Competitive

Competitive2023-03-08T12:53:44-08:00

RAGE Tryout Information

For tryout information, please contact the Age Group Coordinator (AGC) for your player’s respective birth year:

Pleasanton RAGE Competitive Program

RAGE offers Competitive Soccer for players whose dedication, desire, ability, and passion for the game catapult them toward developing their soccer to the highest level possible.

Our top teams in the  U13-U19 age groups compete in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), the most competitive platform in the country.   They travel to affiliated ECNL events from 1-3 times a year, based on age group. These events are often out of state. Many of our older teams compete in the NorCal Premier League (NPL) and teams throughout our club participate in NorCal State Cup.

Our U13-U19  ECRL-Regional League teams often compete in the NPL (based on qualification) as well as various ECNL-RL events and showcases, regionally and nationally. Our Orange and Grey teams compete in various NorCal divisions, ranging from Regional leagues to State Premier and the NPL in some cases. They also attend various tournaments, primarily in state, but occasionally out of state.

RAGE Competitive Information

By levels and ages:

Comp Top Tier:  ECNL (U13-U19) / Pre-ECNL (U11-U12) / Elite (U8-U10)
Comp Second Tier:  ECNL-RL (U13-U19) / Premier (U8-U12)
Comp Third & Fourth Tiers:  Orange and Grey (U8-U19)

For all age groups, RAGE continues to emphasize and develop a love of the game, as well as the development of skills needed to compete more successfully at the older ages. These players are those who have been identified as having drive to develop into more advanced competitive players,  many of whom choose the path to collegiate play. This division represents the highest level of commitment by both players and parents.

THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE RAGE SOCCER CLUB endorsed by USSF

Our younger ages represent the most influential period in forming a sound fundamental base and a love of the game.

Continue to make training fun while at the same time keeping it consistently challenging and competitive.

Playing to win games becomes increasingly important but should never be at the expense of playing well.

Avoid the temptation to have your players BOOT the ball long and far in the hopes that one of your fast forwards can win a foot race to create a breakaway. A ball that is aimlessly kicked forward into a sea of opponents with the idea of gaining a territorial advantage is, at best, hopeful soccer. The style of playing incessant “direct” soccer, when a team always plays the ball forward regardless of whether or not it is appropriate to do so in that situation, does not develop players. Moreover, that approach has consistently been proven ineffective at the higher level of the game.

The “direct” approach should also be discouraged because it replaces skillful and creative play with an environment in which aggression and size becomes disproportionately important. While we want to encourage players to be “direct” by going to goal when the opportunity presents itself, there is a huge difference between being constructively direct as opposed to whacking the ball forward all the time.

Playing well means playing intelligent, patient, controlled game in which skill, mobility, and precision are emphasized and applied at speed. A precise pass to a well-timed purposeful run that culminates in a shot on goal is one of the most exciting actions in any sport.

Only if we teach and give our young players the freedom to make choices during the run of play will they be able to fulfill their potential.

– Rage Technical Staff

Pleasanton RAGE Codes of Conduct

All Club Membership and Guests

Youth sports provide an opportunity for players to develop technical, physical, tactical, and social skills.  Pleasanton RAGE supports the tenants of the Positive Coaching Alliance program to help ensure that soccer can be enjoyed in a safe and positive environment.

RAGE members take full responsibility for their words and behavior and understand that disciplinary action that may be taken as a possible consequence of misconduct.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT     PLAYER CODE OF CONDUCT       VOLUNTEER COACH CODE OF CONDUCT      DISCIPLINARY STEPS

RAGE Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct

  1. I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players (on both teams), coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or other sporting events.
  2. I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; using profane language or gestures; or using offensive, insulting or abusive language. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and wellbeing of the athletes. I will not verbally address a player on an opposing team except to complement their play.
  3. I will be supportive of my child, unconditionally – this promotes the development of the player.
  4. I will emphasize that the game is played for the benefit of the youth, not adults.
  5. I will let the coach guide, direct, and coach my child and the other players without any interference or coaching from me on the sidelines.
  6. During a match, I will remain outside the field of play within the spectator area, unless called onto the field by the referee.
  7. I will learn and understand the laws of the game. Knowing the rules of the game will help with development and will help to minimize disagreements.
  8. I will teach my child to play within the spirit/intentions of the rules and the Laws of the Game.
  9. I will refrain from criticizing the game officials and will respect their authority and decisions during games. I will not ridicule or yell at my child or other participants for making a mistake or losing a competition.
  10. I will never place the value of winning over the safety and welfare of the players.
  11. I will demand a sports environment free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will refrain from their use at all RAGE sporting events or in the immediate vicinity of RAGE matches.
  12. I will be consistent, prompt, and respectful in my communication with coaches and ensure that I understand the coach’s expectations for me, my child, and the team.
  13. I will ensure that my child arrives at training, practices, and games on-time and fully equipped per the coach’s expectations.
  14. I will ensure that I am on-time to retrieve my child from practices and games.
  15. I will respect the 24-hour rule and not discuss playing time/game issues with the coach until the following day.
  16. I will remember that as a member of RAGE, I represent the Club. I understand poor behavior during practices, games, or tournaments may result in expulsion from the soccer activity. If this happens repeatedly, it will result in expulsion from RAGE for my family.
  17. I will keep my financial account with the club current and in good standing.
  18. I will adhere to the guidance of the Positive Coaching Alliance, including the following behavior:
  • Acknowledge and applaud the genuine effort and good play as well as success
  • Affirm players not just for athletic performance or victory, but whenever good character, healthy sportsmanship, and unselfish behavior are displayed
  • Avoid criticizing a player for making a mistake – mistakes are part of learning
  • Encourage your player to honor the opponent and to show respect for the referees – without people in these roles, there is no game
  • Teach your player the importance of keeping winning and losing in perspective – game outcomes are part of but should never wholly define the overall experience
  • Avoid analyzing your player’s performance following each game – instead, let them know you enjoyed watching them play
  • Encourage your player to work directly with the coach to resolve issues, thereby helping her develop a strong sense of self-advocacy
  1. Remember that youth players participate primarily for the fun of the experience

Acknowledgment

I agree to the following terms:

  1. I agree to abide by the RAGE Parent Code of Conduct outlined in this document.
  2. I acknowledge that RAGE may take disciplinary action against me if I breach the Parent Code of Conduct.
  3. I acknowledge that disciplinary action against me may include suspension of myself from attending RAGE practices, games, and activities, and repeated offenses may result in my players being de-registered from the RAGE.

I acknowledge and accept the above articles and policies as written and will do my best to abide by them.

RAGE Player Code of Conduct

  1. Player will demonstrate positive sportsmanship on and off of the field. This includes exercising positive self-control, graciously accepting the outcome games, and treating all players, coaches, officials, and fans with courtesy and respect.
  2. Player will demonstrate respect for all players and coaches in behavior and language. Profanity will not be tolerated.
  3. Player will demonstrate respect for officials, in part by accepting their decisions. Insulting comments, arguing, gestures, and profanity directed at officials will not be tolerated.
  4. Player will positively represent RAGE on and off the field, at home and away, and during all club sanctioned events and activities.
  5. Player, in coordination with parents, are responsible for timely notification of absences from games, practices, and training to the coach and/or manager of the team as determined by the team.
  6. Violence and abuse of any nature will not be tolerated.
  7. Player are prohibited from the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and tobacco products while a member of RAGE.
  8. Player will understand and respect the rules of the game as appropriate for the age group of the team.
  9. Player will give 100% at practices and games. Player will make every effort to attend all practices, games, and team/club events which ensures a solid team foundation.
  10. Players are expected to be present at the playing field at the designated time for all games and all pre/post-game activities. Players shall be dressed appropriately and, when in team uniform, shall have clean jerseys tucked into shorts with shin guards and cleats on and ready.
  11. Players will respect the 24-hour rule and not discuss playing time/game issues with the coach until the following day.
  12. When traveling with RAGE, player shall respect, listen, and follow directions given by the coaches, team managers, and chaperones. Players will also attend all team games and activities while on travel with the team.
  13. When traveling with RAGE, player is expected to dress appropriately as befits representing RAGE or as directed by their coach and/or Director (RAGE attire; typically, RAGE training gear assigned by coach, manager, or chaperone.)

Acknowledgment

I agree to the following terms:

  1. I agree to abide by the RAGE Player Code of Conduct outlined in this document.
  2. I acknowledge that RAGE may take disciplinary action against me if I breach the Player Code of Conduct.
  3. I acknowledge that disciplinary action against me may include suspension of playing privileges and deregistration from RAGE.

Volunteer Coach Code of Conduct

This code of conduct has been developed to clarify and distinguish approved and accepted professional, ethical, and moral behavior from that which is detrimental to a positive experience.  Coaches are expected to be positive role models who project the spirit of the sport on and off the field.  As a RAGE Recreational Coach, I understand that I am expected to hold myself and my team to the high standards set forth by the Pleasanton RAGE Soccer Club. While representing RAGE, I must abide by the following expectations and requirements:

  1. I will prioritize the health and safety of all players and maintain an environment that supports this priority both on and off the field.
  2. I will demonstrate positive support, dignity, and respect for all players, parents, coaches, and officials at every game, practice, and other RAGE events. This includes players, parents, and coaches from the opposing team.
  3. I will be a positive role model whenever I am around players and parents. I will exercise professional decorum and conduct at all practices and games, meetings, and other team functions. 
  4. I will exemplify honesty, integrity, fair-play, and sportsmanship at all times regardless of the impact that might have upon the outcome of the competition.
  5. I will refrain from the use of profanity, abusive, offensive, or insulting language, gestures or actions, racially insensitive remarks, or any other conduct that reflects poorly on me or the Pleasanton RAGE Soccer Club, on and off of the field.
  6. I will not discriminate against players based upon race, nationality, religion, or sexual orientation.
  7. I will avoid any conduct that could be construed as harassment or physically, verbally, or sexually abusive.
  8. I will teach my players to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials, and opponents.
  9. I will not verbally address a player on an opposing team, except to compliment their play.
  10. I will always show respect for all of the match officials and honor their decisions.
  11. I will be reasonable in my demands on players’ time, energy, enthusiasm, and performance on the soccer field.
  12. I will provide a sports environment for my team that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol.
  13. I understand that as a coach, I am responsible for not only my own behavior but also the behavior of my team members, their parents, and fans at RAGE games. I must discourage/discipline any of these members or spectators from prohibited behaviors outlined in our respective codes of conduct.
  14. I will ensure that my players’ experience in practices and games is one of fun and enjoyment and improvement in skill. I understand that the top reason kids play sports is to have fun.
  15. I will give each team member a fair and honest chance to play, which includes a minimum of 50% of game minutes for each recreational player.

Acknowledgment

I agree to the following terms:

  1. I agree to abide by the RAGE Volunteer Coach Code of Conduct outlined in this document.
  2. I acknowledge that RAGE may take disciplinary action against me if I breach the RAGE Volunteer Coach Code of Conduct.
  3. I acknowledge that disciplinary action against me may include suspension from practices, games, and other team or club activities. Disciplinary action is determined by the RAGE Recreational Director and/or Director of Coaching.

Disciplinary Steps for Parent/Guardian and Player Codes of Conduct Violations

Failure of a RAGE club member to meet the RAGE Code of Conduct Requirements described above may result in one or more of the following steps:

DISCIPLINARY STEP POTENTIAL ACTION
1.   Verbal Warning by a club official or team PCA representative A RAGE club member may be required to leave a match venue
2.   Written Warning from a club official A RAGE club member may be suspended and/or required to meet with club officials and/or board members
3.   Disciplinary Hearing with a Disciplinary Committee comprised of at least three members of the RAGE Board of Directors as selected by the RAGE club President A RAGE club member may be suspended or required to leave the club permanently along with any dependents
Under extreme circumstances, the Director of Coaching or any Executive Committee member may at her/his discretion temporarily suspend any club member (and their dependent(s) if deemed necessary) from the attendance of RAGE practices and/or games without prior warning.  In this case, a Disciplinary Hearing will take place within one week of the suspension.

Disciplinary Action Appeal

Any disciplinary actions listed above may be appealed.  Suspensions will remain in place during the appeal process.

The initial appeal will be made at an in-person meeting with a Disciplinary Committee of at least five members of the RAGE Board of Directors who were not involved in the Disciplinary Action.

If further appeal is desired after the Disciplinary Committee comes to a decision, the matter can be brought before the full Board of Directors who will determine the final, binding outcome of the appeal.

Procedural specifics of each of these appeal levels will be provided as necessary and are available to any RAGE member upon request.

Our Mission: Pleasanton RAGE is an all-girls soccer club that empowers its players to reach their full potential through soccer, service, and leadership programming for all ages and abilities.

Our Vision: Pleasanton RAGE is committed to providing the most exceptional all-girls soccer experience in the country, recognized for developing valued skills in its players, on and off the field.

Respect
Attitude
Greatness
Expectations

Parents are vital to our organization. Support your child, your coach, and the referees. Encourage your child to respect the referees and coach.
Parents should:

  • Not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.
  • Remember children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment.
  • Teach your child always to play by the rules.
  • Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than a victory.
  • Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Your child will then be a winner even in defeat.
  • Do not ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or for losing a game.
  • Set a good example. Children learn best by example.
  • Applaud good plays by your team and by member of the opposing team.
  • Do not publicly question referee judgment and never their honesty.
  • Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches, referees and officials and give them their due respect.
  • Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sporting activities.

Please contact your respective Age Group Coordinator for more information about the tryout timeline and process.  Their contact information can be found here:https://pleasantonrage.org/programs/competitive/competitive-coaches/

  1. Trust the process!  Coaches are communicating with your daughters regarding areas in which they are excelling, areas in which they need to improve, and their expectations. Improvements do not happen overnight and immediate results for an individual player or team are not realistic.  This process and the work needed to improve over time is what makes it that much sweeter in the end. Playing time is directly linked to this process.
  2. If you feel the need to communicate with the coaching staff regarding these concerns, DO NOT do so in any capacity (verbal or written) until 24 hours have elapsed between ALL weekend games.  This includes simply requesting a meeting.  So, if you have games on Saturday and Sunday, the earliest a coach should receive this communication is 24 hours AFTER the completion of the Sunday game.  Also, in the rare instances in which you only have a Saturday game, we kindly request that you hold off on this type of communication until Monday morning so that our coaches can enjoy their Sundays with their family and without these difficult issues being a distraction from enjoying these rare free Sundays.  This rule is in place to protect our parents AND coaches, as emotions are naturally higher within this window, and any communication on these matters at this time could trigger unnecessary escalation. Coaches will not entertain communication in any capacity unless received after the communicated window.
  3. While coaches are already in direct communication with players regarding the factors impacting their playing time, players should address any questions or concerns regarding playing time directly with the coach first. If as a parent you feel that it is necessary to discuss these issues with the coach as well, these discussions must take place in person and with the PLAYER also present.  This way the communication chain between all 3 parties is very clear and chances of misunderstandings eliminated.  Part of our responsibility in this development process is to prepare players for the next level (College, Regional and National teams, etc.), where players must be able to talk directly with coaches about these issues, given that parents will not be allowed to be a part of these conversations at these levels.
  4. Conversations MUST happen with the coach before the Age Group Coordinator is involved.  If players and parents have met with the coach and these soccer-related issues are unable to be resolved at that level first, at that time only will the Age Group Coordinator become involved in these conversations. Similarly, the DOC is only to become involved after this process has taken place with the Age Group Coordinator if needed.

Thank you for your understanding and assistance in making this a great season and overall experience!

Our technical and coaching staff has prepared a tournament plan for each team that was distributed to all families during the team formation/placement period.  This also includes information regarding associated club and team fees.  Please let your team Manager, Coach or Club Representative know if you need to be resent this team information sheet.
If you would like details regarding your daughter’s individual development in addition to our bi-annual formal player/parent evaluation meetings, please contact your coach.  We are happy to share additional information and details throughout the year.

Below is the RAGE Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct signed by all at registration:

  1. I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players (on both teams), coaches, officials, and spectators at every game, practice, or other sporting events.
  2. I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; using profane language or gestures; or using offensive, insulting or abusive language. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the athletes. I will not verbally address a player on an opposing team except to complement their play.
  3. I will be supportive of my child, unconditionally – this promotes the development of the player.
  4. I will emphasize that the game is played for the benefit of the youth, not adults.
  5. I will let the coach guide, direct, and coach my child and the other players without any interference or coaching from me on the sidelines.
  6. During a match, I will remain outside the field of play within the spectator area, unless called onto the field by the referee.
  7. I will learn and understand the Laws of the Knowing the rules of the game will help with development and will help to minimize disagreements.
  8. I will teach my child to play within the spirit/intentions of the rules and the Laws of the Game.
  9. I will refrain from criticizing the game officials and will respect their authority and decisions during I will not ridicule or yell at my child or another participant for making a mistake or losing a competition.
  10. I will never place the value of winning over the safety and welfare of the players.
  11. I will demand a sports environment free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will refrain from their use at all RAGE sporting events or in the immediate vicinity of RAGE matches.
  12. I will be consistent, prompt, and respectful in my communication with coaches and ensure that I understand the coach’s expectations for me, my child, and the team.
  13. I will ensure that my child arrives at training, practices, and games on time and fully equipped per the coach’s expectations.
  14. I will ensure that I am on time to retrieve my child from practices and games.
  15. I will respect the 24-hour rule and not discuss playing time/game issues with the coach until the following day.
  16. I will remember that as a member of RAGE, I represent the I understand poor behavior during practices, games, or tournaments may result in expulsion from the soccer activity. If this happens repeatedly, it will result in expulsion from RAGE for my family.
  17. I will keep my financial account with the Club current and in good standing.
  18. I will adhere to the guidance of the Positive Coaching Alliance, including the following behavior:
    ·   Acknowledge and applaud the genuine effort and good play as well as success·   Affirm players, not just for athletic performance or victory, but whenever good character, healthy sportsmanship, and unselfish behavior are displayed·   Avoid criticizing a player for making a mistake – mistakes are part of learning·   Encourage your player to honor the opponent and to show respect for the referees – without people in these roles, there is no game
  • Teach your player the importance of keeping winning and losing in perspective – game outcomes are part of, but should never wholly define, the overall experience
  • Avoid analyzing your player’s performance following each game – instead, let them know you enjoyed watching them play
  • Encourage your player to work directly with the coach to resolve issues, thereby helping her develop a strong sense of self-advocacy

19. Remember that youth players participate primarily for the fun of the experience.

Your opinion and feedback is extremely important to us, both positive and constructive, to assist us in our pursuit of excellence and continuous improvement. We strongly encourage you to reach out to your Coach, Age Group Coordinator, DOC, and/or other Club representatives. We also offer a feedback form and ask that you participate in surveys sent out by the club throughout the year. If you have an issue, know that we are driven to find solutions to any of your concerns.  In being able to do so efficiently, it is best that you include your name and contact information to maximize our ability to best address your feedback. Unless you specify otherwise, all feedback is kept confidential. That said, we do provide the opportunity for you to remain anonymous if you choose to do so.  We’re thankful for any feedback you can provide to help ensure an exceptional experience for our entire membership.

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