Philosophy
The boys soccer program at Spring Lake Park High School is committed to fostering the holistic growth and development of all players. Our philosophy prioritizes personal growth first, academic achievement second, and athletic excellence third.
Program Goals
1. Foster personal integrity, good sportsmanship, and commitment to both tasks and team.
2. Promote development of soccer skills, strategies, and a positive attitude toward athletic competition.
3. Cultivate a competitive spirit and lifelong interest in soccer.
4. Encourage an understanding of physical fitness and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Membership
The Varsity squad will consist of the top 16-21 players from grades 8-12 at Spring Lake Park High School. Players will be evaluated based on skill, work ethic, and ability during the first week of practice and on a continuous basis throughout the season. Players may be moved between squad levels as the season progresses, up or down.
There are four levels of boys soccer teams, and all players who try out will be placed on a team. We do not cut players because we believe every student deserves the opportunity to play.
- C Squad Level: For 7th - 9th graders who do not qualify for Varsity.
- B Squad Level: For 10th - 12th graders who do not qualify for JV or Varsity.
- JV Level: For 10th - 12th graders, including exceptional 9th graders who don’t make Varsity.
- Varsity Level: For 9th - 12th graders, including exceptional 8th graders.
Dress Code
All players must wear uniform game attire in accordance with Minnesota State High School League rules. This includes no undergarments extending beyond the uniform shorts and shirts, unless approved by the coaching staff. Players are also prohibited from wearing headbands, jewelry, etc., during games. Any failure to comply with the dress code will result in forfeiting the opportunity to play in that day's game.
Conduct/Language/Respect
Players are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that aligns with the program's philosophy.
The following guidelines apply to both practice and game situations:
1. Verbal or physical abuse of teammates, opponents, or officials will not be tolerated.
a. Abusive language or behavior may result in a suspension until a full review is conducted.
2. Verbal or physical abuse directed at a coach may lead to termination from the team.
Attendance
Varsity soccer candidates are required to attend the twice-daily practice sessions during try-out week. Absences (due to family vacations, etc.) may impact placement on the Varsity squad and will result in placement on the appropriate team until the coaching staff has had time to assess the player’s skills and conditioning.
All players must attend practices and games on time. Any tardiness or absence must be communicated to the coach in advance. Unexcused absences or tardiness will be dealt with individually by the coach.
Players will not be excused from practice or games for employment obligations. Coaches recommend that student-athletes refrain from holding part-time or full-time jobs during the soccer season.
Disciplinary Detention/Academic Tutoring
Players who miss practice due to detention/suspension will be suspended from the next game. Absences due to academic tutoring will be excused if the player has obtained prior consent from the coach.
Team Rapport
Players whose behavior negatively impacts the team will be addressed by the coaching staff, and a plan will be developed to resolve the situation. If the issue persists or the solution is unsatisfactory, the player may be suspended from the team until a meeting is held with the player, coaching staff, and the player’s parents/guardians.
Sub-Varsity
All team rules apply to every level of the Spring Lake Park Boys Soccer Program.
Uniforms/Equipment
Uniforms and equipment are property of the Spring Lake Park Athletic Department and must be returned in the same condition in which they were received, accounting for normal wear. Uniforms and warm-ups should not be worn for practice. All equipment must be cleaned and returned within one week after the final game. A replacement fee will be charged for lost or unreturned uniforms (Uniform Shirt and Shorts). The two Practice Shirts and the game socks do not need to be returned.
Coaches Availability
Players or parents wishing to communicate with me, the varsity coach, should contact me via email at Lpauly@district16.org to schedule a meeting. I will return calls/emails at my earliest convenience.
Player/Parent Concerns
Any concerns a player has should first be addressed directly with their coach. Coaches will not discuss player issues with parents until after the player has spoken with the coach. This helps teach the players how to advocate for themselves. If, after speaking with the coach, the player feels the issue was not resolved, a meeting with the parent and the coaching staff will be arranged. All discussions regarding player issues must include both the player and at least two coaches. Additionally, coaches will not discuss player issues immediately after a game but will schedule a meeting at a mutually convenient time.
We have read and understand the above rules and agree to comply as members of the Spring Lake Park Boys Soccer Team.
Athlete: ______________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian: __________________________________________________________
