Frequently Asked Questions

What is North Park AYSO?
North Park AYSO (Region 785) is a volunteer-run youth soccer program serving players ages 4–18 in the North Park community. Our program follows AYSO’s six core philosophies: Everyone Plays®, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship, and Player Development. These principles guide how teams are formed, how games are played, and how we create a positive experience for every player.
More information about AYSO’s philosophies can be found here:
https://ayso.org/ayso-philosophies/

How are age groups determined?
AYSO uses a school-year age determination system with an August 1 cutoff. Divisions are based on a player’s age during the August 1–July 31 membership year.
You can find your player’s correct division using the official AYSO age chart:
https://ayso.org/age-determination/

How are teams formed?
Teams are balanced each season to create competitive and positive playing experiences. Younger divisions are generally balanced by age distribution. Older divisions may also consider player evaluations from prior seasons and new player assessments when available.

Can I request a specific coach or team?
No. To maintain balanced teams and fairness across the region, we do not accept requests for specific coaches, teams, or friend placements.

Can siblings play on the same team?
If siblings are in the same division, we will make reasonable efforts to place them on the same team.

Can my child play in a different age division?
Players are generally placed in the division determined by the official AYSO age matrix. Requests to play up may be considered in limited circumstances, but most players are encouraged to remain in their assigned division. Playing down is not permitted.

My child has never played soccer before. Is that okay?
Absolutely. AYSO is a recreational program designed for players of all experience levels. Many children join with no prior soccer experience, and our coaches focus on teaching skills while keeping the game fun and supportive.

What equipment does my player need?
Players should bring the following to practices and games:
• Shin guards (required and worn under socks)
• Soccer cleats
• Water bottle
• Soccer ball (some coaches may request players bring one)

Ball sizes typically used by division:
• 6U–8U: Size 3
• 10U–12U: Size 4
• 14U and older: Size 5

Are jewelry or casts allowed during games?
No. Jewelry and hard casts are not permitted for safety reasons. Prescription sports glasses may be worn if secured with a strap.

When do practices start?
Practices typically begin in early to mid-August. Teams are formed once enough volunteer coaches are confirmed for each division.

When will I know my child’s team and practice schedule?
Once teams are formed, coaches will contact families directly with team assignments, practice times, and locations.

When and where are games played?
Most games are played on Saturdays at Morley Field in North Park.
• 10U and younger divisions typically play within North Park.
• 12U and older divisions may occasionally travel within San Diego County.

How long is the season?
The fall season runs from September through November. The season concludes with our local end-of-season tournament, mid-November.

Is there postseason play?
Top region teams in the 10U, 12U, and 14U divisions may advance to the Area 11R Tournament of Champions in early December. Winning teams from that tournament may advance to the Section 11 tournament in February.

Is there an All-Star program?
Yes. All-Star teams are available for 10U, 12U, and 14U players. Selection is based on tryouts typically held in November. Area tournaments take place in January, with Section tournaments in February.

What happens if my child is placed on the waitlist?
Waitlisted players are added to teams as spots become available, in the order they registered. When a spot opens, families will be contacted and given a short window to accept and complete registration.

How do I request a refund?
Refund requests can be submitted through the first weekend of games (minus the non-refundable national player fee). Requests should be sent to:
[email protected]
[email protected]

How can I volunteer?
North Park AYSO is entirely volunteer-run. Coaches, referees, team managers, and many other roles are needed each season to make the program possible.
If you’re interested in helping, please complete the volunteer interest form:
https://forms.gle/SKgXoksbeDmwN6MP6

Do I need soccer experience to volunteer?
No. Many volunteers start with no prior soccer background. Training and support are provided, and it’s a great way to contribute to the community and support youth sports.