Dear Soccer Families,
This policy manual is to assist the parents and players in understanding the goals, expectations,
policies and procedures of Clackamas United Classic. For the purposes of this handbook,
Clackamas United Soccer Club Classic will be referred to as CUSC Classic. Please review the
information carefully and thoroughly.
Clackamas United Soccer Club is a non-profit, volunteer soccer club dedicated to providing a
recreational platform, developmental opportunities and classic level soccer program for the
youth of the Clackamas and Happy Valley area. CUSC is the recognized feeder program for
Clackamas High School and the only local soccer club with priority access to NC Park and Rec
fields and North Clackamas School district fields. CUSC is a member of the Oregon Youth
Soccer Association for competitive soccer.
The club’s philosophy is to provide a tiered set of play that aligns with the interest and capability
level of soccer players of all ages and skill sets. The following document addresses the classic
program specifically but our commitment to the classic program is two-fold as it is intended to
support our goals for the recreational program. We believe that soccer can be a life-long game
and by dimensionalizing our programs we can encourage a continuance of play at all skill levels
and grow the game in our community.
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The recreational program for the younger ages (micros and minis) is a platform for
teaching game enjoyment and soccer fundamentals.
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At mid-range, U8–U10 developmental opportunities are created to allow for greater
enjoyment and competition for those interested. This is done via programs offered by the
club and the OYSA. These developmental programs are accessible but not mandatory
and introduce competition so that families and players can identify a path that aligns
with their interest and commitment level.
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At the older age range, U11–U14 classic soccer is available. We believe bringing a
competitive arm to the club helps purify the recreational league offering more distinct
levels of play to maintain fairness and balance within the recreational league.
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This system is intended to encourage players at all levels to play soccer as long as they
would like at the level appropriate for their skill and commitment to the game without
feeling pressure or discouragement.
We value the trust and continuity that comes with community-based athletics and we are
committed to this program and its future.
Sincerely,
CUSC
Board of Directors
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WELCOME
Welcome to CUSC Competitive Soccer! We are excited that you’ve chosen to have your
daughter or son participate in what we hope will be one of the most exciting memories of their
youth. We know what a big sacrifice and commitment this is for your child and family. We
believe the rewards to be great and the benefits of this experience will reach far beyond the
short time we have work with your children. Our club is working hard to provide a quality soccer
program for the more focused soccer athlete in our area. This is being accomplished by
providing a positive, fun, and quality training environment with coaches that are committed to
our community and your children. It is critical to ensure that the intent for participation is within
the heart of the child. We encourage you to have open dialogue as a family and with your child
about the time and financial commitment that is being made and their feelings and goals
surrounding the decision to play classic soccer.
CLACKAMAS UNITED PHILOSOPHY
Clackamas United is a non-profit organization, committed to providing the Clackamas and
Happy Valley area an affordable, accessible, and integrated soccer experience. CUSC is an
organization that aims to recognize and respond to the needs of the community and to the
needs of the athlete. CUSC is committed to providing a positive training and playing
environment with qualified and certified coaches. Our primary objective is to provide a
comprehensive soccer program while promoting the development of sportsmanship, character
and “the love of the game” to our players, parents, coaches, referees and fans.
MISSION STATEMENT
This mission statement is specific to CUSC Classic and Developmental Programs and should be
read by all players and parents who are involved in the CUSC Classic program. It is important
that all CUSC Classic members understand the club mission statement and adopt this as a
guideline for developing a positive atmosphere within the club. By adhering to this mission
statement we will enhance our own and each other's experiences through the game of soccer.
For our Players:
 We aim to create an experience that will allow them to reach their full potential and
achieve the self confidence and positive self-esteem necessary to be successful both on
and off the soccer field.
 We will emphasize teamwork but encourage individual development with the intent to
help each player find success and be personally challenged.
 We will respect the value of family time, appreciate participation in other sports or
activities and balance commitment to soccer with the needs of each individual child.
For our Coaches:
 We will provide training and direction to support skill fundamentals, game tactics and the
fostering of good sportsmanship.
 We will provide Premier level EQ and tools for training and coaching.
 We will provide direction and recommendations but encourage team decision making
so that coaches feel empowered.
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For our Community:
 We will offer a program that is affordable, accessible and keeps our families and athletes
working together long-term.
 We will work closely with North Clackamas Schools District, North Clackamas Park and
Recreation Department, and the Clackamas High School Athletic Director and
Coaching staff.
 We will work to maintain and improve fields and grow availability long term.
CUSC PROGRAMS
Fall/Summer/Spring Competitive Soccer Season
Our Program begins for U8 – U10 Developmental Players and U11 - U14 classic players with tryouts
during the first part of May and, if selected, will begin training shortly thereafter in preparation for
the fall season. Coaches will usually hold 2-3 90-minute practices per week. Our Spring program
begins practicing in February and our teams play in leagues beginning in March and ending in
April. Fees will include OYSA registration fees, Winter Academy fees, equipment fees and field
rental. If your team travels out of town you will have additional expenses, per diem, travel etc.
Futsal and Winter Academy Program
After the fall season teams and players can choose to participate in a variety of options. Winter
Academy begins in late November and continues through January. Winter Academy fees are
included in the cost for U9 and above Classic and Developmental teams. There are drop in fees
and registration fees for those not covered. Futsal leagues begin in mid November and
continue through February. Team registration, referee fees and players cards are additional cost
for Futsal and are the responsibility of each player/team. These programs are facilitated at the
coach level and CUSC encourages teams to work together to find an option that is flexible and
comfortable for the commitment of the players and families.
PLAYER EVALUATION & PLACEMENT
Tryouts
Evaluations will take place each year as outlined by US Club Soccer/OYSA. Players will
participate in the evaluation process to determine their soccer skill level each year. The tryouts
will generally consist of two different dates of 1.5 - 2 hours each. The team head coach will
determine the players to be selected for their respective team that is appropriate to their
present skill level. Every attempt will be made to place players on teams that best suit their level
of development. Placement is to benefit player development as well as team development. A
player’s skill level and soccer needs may change from year to year so a player’s position on a
team is not guaranteed from one year to the next. Upon completion of tryouts, each player will
be notified in a timely manner of their team placement.
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Team Formation
U-11 through U-14 boys and girls teams shall be formed based on a general tryout. Teams will be
formed under the rules governing US Club Soccer and shall roster no more than 18 players. Only
players legally registered with (OYSA) shall be allowed to participate in league play. We will
attempt to field at least one boys and one girls team per age group. If the evaluation team
decides that there are sufficient quality players to field a second or third team, then one will be
formed.
Playing Up
A player may play in an older age group under the following conditions unless by doing so OYSA
laws are violated. Players may play in an older age group if there is no classic team during the
season for the birth year of the player. A player may play in an older age group if that player has
tried out in the appropriate age group and was then selected by the respective team coaches
and head coach to play at a different level than determined by age bracket. If a player is
playing up it is recommended that they be considered by the coach as one of the top 8 players
before take the place of a player of that age group that would otherwise be cut.
Player Movement
Players may be requested to move from one team to another at any given time throughout the
season for a number of different reasons. A transfer will only occur with mutual agreement
between the CUSC Director of coaching (DOC) and the Head coach. A player will only be
moved if it is considered to be in the best interest of developing the player.
Playing Time Guidelines
 U8 - U-11 playing time will be a minimum of 50% of the season. This average is based over
the course of the season and not specific to 1 game, 2 games, a weekend tournament,
or specific period of time.
 U-12 through U-14 players will receive an average of 25% playing time. This average is
based over the course of the season and not specific to 1 game, 2 games, a weekend
tournament, or specific period of time.
 U-15 through U-19 players will not be assured of playing time. Playing time will be
determined by the coach relative to skill level, performance and effort.
 In general for all ages, playing time may also be affected by effort and discipline issues.
Tournaments and Team Level of Play
Teams will play in elective summer tournaments prior to their fall season. Most tournaments are
local but some teams may travel to out of state tournaments. For maximum player and team
development, coaches expect every available player to participate, but they understand that
because of family summertime activities this is not always possible. Fees incurred for elective
tournaments are paid for by participating team members. CUSC encourages teams to
participate in reciprocal tournaments. Each team works with their coach to determine which
tournaments are most appropriate for them. Out of town tournaments must be approved by the
CUSC DOC. For new teams tournament play and DOC recommendation determines your level
of play for the Fall season. For existing teams prior season performance is also considered.
 OYSA Levels: Premier/Division 1/Division 2
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COACHES PER DIEM (applies to non-parent coaches only)
Mileage — For Coaches and Assistant Coaches only.
Out of town travel, requiring travel greater than 35 miles one way should be reimbursed at the
rate of $.50 per mile. Coaches will only receive one round trip per day. CUSC will not be
responsible for airfare if necessary unless approved by the DOC.
Meals/Per Diem — For Coaches and Assistant Coaches only.
Meal per diem is included in team responsible costs when the team travels a distance that
requires those traveling to use a restaurant for two meals. A two-meal trip is a per diem of $20 for
the day. If a complete day of travel is required, a per diem of $30 per day and each subsequent
day is required.
Lodging — For Coaches and Assistant Coaches only.
Each team will be responsible for the coach’s and assistant coach’s lodging. Individual rooms for
each coach are expected unless otherwise agreed to prior to travel.
LEAGUE GAMES
There will be approximately 12 league games played on Saturday and Sunday in the Portland
Metro area and around the state beginning after Labor Day. Playing both days allows the
regular season to end in late October.
State Cup & Director’s Cup
At the end of league play, OYSA teams only may choose to participate in the OPL State Cup
Tournament and or the Directors Cup. The Directors Cup is for NON Premier teams only. The
Directors Cup is directly following the Fall season and the State Cup is played in the spring – April
and May.
The Parents Role
The adult/parent role in this stage of your child’s development continues to be critical. As your
child grows and develops during their younger years,3rd - 8th grades, the changes can be
dramatic. Players evolve physically and emotionally at this age and it is important as a parent to
accept the change and in a positive manner assist your child through the process. It could be
throughout this process they may move from various levels for example, they could be moved
from an "a" team to the "b" team, or possibly it will be recommended they return to their
recreational club. In most cases, the player cares far less what team they are on as much as
they care about playing, having fun, and being successful.
The most important thing to accomplish is maintaining the self-esteem of the child and showing
support for their efforts. We believe it to be critical to explore and try different sports and
activities. We have seen players burn out because they have focused and put too much
emphasis on just one sport. We wish for each child to enjoy and remember their youth soccer
moments and accomplishment as a wonderful time in their childhood.
As your child takes the first step into competitive sports, it will be necessary for you to enter into it
with an honest assessment of your child’s abilities. We encourage the coach/parent dialogue to
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show appreciation for player improvements from game to game and recognize the efforts
being made. Being a team-oriented and positive parent will teach your child skills that will
enable them to be successful beyond soccer . Our coaches are encouraged to reinforce this
behavior and educate parents on the game and share ideas on how to support the players
development.
Organization
CUSC is a member of the OYSA, governed by a Volunteer Board of Directors as follows:
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President
VP of Player Development
VP of Operations
VP of Community Development
Secretary
Treasurer
Registrar
Fields Coordinator
Equipment Coordinator
Uniform Coordinator
Classic Coordinator
Micros/Minis Coordinator
Traveling Teams Coordinator
Referee Coordinator
**The board meets monthly, generally on Sunday Evenings from 6:30pm to 9:00pm.
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PARENT AND PLAYER CODE OF CONDUCT
Players participating in activities offered by CUSC Classic are making a commitment to higher
level of play and conduct standards. These players must exhibit the maturity and show the
appropriate level of respect to other players, coaches and officials at all times.
General Guidelines:
 Players are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that is in keeping
with representing CUSC Classic.
 When traveling with CUSC, each player is expected to dress appropriately in the “team
uniform” representing CUSC Classic or as directed by the Coach and/or Manager.
 Respect for the property of others, adherence to the rules and guidelines as specified
here or by the Coach and/or Manager, and the observance of State and Federal laws
(as well as policies and procedures of the US Club Soccer and the OPL are required for
participation in this program. )
Discipline and Rules:
 Substance use and/or possession thereof (drugs, alcohol, and/or tobacco by minors) is
cause for immediate dismissal from the program.
 Persistent irresponsible and disrespectful behavior is cause for dismissal from the program.
 Destruction of property or violation of State and Federal laws and/or OPL policies and
procedures is cause for dismissal from the program.
 Failure to comply with any and all team rules (attendance, curfew, dress code,
schedules, etc.) may be cause for disciplinary action. Persistent failure will be cause for
dismissal from the program for the remainder of the current season and could affect a
player’s future participation.
Parent Responsibility:
Parents play a vital role in their child’s participation with CUSC Classic. Parents are normally the
most important role model for their child at this age and consequently, conduct of parents has a
significant influence on the emotional make-up of the child. CUSC Classic specifically recognizes
the following rules of conduct for parents:
 Assist in getting players to all practices and games on time and ready with appropriate
equipment. This involves arranging transportation and on-time pick-up.
 Offer your time and talent to help CUSC Classic as well as your child’s team with
necessary support tasks.
 Be a positive support for the coach.
 Exercise decorum appropriate to the “good of the game” while participating in club
and/or team activities. (No coaching from the sidelines and no disparaging comments
about the officiating.)
 Assist in seeing that the player Code of Conduct is followed.
 CUSC Classic stipulates that parents refrain from smoking or drinking on the sidelines.
CUSC Classic expects that participation of parents will enhance this sport for our youths.
 Parents must understand that lack of conduct in accordance with the foregoing will
result in loss of playing time, and possibly could result in termination of the player’s right to
participate. Additionally, there could be possible suspension of a parent’s ability to
attend games and practices.
 Players who are delinquent in their club fee payments will not be issued a uniform or
player card, thereby disallowing player participation in the soccer season. If expenses for
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tournaments are not paid by the tournament registration deadline, then the player will
not be able to participate in the tournament until these fees are paid in full.
Red–Yellow Cards
Any player receiving a yellow card resulting from the use of foul language or dissent may
receive a one game suspension pending review by the Board and the DOC. A Player receiving
a red card may receive a one game suspension pending a review by the Director of Coaching.
A second red card will result in a disciplinary hearing. These CUSC suspensions are in addition to
OPL penalties. Player’s conduct that does not conform to these rules may cause loss of playing
time or dismissal from the program with forfeiture of all fees paid.
Coaches Code of Conduct
The CUSC Classic coach will abide by the following rules of conduct established by the CUSC
Board of Directors:
 Maintain a positive attitude towards players and parents. Coach in a positive manner
that encourages all players regardless of their current skill level.
 Model and teach good sportsmanship to players and parents at practices and games.
Vulgar or foul language at practices or games, yelling at the referee, or demeaning
songs/chants are not appropriate.
 Promote an atmosphere that encourages individual player's self-esteem while fostering
team play.
 Provide a fun environment while instructing soccer fundamentals appropriate to the age
group.
 Be punctual to practices and games. Have the Medical Release Forms available at all
times. Carry a First Aid Kit.
 Coach will arrange for appropriate coverage at practices and games in his/her
absence.
 Coach will abide by all CUSC Rules and Policies.
 Use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco is not allowed.
 Coaches must wear CUSC club issued attire to all CUSC functions and games.
 Coaches receiving a red card will face a disciplinary hearing and are subject to a fine at
the discretion of the Board.
 Coach will plan for each training session to instruct those skills appropriate for the
respective age group. They will also coordinate this annual instruction plan with the head
coach to insure the necessary skills are being demonstrated and practiced.
In Summary of Code of Conduct:
Coaches, players, or parents who fail or refuse to follow CUSC by-laws and rules face suspension
or expulsion from the Club pending a review by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors
shall have the power to penalize any parent, player, or coach whose actions are detrimental to
the purpose of CUSC. Penalties may consist of written warnings and/or temporary or permanent
suspension from participating in activities of the Club. Players, parents and coaches shall face
suspension for verbal misconduct and or assault. Assault defined: An assault, for the sole purpose
of this specific rule, shall be defined as a threat to commit or an attempt to commit battery
upon a player, parent, coach or official. Physical or verbal abuse by any CUSC player, parent, or
coach towards another player, parent, coach, or soccer official is grounds for immediate and
permanent expulsion from the Club.
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POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Accident Medical and Liability Insurance Policy
All registered players, coaches, assistant coaches and team managers of participating youth
soccer teams are covered by the US Club Soccer insurance program if: their names are listed on
a soccer roster; they have paid an insurance premium; and names are on file at the State office.
Indoor Soccer is excluded from the Secondary Medical Insurance Policy.
Protests, Grievances and Misconduct Policy
In accordance with OYSA standards, CUSC shall provide fair, swift, and just hearings for all
protests, grievances, and misconduct allegations. Procedures for lodging a formal protest,
grievance or allegation of misconduct are outlined in the document CUSC bylaws.
Abuse Protection (Players and Coaches)
For the safety of both the players and coaches, the following guidelines have been established
to reduce the threat of abuse. Abuse is defined as emotional, physical, and sexual.
 The “two adult” rule shall be in effect at all times. At no time should a coach, parent,
and other participating adult (board member) be completely alone with a player,
outside his or her own child, without the presence of another adult.
 Any question of abuse will be immediately brought to the board and a decision will
be made to determine if local officials should be notified. Should an allegation be
made, the local law enforcement agency will be contacted immediately.
 During the investigation, the parent, coach, or player who is alleged to have caused
the abuse will no longer participate in CUSC functions or events.
 After the investigation has been completed, it will then be a board decision to
determine if the individual will be allowed to return to participation.
Delinquent Payments
Players who are delinquent in their club fee payments, and have not made arrangements with
the club's administrator by published due date, will not be issued a uniform or player card,
thereby disallowing player participation in the soccer season. Player cards can also be pulled
and league play jeopardized if payment plan due dates are not kept. If expenses for
tournaments are not paid by the start of the tournament, then the player may not be able to
participate in the tournament.
Refunds
Partial fee refunds are granted for unusual circumstances such as: injury, health, moving out of
district, or personal problems. Team placement dissatisfaction and inter-club transfer are not
considered unusual circumstances. If a refund is granted, the administrative and coaching
deductions may apply depending upon the timing of the request.
Scholarships
Players applying for scholarship need to fill out the CUSC scholarship application form and
submit it along with the required attachments to the CUSC board for review prior to the parents
meeting. Scholarships are granted on a case-by-case. Required attachments include; free and
reduced lunch approval form from school district.
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Equipment
Each player will purchase an official CUSC uniform kit consisting of a Warm up, 2 Tee shirts, 2
jerseys, 2 pair of shorts, and 2 pair of socks that becomes their uniform to keep. When items need
replacement, the player will bear the cost of replacement. The club will purchase a team
Goalkeeping Jersey but Goalkeepers are responsible to purchase their own gloves and any
additional GK jerseys they deem necessary. Players will also purchase official CUSC warm-ups
and bags. Any additional gear purchased will not be handed out until paid in full.
Game Forfeiture Policy
Any team that forfeits a game is subject to fines assessed by OYSA.
Field Usage
Due to the high usage of soccer fields, club maintenance of the fields and field equipment
(corner flags, nets, and field paint) is expensive and time consuming. As policy, the club has
adopted the following rules for field usage:
1. The fields used by CUSC are for the use of the club only, unless prior approval is given by
the field coordinator.
2. Scheduled games have priority over practice games or practice.
3. Practice times and locations must be set-up with the field coordinator unless it is clear
that the field is not set-up for a scheduled game or tournament and a scheduled
practice is not being conducted.
4. The last CUSC team playing on the CUSC field is responsible for taking down the nets
(except at CHS fields) and corner flags and storing in the storage box.
5. All CUSC players and families are expected to treat the fields with respect. Any willful
destruction of equipment or facilities will result in suspension and replacement cost for
the equipment/facilities damaged. Please leave the fields clean by picking up trash.
6. Coaches must use common sense when practicing on the fields. If the goal area is
getting worn you are expected to either move the goals to another location or conduct
practice outside the goal area.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Fundraising
There may be fundraisers organized by the Club where individual players and teams can earn
money, this decision is made annually and based on need. Additional fundraisers must be
approved by the CUSC Board of Directors and may be initiated by individual teams and money
earned from these fundraisers is retained by the team for their usage. Any general donations to
the club are given directly to the treasurer.
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