Our club is run by a dedicated group of volunteers who serve on our Board and oversee various aspects of the club's operations. Our Board members are passionate about soccer and committed to providing a positive and enriching experience for all our players.

Our Board and Staff are always available to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have. We're here to support you and your child's soccer journey.

Fairhope Soccer Club Board of Directors

• John Cocke-President
• Rebecca Miller-Vice President
• Jacque Boyer-Secretary/Treasurer/Club Administrator
• Mamie Brett-Board Member/Academy Parent Advisory Committee Chair
• Matt Miller-Board Member/Staff Coach
• Justin Smith-Board Member
• Declan McSheffrey-Technical Director
• Tito Rodriguez-Director of Coaching

Academy Staff

• Declan McSheffrey-Technical Director
• Tito Rodriguez-Director of Coaching
• Amy Long-Boys Registrar
• Megan Montgomery-Girls Registrar & Risk Management Coordinator
• Alexi Felty- Social Media Coordinator

1. Mission: To provide a fun, safe environment for our youth to learn, develop and grow through the great game of soccer. We strive to develop players on and off the field.

2. Core Values: Teamwork, Integrity, Commitment, Education, Trust, Respect, Personal Responsibility, Sportsmanship

3. Vision: We strive to offer the highest quality player development programs, training, competition, and leadership for our young soccer players as we prepare them for success in middle school, high school & beyond.

4. Introduction to Player & Parent Handbook: The Fairhope Academy Player & Parent Handbook was created to serve as a comprehensive guide for players, parents, and coaches throughout their involvement with Fairhope Academy. This handbook contains essential information and Codes of Conduct that are crucial for the overall development of our players, the success of our teams, and the advancement of the entire Fairhope Academy soccer program.

We believe that a strong partnership between players, parents, and coaches is fundamental to achieving our goals. Therefore, all members of the Fairhope Soccer Club, including players, parents, and coaches, are expected to thoroughly read, understand, and adhere to the guidelines outlined in this handbook. By upholding these standards, we can collectively foster a positive and enriching environment where every player can reach their full potential both on and off the field.

5. Culture: We actively embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, fostering an enjoyable environment. Our focus on collective development encourages and motivates everyone to reach new heights through structured training and a shared vision of success. By setting clear objectives and working together, we create a culture of continuous improvement, enhancing our competitive edge and fostering a fun and dynamic atmosphere where healthy competition and camaraderie thrive.

 6. Development Philosophy: Our developmental philosophy is ever-changing and comprehensive. It is based on our coaches’ experience and the U.S. Soccer Curriculum.. We focus on developing well-rounded players by improving their technical, tactical, physical, and psychological skills in an age/level appropriate manner. Our coaches are expected to pay attention to detail and create a fun, yet highly competitive environment through committed players and coaches. Player development is a continuous process, with both highs and lows. Winning is important, but not the sole focus. Effort and commitment in both training and games are expected. As players develop, the expectation to achieve results will naturally increase.

7. Competition Pathway: As your player advances through our Academy program, the expectations for our teams will evolve to match their development. This means that training sessions will become more intense, game strategies will grow more complex, and the level of competition will increase. We believe that this progressive approach is essential for fostering player growth and maximizing their potential on the field.

• 7v7 Teams: will participate in a minimum of 3 tournaments, friendlies/playdates, train with their coach two times/week & attend Monday skills training.
• 9v9 Teams: will participate in a minimum of 4 tournaments, friendlies/playdates, train with their coach two times per week & attend Monday skills training. Second year of playing 9v9, teams will compete in Alabama State League which includes 4 home games/4 away, 2-3 tournaments if state league schedule allows & friendlies.
• 11v11 Teams: First year teams (U13) playing 11v11 will participate in a minimum of 4 tournaments, friendlies & train with their coach two times a week. (First year 11v11 could qualify for state league) U14 & above will participate in Alabama State League, 1-2 tournaments plus College Showcase & train with their coach three nights per week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)

8. Playing Time: The Academy program fosters a competitive environment where players earn their position through evaluations, skill development, practice, and performance. The coaching staff will provide equal support and encouragement to all players, ensuring everyone has a fair chance to earn playing time during competitive games. The Head Coach will determine playing time based on the player's performance, in accordance with league or tournament regulations. Fairhope Soccer Club does not mandate specific playing time requirements. In cases where a player has limited playing time, alternative solutions for additional game minutes will be discussed with the family. Coaches are expected to manage and communicate playing time transparently with parents.

9. Tryouts

• New and Returning Players: All players, both new and returning, are required to participate in tryouts for the upcoming Fall season, which will be held in May.
• Mid-Season Tryouts: Additional tryouts will be held in December for those interested in joining mid-season.
• Seasonal Changes: Please note that Academy rosters are subject to change each season based on player performance, skill development, and team needs.

Players are typically expected to stay with their assigned team for the entire season (Fall and Spring). However, the club may reassign players to different teams during mid-season evaluations. This adjustment may occur if a player demonstrates advanced skills and would gain from a more challenging environment, or if a player is finding the current level too demanding and would be better suited to a different team.

New players will always be evaluated and may be added to a roster mid-season if the Head Coach and Director of Coaching think it's in the best interest of the player and team. If a roster is full, or if a player is close to the required level of play, we may add ‘developmental’ players who train with the team and do not participate in tournaments unless a roster position opens up and the player is invited to join the team.

10. Playing Up: The decision to ‘play up’ an age group is made by the coaching staff and must be approved by the Director of Coaching. The family will be consulted prior to the decision being made.

11. Code of Conduct: While part of Fairhope Soccer Club, it is necessary for us all to understand that our actions not only reflect on us individually, but also our family, our team and our club. Soccer belongs to the players, and all Fairhope Academy soccer participants must follow this covenant. Players are invited to join a team at the discretion of the Director of Coaching and coaching staff. A player may be suspended or expelled due to their conduct or the conduct of their parents, at the sole discretion of the coach, Director of Coaching, and/or the Board of Directors. (See Procedures of Violation of Code of Conduct)

As a player, I pledge to: (Please review with your player)

1. Come to all practices, training sessions and games ready to play which includes having a soccer ball, being prepared to listen, being dressed in the correct uniform (for practices and games).
2. I will treat all players on my team and other teams with respect.
3. Show respect to all coaches and referees.
4. Avoid using abusive or taunting language before, during, and after practices and games.
5. Physical abuse of other players, coaches, referees, parents, and spectators is prohibited at all times, including during practice and games.
6. Cheer on your teammates from the sidelines.

As a parent, I pledge to:

1. Support my child’s efforts to be on time and be prepared for all practices, training sessions and games.
2. Record my player’s attendance in TeamSnap Availability on the Sunday night prior to that week’s practice. Contact the coach/team manager immediately for any sudden illnesses or emergencies that may arise.
3. Refrain from questioning the referee's calls or the coach's actions.
4. Please refrain from coaching your child or other players during the game. We ask that you trust the coach's decisions. If you have any concerns about what constitutes positive sideline encouragement, please discuss them with your child's coach.
5. I will encourage and support my child and their teammates. I will focus on applauding good plays, effort, and sportsmanship from all players.
6. I will cheer and NOT coach from the sidelines.
7. I will treat everyone with respect, including teammates, opponents, coaches, referees, and spectators.
8. Unsportsmanlike behavior, including verbal or physical abuse of players, coaches, referees, and spectators, is not tolerated at any time, including practices and before, during, and after games.
9. Notify coach/club director if your player has been contacted to guest play with another team or club. There is no guest playing without written approval from the Director of Coaching.
10. Please refrain from interrupting the coach during practice or games. If you have any concerns or issues, please wait 24 hours before contacting anyone unless it is a matter of player safety.

Tournaments/playdates are enjoyable, but all Fairhope Soccer Club parents and players must maintain a positive demeanor and encouraging sideline presence. Remember, your child has a coach, so please refrain from sideline coaching. Conflicting instructions from a parent and coach can be confusing for a child.

Remember, referees strive to make objective decisions based on their observations. While a call against your team may trigger a subjective response, it's crucial to manage your reactions appropriately. Aggression towards referees sets a negative example for your child, who may perceive such behavior as acceptable. Always prioritize sportsmanship and focus on the positive aspects of the game, rather thansolely on the score. By modeling respectful behavior, you teach your child valuable life lessons and contribute to a positive sporting environment for everyone.

12. Seasonal Information

The complete soccer season runs from August to November in the Fall, and from mid-February to mid-May in the Spring. Players are expected to play the full season. However, we understand that some players may not return in the Spring due to other sports or activities, or because they've made the Middle or High School soccer teams. If you are not returning in the Spring, or plan to try out for the Middle or High School soccer teams, you must notify your coach or team manager by the end of November.

13. Uniform & Uniform Number Policy: The full required uniform package must be purchased through www.soccer.com  After you commit to your team and receive an email link from Soccer.com, you will be responsible for purchasing your player's uniform. It will be shipped directly to your home.

• For all practices except Monday night skills sessions, players are required to wear a red jersey, black shorts, and black socks.
• Game Day Uniforms
  • Home Team: White jersey, blue shorts, and white socks.
  • Away Team: Blue jersey, blue shorts, and blue socks.
  • In the case of a color conflict at a tournament or playdate, one team will always have to change. Therefore, all players should bring both sets of uniforms (including socks) to every game in order to avoid having to sit out because of a color conflict.
• To ensure that misplaced items can be easily identified and returned, it is essential that all player belongings are clearly labeled with their name. The FSC Lost and Found is located in the Equipment Storage Unit; alternatively, found items may be placed in the conference room
• Uniform cycle is every (2) years. Our current uniform cycle Fall 2025-Spring 2027.

Uniform numbers are authorized by the Club and communicated to players registered to their team. The goal is to minimize number conflicts throughout the two year cycle. We cannot guarantee that a number change won’t be required if you move teams mid-year or between seasons. Our goal is to not duplicate Jersey #’s in age groups to avoid conflicts if a player moves to a different team

• If you are a returning player, you may keep your number but still need confirmation there is no conflict with a new player on the team..
• New players will receive a number by the Club.
• If a player changes teams and a uniform number conflict exists, the club does not cover the expense of new jerseys. You will be responsible for purchasing new jerseys.

14. Communication: Effective communication is crucial for success; however, it can also be challenging. FSC encourages open and respectful communication between all parties, using the contact information provided in this handbook.  (See Procedure for Addressing Grievances)

Please refrain from approaching your coach at the field unless they initiate the conversation. Many coaches manage multiple teams with back-to-back sessions. If you have any questions or concerns, please email your coach to schedule a meeting. This is particularly important if you have an issue arising from a game. It is recommended to wait 24 hours before communicating about such matters, as emotionally charged conversations are rarely productive when the goal is player development.

Remember, communication is key to a successful season. Do not  wait until the end of the season to address any questions or concerns you may have.

15, Team Manager: Team Managers are parent volunteers who handle the team's administrative and communication tasks. Their responsibilities include:

• Maintaining player paperwork
• Managing tournament/league information
• Communicating practice/game schedule changes

They are the primary contact between parents and the coach, as well as registrars. They may also serve as a liaison between the coach and parents regarding team concerns.

Team Managers are prohibited from:

• Discussing playing or coaching issues regarding other players with the coach
• Discussing coaching, player, or parent issues with any other player or parent on the team
• Releasing any sensitive information to any player or parent

Team Communication: Your team manager will use the Team Snap app to communicate with the team.

• Turn on all mobile notifications in Team Snap.
• Set your player availability for games and events.
• Check the team chat for updates and information.
• Use the schedule/calendar icon for event details.

16. Training Fees: Training Fees are disclosed at tryouts. A non-refundable commitment fee is due at registration. Training fees include two training sessions per week with a professional coach; skills/goalkeeper training; ASA player registration(carding & secondary insurance); TeamSnap App; club funded tournament; coaching fees; City of Fairhope facility rental fee; administrative fees.

17. Team Practices: Practice sessions, led by professional coaches, are scheduled for either 5:30 PM or 6:45 PM. The number of training sessions per week and the specific practice times may vary, as many coaches manage two teams and must adjust schedules accordingly.

18. Skills/Goalkeeper Training: These are highly recommended but optional sessions for players to get additional touches on the ball, as well as specific goalkeeping training. For the first 30 minutes, players will focus on a specific topic (dribbling, passing, ball control, shooting, etc.), followed by free play/scrimmage time to try out their new skills in a less structured environment. The topics will be on a bi-weekly rotation. Encourage your child to practice the skill they learned today at home.

19. Training Fees Payment Policy

• The non-refundable and non-transferable Registration/Commitment Fee is due at the time of registration and must be paid online with either a card or bank account. Once FSC receives your Registration/Commitment Fee, you will be rostered to your team.
• When registering, you will agree to waivers and refund policies in place per the registration process.
• Pay in FULL or monthly payment plan options are available. TeamSnap offers a variety of payment plan options. Individual payment plans can be arranged to accommodate your financial circumstances.You will have access to your player’s account via TeamSnap at all times once you register.
• Failure to pay your scheduled fees within fifteen (15) days of the payment due date will invoke “NO PAY- NO PLAY”. Players with overdue accounts cannot participate in team activities until their balance is paid.
• Our Academy program bases its fees on a budget that is developed on an annual basis and approved by the FSC board. The parent of the player who is committed to their team accepts the financial responsibility and MUST be in good financial standing at the end of each season.
• Parents or guardians of players are financially responsible for their child's team commitment and must be in good financial standing at the conclusion of each season. Fees are non-refundable and will not be forgiven due to absence, withdrawal, early separation from the team, or academic workload. Partial refunds for injuries or relocations may be considered if your player is unable to complete the season with their team. Submit a written request to Club Admin

20. Team Fees: Team fees are divided equally among all players on the team and vary depending on the team. These fees cover expenses such as league registration, tournament entry fees, referee fees (if not included in league fees), and coach travel expenses.

• All registered players are responsible for an equal share of their team's expenses, whether they attend all events. If a player has a prior commitment on the date of a scheduled event, they must communicate this to the coach or team manager at least 3 weeks in advance.
• Your team fee (tournaments/playdates) are not included in training fees, except for our home tournament. These fees cover tournament/playdate entry, online check-in, and coach travel (if over 60 miles), including gas, food per diem, and hotel (if overnight). These fees are divided equally among the players on the current roster. For example, if the entry fee is $700, online check-in is $20, and coach travel is $50, the total cost of $770 is divided by 15 players, resulting in $51 per player.

21. TeamSnap Invoicing: Within 24-48 hours after each scheduled tournament, players will receive an invoice that must be paid promptly. Important: Tournament fees must be paid one week before the next scheduled tournament. Players with unpaid fees will not be permitted to play until their balance is settled. Exception: Invoices for the final tournament of the season will be sent one week before the tournament date, and the same payment deadline applies.

21. Financial Assistance: The club offers limited financial aid to families who demonstrate need. Most families who qualify will receive partial aid. Additionally, the parent or guardian of any financial aid recipient is required to volunteer with the club during tournaments. Complete Financial Aid Application Online before accepting a team position. This will help us determine the amount of financial aid we can offer your family. To ensure the fairest distribution of our limited funds, the financial committee requires specific documentation before determining financial aid eligibility. We request only the essential information needed to make this determination. Additionally, we ask that the player's account be current from the previous season.

22. Tournaments: Tournaments are highly competitive events that consist of at least three games played over two days. These events offer opportunities for teams to bond and build relationships. To make the most of your tournament experience, consider bringing folding chairs, picnic blankets, a canopy for shade, snacks, drinks, and plenty of sunscreen.  Tournament schedules do not usually come out until the week of the tournament. Your team manager will provide you detailed information regarding games, uniform, parking, etc.  Players and parents are expected to abide by the same Code of Conduct while traveling to tournaments as they are at practices and games.  Tournament entry/registration fees and any other related costs are the responsibility of the team.

23. Home Tournament Expectations: The Fairhope Soccer Club hosts two annual tournaments, the Fairhope Spring Blast and the Halloween Blast. These events highly encourage our families to volunteer their time or resources to ensure their success.during registration. Volunteer Sign-ups for these events are on a first-come first-serve basis once the schedule is finalized. The Club will send out a Sign Up Genius link. Volunteer opportunities include gate collection, parking, field/tournament breakdown and trash duty. One family parking pass for the FSC parking area will be given to those who volunteer. Parents are responsible for gate entry fee for home tournaments. 

24. Playdates/Friendlies: Playdates, typically consisting of one or two games in a day, are friendly matches that foster player and team development, while also aiding coach evaluation. They offer coaches a platform to assess their team's performance under new scenarios, formations, skills, techniques, and strategies. As players continuously grow and improve, so does the team. Playdates strike a balance between fun and challenge, serving as a valuable tool for overall team evolution.

25. Guest Player Policy

• Players must receive approval from both their coach and the DOC before guest playing for other clubs or accepting offers from other clubs.
• Players within the club may guest play for another team in the club if they need additional players for a tournament. These players are called Club Pass players. Players must receive approval before being allowed to club pass.

26. Procedures of Violation of Code of Conduct: The following summarizes procedures regarding parent, guest of parent, player and coach violation of the Code of Conduct and for airing grievances.

Fairhope Soccer Club players, parents, and coaches are required to adhere to their Code of Conduct. Violations will be presented to our President/Director of Coaching. In the event that a player or parent demonstrates unsportsmanlike or inappropriate conduct at a game or training session, as determined by the player’s Coach, the Coach can take any of the following actions:

• Player - Immediately remove the player from the practice or the game for inappropriate behavior.
• Parent or guest of a parent - Direct the offending party to leave the field.
• Refer the matter to the President for review. The matter will be investigated by the President and a determination will be made as to what, if any, further action needs to be taken. Actions may include, but are not limited to:
  • Written Warning.
  • Suspension.
  • Probation.
  • Dismissal of the parent and/or player from the Club.

In all cases of disciplinary action, the decision of the President is final and not subject to appeal. If there is a suspension or dismissal from Fairhope Academy participation, no refunds shall be given.

27. Procedure for Addressing Grievances

These procedures ensure that all concerns are addressed in a consistent and professional manner.

Always follow the organizational chain of command outlined below.

Soccer Related Concerns (Wait 24 hours following a game, training session or event)

• Parent > Coach > Director of Coaching > President

Team Related Concerns

• Parent > Team Manager >Academy Registrars > Club Administrator

Club Related Concerns

• Parent > Parent Advisory Chair > Board of Directors

28. Unusual and Unforeseen Circumstance: The Code of Conduct is designed to encompass a wide range of potential situations. However, due to the large number of individuals involved in our organization, it is inevitable that unforeseen circumstances may arise. Therefore, Directors, Coaches, Team Managers, and Parents are responsible for remaining vigilant and reporting any concerns to the Board. We all represent the Club as a whole—not just our individual team!

29. Risk Management: Fairhope Soccer Club prioritizes the safety and well-being of every participant. To identify and minimize potential risks, we implement Risk Management strategies in all our activities, following US Youth Soccer and Alabama Soccer Association guidelines. Our Risk Management policies mandate that ALL Board Members, Coaching Staff, Team Managers and Volunteers undergo annual background checks and complete US SafeSport Trained  and Coach Safely training.

30. Medical Release: The USYS Consent/Medical Release form is required by leagues and tournaments for each player and must be completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian. The Club will keep an electronic copy of all medical release forms.

31. Safety Procedures

• Field Closures: If fields are closed due to inclement weather or unplayable surfaces, all team managers and coaches will be notified by 3pm if City of Fairhope closes the fields. If inclement weather occurs after 3pm, field closure will be up to the discretion of DOC/Staff.
• Weather Safety @ Soccer Complex: The Perry Weather System will announce alerts when lightning is 10 miles or less. Immediately clear fields to your car. A 30-minute monitoring will continue until we send "ALL CLEAR" text or email.
• Parking Lot: Please do not park along any fences or along trees. Handicap Parking is for those who have permits ONLY.
  • To ensure a smooth traffic flow within the soccer complex, please enter the parking lot from the North Side and exit from the South Side.
  • South Gate Player Drop Off: Make sure your player is ready to go with all their gear. If they are not fully ready, please proceed to a parking spot & walk them to the gate or field.
  • Player Pick Up: Do not park in the Handicap Parking slots while you wait for your player to be finished with practice. DO NOT line up at the South Gate or along the fence. Please park & walk to the gate or field to pick up your player.
• Player Safety: Fairhope Soccer Club prioritizes player safety. All players must wear shin guards covered by socks and soccer cleats to all practices and games. Remember to bring a water bottle with plenty of hydration.
  • Jewelry: ALL jewelry before play, including earrings, hair bows with metal clips, bracelets, watches, and necklaces. Necklaces worn for religious or medical reasons must be taped to the chest under the jersey. Referees will ask players to remove all jewelry during tournaments and playdates.
  • Casts: Casts, guards, braces, etc. must be padded with a foam padding no less than 1/2 inch thick and securely covered. The referee must approve it. Players with injuries must have a medical release signed by a physician for each game played while injured. Have copies made, as the referee will need to keep a copy for each game.
  • Player left at field: If a player's parents have not arrived for pickup, adults, including coaches and other parents, must remain with the child. It is mandatory to ensure another adult is present at all times. Under no circumstances should a child be left unattended, nor shall coaches provide transportation home for a child.

32. Insurance Coverage Excess accident coverage is automatically provided to registered members of ASA as a part of the training fee. These Policies provide coverage for registered players, coaches, and other officials, during sanctioned events including regularly scheduled practices and games. This coverage is in addition to the player’s own family health insurance. For players or members that do not have any health insurance, this will be considered a primary insurance.  Claims must be filed within 90 days of the date of injury online with the Alabama Soccer Association. Your claim will be approved by ASA and then sent to third-party insurance to decide on the claim. There is a deductible of $500, and it is SECONDARY to your primary insurance. Secondary Insurance Claim Form