AYSO Kids Zone
We take safety seriously. AYSO’s Safe Haven program has been put in place to protect AYSO players and the volunteers who serve them. Under the rules of this program, AYSO requires that each volunteer complete and eSign a volunteer application every year, including agreeing to background checks and to abide by the philosophies and policies of AYSO.
Our volunteers are also asked to complete Safe Haven courses and job-specific training in order to become certified. AYSO in-person and online training focuses on the best ways to work with children and important safety protocols.
Additionally, every AYSO Region is required to designate a volunteer to act as the Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA). A CVPA helps implement Safe Haven policies at the local level.
The AYSO Safe Haven program was the first of its kind in youth sports, most notably in soccer. We continually strive to create a safe environment for our players and volunteers, so they can enjoy a happy and healthy soccer experience.
At AYSO, we want all players, coaches, families and volunteers to have fun! That is where AYSO Kids Zone comes in. Kids Zone is a special program that encourages all in attendance, from the sidelines to the field, to use positive language, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and create a great experience and positive environment for every player. Kids Zone is a reminder that the AYSO soccer fields are a safe, friendly, happy, place for children to play and experience the joy of soccer without fear of judgement.
The Kids Zone Pledge
When Regions participate in The Kids Zone program, we ask that they have helpful reminders, including buttons, signage, and t-shirts on the field, to reinforce that no matter how intense the game can be, kids need encouraging support from the sidelines. Parents and spectators are asked to sign the pledge below and agree to the following guidelines:
1. Kids are #1!
2. Fun – not winning – is everything
3. Practice proper physical distancing
4. Set a proper example of sportsmanship
5. Players Play, Fans cheer and Coaches coach
6. Respect the volunteer referees…we could not do it without them!
7. No yelling, swearing or abusive behavior
8. No weapons, alcohol, tobacco or drugs
9. Leave no trash behind
10. Celebrate the player – win or lose
For more information about the Kids Zone program in your Region, ask your coach or Regional Commissioner.
What are Stewards of the Game?
A steward is someone entrusted with safeguarding, protecting, watching over. AYSO launched the concept of Stewards of the Game in order to make player safety the number one priority on game day. Coaches from each team and the referees are asked to work together as a team of stewards to focus on player safety including pre-game player equipment checks, field inspections, review of concussion protocols as well as checking in with each other at game stoppages.
Stewards of the Game are also asked to help maintain kids zone sideline behavior and to promote good sportsmanship. Please consider volunteering today!