HIGH SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS
1. Communication & Attendance
Accurate, timely communication about attendance is required. High-school players manage deadlines and expectations every day in school; the same standard applies here. Please note that outside of participating for the school team, attendance is mandatory.
Effective immediately (teamsnap communication):
Players must indicate game availability on TeamSnap at least one week in advance.
Players must communicate attendance for ALL training sessions.
All absences must include a clear, specific reason.
Vague entries such as “school event,” “busy,” “tired,” or “family” will not be accepted.
Acceptable examples:
“Out due to ACT exam Saturday morning.”
“Out due to school team finals overlapping with training.”
“Out due to Model UN conference.”
If a player marks themselves as “attending” and then does not show up without an excused, detailed reason: They will not play in that weekend’s game. This also will be enforced if players fail to update the RSVP, give incomplete explanations, or mark “yes” and not attend.
Please note: Coaches also track attendance, attitude, behavior, and engagement (TABS) at every practice, which we review each week.
2. Playing Time Expectations:
Playing time is earned — not guaranteed.
It is determined by the following merit-based factors:
Skill and ability
Team needs and positional requirements
Behavior, effort, and engagement
Attendance and commitment
Reliability and communication
Players who consistently meet these expectations will earn more opportunities on the field.
A respectful, constructive environment is non-negotiable.
Players must:
Treat teammates and coaches with respect
Use positive and supportive language
Show maturity when frustrated
Follow instructions promptly
Negative or disrespectful behavior will affect both standing and playing time.
4. Proper Training & Match Attire
Players must arrive in appropriate training gear for every practice and match.
This includes:
Standard WSSL soccer training attire
Winter apparel in navy or black only (does not have to be WSSL-branded)
To be clear this means: No neon, polka dotted hoodies, or patterned outerwear, no sports teams logos.
5. Cell Phone Policy
Absolutely no cell phone use is permitted during practices or games.
This includes no cell phone use:
During water breaks
Time on the sideline as a substitute
Any time during the full practice or game
Phones must remain put away. Urgent needs must be cleared with the coach.
While we believe these to be common sense, maintaining these basic standards ensures a consistent, fair, and committed environment for all West Side players and families who honor their responsibilities. We are confident that all of you have the motivation and the desire to make this program fulfill the potential it always has had.
With above expectations in mind, we are encouraged by the talent within this group and the strong foundation already taking shape. The coaches are eager to build on this momentum with a commitment to raising the standard and guiding these teams forward.