Core Principles

A PLAYER CENTRIC ENVIRONMENT

Small-Sided Format: The RSL has embraced the new USSF mandate promoting small-sided games; 5v5, 7v7, & 9v9. There are many advantages of having fewer players on the field: (i) maximizing the number of touches each player will have during the game, (ii) learning tactical concepts will be gradual and easier to learn, (iii) will help diffuse any boredom a player may have from not being as involved in the action.
Promoting Practice: By reducing the number of games and heavily scheduling on Saturday's we make it easier for coaches to create regular practice schedules. Scientific studies show players with a higher ratio of practices to games (U9-U13 = 2:1) (U14+ = 3:1) develop much quicker than those with a high volume of games.
Avoiding Conflicts with Higher Level Play - we recognize many players in our league play at the Premier level. By avoiding as many conflicts as possible we want to encourage those players to play with their peers (who will likely be their teammates at High School).

COACH SUPPORT PROGRAM

Coaches are the heart-beat of the Roots Soccer League. Our member clubs are heavily comprised of volunteers, most combine a full-time job and coaching on the evening and weekends. Finding the time and money for personal development is understandably hard, here's how we can help:

We host Nationally recognized Coaching Courses through our partnership with USSF & Mass Youth Soccer - these courses run every April and Coaches attendance fees are paid for by the League:
- April - USSF Grassroots 7v7 Course
- April - USSF Grassroots 9v9 Course
- April - USSF Grassroots 11v11 Course
We have partnered with MOJO Sports - MOJO provides automated session planning, team communication and player evaluations all from your smart phone,

WORKING FOR OUR MEMBERS

Member Input: Every town has a vote (weighted by number of teams) through the Competition Committee - giving all Clubs the ability to refine the Rules of Competition to make participation as enjoyable as possible. Membership meets 5-6 times per year ensuring everyone has a regular voice within the League.
Making Town Soccer Accessible: Between the growth of premier soccer and competition from other sports such as lacrosse, baseball and basketball; town soccer has had significant issues attracting and retaining players. Our league avoids, as best as possible, major conflicts between our games and other events - we do this via blackout dates and flexible schedule at the start of the season.
Professional Insight: Many town boards are comprised of volunteers from a variety of professional backgrounds. Roots staff all have backgrounds of coaching professional within the sports industry.Staff are on hand to offer guidance and advise.

Website Manager

Roots Soccer League

Serving Western MA

Core Principles

A PLAYER CENTRIC ENVIRONMENT

COACH SUPPORT PROGRAM

WORKING FOR OUR MEMBERS

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