I remember when my son first started playing soccer (about 8 years ago!) I was completely clueless about all the soccer must haves. Nearly a decade later, through some trial and error and watching others I’ve learned a lot. Many of you are veterans at this, but for those of you who aren’t, I hope this helps.

 

TEAM MOM (OR PARENT) 101:

 

Getting Started:

• SOCCER STAPLES: Your folding chairs, umbrellas, sunscreen and your umbrella stand.

• ROSTER: Get your roster and player information. I have attached a sample roster for anyone that may need one.  Sample Roster 1

• SNACK SCHEDULE: The all important snack schedule. Especially for those little ones (and those not so little), one the highlights of their game is the snack.  Half-Time Snack or After the game snack? http://escondidosoccerclub.vicid.net/images/images/1/0/sample_snack_schedule.pdf

This is up to you and your coach(es). "After the game" snack usually consists of a juice box (or whatever you choose) and fruit, chips, crackers, etc. Remember these are just suggestions, whatever you choose, the kids will like. Half-time snack is usually a lot lighter and usually consists of sliced oranges, strawberries, grapes, etc. Something light.

• TEAM BANNER: The banner is entirely up to you and your team. Many teams have them custom made and airbrushed, but many people make their own as well. I have used Hal’s Sport Shop in the past, but I know that Banner USA also does a good job. There are many other companies that make banners, but I am not as familiar with their work. If you have any suggestions, good or bad experiences with banner companies, please share.  http://www.bannersusa.com/

• TEAM JOBS:  For some of us we tend to undertake the role of team parent all by ourselves. However, like so many of us today we must juggle the demands of work, family, other extracurricular activities, etc. Therefore, asking your families to volunteer for team jobs really makes a big difference (our team manager started doing this and it worked out great). For example:

A. BANNER DUTY: Someone who brings the banner to each game, sets up and takes down.

B. PHONE TREE: One or two people to divide up the roster, and in the event of game cancellations (rainouts), practice changes, etc. you have someone to get that last minute need to know information to your team, when email just won’t do.

C. JERSEY DUTY (primarily for Heat and/or All-Star teams): Someone who takes the jerseys home after each game and washes them. This prevents a player from forgetting their jersey before a big game (not to mention it’s always clean).

D. FIRST AID: Okay, this is my duty on our team. I have learned to always bring my soccer backpack to each game. Inside, I have a basic first aid kit, Tylenol, children’s Motrin, Ibuprofen, bandaids, prewrap, sports tape, toilet paper, baby wipes and even a Tide pen. And YES, I have used everything in my back pack. More times, than not, each and everything has been need during our games. In addition, to my first aid duties, I also bring my little ice chest with ready made ice bags and cold paks (just in case).

 

• GOAL JAR:  The all important "goal jar."  For each goal your team makes, pass the goal jar around to everyone.  Our team earns $0.25 per goal.  At the end of the season you can apply the money to your end of the season party.

• END OF THE SEASON PARTY/COACHES' GIFTS:  You can make this as big or as little as you wish.  Potluck at the park, bar-b-ques at someone's home, pizza restaurants, etc. 

You probably need to start planning the party at least 3-4 weeks before your last game.  Depending on how your team did during the season, your goal jar may really help contribute towards the party expenses.  If not, you will need to ask your parents to contribute. 

 

Coaches'/Team Parent Gifts differ from team to team.  In the past, our teams have given gift cards, personalized plaques, framed photos of the coaches and the players, autographed balls, etc.  When I was team parent, I received everything from flowers to gift cards to autographed memorabilia.  Budget this expense with your team families in mind, and then equally divide the costs between each player.