Mass Youth Soccer - February 2023

FINAL SCORE

Mass Youth Soccer

CONNECTING SOCCER FAMILIES ACROSS MASSACHUSETTS

THE BALL

2022 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

NATIONAL WINNER JASON TARGOFF

Targoff has worked with the Cambridge Youth Soccer (CYS) board, the Cambridge recreation department, and the CYS community to energize and improve the recreational program in Cambridge. Under his leadership, Cambridge Youth Soccer has grown from 850 players to 1800 players in just a few years.

CYS has found that many kids and parents find it is more fun to compete in a local city league rather than a travel league. By embracing competitiveness and fun simultaneously, CYS has been able to offer a first-rate soccer experience locally, with low barriers to entry for all children in Cambridge.

Some of the approaches that have Cambridge Youth Soccer has taken to grow its program and the enthusiasm for soccer in the city:

• Created an end-of-year City Championship that players look forward to all year

• Worked in tandem with travel leagues to allow kids to play both rec and travel through eighth grade, by switching to a travel league that schedules games on Sundays only, leaving Saturdays open for recreational league (“City League”) play

• Changed team names to those of nations, including some countries (e.g. Eritrea, Portugal, Ethiopia) that recognize local populations.

• Invested in higher quality jerseys for recreational leagues, reinforcing the idea that the kids playing on the recreation league weren’t valued less than the travel teams.

• Invested in multiple opportunities every season for “play-practice-play” based coach training, some led by MYSA and some through the newly-hired CYS professional coaching director

• Stream-lined and improved the process for families to request financial aid, removing all financial burden for any families who need aid

• Grew revenues by over 100% over the past eight years by maintaining fees at very low levels and raising funds through community-based fundraising

Targoff has served as President since 2014. Like the other volunteers from the CYS board, he provides whatever is needed to keep the organization running.

2022 BOYS RECREATIONAL COACH

OF THE

YEAR

NATIONAL WINNER STEPHEN DE GARAVILLA

de Garavilla grew as both a person and coach during more than 35 years with the Wakefield Youth Soccer Association. He developed a holistic approach to coaching, carefully observing the mental, social, and physical needs of all of his players to ensure that they were in a good psychological state. de Garavilla's philosophy, which was predicated on sportsmanship and having a positive mindset, became a core theme for his teams and was visible to all who encountered them.

Stephen de Garavilla's three children accepted the National Boys Recreational Coach of the Year Award at this years US Youth Soccer's Annual Awards Celebration in Philadelphia. His eight grandchildren were also in attendance to celebrate his dedication to the game.

Mock Disciplinary Hearings and the Appeals Proccess

At the United Soccer Coaches/USYSA Annual Convention, David Dalrymple of the Mass Youth Soccer Board of Director and Dave Laraba the West Virginia Executive Director presented on Discipline Hearing and Appeals. The presentation had extensive audience participation so the following is the general outline of the material presented.

Most appeals succeed for two major reasons. The first is failure to follow the procedures and process outline in USSF 701. The second is issues with the governance documents.

For the first issue, when contemplating holding a discipline event, review USSF 701 to note the proper process for notification and the requirements. A quick review of Policy 539 (Referee) is often in order as many discipline events are spawned from interactions with our referees.

While not under the pressure of needing to hold a discipline event, a review of the governance documents is in order. The first issue, what is prohibited behavior? It is difficult to articulate all the possible infractions that can occur. The recommendation for governance documents is to list the common types (red card, zero tolerance etc) and have a comprehensive code of conduct to outline the conduct expected for individuals working with children. Reference the training (SafeSport, Concussion Awareness, AED certification, CPR certification or whatever your organization mandates). Also include items such as authorizing the appropriate organization to do background checks in accordance with national requirements (in Massachusetts, a level 2 CORI check is required as well as the national background check).

The second point is not to create conflicts in the structure. For example if the documents direct the Sportsmanship Directors investigates all breaches of the code of conduct and that the Sportsmanship Director also chairs a discipline hearing, a problem is created as the governance documents specify a situation where the an individual is designated to investigate and then be part of a panel that is required to be unbiased and impartial, It is OK to specify that a member of a discipline hearing be a USSF certified referee but if you designate a specific individual (such as Head Referee), it is not guaranteed that this person is unbiased. It is better to have someone (such as President or Sportsmanship Director) to appoint a panel for each hearing to ensure that an unbiased, impartial panel is formed to hear the matter.

The third point is only hold a hearing when it is needed. There are three types of penalties, statutory, single person discretionary and pure discretionary. The first two do not required a hearing. To use a car analogy, it is important to have a hearing for the "vital few" and not the "mundane many." The governance documents should specify the first two as if they are absent, than a hearing is needed to apply a penalty for any prohibited behavior. A statutory penalty example is that a red card received by an individual requires the individual the not participate in the next game played. This can be turned into a single person discretionary where a red carded individual will be suspended for a minimum of one game and up to three games in the sole discretion of the head referee. (I am using the head referee but it could be sportsmanship director, ejection director etc - substitute your own term for the appropriate identified individual in your organization.) Two points here, if we leave off the "at the discretion of the head referee," we have bought a hearing so a panel can determine the appropriate number of games. Not a good use of a hearing panel. A good use of the hearing panel would be to add the phrase that if in the opinion of the head referee that three games is not a sufficient penalty, the head referee may impose a three game suspension

and refer to a hearing panel for further action.

One additional point. When a statutory or single person discretionary is used, it is appropriate to allow a single event reconsideration, where the individual being sanctioned can bring up any information that the head referee or equivalent may not have been aware of in case it as a bearing on the severity of the incidence. Be sure to put limits on this - as in once and within a certain amount of time to give the head referee a chance to confirm any details that may not have been clear during the original decision.

Final point is an escape hatch is needed. Clubs are not the alpha organization when it comes to discipline. There are cases where we need to take a back seat to other jurisdictions. SafeSport, Criminal Authorities or other organizations may get primary jurisdictions. Make sure there is a section that a person may be suspended in anticipation of a hearing to happen within time certain should the individual become the subject of an investigation that if found to be true would bar the individual from working with children.

Now is the time to review your governance documents and make sure you are set up to handle discipline events with a process that is fair to the individual charged, an effective use of volunteer time for these issues and protects all the children and volunteers that are part of your organization.

Much has been written so far about getting the organization's house in order to be able to hold a proper disciplinary hearing. Once the hearing is over and the panel has rendered a decision, the process is not yet complete. One of the important aspects is the written decision. It must detail the hearing, including those presents and the main points of evidence presented. The Panel may only consider information presented in the disciplinary hearing. The decision also must detail the decision and the REASONS for the decision. An appeal panel, should the individual be aggrieved by the decision and appeal, should be able to understand the decision made and the thought that went into it. An appeal is not a "second bite at the apple" but a chance for an individual that felt the process or decision was unfair, a chance to have a higher authority review the grounds for the appeal and make a ruling without having to conduct an original hearing in its entirety

Most appeals are successful due to improper process. An Appeal Panel has three or four decisions it can render (depending on the appeal organization governance documents)

Outcome 1 - the process was unfair and in the panel's opinion, there is no chance for a fair process due to the circumstances - Appeal is upheld and issue is dismissed with prejudice - meaning the lower organization is not allowed to re-try

Outcome 2 - the process was unfair but in the panel's opinion, the process can be corrected. The matter is remanded back for a new hearing with a new panel.

Outcome 3a - (whether this option is available depends on the governance documents). Fair process but onerous sanction. Modify Sanction to appropriate level in line with Soccer Norms and close the issue

Outcome 3b - Fair process but onerous sanction. Remand for review of sanction and modification by original organization

Outcome 4 - Fair process and fair sanction. Deny the appeal and let the lower organization decision stand.

The Appeal decision must have all the same elements as the original hearing decision should have. Those present, the information presented, the decision, the reasons for the decision and the right to further appeal.

Dave Laraba as well as being the West Virginia Executive Director has sat on the Federation's Appeal committee. He states that the Federation does not wish to overturn the local decisions but many times needs to due to not following the proper process. David Dalrymple has been the Mass Youth Soccer Appeals Chairman for over a decade and has written many of the decisions for appeals coming to Mass Youth.

Red Flags on Background Checks and Adjudication

At the 2023 United Soccer Coaches Convention in Philedelphia Mass Youth Soccer's Executive Director, Mike Borislow and Risk Manager, Mary Relic, and Florida Youth Soccer's Executive Director, Joel Dragon presented on Red Flags on Background Check and Adjudication.

The presentation was a group activity. During this session the presenters had all attendees working in small groups to review background checks with “red flags'' and discuss approval to participate. Actual redacted cases were handed out and used. Once the cases were reviewed and broken down each group shared their outcomes for all to learn from.

The topic and presentation was designed to help support administrators whose role it is to review background check reports and decide participation for some of the more challenging background check reports received. The exercise was collaborative and brought about good conversation that provided us with insight on different methods that could be applied when determining eligibility of adult participants.

WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT

Tommy Geis appointed Technical Director for Mass Youth Soccer

Tommy Geis, Assistant Technical Director for Massachusetts Youth Soccer has been promoted to the role of Technical Director effective February 1, 2023.

A Pittsburgh native and graduate of La Roche College, Tommy has been an influential and respected coach and educator for Mass Youth Soccer since September 2010. Tommy holds a US Soccer A License, US Soccer Director of Coaching License, United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma and US Youth Soccer National Youth License. Additionally, Tommy is a certified Lead Instructor for US Soccer’s C License and Grassroots License Pathway. Tommy has been at the forefront of coaching education developments for the past decade and is a prominent member of national focus groups dedicated to improving Coach Education content, opportunities, and experiences for coaches across the US.

“I truly appreciate this opportunity Mass Youth Soccer has offered me. I am thankful to have worked with Ian Mulliner and for his role as a mentor, colleague but most importantly friend.

His leadership has helped me prepare for these next steps in my career. It is also an honor to follow in the footsteps of all my predecessors from Dean Conway, Mike Singleton, Tom Goodman to Ian; all of whom have made me the soccer leader I am today. I’m looking forward to continued work with all the MA Youth staff I have had the pleasure of working with over the past 12+ years. Thanks to the MA Youth Soccer family, we will continue to advance the game of soccer in the region and beyond.” Tommy

Geis, MA Youth Soccer

In the role of Technical Director, Tommy will lead Mass Youth Soccer’s Technical Department staff in delivering programs and initiatives including Coach Education, Parent Engagement Initiatives, Olympic Development Program, GOALS / GOALS for Success, Town Select League and District Select Programs.

Prior to Mass Youth Soccer Tommy led Anchorage Youth Soccer Club in Alaska as Director of Coaching where he was recognized as Alaska Girls Coach of the Year in 2009.

“Mass Youth Soccer has been fortunate to have had a nationally regarded leader with Tommy’s knowledge, experience and capabilities delivering the highest quality programming and coach education for the past 12 years. Tommy is universally acclaimed for his kindness and dedication, and we are excited for Tommy to continue to develop Massachusetts’ strong soccer culture to continue empowering member leagues organizations, parents, coaches, referees and ultimately the players with safe, fun, affordable and inclusive soccer environments.” David Amidon, Mass Youth Soccer President.

Ian Mulliner joins US Soccer

Ian Mulliner, Technical Director for Massachusetts Youth Soccer will be joining the US Soccer Federations Coach Education department as a Coach Educator Developer in February 2023.

Ian has been a national leader in coach education initiatives for several years including involvement in the development of current US Soccer License Courses. As a Coach Educator Developer Ian will be overseeing the Formal Education Pathway his responsibilities will include recruitment of future coach educators and developing the Coach Educator Developer role.

Ian has expertly led Mass Youth Soccer’s Technical Department Coach Education, Programming and Initiatives since August 2010. A master in the art of questioning, Ian will be fondly remembered for his wit, humility and instant ability to energize a room or soccer field!

“It is with more than a tinge of sadness that I am concluding my time with the Massachusetts Youth Soccer family. It has been a great honor and pleasure to be able to alongside such a talented and devoted group of people. I have enjoyed every minute of my tenure and am proud of our achievements during my time in the role of Technical Director. I am confident that my successor Tom Geis will elevate the soccer landscape as he settles into his new role.

I want to thank each and every one that I have had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know and for the part you have all played in the success of Massachusetts Youth Soccer staying on the forefront in youth soccer.” Ian Mulliner, Mass Youth Soccer

“Anybody involved in the youth soccer landscape will surely remember if they encountered Ian Mulliner. Ian’s ability to teach, instruct, guide and mentor came with his unique style of humor, seriousness and compassion. I have known Ian since he arrived at Mass Youth Soccer as both a board member and as his partner in my current role. I couldn’t have been more blessed to work alongside a true leader, visionary, collaborative and hard-working professional. We wish Ian well in his new endeavors and are more than happy to share him with the rest of the country.” Mike Borislow, Mass Youth Soccer Executive Director.

About Futsal in MA

Massachusetts Youth Soccer has three futsal affiliated leagues, Coastal Youth Futsal League (CYFL), Essex County Youth Futsal League (ECYFL) and New England Futsal Academy League (NEFAL). NEFAL recently became affiliated and we are excited to see what new futsal opportunities they will provide to membership.

CYFL, operating in Pembroke, hosted the Coastal Cup in December with 20 teams in 4 brackets ranging from U10 through High School. League games started in January with 60 teams across 10 brackets from U10 through High School with very positive feedback from new participants. CYFL future planning includes enhanced marketing to educate youth soccer coaches and organizers about the benefits of futsal, and continued emphasis on growing the referee population.

ECYFL, playing in South Hamilton, had over 50 teams for the November- December season and 62 for the January-March season, both new high marks due in large part to the support of Beverly Youth Soccer Association (see below). The 13-week K-8 Academy clinic program had a 63% increase in registrants, up to a total of 85, with Grade 3/4 more than doubling and requiring an additional session be added. ECYFL is in active discussions with potential youth soccer partners to add new locations over a wider area next year.

Local initiatives we have been made aware of:

Beverly Youth Soccer Association (BYSA) introduced 2 new futsal initiatives this year. The first is an 11-week intown futsal skills program for players in 5th though 8th grade incorporating skills training and gameplay. BYSA also offered futsal as a “3rd season” mirroring its Fall and Spring travel programs. Teams were entered for league play in ECYFL. Over 180 BYSA players are taking part, up from 80 in past years.

Beyond Soccer Lawrence has over 180 players from age 4 to 18 playing pick up futsal on Saturdays and Sundays at the Lawrence YMCA and is working with the Arlington School to bring futsal into the school’s offerings.

Lynnfield Youth Soccer Club has partnered with Lynnfield Recreation to offer futsal training and play for players in Kindergarten through High School at the Huckleberry Hill School each weekend through mid-March.

Danvers Youth Soccer (DYS) is offering a 6-week intown practice/play program for Grade 1&2 players each Monday evening at the Great Oak School. The program offers an introduction to futsal for coaches, players and parents as well participants in the DYS Genesis Referee Program.

For more information on Mass Youth Soccer's Futsal programs and opportunities, go to: https://www.mayouthsoccer.org/programs/futsal/

Codes of Conduct

The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association Board of Directors recently approved the implementation of Codes of Conduct for Coaches, Parents, Players and Referees and a Zero Tolerance Policy by unanimous consent.

The Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy were developed over a number of months of consultation and collaboration with League and Member Organization leaders, Massachusetts State Referee Committee and other State Associations utilizing best practices from other Leagues, States and US Soccer appropriate for our programs.

The adoption of the Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy linked below is a requirement for all member organizations effective February 1.

Additions have been made to Mass Youth Soccer’s existing required registration language detailing that the registrant has read, understands and agrees to adhere to the Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy. It is a requirement that all member organizations reference the Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy in registration language for players, coaches, referees and volunteers beginning with the Fall 2023 season.

Codes of Conduct are located on the Safe Soccer section of the Mass Youth Soccer website. https://www.mayouthsoccer.org/codes-of-conduct/

• Zero Tolerance Policy

• Player's Code of Conduct

• Coach's Code of Conduct

• Parent's / Guardian's / Spectator's Code of Conduct

• Soccer Official's Code of Conduct

We appreciate your support in creating safe and enjoyable playing environments for youth players in Massachusetts. The updated Mass Youth Soccer Codes of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy will be vital references and tools to train and educate coaches, parents, players and referees, set uniformity and consistency of expected behaviors across the commonwealth, and ensure violations of expected conduct are addressed appropriately.

Diversity Equity Inclusion Belonging

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) has long been a priority of Mass Youth Soccer and its 350+ member organizations, evident through signature programming, support of inclusive policies for play, and our Statement of Inclusion. The formality of a group like ours, dedicated solely to DEIB, has been a long time coming for our organization, and it is with great excitement that we start 2023 by diving into this work.

The topic of DEIB is vast, seemingly ever evolving, and filled with opportunities. To wrap our arms around the work and make a positive and measurable impact, our group is working hard to articulate our mission, vision, and covenant of work. In time, we hope to expand our committee and provide opportunities for interested individuals to join in. If you are interested in joining our DEIB Mailing List, please click here.

We are looking forward to providing updates on a regular basis through the E-Zine. In the meantime, please reach out to DEIB@mayouthsoccer.org with any questions, comments or concerns.