Burlington Junior Soccer Association

Travel Program

Travel Registration

BJSA Fall 2011-Spring 2012 Travel Soccer Tryout Information

Tryouts for the Fall 2011-Spring 2012 BJSA travel soccer teams have been completed.

Tryout Schedule

What is Travel Soccer?

Travel Soccer is competitive soccer in a league environment, open to youth boys and girls. Travel Soccer is a competitive alternative to Recreation (Rec) Soccer. Travel Soccer is an organized, competitive soccer league, sanctioned by the CJSA. League and non-league games are played against various towns within the North/Central Connecticut District, hence the name ’Travel Soccer’. Examples of a few district towns are Glastonbury, Cromwell, Newington, Suffield, East Windsor, etc.

HOW IS PLAYING TIME DETERMINED?

At the younger ages (U-9 & U-10), it is strongly recommended that the coaches allow every player equal playing time, within reason. As the kids get older, playing time is at the discretion of the coaches.

HOW LONG ARE THE GAMES?

At the younger ages (U-9 and U-10), teams play 35 minute halves. The older teams play 40-45 minute halves. All games are officiated by USSF sanctioned referees.

WHEN /HOW OFTEN ARE PRACTICES?

Practices for travel teams are typically twice a week, during the week, in the early evenings, at a local soccer field. Particular practice days are determined by the coaches/team.

WHO DO I CONTACT IF I AM INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING TO BE A COACH OR ASSISTANT?

In addition to indicating your interest on your child's registration form, please contact the Travel Coordinator or any member of the BJSA board.

HOW ARE TEAMS FORMED?

In the spring of each year, teams are formed for the following fall season, via registrations and tryouts. Once on the team, the players are guaranteed a spot on the roster for the spring season as well. If necessary, open tryouts can be held in the spring as well. Players are assessed and selected based on soccer talent by at least two independent evaluators, in addition to the head coach.

WHAT ARE THE AGE GROUPS?

U-9 age group is the youngest travel team that can be formed. Unlike Recreation (Rec) soccer, eligibility is determined by the players’ age on August 1st of that year. For example, for fall 2012, players eligible for U-9 (Under 9) must have been born after 8/01/03. Teams can form from U-9 thru U-18. Boys and girls play on separate teams. U-9, U-10 and U-11 age groups play 8 v 8. U-12 thru U-18 age groups play 11 v 11. (See the Travel Age Eligibility Chart for more details).

HOW MANY/HOW OFTEN ARE THE GAMES?

The total number of games (home and away) can vary, typically between 10 and 15 per season. Games can be scheduled on Saturday and/or Sunday afternoons. The minimum number of games is determined by the number of teams in your league/division and your coach’s ability to schedule ‘friendly’ (non-league) games.

IF MY CHILD IS SELECTED ON A TRAVEL TEAM, WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF MY CHILD?

Your child is expected to attend all scheduled practices and games, ready, and on time. In addition, a respectful, considerate, positive attitude is expected, all conducted within a team environment. In return, you and your child can expect to play on a team that develops individual and team soccer skills within a competitive team/league environment.

HOW DOES TRAVEL SOCCER COMPARE TO REC SOCCER?

Travel soccer is a more competitive style of soccer. Due to the organization and competitive atmosphere, a higher level of commitment and time is usually required. A youth who is interested in playing at a higher level of competition is a candidate for travel soccer. Travel soccer is not for everyone. Travel soccer is not better or worse than Rec soccer, it's just an alternative.

WHAT ARE THE FEES?

Travel Soccer requires additional fees as compared with Rec soccer. Travel uniforms (home/away shirts w/name and logo/number, pants and two pairs of socks) are required. These costs are the responsibility of the parents (approximately $100). Typically, the uniforms last 2 to 3 years. In addition, referee fees and other team expenses are needed to ‘operate’ the team. These run approximately $40 to $50 per player per season.

Who Are The Travel Coaches?