Frequently Asked Questions
When is the soccer season?
Soccer has two seasons, the fall season begins in the end of August and runs until the first weekend in November. The spring season begins in the middle of March, weather permitting, and continues through June.
What is the difference between the Recreational & Travel Programs?
Recreation Program is built on a curriculum committed to produce both enthusiasm for the sport as well as player development from the ages of 4 to 8. All games are played at the Greencastle United Soccer Complex. The recreation program serves as a bridge to our travel program.
Travel Program provides an opportunity for boys and girls to participate in a competitive youth soccer environment that promotes excellence and sportsmanship. Our travel program builds upon the curriculum of the recreational program. Teams typically play regionally and travel 60 to 90-minutes for away matches.
How do I know what age groups my player is eligible for?
Eligibility is determined by US Soccer Birth Year Matrix. The club will follow this guideline for team building. Unless age mixing is required.
Where do our coaches come from?
All of our coaches are unpaid volunteers who take time out of their busy schedules to help teach the game of soccer.
Do you require coaching certificates or licenses to coach in the club?
We do not require that coaches obtain a national license or certification with U.S. Youth Soccer, but we strongly recommend them. Many of our travel coaches get nationally recognized licenses from either U.S. Youth Soccer at the older age groups.
Do you perform background checks on club coaches and volunteers?
Greencastle United volunteers are screened through Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association (EPYSA). Coaches, assistant coaches, board members, who may have responsibility over players must pass a PA Child Abuse check, PA State Check, Affidavit of Compliance or FBI Background Check in compliance with Pennsylvania's Child Protection Safety Laws.
What is your inclement weather policy?
All club directed closesure communications will occur via our Facebook page and Remind app for all practice cancellations.
What is the Thunder and Lightning Policy?
When thunder is heard, or cloud-to-ground lightning is seen, suspend play or practice immediately and find shelter. Wait 30-minutes from the last time thunder was heard or the last lightning strike seen. Should you hear more thunder or see another lightning strike during those 30-minutes, your time starts over.
What is the practice or game day cancelation Protocol?
Recreational Programs-Game day cancellations and field closures will be communicated to your coach and families Facebook page and Remind app.
Travel Program-Game cancellations (prior to game time) decisions are made by clubs (not coaches). Decisions are usually made on a case by case basis and generally early the day of the game. Coaches are expected to notify players. If prior notification of cancellation has not been made, teams should report to the game field. Once teams have been reported, the referee is responsible for game time cancellations.