FAQs

The team technical area is reserved for coaches and players 60 minutes before kickoff, during the match, and immediately after. Parents and spectators stay on their own side of the field, wait for players to come to them after the game, and sit at least 10 yards from the midfield line if on the same side as the team.

Please don't approach the coach during or immediately after practices or games. Honor the 48-hour cooling-off period, then set up a time to meet with the head coach. The Academy Director is notified about every situation.

Issues with playing time, scheduling conflicts, or similar matters start with your Chapter/Academy Director. Matters needing further settlement go to the Club Director, who can take unresolved issues to the Competitions Committee. Club decisions are final and binding.

Referees are human and make mistakes — criticism and disrespect toward officials undermines the sport. Players who feel the team was treated unfairly should speak to the coach, who notifies the Academy Director about blatant problems. US Soccer's Referee Abuse Prevention policy (March 2025) carries substantial penalties for players, coaches, and spectators who violate it.

The league enforces a Zero Tolerance Policy to keep the environment respectful and positive. A parent dismissed or ejected from a game faces a minimum 3-game ban. Serious misconduct falls under the club's One and Done Policy, which can mean immediate removal.

All players must register through the club's online system (Playmetrics), which is also used to build the roster and track payments. Coaches communicate the fee structure and payment details on the team registration webpage. Scholarship forms are available and must be signed by the Coach and Director.

Under the SOCAL transfer policy, a player can only transfer if their fees are paid in full and the outgoing Director of Coaching has given permission. This is enforced until the end of the State Cup for the player's team — or the end of the league season if the team doesn't participate in State Cup.

Tryouts open after April 21 each year and are announced by the club. The coaching staff evaluates players across seven areas during competitive games, practices, and tryouts. Placement decisions are made by the Director, Chapter Director, and team Coach. New players are notified by email; returning players are told in person or by phone.

No — Pateadores Youth Academy players cannot train or guest play with another club or unaffiliated league without Director approval.

The club's Proper Use Policy prohibits sharing negative content about teammates, coaches, or opponents, and posting anything that could damage the club's reputation. Positive, respectful posts that support the team are encouraged.

Any complaints against other organizations must go through a Pateadores administrator — it's inappropriate to contact coaches, directors, or board members of other organizations directly. Contact your Academy Director with any issues.

Get involved — the handbook encourages parents to volunteer, help with fundraisers, carpool, or anything else that supports the program.