INTRODUCTION
Over the last couple of years we have enjoyed many successes with our involvement in youth soccer. We have learned that one key ingredient of success is clear consistent communication between club, teams, coaches, players, and parents. This agreement is one way of explaining in detail the expectations of the PSG ACADEMY CHICAGO, its staff and member clubs. It will help identify some potential problem areas and at the same time answer questions about the club decision making process. As you have committed to become a member of the PSG Academy Chicago please take the time to read the following pages carefully.

THE CLUB AND THE TEAM
Members of PSG ACADEMY CHICAGO agree to put the club ahead of the team. When decisions are made regarding conflicts between the club and a particular team, the club will come first. Club decisions will be made by consulting with the Program Directors and a majority vote of the Board of Directors. The decisions of the Board of Directors will be final and without appeal.

THE TEAM AND THE INDIVIDUAL
Members of any team part of the PSG ACADEMY CHICAGO agree to put their team ahead of the individual player. If conflicts arise between the team, a player or parent, the team coach under the direction of the Program Director will be responsible to make decisions for the good of the team. These decisions will be made after gathering all relevant information via the incident report form which can be found on the PSG Chicago website. The decision of the team coach and/or PSG Chicago Board of Directors will be objective and based on their best evaluation of the facts. Once a decision has been made it is final and without appeal. Players and parents must agree to abide with the final decision.

PRE-REGISTRATION, TEAM & SUPPLEMENTAL TRYOUTS
The team conducts annual and supplemental tryouts throughout the year for players who meet the age requirements for each team.

Pre-registration:
By pre-registering, you are guaranteed a roster spot for the upcoming season, ensuring your place on the team without the need to go through the tryout process. You’ll also receive priority team assignment, giving you the first chance to be placed on a team that fits your playing style. In addition, only pre-registered players are eligible to travel and compete in international tournaments.

Tryout Announcements:
The official dates and times for club tryouts will be announced publicly. These tryouts are open to all new players as well as existing members who did not participate in the pre-registration process.

Supplemental Tryouts:
Additional (supplemental) tryouts may be scheduled during the season, subject to the club’s discretion and the team coach’s approval. Qualified players not currently committed to a US Club or USYS team in State, Regional, or National competition may be added to the team at any time.

Evaluation Process:
The tryout evaluation period may consist of one or more sessions, as determined by the coach. Tryout evaluations also occur during the competitive season (practices, scrimmages, and games). The coach may make selection decisions at any point during the tryout process or invite select players to continue beyond the initial tryout dates.

Acceptance Offer:
Players who successfully pass the tryouts will be invited to join the team. This invitation must be accepted within a specified timeframe, typically 48 hours from the time it is issued. If the offer is not accepted within this period, the roster spot will be offered to another candidate on the waitlist.

Age Group Placement:
The Program Director makes the final decision on whether a player can play on a team above their age group, considering team needs. 

Roster Additions and Amendments:
The club reserves the right to amend team rosters by adding players at any time during the season, at its discretion, and in strict accordance with the league rules and regulations.

THE PLAYER
You are not under any pressure to join the club. Instead, we hope that the player and his/her parents will consider all options and choose what will be best, taking into consideration the player’s goals and aspirations as a person, student, and soccer player.

By committing to PSG Academy Chicago, you agree to adhere to the club and your team’s policies for one soccer season. The season runs from mid-August through the following July. At the season’s conclusion, your commitment ends, and you are free to join another club. You are welcome to pre-register or try out again at the beginning of the next season. If you are rostered on a US CLUB or USYS team that qualifies for State, Regional, or National competitions, you are expected to fulfill your commitment to the team through the end of that competition, regardless of your club status for the subsequent season.

To ensure a positive and committed environment, we expect all players and parents to uphold ethical and honest conduct, honoring both verbal and written commitments. We encourage thoughtful and careful decision-making regarding participation in the club. Once you commit to the club, we expect your full participation and support for the entire soccer season. This commitment holds true even if team results, individual playing time, or personal relationships do not align with your expectations. It is important to consider the broader picture, which encompasses personal conduct and the development of honest and positive character. Please remember that our coaches may need to inform other potential players of team decisions based on your choices. Therefore, we ask that you carefully consider your decision and act with consideration for the entire team and the impact your choices have on others.

Upon a player’s commitment to our club, we pledge to uphold the highest standards of ethics and honesty, honoring our commitment to you. No player will be released from a team during the soccer season except for disciplinary reasons or failure to meet club financial obligations. In such instances, the team coach will consult with club administration to determine appropriate actions, including temporary suspension. The club’s decision regarding suspension is final.

PHOTO RELEASE
By signing this agreement, I grant PSG Academy Chicago and its authorized representatives permission to photograph, film, and record my child’s participation in all team and/or club activities, events, and programs. I understand that this includes, but is not limited to, practices, games, tournaments, and promotional events. I further agree that PSG Academy Chicago may use any resulting photographs, videos, audio recordings, or other media, in any form and for any purpose, including, but not limited to:

* Promotional materials (e.g., brochures, websites, social media)
* Educational materials
* Archival purposes

This use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, or other compensation. I understand that PSG Academy Chicago owns all rights to such media. I also understand that I can request in writing that the Academy cease use of specific media featuring my child.

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT POLICY
To foster club and team unity, consistent and complete adherence to the designated club uniform and colors is mandatory throughout the season. All teams are required to wear the practice kits provided by the club. All additional club-issued gear, including warm-ups and backpacks, must be worn and used whenever applicable, without exception. These items cannot be substituted. Jersey numbers will be assigned by the Club. To ensure consistency and uniqueness across all teams and locations, the club will assign uniform numbers to all existing and new players, eliminating potential overlap. This process will help maintain a standardized system for all teams, making it easier to track player movements and roster changes. By implementing a uniform number system, the club aims to reduce discrepancies and ensure a seamless and positive experience for all players.

As a member of the PSG Academy Chicago, players are accountable for their performance and conduct. We expect all players to demonstrate honesty, open communication, and reliability at all times. We value players who prioritize their personal well-being and the sport of soccer, embracing a healthy lifestyle, a positive team attitude, and strong sportsmanship. The use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action, potentially including temporary suspension or dismissal from the club. Players are expected to represent the PSG Academy Chicago with respect and professionalism both on and off the field.

BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER GAMES
During the soccer season, players and their teammates participate in practices, league competitions, tournaments, and USYS State, Regional, or National competitions. The team’s coach makes key decisions regarding player selection, game strategy, position assignments, playing time, tournament participation, and overall team management.In order to maintain a positive team environment and ensure a productive season, players and their families must be committed to fulfilling their roles within the team. This may include being prepared to come off the bench at a moment’s notice, adapting to new position assignments, taking turns on the field, or participating in team-building activities. By embracing these expectations and being flexible, players and their families can contribute to a cohesive, successful team dynamic.

Team Expectations: Arrival, Attitude, and Accountability

Arrival and Preparation:
Players are expected to arrive on time at all practices and games, prepared with the required equipment (shoes, proper uniform, warm-ups, soccer ball, shin guards, etc.). This ensures that everyone can focus on soccer and make the most of the training and competition time.

Concentration and Distractions:
To perform at their best, players must be fully focused on soccer from the moment they arrive until the designated practice or game is over. This means no visits from family members, friends, or pets during this time. Half-time and after games are also dedicated to team discussions and adjustments, during which players are expected to hydrate and join the team for important conversations. Any use of electronic devices before and during soccer related activities is strictly prohibited!

24 Hour Rule:
Parents are mandated to wait 24 hours after a game or practice before contacting a coach or director with questions, concerns, or feedback. This delay allows for cooler heads to prevail and prevents emotional reactions from influencing communication.

Post-Game Responsibilities:
As a member of the PSG Academy Chicago, each player is personally responsible for their hydration, nutrition, and rest. Players are expected to consume appropriate fluids and eat healthy, nutritious food at the correct times, allowing for proper digestion and optimal performance. Promptly address all injuries or any conditions requiring treatment. Proactively manage your health: follow up on all treatments when injured and ensure you are taped when necessary. Finally, always communicate any feedback or treatment plans provided by trainers or medical professionals to your coach.

During rest periods between games, players may spend time with family or friends, subject to the team coach’s discretion and time constraints. These periods are primarily for rest and preparation, not for extended family time, vacations, or sightseeing. The coach may require the team to remain together or allow players to spend time with family or friends. The coach retains the authority to make these decisions, change them as needed for the team’s benefit, and make individual exceptions on a case-by-case basis, with their decision being final.

TEAM TRAVEL
Throughout the soccer season, teams will participate in away games. Players are responsible for adhering to the club’s travel code of ethics and for arranging their transportation to these games. Whenever possible, players should coordinate travel with other team members. Some games may necessitate overnight stays. For overnight trips, the team may be required to travel together, stay at a designated hotel, and participate in team meals. Player family members are welcome to stay at the designated hotel (unless host tournament regulations dictate otherwise) or may be invited to join team meals. The team coach and/or Program Director retain the final authority on all team travel decisions, including arrival and departure times for all locations (hotels, restaurants, game fields, etc.). While the coach is not obligated to do so, individual exceptions to team travel rules may be made at the coach’s discretion, always considering the best interests of the club and the team. Players and their parents are responsible for all travel-related expenses for the player, including transportation, accommodations, and meals. Players and parents are also responsible for covering the coach’s travel expenses, including transportation, accommodations, meals, and/or per diem.

TOURNAMENT PLAY
During the course of the season the team may opt to play in a number of tournaments.

THE PARENTS
Parental support and involvement are crucial for the success of the PSG Academy Chicago. Acceptance into the Academy and a player’s commitment necessitate a corresponding commitment from parents. To ensure a player’s dedication to the club and their team, parents are expected to prioritize attendance at all club and team activities (practices, meetings, games, etc.). We understand that scheduling conflicts and unavoidable commitments may arise. Open communication, proactive planning, and mutual understanding are essential to minimize these conflicts. The Academy will provide a regular schedule to facilitate your planning. In the event of a scheduling conflict, the Academy requires timely notification to explore potential adjustments. The team coach, in consultation with the Program Director, will make final decisions on scheduling and adjustments, carefully considering both individual needs and the overall requirements of the club and team.

SIDELINE COACHING
Our club is committed to providing a positive and supportive environment for all players to grow and develop as individuals and athletes. As part of this commitment, we ask that parents and guardians refrain from coaching or providing explicit instructions to their child during games and practices.

Vocal Support and Communication
We understand that you want to encourage and support your child, and we welcome positive and respectful vocal support, such as acknowledging a good play or offering words of encouragement. However, we ask that you avoid shouting instructions or complaints during games, as this can be distracting and potentially disruptive to the team’s performance. Phrases like “go” or “shoot” can be misinterpreted as instructions, so please keep your comments to positive and uplifting expressions.

Practice Area and Team Bench
To ensure that players can focus on their development and learn new skills, we kindly ask that parents and friends stay clear of the designated practice area, including the goalmouths. Similarly, only those listed on the official game roster are allowed to sit on or near the team bench during games. This helps to prevent distractions and creates a safe and respectful space for the coach and players to prepare and perform.

Long-term Growth and Development
As a club, our primary concern is the long-term growth and development of your child as an individual and an athlete. This may mean making decisions that may not always result in a winning game, but are essential for building a strong foundation for future success. We appreciate your understanding and commitment to supporting this approach, which prioritizes the overall growth and development of the club, team, and players over short-term results.

Guiding Principles
As a club, we operate on the following guiding principles: The team coach is the primary point of contact for all team-related matters, and parents should direct any questions or concerns to them. Players should receive clear and consistent instructions from the coach, rather than multiple voices offering conflicting advice. Our focus is on developing the whole child, not just their soccer abilities, and we prioritize building a positive and supportive team culture. By working together and adhering to these guidelines, we can create a positive and supportive environment that allows our players to thrive and reach their full potential. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Communication and Player Development
Parents, we encourage open communication (respecting the 24 hour rule) regarding your child’s soccer development. Feel free to reach out with any questions or observations. We also encourage players to take initiative and communicate directly. Your coach will regularly provide feedback on individual player performance, based on evaluation criteria.

Mental Power and Sportsmanship
The PSG Academy Chicago emphasizes the development of Mental Power in our players. We teach them to maintain focus and composure on the field, regardless of external factors such as officiating, unsportsmanlike conduct, or adverse conditions. We expect the same commitment to Mental Power and positive sportsmanship from our parents.

THE COACH
The PSG Academy Chicago places a strong emphasis on the character development of its players, in addition to their technical skills on the field. Our coaches are instructed to prioritize teaching and mentoring, with soccer coaching being a secondary priority. This approach enables players to become world-class athletes who also possess the essential qualities to succeed in life. As such, PSG Chicago coaches are expected to serve as positive role models, exhibiting excellent behavior and setting a good example for their players. Recognizing the significant influence they have on young people’s lives, coaches must maintain a professional demeanor both on and off the field. They are responsible for ensuring the team’s conduct is respectful, polite, and well-behaved, not only during games but also at club events.Players and parents can expect honesty, open communication, consistency, and reliability from their coaches. Our team has a proven track record of assisting in the development of young soccer players. The Program Director and team coach work together to create an environment conducive to growth, where players can reach their full potential by combining passion, effort, and physical ability. While the soccer experience will be taken seriously, the club acknowledges the significance of family, school work, and personal relationships outside of the sport. To ensure a positive team dynamic, we prioritize the following:

1. Family and school work are paramount, and soccer is considered a recreational activity of equal importance during the club season.
2. Commitment to the PSG Academy soccer program and team is expected as the top recreational priority.
3. Players and parents are expected to respect the team coach’s decisions regarding playing time and status within the club.

Coaches are also expected to be honest and direct in their feedback, providing both praise and constructive criticism as necessary. This approach will help players develop the resilience and maturity needed to succeed in the sport and beyond. In terms of leadership, the team coach will occasionally delegate tasks to another club staff member in their absence. As players mature and develop their skills, they will be entrusted with greater responsibility and encouraged to take ownership of their actions, decisions, and behaviors. Ultimately, we believe that coaching in soccer should be about more than just teaching technical skills; it’s about empowering players to grow into capable, confident individuals who can excel in all aspects of life.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
This agreement outlines clear expectations for all members of the PSG Academy, including players, parents, and staff. It is the responsibility of each individual to understand these expectations and to seek clarification from the team coach if necessary. The Academy maintains high standards for conduct both on and off the field, to foster a positive and productive environment. These standards are reflected in the following policies and procedures:

1. Addressing Concerns
Initial Dialogue: The team coach and/or Program Director will address any concerns directly and privately with the player. The expectation is that the issue will be resolved promptly.
Parental Involvement: If the issue persists, the team coach and/or Program Director will communicate with the player’s parents to discuss the situation and seek their assistance in finding a resolution.
Temporary Suspension: If the issue remains unresolved, the Program Director and/or team coach may temporarily suspend the player from team activities.
Recommendation for Removal: In cases of severe or persistent misconduct, the Program Director may recommend to the Board of Directors that the player be removed from the Academy. Parents will be notified of this recommendation.
Appeal: Parents of a player recommended for removal may request a meeting with the Board of Directors and the Program Director to discuss the situation.

2. Immediate Action
The PSG Academy Board of Directors reserves the right to take immediate action in response to serious infractions or circumstances that are deemed detrimental to the Academy. The Board of Directors will determine, at its sole discretion, the nature of situations that warrant such action. This includes, but is not limited to, misconduct by any member (player, parent, coach, assistant coach, official, or officer). If the Board determines that a member’s conduct is harmful to the best interests of the Academy, its purpose, or the sport of soccer, the Board may take any reasonable and appropriate action, including, but not limited to, suspension or removal from the Academy. Any such action requires a majority vote of the PSG Academy Board of Directors.

3. Commitment to Support and Resolution
The PSG Academy Chicago is committed to working constructively with its members to address any problems that may arise. We will make every reasonable effort to support players and parents in resolving issues. However, if these efforts are unsuccessful, the Academy may be forced to implement disciplinary action as outlined above.