New Hampshire Soccer League News

NHSA Statement to Membership – Re: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

To: All members and affiliates

From: Rusty Wightman, President

CC: Board of directors and staff

RE: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – UPDATE: March 13, 2020 | 10:45 PM

Effective immediately, New Hampshire Soccer Association is suspending all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities statewide through April 12, 2020 due to the evolving COVID-19 situation.   For our member organizations (towns, clubs and leagues) this includes, but is not limited to: all games, practices, clinics, training, tournaments, and in-person meetings.

Trusting that players, coaches, referees and spectators would never knowingly compromise themselves or others, the fact is that our sport and its related activities provide an opportunity for the virus to spread which we feel is our duty to help avoid (excerpt from the CDC below):

  “…COVID-19 is mainly spread through respiratory droplets (sneeze, cough, or sweat) when in close contact (within 6 feet) OR by touching a surface with such droplets and then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes…”

As a result, both US Soccer and US Youth Soccer have made a similar decision regarding soccer activities under their purview.  They asked the state associations to assess the risks and benefits of postponement, suspension and/or cancellation of upcoming events and New Hampshire Soccer – along with many other state associations – has taken this guidance, as well as information from public health and medical professionals at the federal, state and local levels with the highest level of concern.  Our decision to suspend soccer-related activities and promote social distancing was not made lightly.  But, in the interest of making the health and safety of the entire soccer community, in addition to all others statewide, paramount, we know this is the right step to take.  

New Hampshire Soccer will evaluate conditions on a continuing basis to determine when it is appropriate to reinstate our affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities.  Further communications will be provided via email and on our website.  

US Soccer has suspended all Coaching Education Courses and Referee Courses until after April 30th. We are currently trying to work on a solution to offer a portion of these courses on line. Look for communications from our Director of Coaching and State Referee Administrator.

Additionally, here are a number of different resources and communications from the CDC and other organizations regarding the Coronavirus:  

We cannot emphasize enough that New Hampshire Soccer’s primary commitment at all times is the health and safety of all members, players, coaches, referees, parents, spectators and volunteers.

Proper Health Habits:

In the meantime, while we all help protect ourselves is it important to reinforce health safety and best practices for illness prevention, please read the list below:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth prior to proper washing or disinfecting.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a face mask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including Coronavirus.
  • CDC recommended face masks should be used by people who show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Thank you for your understanding.

-New Hampshire Soccer Association

NEW HAMPSHIRE SOCCER NEWS RELEASE: COVID-19

To:  All members and affiliates

From:  Rusty Wightman, President

CC:  Board of Directors and Staff

RE: Coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) Advisory Memo

As new developments arise each day, I want to insure all understand that first and foremost, the safety of our players, coaches, referees and fans is our primary responsibility. The NHSA and US Soccer are monitoring the situation and seeking advice and recommendations from all resources available including local, state and federal agencies.

Based on the current information and facts, it is recommended that everyone be familiar with the best practices and protocols set forth by the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Several events across the country have been canceled or postponed, however we feel at this time, all soccer in the granite state can go on as scheduled. With that said, please be respectful of individual or organizational decisions. Please be mindful of the facilities and venues we play in, especially schools and decisions they need to make regarding usage. If you are traveling out of state, please be aware of the situation at your destination and follow traveling recommendations ( CDC link below)

US Soccer has put forth the following information:

Best Practices for Health
There is currently no vaccine to prevent the Coronavirus. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed. Everyday preventive actions should be taken:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
  • Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including Coronavirus.
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Additionally, here are a number of different resources and communications from the CDC regarding the Coronavirus:

If the NHSA can assist or help guide your organization through this period, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and support, together we will get through this !

Sincerely,

Rusty Wightman

President, New Hampshire Soccer Association

New Hampshire Soccer Association renews GotSoccer partnership for another 5 years

New Hampshire Soccer Association renews GotSoccer partnership for another 5 years


New Hampshire Soccer Association has strengthened their relationship with GotSoccer, signing a new five year contract and moving the registration and State Cup tournament to the GotSport platform.

“NHSA has had a great partnership with GotSoccer for 10 years,” said State Administrator Ann Fichera.  “Over those years we have been so happy with the progress GotSoccer has made to continue investing in their software, provide support, education and overall changes that are needed.”We are excited to be moving forward with our partnership with GotSoccer and be able to offer our Member clubs and facilities the opportunity  to use the new GotSport program,” Fichera added. 

An excited GotSoccer CEO Gavin Owen-Thomas was delighted with the contract  renewal. “Since we launched GotSoccer we’ve had an amazing 98% client retention rate and for NHSA to put their trust in us for 5 more years makes me very proud.

“This agreement furthers our goal to partner with all state soccer associations in providing the best and most advanced analytics and sports management system on the market to benefit all players.”NHSA members will have the benefit of GotSport’s:Simplified tools to manage all their roles and duties from within a single accountMobile responsive system to easily perform all their tasks whenever, wherever Simple and secure paymentsand so much more!For more information CLICK HERE.

To arrange a demonstration contact Dave Buchanan, GotSport’s head of state management software at (203) 752-7324. 

Since 2003, GotSoccer has an amazing 98% Client Retention Rate.
29 USYS State Associations now utilize Gotsport’s registration platform, and 36 use GotSoccer for their State Cup!

US Youth Soccer’s Pro Soccer Player Appearance Request is Now Live!

FRISCO, Texas (September 18, 2019)– US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in America and the leader in youth soccer, in July of this year announced an exclusive partnership with the National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA). The partnership is aimed at developing programs focused on growing the game of soccer and increasing awareness of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and its players while cultivating the personal development of participating NWSL players. Through this exclusive partnership, US Youth Soccer became the recognized “Official Player and Personal Development Partner of the NWSLPA.”

This first element of this partnership, creating opportunities to further connect professional female soccer players with the various communities in which they were raised, live and compete, is now live! Through networking opportunities, clinics, camps, and speaking engagements, participating players from the NWSLPA will continue serving as positive role models within their communities as they encourage younger players.

To learn more, and to request a professional player appearance, please visit the USYS Player Appearance website and submit a request!

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About US Youth Soccer: US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to make soccer the preeminent youth sport in the country. US Youth Soccer registers 3 million players annually, ages 5 to 19. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 55 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and nearly 1 million administrators, coaches and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer provides a path for every player, offering programs that provide a fun, safe and healthy environment for players at every level of the game.

For more information on US Youth Soccer and its programs, visit www.USYouthSoccer.org. Connect with US Youth Soccer on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

About the NWSLPA: The NWSLPA serves as the primary voice and advocate of the NWSL players, aiming to foster the most positive career experience and professional environment for our members while championing the continued growth of the league and women’s game. The organization serves as a communication pathway among players, clubs, and the league leadership in order to maximize the quality and professionalism of working conditions, with player longevity in mind. The NWSLPA also supports the careers of players off the field by helping to secure opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and building their personal brands. For more information on the NWSLPA, visit nwslplayers.com, @nwslplayers (Instagram and Twitter), or email nwslplayers@gmail.com.

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NH Referees attend Advanced Training from National Referee Staff

US Soccer Director of Referee Development: Rick Eddy

August 10-11 (Derry, NH) – As is typical for the New Hampshire US Soccer referee community, the second weekend of August serves as the annual advanced referee training (A.R.T.). Each year, the State Referee Committee (S.R.C.) plays host to a National Referee Coach from US Soccer who spends the weekend working with referees on a variety of topics including, but not limited to:

  • Changes to the US Soccer Referee Program:
    • New Referee Grade System
    • “What is a Grassroots Referee?”
    • Registration & Recertification Changes
  • Understanding changes to the Laws of the Game (LoTG)
  • Review updated LoTG interpretations
  • The Role of the Referee, Referee Mentor, Referee Coach, and the SRC.

This year, referees were lucky to have Rick Eddy, Director of Referee Development for US Soccer, be the lead instructor. Rick is a New Englander at heart, even though he currently resides in Chicago working for US Soccer. Rick spent two days working with our referees and the State Referee Program. New Hampshire is lucky to have such a great resource who understands the New England soccer enviornment and can assist referees naviagate the ever changing waters.

Saturday:
Saturday begins with the Regional Referee Fitness test for referees who currently hold (or seeking upgrade to) the “Regional” Referee distinction. This test is two parts which include the “Sprint” Test and the “Interval” Test.

The Sprint Test is a series of sprints in which the referee has 7 opportunities to complete six (6) 40 meter sprints in no more than 6.4 seconds. If a referee does not complete this test, they do not get to advance to the Interval Test.

The Interval Test is a series of intervals in which the referee must complete 40 intervals that include a 75 meter run and a 25 meter walk. The 75 meter run must be completed in 17 seconds and the 25 meter walk must be completed in 20 seconds. Referees will complete a series of 40 intervals at this pace. Referees are only allowed 1 missed interval before failing the Interval Test.

After the Regional Referee Fitness Test, those referees will join the grassroots referees for a classroom session which spans from 9AM to 4PM.

During this session, referees receive instruction on the latest changes to the LoTG as well as changes to interpretations of current Laws. This year, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has made many changes to the LoTG. Referees were able to get clearity on all of these changes and ask supporting questions to ensure full and total comprehension.

After lunch, referees were able to take part in Video Clip analysis. Referees used the FIFA Considerations to come to conclusions baised on current LoTG and interpretations. This is always good for referees to not only see how the LoTG are supposed to be interpreted but also ask questions baised on their own experiences.

Sunday:
Current and future Referee Mentors & Coaches returned to work with Rick again as well as Professional Referee Organization’s (PRO) Erich Simmons who is currently a Development Group Referee Coach for referees in the country’s highest levels of soccer. This second day of training focuses on the “Role of the Referee Mentor & Coach” as well as instructional practices that will have the greatest impact with officials.

The Referee Mentors & Coaches collaberated on preparing video analysis training by using FIFA’s “Sequence for a Presentation of a Video”. Referee mentor, Cullen Madden, said “This training really helps us, as mentors, to see the many different ways that utilization of video/technology can benefit an official as well as their peers when used properly.”

The training provided all in attendance the opportunity to not only see best practicies but demonstrate what they learned as well.

A big thank you goes out to US Soccer’s Director of Referee Development, Rick Eddy. This weekend of training will serve the referees in New Hampshire well and allow many to pass the torch of knowledge to other referees across the State of New Hampshire.

A thank you also goes to Erich Simmons for taking the time to Coach our Referee Coaches and Mentors.

Rick Eddy: Director of Referee Development (US Soccer)
Erich Simmons: Development Group Referee Coach (PRO)

US Youth Soccer Becomes the Official Player and Personal Development Partner of the National Women’s Soccer League Players Association

FRISCO, Texas (July 27, 2019) – US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in America and the leader in youth soccer, is proud to announce an exclusive partnership with the National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA). The partnership is aimed at developing programs focused on growing the game of soccer and increasing awareness of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and its players while cultivating the personal development of participating NWSL players.  Through this exclusive partnership, US Youth Soccer will be recognized as the “Official Player and Personal Development Partner of the NWSLPA.”

This first-of-its-kind relationship between a youth and professional soccer organization will create opportunities to further connect professional female soccer players with the various communities in which they were raised, live and compete. Through networking opportunities, clinics, camps, and speaking engagements, participating players from the NWSLPA will continue serving as positive role models within their communities as they encourage younger players.

“Partnering with US Youth Soccer and its 55 Member State Associations is a game changer for the NWSLPA and its players,” said Brooke Elby, President of the NWSLPA. “State Associations are uniquely positioned to provide our players with additional opportunities to develop community-based networks that will focus on the individual’s personal development on and off of the field.”

Given that a large majority of American players in the NWSL are alumnae of US Youth Soccer and grew up playing in one or more of US Youth Soccer’s competitive programs, they are uniquely familiar with the challenges and opportunities many young players face.

“US Youth Soccer could not be more excited about this partnership as we, in concert with our organization members, continue to lead the way in growing the game and providing the path for every player,” said Chris Moore, CEO of US Youth Soccer.  “To be able to not only expose our youth participants to these amazing professional players, but to also assist these powerful women in further developing skills that will aid in their eventual transition from players to community leaders, is an accomplishment of which we are truly proud.”

BY THE NUMBERS: LEAGUES PROGRAM TEAMS AT 2019 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES FINALS

For more information on the US Youth Soccer National League and the 13 US Youth Soccer Conferences, click here.

What is TOPSoccer?

US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with disabilities, organized by youth soccer association volunteers. The program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl, who has a mental or physical disability. Our goal is to enable the thousands of young athletes with disabilities to become valued and successful members of the US Youth Soccer family.

What is TOPSoccer?
TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with special needs.  It provides a very affordable opportunity for fitness, fun and building self-esteem.

  • Modifications are made to the game to allow full participation and enjoyment to each child.

  • One-on-one assistance is available to those who need it.

  • It offers a recreational, leisure approach to the game of soccer for children with special needs.

Why do we need a TOPSoccer Program?
TOPSoccer was formed to perpetuate the US Youth Soccer mission statement which is, in part, “to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America’s youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition.” There are thousands of children with disabilities who need, and can be provided with, the opportunity to play soccer through the TOPSoccer program.

Athletes:
A TOPSoccer player is defined as any youth player between the ages of 4 and 19 who has a disability that limits their ability to perform at the level of play in which they have chosen to participate.

Mission:
TOPSoccer was formed to perpetuate the US Youth Soccer mission statement, which is, to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition.

Our goal is to enable the thousands of young athletes with disabilities to develop their physical fitness, technical skills, courage and self-esteem, through the joy and excitement of playing soccer.

Facts:

Listed below are some amazing facts on the prevalence of disabilities within our society.  These facts are the latest available from the 1990 Census conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

  • There are 48.9 million people with disabilities.  7 million have mental disabilities

  • 50,000 children a year become disabled through accidents.

  • 150,000 babies are born each year with a birth defect.

Volunteers | How Can I Help?
The TOPSoccer program would not exist without the countless hours donated by dedicated volunteers across the country.  Yet, we need more volunteers to help make this a reality for these children.  If you believe in the statement “the gift of life is the gift of giving,” you are on the right track to becoming a volunteer.

More Information:

For information on local TOPSoccer programs, resources, registration and how to set up a TOPSoccer program, please contact our TOPSoccer Coordinators Tamara Morris and Ara Tamzarian.

Rally Your Team – Lancaster 2019

July 10-14, 2019 – Lancaster

2019 Adult Soccer Fest

Lancaster, Massachusetts