The objective of this program is to provide young players and their parents with a “pressure free” introduction to the beautiful and simple game of soccer. At this age, players should be exposed to soccer by playing simple, fun activities and games that require little to no practice, and a minimal time commitment.

The Schoolyard (U5) program allows players to discover the game for themselves, while also giving the parents a foundation to build and grow into future AYSO coaches, referees, and administrators. The objective of the AYSO Schoolyard program is to provide young players and their parents with a "pressure free" introduction to the game of soccer. This is not to be considered a coaching program but is designed to expose kids to soccer. The two goals of this program are to allow the players to enjoy the activities and to let the game be the teacher. There is no post season at this age level; however, each player receives a participation trophy at the end of the season.

Organization

The Schoolyard program's fluid organization will provide the best possible introduction to soccer for our youngest players. Teams are formed on a weekly basis depending on how many players attend a given session. A “Master Coach” will lead each session.

The Master Coach will introduce a game/activity that will practice a certain skill or part of the game using explanation and demonstration. Players will then attempt the activity while the Master Coach circles the players, providing specific help or suggestions so that the activities are performed as intended. After a suitable amount of time, the Master Coach will bring the players back together as a group and recaps what they have done, introducing the next game/activity.

Each game/activity may end with a 20 minute short-sided game (3 v 3). Most importantly, the Master Coach will allow the players to play without coaching or teaching them as this experience is designed to expose them to soccer, not to begin developing them. The two goals of the program are to allow the players to enjoy the activities
and to let the game be the teacher.

3 v 3 Game Set-Up and Guidelines

Each player in the Schoolyard division will receive a uniform since it is part of the fun to get dressed up for “the big game.” Having fun will make the kids want to come back. The uniforms will be identical for all players. Based on how many players arrive, pinnies (different colored ‘vests’) will be used to differentiate the ‘teams’ for games for a particular day.

All parents should be encouraged to cheer positively and refrain from “coaching” (giving directions) from the sideline. This is the time for the kids to play – LET THEM!