My child turns 5 this year.  Is he or she eligible to participate?

Please refer to the EPYSA current age group chart under the registration link.

What is the difference between “travel teams” and “recreational teams”?

SMSA is a member of the Central Pennsylvania Youth Soccer League (CPYSL).  Within the CPYSL there are several divisions – Premier, I, II, III, and IV.  These divisions are defined as travel with premier being the most competitive. They play half of the games at the home field and half at “away” sites within south central PA. Our recreational teams (usually U8 and below) either play against other SMSA teams or will play against other clubs recreational teams.

When do the seasons start?

A complete season runs from Fall through the end of Spring.  So if your player is on a U10 in the fall, the team will be U10 in the spring.  That team will transition to a U11 team the following fall.

In the spring season, the U9 and older programs will begin practice in March with games scheduled the first weekend in April. The U6/U8 program will begin  mid April. In the fall, the U9 and older programs begin practice in mid August, while the U6/U8 typically begin the first week of school. 

Other than the uniform provided by SMSA, what equipment is needed?

Shin guards are mandatory. In addition, players should bring their own ball to practice, although coaches do usually have extra. Soccer cleats are not required but most players prefer them to sneakers. Also, players are encouraged to bring a water bottle or other drink to practices and games.  If your player will be a keeper or goalie, you will want to get them a pair of keeper gloves that fit them well and you might want to consider a mouth piece.

Does it matter what size soccer ball we bring?

Yes, it does.  U6/U8 programs use a size 3 ball.  U9 through U12 use a size 4 ball and U13 and up use a size 5 ball.

Do you have fundraisers?

No.  We rely on sponsors to help alleviate costs that occur above and beyond what the registration fees cover.

Can I volunteer?

Yes, please! Volunteers are required in order for the SMSA to continue to exist in South Middleton.  SMSA is committed to offering better opportunities to our youth. But we are not professionals and we rely heavily on volunteers from our families. These volunteers are key to this success. Volunteers, especially the parents of our younger players, are key to continuing soccer in South Middleton.

Can I referee?

Training is available to any teen or adult interested in earning money refereeing soccer games! Contact the Capital Area Soccer Referee Association at www.casrarefs.org.  

Can my daughter/son wear jewelry?

No.  It is the policy of CPYSL and SMSA that body jewelry will not be permitted on the players at anytime during a game or during practice. This includes earrings, body piercing, necklaces, bracelets, toe rings, rings, and any other type of jewelry worn on/in the body. Taping over new piercing is not permitted. Hair elastics should not have the metal bands securing the ends. Jewelry creates hazards for players and teammates during athletic activities. Coaches and referees will ask the player to remove the jewelry or leave the field.  No exceptions!