Saturday, September 26
This Week is Silent Saturday
As we head into week 3 of games, it’s time to refocus on what makes AYSO Soccer unlike any other youth sports program.
Silent Saturday, when coaches and parents are asked not to instruct or cheer verbally, gives kids a chance to play a purer form of soccer, free from coaches’ and spectators’ direction from the sidelines.
The reasons we do this are:
- To emphasize that the game is about letting the kids have fun and play.
- To show that kids can play well on their own with limited instruction.
- To help the few parents and coaches who feel they must provide constant direction understand how disruptive it can be.
- To give players the chance to trust their skills and instincts without sideline input.
- To encourage leadership skills among players.
- To encourage a sense of true teamwork as players must rely upon one another.
- To support our volunteer referees by eliminating sideline interference and comments.
While coaches and family members are asked to remain silent… clapping is allowed! Be creative in how you choose to cheer your child’s team. There are lots of ways to cheer other than verbally; applaud/clap, but please no horns, whistles, or noise-makers. We’ll be hosting a special sign-making station at Victory Park to help soccer families show their silent appreciation for all the players doing their best on the fields.
Learn more about AYSO National’s Silent Saturday program.
Related Pages
- Sideline Behavior — How to support players, coaches, and referees
- Your Child’s Team — Rosters, practices, and game days
