The Saint Louis Youth Soccer Association (SLYSA) will be following MYSA, IYSA, Missouri and Illinois state COVID-19 guidelines, as well as local county guidelines for play this fall season. The league is scheduled to play at 19 different locations with many of them being in different counties and states, and there may consequently, be different guidelines when it comes to playing and/or spectators at various locations. New information continues to be available daily, and with that in mind, SLYSA will continue to evaluate the safest options when it comes to playing games.
It is critical that SLYSA, member clubs, independent teams, and coaches create a safe environment for players and that parents/guardians make the best decision possible for their players. SLYSA thus encourages everyone involved to follow social distancing practices recommended by the CDC, state, and local governments.
- Social distancing should take place off the field. This includes players and coaches as well as parents/guardians on the sidelines.
- Coaches, players, referees, and facility staff should wear a mask when unable to social distance.
All coaches, players, officials, volunteers, and spectators must undergo a self-assessment for any COVID-19 symptoms. Individuals should not leave home to participate if they, or someone they live with, has symptoms of COVID -19 currently recognized as any of the following:
- A high temperature
- A new, continuous cough
- A loss of or change in their sense of smell or taste
Should an individual have demonstrated any such symptoms, he or she must follow the recommendations from the CDC, state, and local governments.
Arrival at facilities
Coaches, players, and parents/guardians should strictly limit the time spent congregating at a facility before games begin. Meet-up times should reflect this, including arriving changed and ready to begin the warm-up.
Social distancing before and during play
Coaches, players, and parents/guardians must adhere to social distancing throughout warm-ups and avoid the sharing of equipment. All participants must remain socially distanced during breaks in play with spaced areas for equipment and refreshment storage for each individual including officials and substitutes. Coaching staff and substitutes should, for example, spread out and avoid sharing a bench if social distancing cannot be observed.
Water bottles and refreshment containers should not be shared under any circumstances. Participants are advised to bring their own in a labeled or highly distinguishable container.
Coaches’ Responsibilities:
- Ensure the health and safety of all players.
- Inquire how the athletes are feeling, and send them home if they act or appear ill.
- Follow all state and local health protocols.
- Ensure that all athletes have their individual equipment (ball, water bottles, bag, etc).
- Wear a face mask when not actively coaching.
- Maintain social distance requirements from players based on state and local health recommendations.
Players’ Responsibilities:
- Have temperature taken before arriving for a game.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after a game.
- Bring and use hand sanitizer to every game.
- Wear a mask before and immediately after all training.
- Practice social distancing when possible.
- Do not participate in group celebrations.
Parents’/Guardians’ Responsibilities:
- Ensure child is healthy and check his or her temperature before arriving for a game.
- Limit or avoid carpooling with other players.
- Adhere to social distancing requirements based on state and local health requirements.
- Wear a mask when outside your car.
- Notify your club/team immediately if your child becomes ill.
Referees’ Responsibilities:
- Observe the governing body guidance in the same way as participants are required to.
- Remain socially distanced from players when possible before, during, and after play.