A. General

Recreational Soccer is responsive to the EXCOM/BRYC Board of Directors through the Commissioner. Its objectives, policies, rules, practices, and procedures must parallel those of the BRYC Board of Directors. With the exception of on-the-field officiating, all support of Recreational Soccer is dependent on volunteers (parents, guardians, or other interested persons).

B. Structure

The Recreational Soccer structure, as shown in Figure 1, will continually be reviewed to ensure that it supports the objectives. The Commissioner administers the Recreational Soccer program and has a permanent position on the BRYC Board of Directors.

BRYC Recreational Soccer operations are supervised by the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) through the League Directors (LDs). The leagues (age groups) are not autonomous. While LDs are delegated the authority to manage their leagues within BRYC guidelines under the supervision of the appropriate DC, the overall responsibility remains with the Commissioner.

Recreational Soccer will consist of three divisions (Minors, Juniors, and Seniors) with leagues (or age groups) of at least four teams each. If a league consists of ten or more teams, the league may be split into two divisions at the LD’s discretion.

C. Staff Recruitment

The Commissioner establishes EXCOM to administer BRYC Recreational Soccer and its operations. The Commissioner and their supporting members identify positions and needs to fulfill. Reference Section IV: Policy Process to review the organization diagram.

• Commissioner recruits Coordinators, Directors, and DCs
• DCs recruit LDs
• LDs recruit Coaches
• Referee Director recruits officials and assistants

New members of the EXCOM are appointed by the Commissioner with consent of a majority of the EXCOM. Members may exit via resignation or by a 2/3 vote of the EXCOM. The Commissioner may suspend members for misconduct or failure to follow the BRYC Code of Conduct. Suspended members may appeal to a panel chaired by a Deputy Commissioner within 30 days.

D. Officials Recruitment

The Referee Director is responsible for recruiting referees, assistant referees, and support personnel.

E. Risk Management

BRYC Rec is committed to a safe environment, preventing abuse, and empowering all members to act as protection advocates. Coaches, referees, trainers, and volunteers must complete a Risk Management Disclosure Form and pass a background check each season. No rosters or participation is allowed until approval is received.

If issues arise, the Commissioner or Risk Manager will evaluate and take action. Alleged misconduct is investigated immediately. Affected individuals may be barred or suspended pending resolution. Appeals go to the BRYC Risk Management Committee.

The Risk Management Committee (appointed annually) may reinstate, conditionally approve, or deny involvement. Final appeals may be made only through the Committee. BRYC cannot guarantee confidentiality for disqualifying records.

F. Guidelines for Appropriate Behavior

See full policy: BRYC Recreational Soccer Conduct & Saftey Policy

G. Liability and Conduct/Medical Release Forms

Parents/legal guardians must complete and sign these forms each season. Players 18+ co-sign their own forms. Coaches must carry these to all practices/games. If the medical form is unsigned, the parent must be present at all times. Players may not participate without a signed form or parent present.

H. Registration

Players must be properly registered with payment before participating. LDs handle registration; coaches cannot register players. Play-ups and play-downs require approval. Pre-registration and volunteer discounts may apply. Late fees and waitlists follow published policies.

I. Refunds

See full refund policy: BRYC Refund Policy

J. Team Organization

Team assignments prioritize coach’s children but also consider preferences like proximity, housing subdivision, and school boundaries. Final decision rests with the League Director.

Team Structuring Stipulations

1. Teams are organized around a coach. If no coach is available in an area, the LD assigns players appropriately.
2. Team sizes follow current league limits; U16/U19 max is 21 players.
3. Teams are only permitted to play up one age group. If a team seeks to play up more than one age group, refer to the Team Parity Rule for guidance.
4. Recreational teams are forbidden from holding tryouts and recruiting players to form teams. This rule does not apply to All-Stars which has its own policy for team selection.
5. Recreational teams may not participate in leagues, tournaments, or scrimmages that require player selection based on skill or evaluation. These activities are reserved for All-Star Teams or Travel Teams.
6. U19 players are distributed evenly unless split divisions are approved.
7. League Directors LDs) submit rosters to Deputy Commissioners (DCs) for approval. Changes after release are rare.
8. If insufficient coaches exist, the LD removes players using a fair system based on volunteer involvement and registration order.
9. Each team should have at least one assistant coach meeting the same standards as a head coach.
10. Optional team staff are encouraged. Coaches without assistance require LD approval.
11. Team names must be appropriate and non-commercial.
12. Team Parity Rule (established: 3/16/2025): Teams that consistently outmatches their league will be subject to a mandatory split after two consecutive seasons of overwhelming success. A team is considered dominant if it has:
    • Defeated all teams in its league consecutively for two season, and
    • Won more than 40% of its games by a margin of three or more goals.
13. Team Parity Rule exceptions, If a team meets the Team Parity Rule conditions, it may be granted an exception to play up one age group with the approval of the Recreational Commissioner along with approval from the Deputy Commissioners (DCs). However, this exception is only applicable if the team has formally declared its intention to transition into Travel Soccer to establish a Bridge Team or move into Elite Academy.
    • The exception remains valid only until the team reaches the designated window to submit its Elite Bridge Application.
    • Once identified to play up, the team may not scout new players.
    • The roster from the previous season will serve as the baseline for the team, with any new additions determined solely by the League Director.
    • Upon approval or rejection from the travel program, the team's eligibility in recreational soccer will be restructured in the following season, with players distributed among different teams.

K. Player Eligibility

For detailed information on player eligibility requirements, age group rules, and documentation procedures, please refer to the full policy:

See full policy: View Player Eligibility Policy

L. Coach Recruitment

Coaches for Recreational Soccer are recruited and selected by the respective League Directors (LDs). Persons interested in participating as a volunteer coach should indicate this on the registration form or provide their name directly to the LD.

1. League Directors (LDs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs), when selecting and retaining coaches, consider various factors including leadership qualities, sportsmanship, respect for others, knowledge of soccer, and the patience, commitment, and skill necessary for developing youth players. All coaches are required to attend scheduled coaches’ meetings and orientations.
2. When there are more volunteers than available coaching positions, the LD selects the most suitable candidates based on:
   • Prior service as a BRYC coach
   • Relevant playing or coaching experience
   • Ability to lead a specific age group and gender
   • Alignment with the goals of Recreational Soccer
   • Tenure and overall experience
   Coaches not selected as head coaches are encouraged to serve as assistant coaches to support the program and gain experience.
3. Per VYSA SafeSport and Risk Management policy, any adult staff member (coach, assistant coach, team manager) must complete required background checks and certification before participating in any team activity.
4. Assistant coaches should, whenever possible, meet the same standards and qualifications as head coaches.
5. Coaches may manage up to three teams if they have sufficient experience and approval from their Commissioner. To coach more than two teams, the coach must have at least four seasons of BRYC coaching experience. Coaches taking on multiple teams must ensure each team has at least one assigned assistant coach; under no circumstances may a multi-team coach coach alone.
6. LDs are not obligated to resolve schedule conflicts for coaches managing more than one team. While efforts will be made to reduce overlap, coaches are responsible for managing potential scheduling issues.

M. Field Assignment

Game and practice fields will be allocated to leagues and coaches by the Recreational Soccer Field Allocation Committee, consisting of the Commissioner, the DCs, and the Fields Director. The following policy considerations will be used in allocating the limited number of soccer fields available:

1. The dimensions of assigned game and practice fields will be correlated with the age groups of the players.
2. League size is a determinant in the allocation of game fields.
3. Simultaneous practice field assignments will be made for two teams from the same league to facilitate competitive practice when requests are compatible.
4. Practice field problems should be referred to the Fields Director for resolution.
5. Teams will be assigned a minimum of one practice slot per week.
   • A minimum of two teams will be assigned to each field per practice slot.
   • When unassigned, fringe areas and open slots may be used by any team on a first-come, first-serve basis.
   • Teams may only practice on fields assigned to BRYC Recreational Soccer for that season.

N. Field Use

League Directors are responsible for enforcing the status of fields due to inclement weather based on the BRYC Rec Soccer Website before the day's play begins. Referees and LDs determine continued field suitability. The County, Commissioner, or DCs may also declare fields unplayable. Referees may delay or terminate games for safety. LDs manage setup, takedown, and cleanliness, and report any field issues to the Field and Equipment Coordinator.

Placement Zones:

1. Teams and their associated spectators must occupy opposite sides of the field. Side assignments alternate based on home/away status.
2. Spectators must remain in designated sideline areas and may not be behind goals or within technical zones.
3. Coaches and players must remain in marked technical areas along the sidelines.

Field Marking/Size: Markings follow FIFA guidelines except where small-sided modifications apply. Hazards such as storm drains must be outside the pitch. Spectator areas will begin one yard behind the touchline and extend 15 yards from the center line on each side.

O. Uniforms

1. Mandatory Uniform:
   • Team jerseys (royal blue and silver/gray) with numbers and BRYC logo
   • Team socks (royal blue and silver/gray)
   • Solid black shorts
   • Shin guards (mandatory at all times)
   • Goalkeeper jersey (contrasting color)
   • Padded shorts/pants and approved headgear for goalkeepers (optional)
   • Appropriate footwear (no metal cleats)
2. Prohibited Items: Watches, jewelry, unzipped jackets, barrettes, hats (unless religious or slow-recovery foam for GKs), glasses without straps, and hard items are not permitted. Final decisions rest with the referee.
3. Uniform Distribution: Coordinated at registration and by the Uniform Director. Extras may be available prior to season start.
4. Uniform Usage: Jerseys should not be used outside sanctioned BRYC events.

P. Equipment

1. All coaches receive equipment at the coaches meeting. Loss or damage must be reported to their LD.
2. Each coach receives:
   • 5–6 soccer balls (including one game ball)
   • 1 ball bag
   • 1 goalkeeper shirt (U9/10 and older)
   • Practice vests for half the team
3. Ball sizes are based on BRYC-published standards: Coach's Corner
4. End-of-season equipment must be returned to the LD. Repairs/replacements go through the Equipment Director.

Q. Officials

1. Referees must report 20 minutes early. If absent, coaches may agree on a substitute. Games proceed if both agree; otherwise, reschedule.
2. Officials prioritize safety and fairness, focusing on instruction and fun.
3. Referees check uniforms and equipment and maintain field area discipline.
4. One referee is assigned for U9+ games. U7/U8 may have referees if available. Coaches officiate U5–U6. Two assistant referees for Senior games.

R. Season

Set by EXCOM. Each season includes a maximum of eight (8) games. Seasons typically run:

• Fall – August to November
• Spring – March to June

S. Practices and Training

1. Preseason practices begin two weeks before first game; max three sessions/week. In-season: max two/week.
2. Training should be age-appropriate, skill-based, and varied.
3. Clinics will be offered for coaches, players, and parents.

T. Games

1. Scheduling: Done by LDs. Field assignments handled by the Fields Committee.
2. Number of Players: Follows U.S. Youth Soccer guidelines and BRYC modifications. Refer to full policy for league-specific formats and minimums.
3. The Play: Games start promptly. Forfeits declared after 5 minutes if minimum not met. Substitutions follow league rules. Coaches must notify if sitting a player for any reason.
4. Game Duration: Varies by age group. U5–U6 play 4x8 min quarters. U16/U19 play 2x40 or 2x45 min halves. Substitution windows outlined per league rules.

U. Cancellation/Postponement

Referees, DCs, or Commissioner may cancel or postpone games due to weather, field conditions, or misconduct. Games past halftime are considered complete.

V. Make-Up Games

LDs determine what games get replayed. Field/Referee Directors handle scheduling. No guarantee of make-up if resources/time do not allow.

W. Tie Games

Regular season games may end in ties.

X. Blowout Scores

To uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and ensure a positive experience for all participants, BRYC Recreational Soccer maintains a policy to prevent excessively lopsided game scores.

1. Score Differential Limit

No final score should exceed a five-goal difference.

2. Mitigation Strategies

When a team leads by four goals, coaches are expected to implement one or more of the following strategies to promote fair play:

• Player Rotation: Move dominant or advanced players to less central positions, such as defense or substitute rotation.
• Passing Requirements: Require a minimum number of completed passes (e.g., three to five) before attempting a shot on goal.
• Weaker Foot Play: Encourage players to use their non-dominant foot for dribbling, passing, and shooting.
• Shooting Restrictions: Limit shots to outside the penalty area or only after all team members have touched the ball.
• Team Size Adjustment: By mutual agreement between both coaches and with the referee’s awareness, either:
  • The leading team may remove no more than two players from the field, or
  • The trailing team may add up to two additional players on the field.

3. Coach and Referee Collaboration

Coaches should collaborate with one another and include the referee in decisions related to score mitigation strategies during a lopsided match. Proactive communication ensures a shared understanding and supports fairness throughout the game.

4. Emphasis on Development

At all times, the emphasis must remain on development, enjoyment, and team values over competition and goal differential. Coaches are responsible for modeling sportsmanship and applying mitigation appropriately.

Y. Standings/Awards

Standings apply to select leagues. Scoring: 3 points for a win, 1 for a tie, 0 for loss. Awards are approved by EXCOM. No standings or awards for U5–U10 leagues. Weekly standings posted by LDs.

Z. Tie-Break Procedure

In the event of two or more teams having accumulated an equal number of points at the end of regular season play, the following tie-break procedure will be used to determine final standings:

1. Head-to-Head Record

The team with the best record in games played between the tied teams will be ranked higher.

2. Most Wins

The team with the greater number of overall wins during the season will be ranked higher.

3. Most Wins in Division

If the league has multiple divisions, the team with the most wins within its division will be ranked higher.

4. Least Number of Goals Allowed

The team that allowed the fewest total goals throughout the season will be ranked higher.

5. Number of Goals Scored

The team that scored the most goals throughout the season will be ranked higher.

6. Tie Breaker (Coin Toss)

If teams remain tied after all prior criteria are applied, a coin toss will determine the final ranking.

AA. All-Stars

For information on All-Star selection, eligibility, and guidelines, please refer to the full policy:

See full policy: All-Star Policy

BB. Bridge Soccer (Travel Soccer) (established: 3/16/2025)

BRYC Rec fosters the growth of players. As such, the EXCOM partners with Elite Bridge leadership to identify opportunities that allow recreational teams to transition into Bridge programs. The Elite Bridge Program supports grassroots growth by providing teams and coaches with the opportunity to move together as a team and family unit to a more competitive travel environment.

Qualifications

• Teams must have played at least two seasons in BRYC Recreational Soccer.
• Team record and strength are evaluated by the Recreational Representative and Bridge leadership.
• At least 70% of the team must commit to moving to Bridge—this is considered the core group (e.g., 8 of 12 players).

Application Process

• Applications are accepted between January and March, prior to the spring season.
• Applications are reviewed in advance of the next Travel Season beginning in the fall.
• Validation must be made that no existing Bridge team already occupies that age group.
• Bridge permits a maximum of two Bridge teams per age group. Exceptions may be granted by Bridge leadership through the application process.

CC. Coach Training and Certification (Modified 3/16/2025)

Coaches are required to participate in the VYSA Coaching Education Program by attending courses relevant to the age group of the players they coach. These courses include Grassroots training modules for small-sided play formats and the more advanced “D” License course. The Grassroots coaching courses are designed around the developmental needs of players at each stage and align with the formats used in recreational soccer: 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11. Coaches are expected to complete the Grassroots module(s) that correspond to the age group and playing format of their team.

The “D” License is the most advanced state-level course and is intended for coaches working with players U12 and older. The course consists of 32 hours of instruction, including practical field work, and a 4-hour evaluation. While not required for coaches of younger age groups, the “D” License is recommended for those coaching U13 and is required for coaches working with teams U14 and older.

Certification Pathway:

• Complete age group appropriate Grass Roots Pathway Courses.
• "D" License: Most advanced at the state level; 32 hours of instruction plus 4 hours of exam. Prerequisite: Completion of two Grass Roots Pathway courses.

For additional certification options and U.S. Soccer information, refer to:

U.S. Soccer Coach Certification Resource

Substitutions & Reimbursements

• Equivalent certifications from other organizations (e.g., NSCAA or international licenses) may be accepted with Training Coordinator approval.
• BRYC Recreational Soccer covers the cost of training for coaches who commit to two seasons of volunteer service after certification.

DD. Grievances, Protests, and Complaints

Grievances

Any individual involved in BRYC Recreational Soccer may file a grievance. Grievances should be submitted to the appropriate League Director. These must be resolved at the lowest administrative level, unless elevated due to severity. A grievance addresses BRYC policy, procedure, or rules—not game outcomes. Appeals may be submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, and in matters of significant importance, to the Commissioner.

Protests

A protest contests a game result and may only be submitted by a team’s coach or acting coach. It must be filed with the LD within 24 hours of game conclusion. Documentation, including date, time, location, rule misapplied (FIFA Law or BRYC rule), and requested remedy, must be maintained. Unresolved protests may be escalated to the Deputy Commissioner in writing within 72 hours of the LD’s decision. Note: Referee judgment does not constitute grounds for protest—only misapplication of rules does.

Complaints

Only coaches or acting coaches may submit complaints about officiating. Complaints may be sent to the League Director or Referee Director. Coaches are expected to maintain composure during matches, as professionalism enhances the credibility of any post-game concerns shared with the BRYC Executive Committee.

EE. Weather Policy

For information about our weather policy, view complete policy: BRYC Weather Policy

Additional Guidance

• Obtain a weather report prior to practice or games. When outside
• Listen to weather radio if you suspect a storm is approaching