Introduction: Falmouth’s landscape comes alive with passionate soccer bouts every year, as players from various age groups gather for the illustrious Falmouth Fall Classic. Discover the nuances, rules, and more that make this event a grand spectacle for soccer enthusiasts.
The Beacon of Youth Soccer: Falmouth Youth Soccer Association
The Falmouth Youth Soccer Association (FYSA) is a volunteer-driven initiative, striving to provide soccer enthusiasts aged 8-14 a robust platform. Affiliated with SoccerMaine, it’s not just about competitive matches; it’s about fostering a community. As players dribble and pass, FYSA builds an environment that contributes to each child’s athletic and personal growth.
The Playgrounds: The Venues of FYSA
Stay updated on field conditions through the FYSA’s official Facebook page. Here’s where the action unfolds:
- Falmouth Community Park: Nestled at 19 Winn Road, this park is a hub for soccer in Falmouth;
- Falmouth Middle School: Located at 52 Woodville Road, it’s where young talents cultivate their soccer skills;
- Falmouth High School: Situated at 74 Woodville Road, it witnesses numerous thrilling matches year-round.
Deciphering Age Group Designations
FYSA teams range from U-9 to U-14. However, exact team compositions are influenced by registration statistics. Player eligibility hinges on birth dates; for instance, a U-12 aspirant should be younger than 12 by July 31 of that year. The youngest squad members are aged at least eight. Verifications via birth certificates are mandated for new entrants.
2023 Season Age Classifications
| Age Group | Age Prior to August 1, 2023 |
|---|---|
| U-9 | 8 |
| U-10 | 9 |
| U-11 | 10 |
| U-12 | 11 |
| U-13 | 12 |
| U-14 | 13 |
Understanding the ‘Play Up Policy’
Certain players might be eligible to ‘play up’ with peers from their academic grade, even if their birthdates suggest a younger age category. These are termed ‘grade-appropriate’ requests, subject to FYSA Board scrutiny and approval.
Commitment is Key
Dedication to FYSA and the team is essential. Players must prioritize their soccer commitments, ensuring that other activities don’t clash with FYSA schedules. Absences should be informed in advance to the coach. The spirit of teamwork must be honored by all.
The Falmouth Soccer Calendar
The outdoor soccer season of FYSA begins around August and concludes in November, covering a series of events including SoccerMaine, district matches, and the Challenge Cup. While practices kick off in late August, competitive games commence post the Labor Day tournament, extending till early November.
Practice cadence varies from once to twice weekly, often lasting 90 minutes, whereas games predominantly occur on Sundays, with occasional Saturday matches.
Winter or spring indoor sessions are contingent on coach discretion and player availability. Engaging in these indoor matches usually involves an added fee.
Dress the Part: FYSA Uniforms
FYSA players don uniforms ordered through the WeGotSoccer online portal. An email circulated in June informs new players about their jersey numbers, after which they can place orders. The latest uniform design was introduced in 2021, encompassing a jersey, shorts, socks, and an UnderArmour Locker Tee. Numerous optional items, including warm-up jackets and windbreakers, can be procured from the same portal.
For specific queries regarding uniforms, reaching out to the FYSA Uniform Coordinator is recommended.
The 2023 Falmouth Fall Classic: Mark the Dates
This renowned event will illuminate the soccer fields from October 7-9, 2023. While registrations for this year have wrapped up, enthusiasts can fetch detailed information from the official website.
Jess Scott helms the event as the 2023 FFC Director, while the tournament’s registration details are managed by a dedicated registrar.
Embarking on a journey with the Falmouth Fall Classic is not just about witnessing matches; it’s about understanding the spirit, hard work, and commitment that shape this spectacular soccer fest.