Having read all the return comments, I think for us to stand half a chance of implementing these suggestions we need to reach a compromise on an either or basis per age group.
The differences between each states' logistics will make it virtually impossible to make an exact playing number per age group.
I would also suggest that when saying U6 we state this includes U5, when we state U8 we state this includes U7.
- So U6 [To include U5] 3v3 or 4v4 No Gk's, This seems to be fairly unanimous across the country as these age groups tend to be "In house or Rec. programs"
- U8 [To include U7] 4v4 or 5v5 No Gk's Here in lies a discrepancy, made worse by the fact that there are some travel leagues for these age groups. To tell travelling teams No GK'S is a hard sell, because the Coaches or organizers do not then see it as a real game. Maybe we should push for no travel Play for ages U8, U7, U6, or U5.
- U10 [To include U9] Travel Play In leagues that have no scores, records or points posted. 6v6 or 7v7 including GK's
- U12 [To include U11] 8v8 or 9v9 Including GK''s
"To Police" can be very difficult for the States that do not administer or run the Travel leagues within our jurisdiction. For those states that do run the leagues"Policing "is a little easier.
I am still of the same feeling that some kind of mandate, [not to be confused with dictate!] comes from one or both of our governing bodies [USSF, USYSA] in some way or form as not to "Upset" the members. Maybe if we the Directors of Coaching can come to some consistent set of guidelines, then both Governing bodies will feel more comfortable in supporting and then administering a policy.
However as I said earlier, if we are going to put out ridged playing numbers, then I feel we are fighting a losing battle. We must leave room for plus or minus one player and with or without a Gk' depending on the logistical differences and the opinions of each states members.
Lets face it any of the suggestions that we are seeing written in these relay's of emails, are better than is currently taking place in many of our States. Lets walk before we run.
FUNdamental Reader we would 'love' to publish your opinion on this issue. Send us your suggestions so that we can share them with our readership!
