Fall 2026 Season

Welcome,
Coach.

Everything you need to have a great season — in one place. Practice plans, safety forms, training links, parent tips, and more. We're glad you're here.

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Key Fall 2026 Dates:  Training starts Sept 2  ·  Coaches' Clinics Sept 6  ·  Banner deadline Sept 8  ·  First game Sept 13

The Six Tenets of AYSO

Every decision we make as coaches flows from these core principles.

01

Everyone Plays

Every rostered player plays a minimum of half of every game — no exceptions, no matter the score.

02

Balanced Teams

Teams are balanced by the region at the start of each season to ensure fair, competitive play.

03

Open Registration

Every child who wants to play gets a spot — no tryouts, no cut lists, no barriers.

04

Positive Coaching

We build confidence through encouragement. Coaches teach, support, and inspire — never belittle.

05

Good Sportsmanship

Mutual respect — for teammates, opponents, officials, and parents — is non-negotiable.

06

Player Development

We develop the whole child: skills, fitness, character, and love of the game for life.

🟢
PPP is GOOD
Play → Practice → Play
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LLL is BAD
Lines · Lectures · Laps
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"Training"
Not "Practice"
"Activities"
Not "Drills"

Your First Week as a Coach

Don't feel overwhelmed — here's exactly what to do and when.

1

Complete Your Online AYSO U Training

All coaches must complete Safe Haven, Concussion Awareness, and Sudden Cardiac Arrest modules. Takes about 90 minutes total and can be done any time. → Go to Training page

2

Contact Your Parents (by Aug 31)

Introduce yourself, confirm your roster, and schedule your first team meeting. Use the sample parent communication letter on the Resources page as a starting point. → See parent resources

3

Set Up GameChanger

This is your free team communication hub for schedules, messaging, and reminders. Create your account using the same email as your AYSO account. → GameChanger.com

4

Sign Up for Your Training Field

Selection order: (1) Board members, (2) Multi-team coaches, (3) By division & number. Sign with your last name and division in pencil (e.g. "Smith 10UG"). → Contact Kathy McCarthy for questions

5

Download Your Safety Resources

You must have a signed medical release form accessible at every practice and game, plus a first aid kit. Download all required forms before your first session. → Safety page

6

Attend the In-Person Coaches' Clinic (Sept 6)

Required for 10U+ coaches, open to everyone, and highly recommended. Tucson Soccer Center (Ina & I-10). Bring water, paper, pen, and a soccer ball if possible. → Details on Training page

You're Not Alone Out There

Join our coaches' WhatsApp group for real-time support, activity ideas, and answers from fellow coaches across the region.

📞 Contact Coach Admin 📚 Browse All Resources