We have adopted the small-sided game approach for this age group which is recommended by US Youth Soccer. Small-sided games allow more opportunities to touch the ball and be involved in play. There are no Goalkeepers at the EDP U6 level in order to encourage all players on the field to stay involved and promote goal-scoring, which helps build player confidence. At this level, we continue to focus on individual skill development vs. wins and losses. EDP provides our players with the skills and experience needed to progress into our more competitive leagues in future seasons.
COVID Guidelines for Playing EDP Soccer:
Careful consideration and "practice runs" have been used to make the decision to hold a EDP season with several guidelines and rules that will be strictly enforced. Parents are ultimately responsible for the well-being of their children and should only register their children to play if they feel comfortable. One important change from the Fall is that ALL PLAYERS AND PARENTS MUST HAVE A MASK ON AT ALL TIMES.
Guidelines:
1. At the start of practice, all EDP players will be escorted by one parent/guardian to a "player station," which will be marked by an individual cone. The parent can stay at this area or return to the car. Parents should escort players off of the field or arrive at the "edges" of the field to guide players off. A mask or face covering is required for parents and players during drop off and pick up.
2. Pursuant to the latest mandates by the governor and Union County, all players and coaches must wear a mask during practice, games, while on the bench, and traveling to the practice field and away from the practice field. So, MASK WEARING AT ALL TIMES.
3. Coaches will use club-issued training sessions designed to keep players active while limiting contact. No high-fives, handshakes, or team huddles will take place at practices or games. All coaches must wear a mask during practices and games.
4. Games will be scheduled throughout Saturday and Sunday to limit the number of people on a field at a given time.
5. Two family members can attend a game.
6. Game attendees must sit at designated "player stations" along the outside of the field (image to follow).
7. All parents of participating players must sign and submit the "Hold-No-Harm Release."
Important Spring 2021 Dates:
Registration opens January 1.
Registration closes February 26.
Practices start the week of March 15.
Games start the weekend of March 20.
No games on April 3 or 10.
Games will end the weekend of May 22.
Ages
EDP I U6: Birth Year 2015
EDP II U7: Birth Year 2014
To be clear, there will be no overlap between 2014 and 2015 birthdays on teams. Each birth year has it's own division.
Practices & Games
- EDP teams have one practice per week for one hour. The practice day and time will depend on coach and field availability. If you have any practice time conflicts, please note those in the comment sections during the registration process. Nothing is a guarantee , but we will try our best to work with the times you are available.
There is one game each weekend mostly on Saturdays. There are occasions when we move games to Sunday after 1 pm due to field availability. We schedule 8 games per season.
All practices and games are held at H.C. Nesbit Park behind Kensington Elementary School.
Games are played 4v4 (no goalie) for U6 and 5V5 (with goalie) for U7 and consist of four 10 minute periods. Games typically last 50 minutes.
Equipment Needed
The cost of a team jersey is included in your registration fee. Each child will also need to wear black shorts and black soccer socks. These are not included with the tuition.
Each child will also need shin guards and a size 3 soccer ball at each practice and game. Cleats are not required but are highly recommended.
Each child will need an individual hand sanitizer and a water bottle marked with his or her name.
Each child is required to wear a mask while playing, during games, during practices, both on the bench and on the field. AT ALL TIMES.
Fees
Your registration fees pay for league and state registration fees, referee fees, equipment, field maintenance and utility costs.
The fee for the Spring 2021 season is $185. This includes a team shirt. Players have the option of purchasing black shorts and socks on their own to complete the uniform.
Trophies are included in the registration fee at this level of play!
There are no refunds after registration.
Coaches
Coaches at this level are volunteers. They willingly give of their time and energy to our young players. In return for their efforts they receive our appreciation, memories made with their children and a group of smiling faces. Please consider becoming a coach and indicate your interest during registration.
Philosophy and Objectives
The Waxhaw approach to soccer education at this age focuses on developing a love of soccer and determining how engaging activities can help to build soccer skills and soccer decision making. At these ages, happiness is the most important achievement. However, Waxhaw fully intends to develop skill, balance and coordination, positive socialization, and early leadership skills. Additionally, we must, by the time a player graduates from our EDP, advise the player and his/her family on the right direction moving up within our club. Some players will be best placed in our recreational leagues while others may consider more advanced programs for 2021-2022 season, such as our U8 Academy Junior Academy or Academy program.