Extra

What is AYSO EXTRA™?

AYSO’s National Board of Directors has authorized the development of the EXTRA program and its use on a pilot basis to provide options for players to play soccer at a more challenging level. EXTRA is designed to address declining enrollment and player retention without compromising the philosophies and commitment to enriching children’s lives that make AYSO unique among all youth sports organizations. Set forth below are the guidelines and suggested best practices for the optional operation of EXTRA as part of the AYSO FLEX™ initiative.

AYSO’s Strategic Plan, which supports creation of optional “extended play” opportunities for Regions and Areas that have a need, makes it clear that although the operation and structure of extended play programs will be determined by the local program organizers, they must incorporate these basic parameters:

Everyone on a team plays. Every player plays at least 50% of each game.
The teams must be constituted with the goal of creating competitive balance.
Selection to the teams must be based on open and impartial evaluations.
Administration and coordination of the program must run through the appropriate AYSO Region, Area or Section.
The program must meet appropriate standards for coach and referee training and certification as established by AYSO.
The extended play program may only be offered in conjunction with a standard primary program.
No paid coaches, referees or administrators are permitted.

Purpose

EXTRA is designed to provide a more challenging level of play for those players who possess the appropriate interest, skills and abilities and to enhance each player’s experience and individual growth through the game of soccer while retaining the spirit and organization of AYSO. The goal of EXTRA is to strengthen AYSO by retaining players and volunteers in additional primary programs operated under the AYSO philosophies. EXTRA is not designed to overshadow or harm the standard primary program.

For more information, visit the AYSO national site.