Programs

Intramural Program

Valley Soccer Club’s Intramural Programs are aimed at introducing youth players to the sport of soccer in a fun and educational environment powered by having dedicated groups of volunteers year after year.

Our program is structured to help young players learn about the game, develop new skills and friendships, and grow. Valley Soccer Club firmly believes that every child should have the same opportunity to be on the field and play the sport that we all love.

We offer Intramural Programs for younger players and a recreational league for older age groups.

Program Options & Fees

Intramural Program
Birth Years: 2016–2023
Fee: $150 per player
$20 sibling discount available
Focus: Skill development, fun, and introduction to the game in a local setting

Recreational / SCSL Program
Birth Years: 2010–2015
Fee: $165 per player
$20 sibling discount available
Focus: Expanded play opportunities and varied competition

Age Groups & Placement

How are age groups determined?

Placement is based on your child’s birth year, which ensures fair and developmentally appropriate competition.

Can my child play up or down?

Yes. If your child is new to soccer, more advanced, or you feel another level is a better fit, please indicate your preference during registration. We will do our best to accommodate.

Birth Year Matrix:

PeeWee 8/1/20 to 7/31/23
U6 8/1/20-7/31/21
U8 8/1/18-7/31/20
U10 8/1/16-7/31/18
U12 8/1/14-7/31/16
U14 8/1/12-7/31/14

SCSL Information

What is SCSL?

SCSL (Suburban County Soccer League) is a non-competitive, coed travel league serving Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery Counties. It offers players the opportunity to compete against a variety of teams rather than the same opponents each week.

Why choose SCSL?

As participation in youth sports declines nationally, especially in older age groups, SCSL helps keep players engaged by providing a more dynamic and social playing experience.

Can travel players participate?

Per league rules, players with an active travel card may not participate unless granted a player pass to “play down,” which removes them from their travel roster.

Coaching & Volunteers

Are coaches volunteers?

Yes, our program relies heavily on volunteer coaches, and we are incredibly grateful for their time and commitment.

Are there incentives for coaching?

YES!
Intramural: $50 stipend
SCSL: $75 stipend
(Stipends are issued after all clearances are completed and equipment is returned.)

Coaching Requirements:

All volunteer coaches are required to complete a few important safety and compliance steps to ensure a safe, positive, and well-organized environment for all players.

Coaches must complete the following certifications and background checks prior to working with players:

  • SafeSport Training 
  • Concussion Training 
  • FBI Affidavit 
  • PA Child Welfare Clearance 
  • PA State Police Background Check 

These requirements help ensure that all coaches are properly screened and trained to support a safe youth sports environment.

    Coaching Commitment & Responsibilities:
    In addition to required clearances, coaches are expected to participate in the following:

    • Attend two mandatory virtual meetings each season
    • Attend a coaches clinic when offered 
    • Communicate consistently and clearly with parents and families
    • Help organize and manage practices and game-day activities
    • Support player development in a positive and encouraging environment

    Assistant Coach Role:
    Assistant coaches play an important supporting role within the team structure. Their primary responsibility is to assist the head coach with practices, game-day organization, and player support as directed.

    Assistant coaches help ensure that players receive attention, encouragement, and guidance, while also contributing to a well-organized and positive team experience.

    Interested in coaching?
    Please reach out to vscoutdoor@gmail.com.

    Scheduling & Attendance

    When are practices scheduled?

    Practice times are determined by volunteer coach availability. While we do our best to consider preferences, we cannot guarantee specific days or times.

    What if my child plays another sport?

    We understand that many of our players are involved in multiple extracurricular activities, and we fully support well-rounded participation. However, we are unable to make additional accommodations ,such as adjusting game times or schedules, based on conflicts with other sports or activities. Our schedules are created to ensure fairness and consistency for all teams and players, so we ask families to plan accordingly when committing to the season.

    What are attendance expectations?
    • Coaches must be notified if a player will miss a practice or game
    • Consistent attendance supports team development and sportsmanship
    • Frequent absences may impact playing time
    What if my child can no longer participate?

    Please notify your coach and the intramural coordinator at vscoutdoor@gmail.com as soon as possible so we can adjust team rosters accordingly.

    Will I be refunded if my player can no longer play?

    Refunds are made at the discretion of the intramural coordinator.

    Field Closures

    How will I know if fields are closed?
    • Weekday practices: Announced around 3:30 PM
    • Game days: Announced the morning of games
    • Any late changes will be communicated as quickly as possible

    Games

    When are games played?

    Games are typically scheduled on Saturdays, with Sunday afternoons reserved primarily for make-up games if needed. In some cases, there may also be occasional weekday games depending on scheduling needs, weather delays, or field availability. We do our best to provide schedules in advance so families can plan accordingly, but some flexibility is appreciated throughout the season.

    How many games will teams play?

    Each team will play a minimum of 8 games. Some additional games may be scheduled during the week for make-ups or added play opportunities.

    Will there be scrimmages against other teams?

    This is coach dependent and absolutely encouraged!

    Equipment & Uniforms

    What is included with registration?

    Each player will receive a team jersey, shorts, and socks.

    What do players need to provide?
    • Shin guards (must be worn under socks)
    • Cleats
    • Soccer ball (limited quantities available if needed)
    Is there help if we need equipment?

    Yes! Our cleat program is available, please reach out for more information.

    Game Format by Age Group

    PeeWee: Coach-led introduction to play
    U6: 4v4 | 15-minute halves | Coach-led
    U8: 4v4 or 7v7 | 20-minute halves | Referee
    U10: 7v7 | 25-minute halves | Referee
    U12: 9v9 | 30-minute halves | Referee
    U14: 11v11 | 35-minute halves | Referee
    U16: 11v11 | 40-minute halves | Referee

    Uniform Sizing

    Please use the sizing guide below. When in doubt, we recommend sizing up to allow for comfort and growth throughout the season.

    Youth XS: Chest 22–23″
    Youth S: Chest 24–26″
    Youth M: Chest 28–30″
    Youth L: Chest 31–33″
    Youth XL: Chest 34–36″

    Early Childhood Registration

    For this season, we will aim to separate age groups again if registration numbers allow. However, if we do not have enough players in each group, teams may be combined, which means 3, 4, and 5-year-olds could play together.

    Because team structure depends on final registration numbers, we ask families to use their discretion when registering. If you are comfortable with either setup, your child is welcome to participate.

    If you have concerns about mixed age groups, you may prefer to wait until a future season or check back closer to the registration deadline for a clearer picture of team formation.

    If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. We are always happy to help.

    Practices

    Practice schedules are determined by each individual coach, so the number and frequency of practices can vary depending on the age group and coach availability.

    In general, most teams practice one to two times per week on weekdays, with sessions typically lasting anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours.

    Coaches will communicate their specific practice schedule once teams are formed.

    Fields

    Where are games and practices held?
    Games and practices take place at several fields throughout the Upper Perkiomen Valley area.

    Our primary locations include:
    Marlborough Elementary School
    Finland Road Park
    Macoby Park

    Additional fields, such as Camelot Park and Middle School fields, may be used as needed based on scheduling and availability.

    Game Locations by Age Group:
    U6: Macoby Park
    7v7 and 9v9 (U8–U12): Finland Road Park and Marlborough Elementary School
    U14 and older: Middle School fields

    Most scheduled games for 7v7 teams are typically held at Marlborough Elementary School.

    Practice Locations:
    Practice locations are determined by each coach based on field availability and approved field usage within the Upper Perkiomen Valley. Coaches will communicate specific practice locations once teams are formed.

    Because we utilize multiple fields, families should expect to travel between locations depending on their child’s team and schedule.

    Team Formation

    When will I find out what team my child is on?
    Teams are typically formed within two weeks after registration closes. This allows time to accommodate late registrations, special requests, and finalize coach assignments.

    For the spring season, families can generally expect team information to be released in late March to early April. For the fall season, teams are usually formed in early August.

    Please note that team formation depends on the number of registered players in each age group as well as the availability of volunteer coaches. If additional coaches are still needed, the process may take a little longer to ensure teams are properly staffed and balanced.

    Once teams are finalized, you will receive communication with your child’s team details, coach information, and next steps.

    Season Dates

    When does the season start and end?
    Our seasons are planned around the school calendar and weather conditions to help make scheduling as family-friendly as possible.

    Spring Season:
    Games typically begin in late April or early May and run through the end of the school year, usually mid to late June. We structure the schedule this way to help reduce conflicts with family vacations whenever possible.

    Fall Season:
    Games generally begin either the weekend before or after Labor Day. The season typically runs through late October or early November, depending on weather conditions and field availability.

    Exact dates may vary slightly each year, but the goal is always to provide a consistent, well-organized season while working around weather and school schedules as best as possible.

    Team Parent Role

    What is a “Team Parent” responsible for?
    The Team Parent plays an important support role in helping the team run smoothly throughout the season. This position helps lighten the load for the coach and keeps communication organized for families.

    Typical responsibilities include:

    • Preparing and distributing snack schedules (if applicable)
    • Helping distribute uniforms or coordinating pickup when needed
    • Assisting with communication between the coach and families when necessary
    • Supporting the coach with general team organization and day-to-day needs
    • Helping ensure players and families have a positive and organized experience

    The Team Parent is not responsible for coaching or game decisions, but serves as a helpful point of contact to keep communication and logistics running smoothly.

    Sideline Behavior

    How should sideline behavior and referee interactions be handled during games?
    We ask all families to help us maintain a positive and respectful game environment for players, coaches, and referees.

    Referees are human and may not see every play perfectly. Most of our referees are volunteers or Upper Perkiomen School District (UPSD) students who are taking on a new role within the game while helping support youth soccer in our community. For this reason, we kindly ask that spectators do not address or question referees during games.

    In alignment with EPYSA guidelines, only coaches are permitted to communicate with referees during the match.

    We also ask that sideline coaching be kept to a minimum. Players benefit most when they receive clear instruction from their coach, and too much direction from the sidelines can be distracting.

    Our goal is to create a positive and encouraging environment where players can build confidence, enjoy the game, and learn good sportsmanship.

    GotSport App & Communication

    How will I receive team updates and communication?

    All team communication, schedules, and updates will be provided through the GotSport App. This is our primary communication tool for the season.

    When will my child’s team appear in the app?

    Once teams are finalized and released, it may take up to 48 hours for your player’s team to appear in the app.

    What should I do if I don’t see my player’s team?

    Before reaching out, please try:

    • Wait the full 48 hours to see if your child’s roster and schedule appear
    • Logging into a desktop or laptop (information often appears there first)
    • Logging out and back into the app
    What should I put in that email:

    Please provide the players name, age group, a screenshot of what you are seeing and a brief explaination of what is going on and what you have tried.

    Coaching and/or Team Requests

    Can I request a specific coach or teammate?

    Yes! You may submit requests for specific coaches during registration. At this time, we are no longer accepting requests for specific teammates unless they are siblings. If you have a special circumstance or unique request, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at vscoutdoor@gmail.com—we’re happy to review and see how we can help.

    Are requests guaranteed?

    No. All requests are handled on a first-come, first-served basis and depend on roster sizes, coach availability, and our commitment to building balanced teams.

    What if my request cannot be accommodated?

    We will always do our best to work with families, but if a request cannot be honored, we will communicate that with you.

    Parent & Guardian Accounts

    Do all parents/guardians need to be added to the account?

    Yes. During registration, please be sure to add all parents and guardians connected to your child.

    Why is this important?

    Only linked adults will receive important club communication, schedules, updates, and notifications. This helps ensure everyone stays informed throughout the season.

    What happens if someone is not linked?

    Unlinked adults will not have access to team schedules, player information, or communication through the system.

    Helpful Resources

    GotSport Support
    https://support.gotsport.com/

    Parents & Players Help
    https://support.gotsport.com/parents-players

    Accessing GotSport from Mobile Devices
    https://support.gotsport.com/accessing-gotsport-from-a-mobile-device

    SCSL website:
    https://scsl-soccer.org/

    SCSL Game Link:
    https://ww2.demosphere.com/scripts/runisa.dll?M2.65716:gp:179311.2294:74127+Elements/Display+E+46241+++++115995246

    Scholarship Details:

    The Gregory J. Hayes Memorial Scholarship Fund commemorates Gregory J. Hayes, a devoted advocate of youth soccer in the Upper Perkiomen Valley. Mr. Hayes, a prominent figure at Valley Soccer Club, dedicated numerous hours to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the sport. Described as one of the “Founding Families” of Valley Soccer alongside Jack Krueger, Mike Freed, the Hayes Family, the Whitehead Family, and the Spiro Family, Greg was instrumental in establishing and sustaining the club during its early years. He served as a VP, while his wife, Roseann, managed the Ways & Means. Greg also contributed as an assistant coach for the club’s first travel team (U-10 Boys in 1980) and the inaugural championship team (U-12 Boys in 1983), coaching alongside his sons Chris and Eric. Following Greg’s passing in April 2024, Valley Soccer Club seeks to honor his legacy through this scholarship fund.

    Scope:
    This policy outlines the procedure for applying for and granting Financial Aid for Intramural Team members and their families. The fund has been established from the kind donations of intramural coaches who choose to donate their coaching fees to the club instead of receiving a refund. Thanks to their ongoing support and generosity, this scholarship is available to our players, starting with a balance of over $400.

    Responsibilities:
    The Board of Directors is responsible for implementing this policy during the financial aid application review process. Valley Soccer Club believes that every capable player should have the opportunity to participate in the soccer program, regardless of financial circumstances. The club aims to offer financial assistance for essential expenses such as registration fees and uniforms. However, Financial Aid does not cover optional activities like tournaments, indoor play, camps, and training. While respecting member privacy, the club ensures proper allocation of funds.

    Procedures and Guidelines Application:
    To request financial aid, players and families must submit a written request to the Intramural Coordinator. The request should include:

    • Player/Family details
    • Contact information and preferred communication method
    • Reasons for the request, highlighting the need for financial aid without disclosing personal financial information
    • Relevant timeframes for review purposes
    • Willingness to contribute through volunteer work at the club

    Review and Approval Process:
    The Board of Directors will assess and vote on applications within 10 working days of receipt. Upon approval, the Applicant, in collaboration with the Head Coach and Team Manager, will be notified. Financial aid is considered a grant, with no repayment or future commitments expected once aid is provided. Applicants must reapply annually, detailing any changes in their circumstances. Valley Soccer Club reserves the right to amend this policy with Board approval.