Park Ridge Travel Soccer is designed for the players that are looking to make a greater commitment to the sport of soccer. The purpose of thie PRS Travel program is to provide an opportunity for better-skilled players to compete in a more competitive environment and to enhance their opportunity for greater skill development.
The following are some important things you should know about travel soccer:
1. Playing on a Park Ridge Soccer Travel Team requires a year-long commitment by the player and family. Practices typically begin in August, two to three times per week. The teams participate in 10 league games in the Fall (September through November) and 8-10 games in the Spring (mid April through mid June). Most games are played on weekends, however mid-week games are not uncommon. In addition to league play, coaches recommend participating in area tournaments. Players and their families also make a commitment to participating in our own Park Ridge Memorial Day Tournament. Each team participates in two other tournaments.
2. The Travel Fee for the 2011-2012 soccer year will be $750 (U9-U12) and $850 (U13-U14), which includes two seasons of play (Fall 2011 & Spring 2012). U13-U14 fees cover full-time Trainer Coaches. Standard uniform cost for new U9 and U10 players will be approximately $100. Standard uniform cost for new U11 or older players may range from $125 to $150. Payment is due in full at the team meeting. Once a player has accepted a spot on a team and fees have been paid, no refunds are given.
3. We believe that skill development occurs in two distinct areas: individual and team. It is Park Ridge Soccer’s objective to increase each player’s skills in both of these areas. The player is assessed on individual athleticism, soccer skills, effort, sportsmanship, and trainability. Movement between teams will occur as players develop at different rates.
4. Parents/families know their child, have an image of who he/she is on the soccer field, and may see him/her in a specific position. Coaches and trainers, however, may place players in different roles to explore a player’s potential.
5. The attitude shown by parents at practices, games, towards the opposing team, the officials, and the coaches influence a child’s values and behavior in sports. Criticism and disrespect undermines the purpose of the sport and introduces stresses beyond those of competition. Parents/guardians shall model positive behavior and help the player understand the true meaning of success - giving maximum effort, striving to do one’s best, and making personal and team improvements. Failure by family or player to exhibit good sportsmanship can result in exclusion from the travel program and Park Ridge Soccer.
6. A parent or guardian must sign a consent form for the player who plans participate in the Park Ridge Soccer travel team tryouts and, if selected, on a Park Ridge Soccer travel soccer team. No insurance of any kind will be provided for accidents or injuries that occur from any cause whatsoever in connection with the program. A parent or guardian must must agree to relieve from any responsibilities and hold harmless the Park Ridge Soccer Travel Program or Park Ridge Soccer Association, an affiliate of the Park Ridge Recreation and Park District, their officers, officials, team managers, coaches, trainers, or any other official of these organizations, for any accidents or injuries whatsoever that occur in connection with this program. Photos may periodically be taken of participants in the program or during special events. Please be aware that these photos are for Park Ridge Soccer use only and may be used in the Association’s brochures, pamphlets, flyers, or on the website.
