 Nominations for Coach of the Year!
It’s that time of year again! No, not the time to debate whether pineapple belongs on pizza (it does, obviously). It’s time to nominate our Coach of the Year! 
We all know our coaches are like the secret sauce on our pizza—essential and a little bit spicy! They endure long grass, relentless cheering (and the occasional snack break), and manage to keep our kids in line while juggling drills and motivational speeches. Not an easy feat!
So, here’s your chance to honor the coach who has made a difference in our kids' lives. Whether they’ve inspired a game-winning goal, perfected the art of the AYSO Philosophies, or simply provided snacks that were almost as good as the game, we want to hear about it!
Let’s give our coaches the recognition they deserve, because, after all, they’re the ones who ensure our kids don’t spend more time picking daisies than scoring goals!
Looking forward to your nominations and a few good chuckles!
Click here to nominate a Coach
In October we wear pink
October is here, and you know what that means—it's time to paint the fields pink! We’re rallying together to support cancer research and honor those who have bravely faced cancer.
Coaches, it’s your time to shine in those fabulous pink shirts from last season! If you didn't get one, we are working on a little something for ya ;) And refs, we see you in that bright pink gear! Maybe it’s time for your team to rock some pink socks or sport some stylish pink hairbands. A pink sweatband never hurt anyone either! Let’s show our support in any way we can.
So, let’s turn our games into a sea of pink this month! Snap some pics of your pink gear and share them with the team. We can’t wait to see how everyone gets involved!
Together, we can make a difference!
Silent Saturday
Thank you for your incredible support of our AYSO tradition, Silent Saturday! Your enthusiasm and feedback mean the world to us, and we’re thrilled to have such an engaged community.
We’ve listened closely to your thoughts and suggestions, and we’re committed to making Silent Saturday even better in the future. While we don't want touchline coaching or directions, clapping and a "woo-hoo" for goals and great plays is encouraged.
Mark your calendars—our next Silent Saturday is scheduled for October 12th! It’s a great opportunity to explore the psychosocial and holistic benefits of children playing soccer.
Psychosocial Benefits
**Reduced Pressure**: By minimizing verbal instructions and cheers from the sidelines, players can focus more on the game itself, reducing anxiety and performance pressure.
**Enhanced Communication Skills**: Players learn to communicate with each other on the field, fostering teamwork and cooperation without relying on parental guidance.
**Emotional Resilience**: Facing challenges in a quieter environment helps players develop resilience and confidence in their own abilities.
**Focus on Enjoyment**: Silent Saturdays encourage players to find joy in the game rather than feeling the need to please their parents or coaches.
Holistic Benefits
**Mindfulness and Presence**: A quieter atmosphere promotes mindfulness, helping players stay present and engaged in the game, which can enhance their overall experience.
**Self-Discovery**: Without constant feedback, players can explore their strengths, weaknesses, and personal styles, contributing to personal growth and self-awareness.
**Community Building**: Parents and players can bond over shared experiences in a calmer setting, fostering a sense of community and support.
**Healthy Competition**: By shifting the focus away from winning and losing, players can appreciate the game more holistically, encouraging sportsmanship and personal development.
Overall, Silent Saturday can create a more supportive environment that nurtures not just athletic skills, but also emotional and social growth for young athletes.
Thank you once again for being such an amazing part of our PHMSA family!
Field Reminders
Touchlines - Please remember to keep at least 6 feet from the touchline to protect our players and referees. This space allows everyone to focus on the game and keeps our athletes safe while they’re on the field.
Also, please stick to your team’s half of the sideline and be courteous to other parents. A positive environment not only supports our kids but also makes for a more enjoyable game for everyone.
Thank you for your cooperation and support. Let’s keep the spirit of sportsmanship alive!
Trash -
Just a friendly reminder to please take your trash with you after games. Let’s work together to keep our fields clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
A clean environment not only looks great but also sets a fantastic example for our kids.
Your efforts make a big difference.Thank you for helping us maintain our home fields!
The Coach Corner
Our 3rd coach meeting is Thursday, October 17th at the Senior Center.
6U and 8U at 6pm
10U+ at 7:15pm.
Topics include PHMSA tournament, player evaluations, equipment return, Alliance, EXPO, feedback and suggestions, etc. We will be raffling off some goodies to make your team a bit happier and your job easier!
MDUSD Fall Break
Players in the Mt. Diablo School District have a Fall break October 7-11. Keep in mind that you & your opposing teams may have players missing as families take advantage of the school break. Do your best to keep teams even and observe Good Sportsmanship!
Silent Saturday
Thank you for making our first Silent Saturday a success. We encourage you to focus on the positive aspects of the tradition, and the psychosocial and holistic benefits.
Tips:
-Use scrimmages during your practices to familiarize the players with a Silent Coach
-Put players in positions they are familiar with
-Utilize your captains to run the show
-Coach your substitutes. They can relay information when they go in
-Coach during quarter and halftime breaks
-If there is a safety issue on the pitch, you may address it. But keep it short
It is very difficult to put down the "Coach Voice" at times, but trust your players to get the job done. We want to take a moment to encourage each of you to embrace the power of autonomy on the field! The game moves quickly, and it’s important that they feel confident making their own decisions during play.
Encourage them to trust their instincts, communicate with their teammates, and take charge of the game! This is the opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity. The more they play autonomously, the more they'll grow as players and as a team.
Remember, we believe in you! Let’s go out there and have fun while making those quick, confident choices!
Coach Calendar Dates:10/12 Silent Saturday
10/17 Coach Meeting
10/26-27 EPIC Soccerfest
11/2-3 PHMSA Cup
11/3 Equipment Return
11/9-10 Area Cup
11/15 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
Referee Radar
As we kick off October, let’s add a splash of pink to the pitch! Join us in sporting pink this month to support Breast Cancer Awareness. After all, nothing says “I’m here for the game” quite like looking fabulous while advocating for a great cause. Reach out to Will for pink ref shirts.
Now, while you’re rocking that pink, remember: safety first! Make sure our lovely spectators are at least 3 yards from the touchline. We love their enthusiasm, but we’d prefer they not get too cozy with your whistle or accidentally become a part of the game!
And for those of you thinking about leveling up your referee game with the Intermediate badge (because who wouldn’t want to add “Referee Extraordinaire” to their resume?), mark your calendars! Classes are on 10/9 and 10/13 on AYSOU. Because if you can survive the antics of 22 players, you can survive a classroom full of fellow refs!
Let’s make this October not just about pink, but about staying safe, having fun, and maybe even learning a thing or two!
Stay fabulous and see you on the field!
PHMSA CUP
We’re excited to announce that our PHMSA journey for the 10U, 12U, and 14U divisions culminates with the PHMSA Cup on November 2nd and 3rd. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for!
Depending on your division, some teams may have round-robin games the weekend before, so stay tuned for schedules. Remember, to be eligible for the finals, teams must have completed their volunteer points. This is a team effort, and every contribution counts.
All teams participating will be assigned field setup/takedown or field marshal duties. Let’s work together to create a fantastic environment for our players.
The top teams will have the opportunity to move on to the Area Cup the following weekend, so let’s give it our all.
Most importantly, let’s keep it fun, fair, and safe. This is a celebration of all the hard work you’ve put in over the past few months. Looking forward to an amazing tournament!
Area 2C EPIC Soccerfest
Launched in 1991, AYSO’s EPIC Program was established to give players with intellectual and physical challenges, the opportunity to play and enjoy the beautiful game. EPIC's Soccerfest is and end of season celebration. All are welcome!
EPIC Soccerfest Info
Post Fall Season/Alliance
If your 10U+ player is looking for a new challenge, the Alliance Spring program is just around the corner. Coaches will be chosen in December with tryouts in January. Visit the Area 2C Alliance page for more details.
PHMSA Spring Soccer
For those looking to the future, PHMSA partners with AMO to provide spring camps in our area. More information will be announced as it is available.
Save the Dates
Saturday October 12th - Silent Saturday
Thursday October 17th - Coaches meeting
Sat/Sun October 19-20 - 19UC Area Cup
Sat/Sun November 2/3 - PHMSA Cup (10U+)
Sat/Sun November 9/10 - Area Cup
Friday November 15th - Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
Our next board meeting is Wednesday October 30th at 7pm at the PH Community Center.
All are welcome!
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