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Glenview AYSO

Region 362

Glenview AYSO Region 362

U5 Division

U5 Division

Introduction

The objective of Glenview AYSO's U5 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. This program allows players to discover the game for themselves, while parents are given a soccer foundation on which to build and grow into future AYSO coaches, referees and administrators.

Location

All U5 activities are held at Gallery Park

Player Equipment:

Be sure and bring the following to each session
  • Uniform jersey, shorts and socks (a uniform set will be distributed to all players on the first Saturday session)
  • Shoes and shinguards, covered by the socks are mandatory at all practice and game activities. Soccer shoes or sneakers are required. The type and condition of cleated shoes must be inspected for safety before use.
  • Size 3 ball
  • Water bottle

Parents & U5 Volunteering

We do not have set teams at this age group. Each Saturday morning the kids come to Gallery Park and are assigned a field to play on for that day. Our professional trainers run drills and practice for the kids. After about a half hour the kids are divided up into 3v3 scrimmages.
We need parents to help run those scrimmages, but it is very informal. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes and plan to help out during the scrimmages. The focus is on playing the game and having fun!

U5 Jamboree One with One

Organization: Jamboree One with One is the combination of two different formats that, put together, provide the best possible introduction to soccer for our youngest players. In an AYSO Jamboree, teams are formed on a weekly basis depending on how many players attend a given session. One with One is our approach where each player will have a parent (or other adult) working with them on the field.
Master Coaches: A Master Coach will lead each session and introduce a game/activity for developing a certain skill or part of the game using explanation and demonstration. Each pair (player/parent) will then attempt the activity while the master coach circulates between pairs 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 and parents back together as a group and recap what they have done, introducing the next game/activity. Sometimes multiple kids will practice together if, say, a parent is currently indisposed caring for a younger brother or sister.
Getting Started: Each week before the game portion of the day begins, players will be divided into groups of 4 (3 on the field with 1 substitute/reserve). Based on how many players arrive, pinnies (different colored "vests") to differentiate the "teams" for games for a particular weekend will be used.
Each Jamboree One with One session will end with a 20 minute short-sided game (3 v 3). Most importantly, this allows the players to play without coaching or teaching. The experience is designed for exposure to soccer, not to develop them into World Cup competitors just yet. The programs's goals are to (1) allow the players to enjoy the activities and (2) let the game be the teacher.
Session Activities
  • 10 minutes - Group Warm-Up and Activities
  • 5 minutes - Water Break
  • 20 minutes - Training Activities and Game
  • 10 minutes - Water break and team organization (player assignment, field location assignments)
  • 20 minutes - 3 vs 3 Game (played in two halves of 10 minutes each with a short break at the quarter to make substitutions and get a quick drink)
  • Game Supervisors: During the game, one parent from each team should be selected as the "game supervisor" for the week. Neither soccer experience or much knowledge about the rules are required. They only need to keep the game going. All other parents should be encouraged to cheer positively and refrain from "coaching" or giving directions from the sideline. This is the time for the kids to play. LET THEM!


    Game Play

    The Teams: Games are played with 3 players per team on the field (3v3) and no goalkeepers. Substitutions are made at quarters, halftime and for injuries. All players should play a minimum of 2 quarters, and no one should play 4 quarters until everyone has (willingly) played 3 quarters.
    Boys and girls play in different sessions.
    The Start of Play: At the beginning of the first and second halves, and following each goal, start play with a kick-off in the center of the field. A coin toss is used to determine which team kicks off to start the game and the other team kicks off to start the second half. Following a goal, the team scored upon kicks off.
    The Kick-off: The kick-off is taken from the center of the field with each team in their own half and the team not kicking off at least 5 yards from the ball. A painted circle in the center marks the distance, so the opposing team should simply be on the outside of it.
    Ball In and Out of Play: The ball is out of play when it completely crosses the touch line (side line) or goal line (end line) either on the ground or in the air. In U-5 games, the game supervisors will determine when the ball is out of play and should guide the restart, interfering as little as possible. Don't worry if the ball inches over the line and the players don't notice and keep going. It's their game, let them play.
    Method of Scoring: A goal is awarded when the ball completely crosses the goal line into the goal.  Everyone should enthusiastically celebrate goals. Scores are NOT recorded nor "remembered". In U-5 games, everyone is a winner!
    Fouls and Other Stoppages: While deliberate fouling is rare in U-5 games, kicking, tripping and dangerous play may occur. If a player is "not playing well with others", or play should be stopped for injury, substitution, confusion, or to watch a passing train or frog; refocus the players and begin again with a free kick. Award the restart to whichever team deserves it. Stoppages should not become a lengthy ceremony.
    Free Kick: Play may have to be stopped occasionally to "sort things out" in U-5 games. Correct the situation then restart with a free kick for the deserving team. The opposing team should be at least 5 yards from the ball in U-5 games. All free kicks in U-5 games are direct free kicks which means, if you're lucky, a goal can be scored directly from the kick.without the ball having to be touched or played by another player on the field (in-direct kick).
    Throw in or Kick in: When the ball goes out of play in U-5 games across the touch line (side lines) or the goal lines (end lines) without a goal being scored, the ball is awarded to the team that didn't touch the ball last. Play is restarted by one child throwing the ball onto the field in an over-the-head motion or, alternatively, placing it on the ground and kicking it in. Don't make too big a fuss if it's not properly taken. Let them play with minimum interruption and teach proper technique later. As always, keep the game moving and fun.