented players being consolidated to only a few teams.
You can make requests during registration by filling out the AYSO Region 286 Player Request Form found on the home page at www.roysoccer.com. Requests are NOT guaranteed, and the process to request is described on that form.
11. When will I hear from my coach?
Coaches typically begin reaching out:
- Fall: Mid to late August
- Spring: Mid to late March
12. What if my player joins in the spring?
Spring players are typically placed on existing fall teams when possible.
Because of timing and uniform production:
- New uniforms may not always be available
- Players may be asked to wear a red or blue shirt for the spring season
13. How many practices per week?
This depends on the coach and age group:
- 6U: No additional practices. Just game times on Saturday
- 8U/10U: 1 practice per week
- 12U/15U/19U: Practice 1 to 2 times per week
- Games are played on Saturdays
GAMES, FIELDS & CONDITIONS
14. What happens if it rains?
Games are usually played in the rain.
Games may be delayed or canceled for:
- Lightning
- Unsafe field conditions
- Field closures by Roy City
15. Where are games played?
Most games are played at Emma Russell Park in Roy.
Some older divisions may play in surrounding areas as part of interregional play such as:
- South Ogden
- Ogden
- Huntsville
VOLUNTEERS & OFFICIALS
16. Are referees certified?
Yes. All referees are AYSO trained and certified.
Many of our referees are youth volunteers, and we emphasize:
- Positive coaching
- Good sportsmanship
- Respect for referees
17. Can I volunteer?
Absolutely. AYSO is a volunteer-run organization.
We are always looking for:
- Coaches
- Referees
- Board members
- Team parents
- Mentors
No experience is required. We will train you.