2017 MSYSA AGM eZine

AGM 2017 MSYSA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

FEBRUARY 18, 2017 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN MARRIOTT AUBURN HILLS PONTIAC HOTEL

THE MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION IS DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE IN LEADING, EDUCATING, AND SERVING THE SOCCER COMMUNITY.

MSYSA

2017 Annual General Meeting Table of Contents

Section 1

Agenda and Meeting Rules

Section 2

2016 Annual General Meeting Minutes

Section 3

Book of Reports

Section 4

MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies

Section 5

Proposed Revisions to the MSYSA Bylaws, Rules Regulations and Policies

Section 6

MSYSA Financial Statement FYE 2016

Section 7

MSYSA Budgets

Section 8

MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations

Section 9

Proposed Revisions to the MSPSP Bylaws, Rules and Regulations

Section 10

MSPSP Financial Statement FYE 2016

Section 11

MSPSP Budgets

Section 12

Notes & Miscellaneous

Section 1: Agenda and Meeting Rules

Section 1

Agenda and Meeting Rules

2017 AGM WEEKEND - SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

February 17- 18, 2016 at the Marriott Auburn Hills Pontiac Hotel

Friday, February 17, 2017 7:00pm – 9:30pm: MSYSA Awards Ceremony and Dinner Saturday, February 18, 2017 8:00am – 8:30am: Breakfast & AGM Registration 8:00am – 8:30am: MSYSA Board of Director’s Meeting 8:30am – 12:00pm: AGM General Session 12:00pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch 1:00pm – 3:00pm: AGM General Session continued (if needed)

CALL TO MSYSA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING To: From: Date: RE:

All MSYSA League Presidents and Delegates Robin Crawford, MSYSA President December 21, 2016 2017 Annual General Meeting

Pursuant to the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Bylaws, I am officially calling all Presidents and Delegates to meet for the MSYSA Annual General Meeting. The AGM is scheduled for Saturday, February 18, 2017 from 8:30am – 3:00pm at the Marriott Auburn Hills Pontiac Hotel in Pontiac.

Breakfast will be served from 8:00am – 8:30am, lunch will be provided at approximately 12:00pm, and if needed, the AGM will resume after lunch until approximately 3:00pm.

The 5th Annual MSYSA Awards Ceremony and Recognition Dinner will be held before the AGM on Friday, February 17, 2017 from 7:00pm – 9:30pm. Two complimentary event passes will be provided to each league. Additional event passes can be purchased from MSYSA at $50 per ticket. Please see the order form included in this communication.

The Agenda, Meeting Rules, Nominating Committee Report, and AGM Proxy Statement are also included in this communication. You are encouraged to view the AGM Book online (to be posted at http://mi-agm.com). There will be a limited supply of physical AGM Books available on-site. For your convenience, all items will also posted online at http://www.michiganyouthsoccer.org/Page800.aspx.

Attendees who wish to stay overnight at the hotel on Friday may do so by making their reservations directly with the hotel. The cost per room is $104.00 plus tax. Call the Marriott Auburn Hills Pontiac Hotel directly at 248-253-9800 and reference the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association. All reservations must be made by January 27, 2017.

Please let us know if your league will be in attendance at the Awards Ceremony and the AGM by filling out the RSVP form at https://www.gotsport.com/forms/open/form.asp?FormID=1618. Your RSVP form is due no later than January 27, 2017.

If the League President is unable to attend the AGM but wishes to send a different individual from the League Board of Directors on his/her behalf, the AGM Proxy Statement must be filled out in its entirety with all necessary signatures and sent to the MSYSA State Office no later than 4:30pm on Monday, February 13, 2017.

I look forward to your attendance at the upcoming AGM! Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely, Mr. Robin Crawford President

2017 AGM MEETING AGENDA 1.

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America

2.

Opening Remarks by Robin Crawford, MSYSA President and Special Guest(s)

3.

Roll Call of Leagues Present

4.

Credentials Committee Report

5.

Adoption of Meeting Rules

6.

Approval of Agenda

7.

Report of Approved 2016 Annual General Meeting Minutes

8.

Approval of New Leagues

9.

Supplemental Credentials Committee Report

10.

Approval of Actions of the MSYSA Board of Directors

11.

Open/Close of MSYSA Nominations

12.

Election of MSYSA Officers (Vice President and Recording Secretary for 2 year terms)

13.

Election of District Commissioners (1 person from each District for 1 year terms)

14.

Election of MSYSA Nominating Committee

15.

MSYSA Proposed Bylaws, Rules, Regulations and Policies Changes

16.

Proposed Revisions to MSYSA Budgets for FY 2017 and FY 2018

17.

Proposed MSYSA Budget for FY 2019

18.

Open/Close of MSPSP Nominations

19.

Election of MSPSP Officers (MSPSP Chairperson, Secretary/Treasurer, and Scheduler for 2 year terms)

20.

MSPSP Proposed Bylaws, Rules and Regulations

21.

Proposed MSPSP Budget for FY 17-18

22.

New Business

23.

For the Good of the Game

24.

Adjournment

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING RULES – 2017 1.

Identification badges issued by the credentials committee shall be worn for admission to all meetings and events. Badges may not be transferred without proper action by the credentials committee.

2.

The president shall appoint a committee of three to approve the AGM minutes.

3.

AGM delegates and MSYSA Board Members wishing to speak shall line up at the floor microphones.

Upon being recognized, AGM delegates and MSYSA Board Members shall give his or her name and office, title or league.

4.

AGM delegates and MSYSA Board Members are required to follow rules of decorum in debate especially as it relates to confining remarks to the pending item of business, avoiding the use of other delegates’ or board members’ names, and not carrying on discussion directly with another AGM delegate or MSYSA Board Member.

5.

Debate shall be limited to one speech of not more than two (2) minutes for each AGM delegate and/or MSYSA Board Member on each debatable motion or bylaw amendment. Allowed time is not transferable or cumulative.

6.

For elections with more than the number of candidates to be elected, candidates for office will be allowed up to three (3) minutes to address the assembly immediately after nominations for office are closed.

7.

Motions to close, limit, or extend debate shall require a majority vote.

8.

All main motions and amendments shall be presented to the presiding officer and secretary in writing and shall be signed by the maker of the motion.

9.

An amendment to strike out one word or a set of words in multiple places and to insert a different word or a set of words in all of those places shall be in order, and shall be deemed to include appropriate modifications in capitalization, number (singular or plural), and case (possessive).

10. The secretary will be authorized to correct article and section designations, punctuation, and crossreferences, and to make such other technical and conforming changes as may be necessary to reflect the intent of the membership in connection with the proposed amendments to the bylaws, rules, regulations and policies adopted at the AGM. 11. Electronic keypad voting shall be authorized for all business conducted during this meeting except incidental main motions, uncontested elections, or otherwise as ordered by the president or assembly.

Voting by electronic keypad devices shall be deemed to be a Division of the Assembly.

12. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. (See Bylaw Article VII, Section 7B). Voting by proxy is permissible given that all MSYSA bylaws and rules are adhered to.

13. Cell phones and pagers shall be silenced during all meetings.

2016 AGM Minutes

Section 2: 2016 AGM Minutes

Section 2

Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Annual General Meeting Saturday, March 12, 2016

Call to Order: The Annual General Meeting of Michigan State Youth Soccer Association was called to order Saturday, March 12, 2016 by President Robin Crawford at 9:00 a.m. at the Marriott Eagle Crest Hotel in Ypsilanti Michigan.

The Pledge of Allegiance is recited.

MSYSA President Robin Crawford recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary Sam Crabtree to call roll. MSYSA Secretary commences with roll call.

League Name Present/Absent/Excused Anchor Bay Soccer Club Absent Ann Arbor United Soccer Club Present Bad Axe Soccer Association Absent Bay Area Soccer Association Absent Birmingham-­‐Bloomfield Soccer Club Absent Bloomfield Hills Youth Soccer League Absent Cadillac Soccer Association Absent Canton Soccer Club Present Capital Area Soccer League Present Central Michigan Soccer Association Absent Charlevoix Youth Soccer Absent Cheboygan Soccer Association Absent City of Plymouth Recreation Department Present Clawson Youth Soccer Present Crawford AuSable Soccer Association Absent CW3 Soccer Association Present Dearborn Heights Soccer Club Present Dearborn Soccer Club Present Detroit PAL Absent Downriver Youth Soccer League Absent Eastside FC Present Elk Rapids Soccer Club Absent Farmington Soccer Club Present Fraser Soccer Club Present Freeland Soccer Club Absent Garden City Soccer Club Present Gaylord Soccer League Absent Gladwin County Youth Soccer Association Present Goodrich Soccer Club Present Grand Traverse Soccer League Absent Grand Valley Soccer Association Present Great Lakes Coed Soccer League Present Grosse Ile Soccer Association Absent

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Hamburg Community Soccer Club Harbor Springs Soccer League Hartland Community Soccer Association Houghton Lake Soccer Association Huron Soccer Association Indian River Soccer Association Lakes Area Youth Soccer League Lakeshore Youth Soccer League Leelanau County Soccer Club Livonia City Soccer Club Ludington Soccer Club Madison Heights Youth Soccer Association Marysville Youth Soccer Association Michigan Chill Soccer Club Michigan Jaguars FC Michigan Premier Soccer Academy (MPSA) Michigan State Developmental Soccer League Michigan Tigers Futbol Club Michigan Youth Soccer League Midland Soccer Club Mid-­‐Michigan Youth Soccer League Milan Youth Soccer Club Monroe Area Soccer Association North Macomb Community Youth Soccer Northland United Soccer Club Northville Soccer League Orion/Oxford Soccer League Petoskey Youth Soccer Association Redford Soccer Club Reeths Puffer Soccer Club Rochester Youth Soccer League Roscommon North Youth Soccer Association Roseville Youth Soccer Club Royal Oak Youth Soccer Association Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saline Area Soccer Association Sault Soccer Association South Lyon Soccer Club South Oakland County Soccer St. Clair Shores Youth Soccer League Superiorland Soccer Association Taylor Soccer League Thunderbay Soccer Association Traverse Bay Area Youth Soccer Troy Soccer Club Troy Youth Soccer League United Soccer League

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Present Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent Present -­‐ Not Voting Absent Absent Present Absent Present Present Absent Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Absent Absent Absent Present Absent Present Present Present Present Absent Absent Present Present Present Absent Absent Absent Present Present Absent Absent Present Present Present Present

Upper Peninsula Football Association Warren Youth Soccer Association Wayne/Westland Soccer League West Michigan Youth Soccer Association Western Suburban Soccer League Wolves-­‐Hawks Soccer Club MSPSP Robin Crawford Mike Poulos Sam Crabtree Gil Urban Wendy Zielen Gerhard Mengel Chico Villarruel Andrew Klackiewicz David Newby Yvonne Curtis John Hall Pete Fenwick Denise Moote

Present Present Present Present Present Absent Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Absent Present Present Present Present Present Present

Credential Committee Chairman Joel Dragan is recognized and reports that as of 9:17am, there are the following total members present: Total Voting Members: 46 Total Board Members

8 (non-­‐voting) Total Non-­‐voting Delegates 24 Total Attendance

78

Motion: Adoption of the Credentials Committee Report Motion: Approved.

President Robin Crawford recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary Sam Crabtree to present the meeting rules.

MSYSA Recording Secretary, Sam Crabtree presents the meeting rules.

President Robin Crawford asks if the membership has objections to the meeting rules.

Motion: Adoption of the Meeting Rules Motion: Approved

President Robin Crawford asks if the membership wishes to make any changes to the agenda.

Motion: Adoption of the agenda.

Amendment: Approved

President Robin Crawford announces the appointment of Christy Mayhew as timekeeper for the meeting.

President Robin Crawford announces the appointment of the following people who will serve on the 2016 AGM Minutes Approval Committee: Chair – Andrew Cislo, David Newby and Doug Prim.

President Robin Crawford announces the appointment of those that will serve as Tellers (in the event they are needed) for the 2016 AGM: Chair -­‐ Steve Wilson, Josh Sherman and Sarah Shiguango.

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President Robin Crawford recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary, Sam Crabtree to report on the 2015 AGM Minutes.

MSYSA Recording Secretary Sam Crabtree announces that the 2015 AGM Minutes have been approved by the 2015 Minutes Approval Committee.

President Robin Crawford recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary, Sam Crabtree to announce the new leagues. The new leagues are as follows: Anchor Bay Soccer Club and Reeths Puffer Soccer Club.

President Robin Crawford asks for objections on the aforementioned leagues becoming full members of MSYSA. Hearing none, the leagues become direct member organizations of MSYSA.

League Present/Absent/Excused Hillsdale Soccer Club Absent Kalkaska Area Youth Soccer Organization Absent Kingsley Recreational Soccer League Absent Metropolitan United Soccer League Absent Michigan Yemen Sports Association Absent VanBuren Soccer Association Present

Credential Committee Chairman Joel Dragan is recognized again to report that as of 9:30am, there are the following total members present: Total Voting Members: 47 Total Board Members

8 (non-­‐voting) Total Non-­‐voting Delegates 24 Total Attendance

79

President Robin Crawford asks the membership if there are any questions regarding the Credential Committee Report.

Motion: Adoption of the Credentials Committee Report Motion: Approved.

The next item of business is the nominations for the MSYSA officer’s positions.

The nominated candidate for MSYSA President is Robin Crawford.

President Robin Crawford opens the nominations for MSYSA President.

Nominations for MSYSA President are closed.

The nominated candidate for MSYSA Treasurer is Mike Poulos.

President Robin Crawford opens the nominations for MSYSA Treasurer.

Nominations for MSYSA Treasurer are closed.

The nominated candidates for MSYSA Recreational Director are David Newby and Dan McEvilly.

President Robin Crawford opens the nominations for MSYSA Recreational Director.

Nominations for MSYSA Treasurer are closed

Robin Crawford is elected MSYSA President by acclimation Mike Poulos is elected MSYSA Treasurer by acclimation Dan McEvilly is elected MSYSA Recreational Director

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The next item of business is to approve the 2015 Actions of the Board of Directors.

Motion: To approve the 2015 Actions of the Board Motion as amended: Approved

President Robin Crawford calls for a recess for districts to caucus and elect their respective district commissioners.

Meeting adjourned at 9:45am.

Meeting reconvened at 10:00am.

Upon reconvening President Robin Crawford announces the elected District Commissioners by the members in their respective districts.

David Anderson is elected as District Commissioner for the Metro Central District Denise Moote is elected as District Commissioner for the Metro Southwest District Andrew Klaczkiewicz is elected as District Commissioner for the North District John Hall is elected as District Commissioner for the West District Yvonne Curtis is elected as District Commissioner for the Metro East District

The next item of business is the proposed changes to the MSYSA Bylaws; Rules, Regulations and Polices.

President Robin Crawford recognizes Bylaws Committee Chair Richard Campbell to present the proposed changes.

Bylaws Committee Chair commences with presenting the proposed changes.

Motion: Amending Bylaw Article III, Section 5A, as stated by the Bylaws Committee Chairman. Proposed Amendment #1.

Motion: Approved

Motion: Amending Bylaw Article VIII, Section 3B, as stated by the Bylaws Committee Chairman. Proposed Amendment #2.

Motion: Approved

President Robin Crawford calls on the current MSYSA Treasurer, Mike Poulos to present the 2016 and 2017 revised budget. MSYSA Treasurer, Mike Poulos presents the revised budgets.

Motion: Adoption of the 2016 and 2017 MSYSA amended budget.

Motion: Approved

President Robin Crawford calls on current MSYSA Treasurer, Mike Poulos to present the 2018 budget. MSYSA Treasurer, Mike Poulos presents the 2018 budget.

Motion: Adoption the 2018 MSYSA budget as presented.

Motion: Approved

President Robin Crawford recognizes the MSPSP Chair, Wendy Zielen, to present the business of MSPSP.

The next item of business is the nominations for the MSPSP officer’s positions.

The nominated Candidate for MSPSP Vice-­‐Chairperson/Registrar is Oscar Castaneda.

Chairperson Wendy Zielen opens the nominations for MSPSP Vice-­‐Chairperson/Registrar.

Steve McGurik is nominated.

Nominations for MSPSP Vice-­‐Chairperson Registrar are closed.

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The nominated Candidate for MSPSP Statistician is Mark Caddy.

Chairperson Wendy Zielen opens the nominations for MSPSP Statistician.

Nominations for MSPSP Statistician are closed.

The nominated Candidate for MSPSP Commissioner is Bill Smith.

Chairperson Wendy Zielen opens the nominations for MSPSP Commissioner.

Nominations for MSPSP Commissioner are closed.

Oscar Castaneda is elected as MSPSP Vice-­‐Chairperson/Registrar Mark Caddy is elected as MSPSP Statistician by acclimation Bill Smith is elected as MSPSP Commissioner by acclimation

The next item of business is the proposed budget for MSPSP fiscal year 2016-­‐2017.

Chairperson Wendy Zielen presents the 2016-­‐2017 budget.

Motion: Adoption of the 2016-­‐2017 MSPSP budget as presented.

Motion: Approved

President Robin Crawford opens the floor for New Business.

No new business.

Floor closed for new business.

With no objections, President Robin Crawford adjourns the meeting at 11:00am.

Sam Crabtree MSYSA Recording Secretary

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Section 3

Book of Reports

Section 3: Book of Reports

MSYSA President Report Robin Crawford Dear League Presidents and Delegates: First and foremost, I commend all of you for your efforts and contributions this past year. US Soccer’s mandates on new formats of play, field sizes, calendar birth year, and concussion protocols presented all of us challenges in 2016. Many of our member organizations were able to implement the necessary changes. While implementation of the various mandates is the desired end goal, we recognize the need for continued flexibility.

This past April, Sharper Counsel LLC was contracted to assist us in refreshing our strategic plan. Three (3) groups were formed to focus on identifying and implementing key objectives. The three (3) groups include: Education Resources (Filling information gaps, develop/deploy spectator, administrator education materials and create an administrative resource guide) Recreational Soccer (Support Clubs, new recreational player recruiting, pilot an outreach program kit, parentcoach preparation, tournament participation) Branding & Marketing (Improve brand recognition, invest in technology, development of a marketing plan) The MSYSA Board of Directors recently approved funding of the initiatives as outlined above. Our budgets include additional fund allocations towards recreational grants, scholarships, advertising, marketing and donations.

Our governing body, US Youth Soccer, is also in the process of strategic and financial planning. Key priorities for US Youth Soccer include growing membership, enhancing player experiences, rebranding, streamlining rules, optimizing events, and aligning with US Soccer on areas of mutual benefit. In the future, US Youth Soccer may consider other potential revenue models, in addition to the per player fee assessed to State Associations, to support these goals.

MSYSA hosted the Region II Top Soccer Symposium this past summer in Canton, MI and also hosted the Region II Olympic Development ID Camps in Saginaw, MI. In 2019, MSYSA will host the Regional Championships in Saginaw, Michigan. Special thanks to our office staff for helping to bring these events to Michigan!

In closing, I wish to thank all of you for providing positive experiences to the many players and team officials registered with our Association. Your hard work and efforts are very much appreciated. Your Board of Directors and staff are comprised of extremely dedicated professionals. It’s a pleasure working with everyone, and we enjoy working on your behalf.

Sincerely, Robin Crawford

MSYSA Executive Director Report Thomas Faro Dear Members: Despite challenges associated with changes initiated in our sport by US Soccer and US Youth Soccer, we registered approximately 3,000 players more than the prior year. In addition, program, event, and tournament participation was up as well.

The MSYSA Board of Directors recently approved the funding of strategic initiatives, technology, and a funding increase for additional grants and scholarships. Our Director of Coaching, Paul Thomas and Assistant Director of Coaching, Mark Zathey, continue to make themselves available for in-service clinics and licensing courses. This past year, online coaching content at the youngest age groups was updated and is now available at a cost of $10 per candidate. Additional (free) video resources for coaches is available online as well.

Our Recreation Committee is currently in the process of developing a website to assist recreational clubs and leagues with the recruitment of new members. In brief, the website will allow parents to simply type in their zip code to search for clubs or leagues close to where they reside. Our hope is that this new website will assist in the attraction of new players participating with you and in our sport.

The Olympic Development Program (ODP) continues to identify elite players within the State, Region, and Nation. However, the structure of MSYSA’s ODP changed considerably this past year as a result of changes regionally. Key changes in Michigan include smaller state pool sizes and fewer training sessions in advance of the Regional ODP Identification Camp.

The MSYSA Administrative Workshop took place in November. Like last year, attendance was very good. We plan to continue this type of education. If you were unable to attend and are interested in the materials presented, please visit our website or contact our office.

US Youth Soccer is in the process of identifying specific priorities as a national governing body and at rebranding as an organization. With 55 State Associations and over 3 million players, we recognize that this task will take time. In the near future, US Youth Soccer and US Soccer will be presenting State Associations with anticipated plans for a national registration platform. Once this information is provided to State Associations, MSYSA will review and communicate our plans for potential implementation.

Finally, thank you to Robin Crawford, MSYSA President, the MSYSA Board of Directors, and to my co-workers for their continued hard work and support. I am blessed to work with a great team! In addition, I wish to thank all of you. Each of you plays an extraordinarily important role in the lives of youth soccer players and in the growth and development of our sport. Your continued contributions are very much appreciated.

Sincerely, Thomas K. Faro

MSYSA Director of Coaching Report Paul Thomas I hope this summary finds everyone well. The purpose of the following report is to provide a status of youth soccer in Michigan, which is divided into four categories: Recreational Soccer, Coaching Education, Olympic Development Program and Player Development Initiatives.

In regards to Recreational Soccer, our goal is to provide a variety of opportunities for our clubs and their coaches to develop their knowledge of the game. We do this through our in-service program and online recourses. In the past twelve months, the U6, U8, and U10 modules have continued to be a useful resource to our recreational coaches. In conjunction with these online modules and coaching curriculum, our in-service program continues to be a success. The content and delivery of these face-to-face meetings work in conjunction with our online education tools. This helps the coaches and clubs we serve gain a more in-depth knowledge about the age groups they are coaching, which ultimately provide a better experience for their players. I encourage every member to explore the online modules and recreational curriculums, and to take advantage of our free inservice program.

Within coaching education, 2016 saw significant changes to U.S. Soccer’s coaching education department. The structure of the organization was adapted and improved, and it included 6 new full time hires. Nico Romenijn is the new Director of Coaching, Win Van Zwam is now responsible for the new ‘Pro’ License, Aloys Wijnker will head up the ‘Technical Director’ License, Didier Chambaron is in charge of the ‘A’ License course, Vanni Sartini is in charge of the ‘B’ License, James Hoffman has changed roles slightly and will now head up the ‘C’ License, and Frank Tschan has been tasked with overseeing grassroots coaching education.

In addition to the new staff, the Federation also changed its coaching education pathway, adding the ‘Pro’ License to the top of the pyramid and splitting the ‘A’ License into a youth and senior course. See below.

MSYSA fully engaged with and began to run its E & D Licenses through U.S. Soccer’s Digital Coaches Center (DCC) in March 2016. This has helped streamline the administration of the courses and provided a platform to effectively communicate with the candidates. More information can be found on U.S. Soccer’s website.

MSYSA continued to offer our member coaches a wide variety of education opportunities. In July, we again hosted a U.S. Soccer C License, which was held in Grand Rapids. This was the third C License course held in Michigan in as many years. We hope to continue our relationship with U.S. Soccer and continue to host national courses in our state. In addition to the traditional education offerings from USYSA and U.S. Soccer, we continued the MSYSA Symposium Series. This year our symposium was held in July, where we hosted Joel Frechet at Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac. Joel is the current U19 Olympic Lyonnais Head Coach. As part of the symposium, Joel delivered both field and classroom sessions where he explored the development of players at the U13 age group and above. In addition to the classroom and field session, candidates also took part in a match analysis exercise during a Michigan Bucks PDL game and earned an NSCAA Special Topics Diploma.

Additionally, MSYSA reengaged with the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) to offer more coaching education opportunities for our members. New course offerings included the Goalkeeper Level 1, 2 & 3 Diplomas as well as the Director of Coaching course. Between the new NSCAA courses, the USSF licenses, and the MSYSA symposiums, over 520 coaches have taken part in our coaching education offerings in 2016.

In regards to the Olympic Development Program, Region 2 adopted a different approach to its camp format, which greatly impacted our overall program for the 2015-16 seasonal year. The Region 2 camp is now an invitation only identification program, where each state is allocated a certain number of invitations. These changes where made to reduce the per player costs, limit the time commitment, and increase the overall quality of the player pool at camp. Our program is now a three-step process: 1) Identify players for the state pool training. Players are identified though the ID weekend (late-July/early-August), club recommendations, and scouting. 2) State Pool Training. These trainings are held in January and are used to select each age group’s state team. 3) Sub Regional Events. Each age group’s state team will participate in a sub regional event. These are held in February and are used to identify potential state pool players that should be recommended to the region for their ID camp. For the 2016 Region 2 ID Camp we had over 150 players participate. Finally, we also continued to see tremendous support and participation numbers in our ODP 101 and GK Academy programs.

Both are designed to offer additional developmental training for players around the state.

Finally, in the winter of 2016 U.S. Soccer announced their new Player Development Initiatives, which mandated player birth year registration and formats of play. MSYSA adopted these mandates for the 2016 – 2017 seasonal year. Questions should be directed to the MSYSA office.

The growth of youth soccer in Michigan is dependent on club and league volunteers, administrators, coaches, players and parents. We will continue to strive for excellence in our role as a supporting organization and aid in achieving the common goal, improve the game of soccer in Michigan. Keep up the good work!

Yours in soccer, Paul Thomas

MSYSA Vice President Report Gil Urban It has been a privilege to serve as Vice President for the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA). I continue to volunteer to serve on the board because I am passionate about soccer and want to be part of improving soccer in Michigan. My intention is to do what is best for soccer in Michigan by representing the collective interests of our members. This is a challenge since each MSYSA member has its own unique needs and interests. Difficult as it is, I always strive to meet the challenge and make decisions through the filter of does it make soccer better in Michigan and better for the kids. Thanks for allowing me to serve.

I am engaged in the MSYSA board activities. I have participated in MSYSA Strategic Planning. I am a member of the Strategic Planning Education committee. I am actively promoting the definition and development of Spectator Education. I am excited about the refreshed MSYSA strategic plan and the key strategic thrusts.

Last year I attended the US Youth Workshop / NCSAA Convention, the GotSoccer Club Connection, and GotSoccer State Association convention. The networking and educational sessions attended at the US Youth Workshop and GotSoccer convention gave me insights into practices being used in various soccer situations and organizations.

I also have been actively pursuing a pilot of a TOPSoccer program on the west side of the state. I have been able to get WMYSA to sponsor a pilot program and SWM Kickers SC to implement the pilot program. I have also arranged the required funding and facility for the pilot program. I am excited about the fall 2016 pilot and have a vision of additional WMYSA clubs expanding TOPSoccer program into other areas within WMYSA. Last but not least, let me thank Executive Director, Tom Faro and the entire MSYSA staff for their support of soccer in Michigan. This team does a fantastic job in promoting and supporting soccer in Michigan. I feel we have a great staff. In addition, I want to thank the MSYSA Board and the MSYSA Member League/Club Boards for their dedication to Michigan soccer. And finally I want to thank the MRC and its many member referees, instructors, assessors and assignors for all the work they do to continually improve soccer in Michigan.

Soccer for Life, Gil Urban

MSYSA Recreational Director Report Dan McEvilly It has been an interesting first year as the Recreational Director. I was fortunate enough to start off with a strategic planning meeting the first month, that not only brought me up to speed on the vision and direction of the association, but allowed me bring to the table my thoughts and ideas. We decided that the three areas of focus would be Education Resources, Branding/Marketing, and Recreational Soccer.

Working within the recreational planning group, we decided to focus our efforts on three main components; delivery of coach preparation resources to 100% of new recreational coaches, increase recreational tournament participation and player recruitment and outreach.  Coach Preparation Resources Paul Thomas is in the process of revamping the current online modules based off of the US Soccer PDI as well as finishing the U12 module. In addition to the training modules, we are looking at creating a resource library of short videos focusing on the other aspects of coaching besides training. Such topics might include the initial team meeting, team communication, proper warm-up, and game day procedures.  Increase Recreational Tournament Participation We plan to achieve this through grants and marketing, versus coordinating events that compete with our member clubs. Our goal is to offer grants for teams looking to attend tournaments and to help offset registration costs. In addition, to offer grants to events/tournaments that provide recreational divisions. We are currently working to create a recreational specific bi-annual publication that showcases events for our recreational audience.  Player Recruitment and Outreach We are launching a website, playsoccermi.com, and will hopefully be in the testing phase by the AGM. This site will serve as a portal for new players and parents to find clubs in their area (all clubs must be affiliated with MSYSA). Marketing will start for the 2017/18 season via social media and direct mail, targeting ages 3-8.

The outreach portion targets those areas in Michigan without a MSYSA presence, again targeting the younger ages. We feel we can accomplish this in one of two ways; the road show and program kit. The road show would be an event (clinic) to introduce players to the game and hopefully establish clubs in those areas. The program kit would be a DIY resource for any potential/new clubs looking to offers programs and/or leagues.

I’m excited to be part of this project and look forward to see it come to fruition and see the results. I’m also thankful that we have such a dedicated staff at MSYSA, truly making it one of the best state associations in the country.

Sincerely, Dan McEvilly

MSPSP Chair Report Wendy Zielen The Michigan State Premier Soccer Program reports successful seasons on behalf of our 12,221 players, 770 coaches, 719 teams, and 49 divisions this past year. MSPSP looks forward to the continued betterment of our organization with new and ongoing initiatives in 2017.

Member clubs and leagues:  Regular evaluation of ways to simplify and expedite paperwork, with no increase in registration fees for nine consecutive seasons  Support for a variety of soccer programs including Detroit Pal, as well as working to foster new teams in other underserved communities Players:

 

Coaches:    Referees:   Parents:  

Offering new supplemental divisions for trapped player age groups (u15) Providing an online application for MSPSP’s six $2000 scholarships for exemplary MSPSP seniors Divisioning meetings for direct input from coaches during age transition New rules allowing more flexibility for passcard players MSPSP co-sponsoring of MSYSA Coaching Symposiums Collaboration with state assignors to facilitate MSPSP referee assignments for 2500+ games per season $6000 dedicated to female referee mentoring and advancement Working to develop an enhanced spectator behavior strategy with incentives to improve sideline ambiance Developing upcoming live presentations and online education tools

On behalf of the MSPSP Board of Directors, we are so grateful to all our coaches, players, parents, and referees for your commitment and dedication to youth soccer. We thank all our member organizations for the vital feedback you have provided us on how we can better serve you, and we anticipate a great 2017.

Respectfully submitted, Wendy Zielen

MSYSA State Youth Referee Administrator Report Ron Grobbel Twenty-two referees attended the US Youth Soccer Region II Tournament (Indianapolis, IN). Eleven referees earned a semifinal assignment and seven earned a final assignment.  Four referees from the Michigan delegation were selected to represent Michigan and Region II at the US Youth Soccer National Championships – Justin Tatsak (Center), Nicole Green (Center), Carter Brochu (Center), and Christian Little (AR). All four earned a final assignment.  Region II iniated an awards banquet. Larry Gagna earned the assessor award and Nicole Green earned the Margaret Domka female referee of the tournament award.

Four referees attended the US Youth Soccer Region II President’s Cup (Indianapolis, IN). All four earned a final assignment.  John Luk was selected to represent Michigan and Region II at the US Youth Soccer National President’s Cup. Five referees attended the US Soccer U13/U14 Developmental Academy matches in October. This event is staffed by referee coaches and is intended to identify young emerging talent.

Referee development continues to be a priority for the Michigan Referee Committee. Online tools are being developed and launched to facilitate awareness of issues that can strengthen our service to the game of soccer.

Jackie Spiegel (Grand Rapids) and Eric Budd (Canton) were recognized as the 2016 MSYSA Young Female and Young Male Referees of the Year. They were selected by a committee that reviewed five applications (4 female & 1 male) that were submitted by local referee assignors or clubs. Four emails were sent to EVERY assignor in Michigan for nominations.  Jackie Spiegel was selected as the Region II Female Referee of the Year The Women’s Referee Academy (supported in part by the MSPSP) has completed its third year. To date, twentytwo women have participated in the program. Of the twenty-two, two have left the state of Michigan. Six now hold a state referee badge, and one was selected to attend the US Youth Soccer National Championships. The SRC wishes to acknowledge the MSPSP for their support of the program as well as staff volunteers (Sue Grobbel, Larry Gagna, Adrienne McDonald) who have assisted with the program.

Effective October 1, Ron Grobbel has assumed the position of State Youth Referee Administrator. Francisco Villarruel is now the US Youth Soccer Region II Referee Administrator. Mr. Villarruel served Michigan as SYRA for seven years.

Respectfully submitted, Ron Grobbel

MSYSA North District Commissioner Report Andrew Klaczkiewicz The North District marked 2016 as another successful year for soccer. 

The North District leagues improved their presence at the annual North District Meeting, where many concerns were raised about the implementation of the US Soccer Player Development Initiatives.

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Our Member leagues continue to offer teams around the state with multiple quality tournament options throughout the year.

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The Saginaw Township Soccer Association continued to host the boys and girls State Cup quarterfinals, semi-finals, Jr. State Cup, and Directors Academy.

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Michigan State Youth Soccer was recently awarded the 2019 Region II Tournament, which will be held at the Saginaw Township Soccer Complex.

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The North District continues to focus on Coaching Education by offering several coaching courses and clinics.

I would like to commend the MSYSA office staff for their continued commitment and excellence in their work managing the day-to-day duties of our association. The time they spend assisting us is significant, and I am very appreciative of their dedication. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to my Board of Directors for their time and dedication. Lastly, I would like to express my humble appreciation to the North District members for giving me the opportunity to serve them on the MSYSA Board of Directors, and look forward to championing their causes and representing their concerns now and in the future.

As we enter 2017 and look to fully implement US Soccer’s Player Development Initiatives, I’m certain we will encounter challenges, perhaps unexpected challenges, that I’m certain we can work together to resolve.

I’m looking forward to 2017 and working with not only the North District, but the entire soccer community to continue to develop and grow the beautiful game.

Warmest Regards, Andrew Klaczkiewicz

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Steve McGuirk (Chair), Kelley Andersen, Dick Campbell, Bryant Goodreaugh, and Ken Pope Below is a list of candidates nominated by November 1, 2016 for positions on the MSYSA Board of Directors.

Each of the candidates has accepted their respective nomination. Each candidate was asked to complete a questionnaire detailing their relevant soccer experiences, non-soccer experiences, and goals and visions for MSYSA, including what they hope to accomplish if elected. The MSYSA Nominating Committee has reviewed the information submitted by each candidate (provided on the subsequent pages of this report) and has verified the qualifications of each candidate (see below).

MSYSA Vice President: Gil Urban Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSYSA Vice President.

MSYSA Vice President: Andrew Klaczkiewicz Based on the information available to us, the 2017 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing. Per the MSYSA Bylaws, a candidate must not serve concurrently as an officer of a member organization. Long standing past precedence has allowed previous candidates for office the ability to resign as an officer with their local league/club prior to the conclusion of the MSYSA Annual General Meeting(s) if the candidate(s) is/are elected to the MSYSA Board of Directors during the Annual General Meeting.

MSYSA Recording Secretary: Sam Crabtree Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSYSA Recording Secretary.

MSPSP Chairperson: Wendy Zielen Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSPSP Chairperson.

MSYSA District Commissioner: Yvonne Curtis (Metro East) Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSYSA Metro East District Commissioner.

MSYSA District Commissioner: Denise Moote (Metro Southwest) Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSYSA Metro Southwest District Commissioner.

MSYSA District Commissioner: Andrew Klaczkiewicz (North) Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSYSA North District Commissioner.

MSYSA District Commissioner: Doug Prim (West) Based on the information available to us, the 2016 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds the candidate in good standing and meeting the qualifications for the position of MSYSA West District Commissioner.

There were no accepted nominations for the Metro Central Commissioner position.

Respectfully Submitted, Steve McGuirk

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Gil Urban Nominated For: MSYSA Vice President Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2013 – Present 2010 – Present 2010 – 2012 2008 – 2010 2007 – 2010 2004 – 2009 ~1990 ~1985 ~1975

Position or Title Vice President Advisory Committee Member Secretary West District Commissioner Co-Founder, VP, DOC At Large Member Co-Founder & President Co-Founder & President Co-Founder & Vice President

Club/League Name MSYSA Southwest Michigan Soccer Club MSYSA MSYSA Benton Harbor Area Youth Soccer West Michigan Youth Soccer Assn.

Southwest Michigan Soccer Club Lakeshore Youth Soccer Evansville IN Rec Youth Soccer

Position or Title Coach TopSoccer Coach & Administrator Academy Director State Director of Assignors Observer Vice President & Assignor Assignor & Trainer Referee Coach Referee

Club/League Name SWM Kickers WMYSA / SWM Kickers SWM Kickers Michigan Referee Committee Michigan High School Athletic Assn.

SWMSRA (Referee Group) Michigan High School Athletic Assn.

US Soccer & MHSAA (Michigan) Rec & Select teams in MI & IN IHSAA & NISOA (Indiana)

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 2016 – Present 2016 – Present 2014 – 2016 2008 – 2014 2000 – Present 1998 – Present 1998 – Present 1983 – Present 1975 – 2006 1975 – 1983

Professional or Non-Soccer Related Experiences: Years Served 2014 2012 – Present 2007 – 2014 1973 – 2007 1961 – 1990 All My Life

Position or Title Fan / Spectator at World Cup President Chairman, President Assistant CIO (last 5 years) Soccer Player Soccer Fan

Organization US Men’s National Team SWM Kickers Foundation BDE Inc. Whirlpool Corporation Youth, College, Amateur Watched matches in 8 countries

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: Vision: MSYSA together with its members and affiliated clubs provides the best soccer programs in the state. MSYSA assists in development of all levels of players with activities and programs. MSYSA supports the development of beginning, intermediate, and advanced coaches. MSYSA provides parent and administrator services and education. MSYSA connects player, parents, coaches and administrators to soccer opportunities at the youth, adult, and professional level locally, regionally, and nationally. MSYSA continues to improve and find new ways to serve its members. MSYSA becomes a benchmark for high quality state association.

Goals: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Assist in defining and providing parent education through the MSYSA strategic initiative Promote parent, coach, and player sportsmanship Support MSYSA player, coach, and member soccer growth and development Benchmark MSYSA activities and programs with states regionally and nationally Provide succession planning assistance for MSYSA executive committee positions

This nominee states that he does not earn significant income from soccer related activities nor does he have significant involvement in competing soccer organizations.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Andrew Klaczkiewicz Nominated For: MSYSA Vice President Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2012 – Present 2008 – Present 2006 – 2007 2005 – 2006

Position or Title North District Commissioner President Secretary U8 Girls Coordinator

Club/League Name MSYSA Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saginaw Township Soccer Association

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 2014 – Present 2013 – Present 2001 – Present 2010 – 2012 2009 – 2014

Position or Title Director of Coaching Varsity Girls Head Coach Coach Referee Referee

Club/League Name Saginaw Township Soccer Association Swan Valley High School Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saginaw Valley HS Soccer Referees Assn.

US Soccer

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: My vision is to utilize my unique and distinct experience to help support the Leagues & Clubs to ensure all of the players we are accountable for, have the best possible environment to develop and be successful at all levels.

I would like to play a greater role in helping to develop and implement the recently developed strategic plan.

Strategic planning is an essential part of moving our organization forward, because it gives us the opportunity to identify our strengths as well as identify challenges that can be addressed.

One of our challenges has been succession planning. I believe the role and responsibilities of the Vice President is to build a continuum of relationships within the State (clubs & leagues), Region, and National bodies as well as assist the President where directed and seriously prepare to lead the organization as President. I believe that I have the requisite experience to step into that role This nominee states that he does not earn significant income from soccer related activities nor does he have significant involvement in competing soccer organizations.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Sam Crabtree Nominated For: MSYSA Recording Secretary Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2015 – Present 2014 – Present 2014 – 2015 2012 – 2014 2010 – 2012 2006 – 2010

Position or Title Director of Recreational Soccer Recording Secretary Vice President of Operations President Vice President of Programs Director of Recreational Soccer

Club/League Name Midland Soccer Club MSYSA Midland Soccer Club Midland Soccer Club Midland Soccer Club Midland Soccer Club

Position or Title Recreational Strategy Development Committee Discipline & Appeals Panel Bylaws & Rules Committee Coach (E License)

Club/League Name MSYSA

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 2016 – Present 2013 – 2014 2012 – Present 2004 – Present

MSYSA MSYSA Midland Soccer Club

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: I have been honored to serve in this position for the past two years, working to ensure that MSYSA continues to deliver the best possible soccer experiences and opportunities for our membership. I am excited to have helped lead the important changes being implemented in the MSYSA, through the implementation of our strategic plan.

If re-elected, I intend to focus my energy on the implementation of this plan. Specifically, I will work to promote the development of soccer programs in underserved areas, assisting communities by providing information, support, and guidance for building programs.

I also recognize that the effectiveness of our development efforts is reflected in the accomplishments of our toplevel participants. To this end, I believe that our role is to plant and nurture the seeds that will result in improved performance at the top levels of the game. I intend to direct policies that will promote the development of all players, with the end goal of improving the level of play at the local, regional, and national level.

Finally, I am passionate about ensuring that the organization maintains the highest ethical standards – providing equal opportunities for all participants. To achieve this goal, we must work to engage all of the member organizations. To promote more participation across the state, I will work to improve communications to member clubs regarding the opportunities where individuals can get more involved. I look forward to continuing to work with the MSYSA Board of Directors and Staff to maintain and grow this exemplary organization.

This nominee states that he does not earn significant income from soccer related activities nor does he have significant involvement in competing soccer organizations.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Wendy Zielen Nominated For: MSPSP Chairperson Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2015 – Present 2013 – 2015 2010 – 2015 2007 – 2015 2006 – 2008 2004 – 2010

Position or Title Chairperson Chair President Secretary Co-Chair President

Club/League Name MSPSP MSYSA Nominating Committee Michigan Premier Soccer Academy Western Suburban Soccer League MSYSA Nominating Committee Soccer Blast

Years Served 2006 – 2007 2005 – 2007 2004 – 2008 2003 – 2009 2003 – 2005

Position or Title Referee (Grade 8) Coach (D License) Administrator Delegate Coach (E License)

2001 – 2006 2000 – 2003

Team Manager Administrator

Club/League Name US Soccer Soccer Blast Soccer Blast MSPSP Brazilian American Youth Soccer Assn & Soccer Blast Various youth & adult leagues Brazilian American Youth Soccer Assn

Other Soccer Experiences:

Professional or Non-Soccer Related Experiences: Years Served 2010 2003 – 2009

Position or Title Presenter Soccer Mom of MSPSP players

Organization US Youth Soccer Workshops

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: My objectives as MSPSP Chair 2017-9 are to further these initiatives: 1. Ongoing streamlining of registration, scheduling, gameday, online communications, and other administrative operations to improve services to MSPSP members;

2. Continued work with Michigan Referee Association to help develop and retain the growing referee corps necessary to cover MSPSP’s 2500+ games statewide per season; 3. Expansion of educational programs for coaches, parents, and players, including a new spectator behavior initiative to help ensure a sportsmanlike environment for all participants; 4. Encouraging retention of youth players jumping from middle -> high school (age of substantial drop-off) such as supplemental and regional divisioning, and fostering new teams in underserved communities; 5. Listening to leagues’ and clubs’ suggestions and requests about how MSPSP can better serve their players’ needs for a quality soccer experience at the right competition level.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued No Photo Provided

Name: Yvonne Curtis Nominated For: MSYSA Metro East District Commissioner Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2016 2010 2008 – Present 2000 – Present 1990 – Present

Position or Title President President Metro East District Comm.

Vice President Vice President

Club/League Name Michigan Legacy SC Michigan Legacy SC MSYSA Michigan Youth Soccer League Sterling Clinton Soccer Club

Position or Title Coach

Club/League Name AYSO

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 3 years Vision & Goals for MSYSA: My vision for MSYSA is to the best state association to provide opportunities to soccer players at every level of play.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Denise Moote Nominated For: MSYSA Metro Southwest District Commissioner Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2013 – Present 2011 – 2013 2009 – Present 2006 – Present 2011 – 2013 2011 – 2013 2005 – 2009 2002 – 2007

Position or Title Metro SW District Comm.

Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee Chair Administrator Scorekeeper Poaching Committee Disciplinary & Appeals Panel Treasurer President/Treasurer/Secretary

Club/League Name MSYSA MSYSA Western Suburban Soccer League Western Suburban Soccer League MSYSA MSYSA Western Suburban Soccer League Plymouth Soccer Club

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 2000 – 2007

Position or Title Coach (D License)

Club/League Name Plymouth Soccer Club

Professional or Non-Soccer Related Experiences: Years Served 25+ years

Position or Title Small Business Administration and Bookkeeping Services

Club/League Name Plymouth Area

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: As Metro Southwest District Commissioner, I will promote and support the programs of MSYSA within the District, State, and Region. I will act as liaison between MSYSA and the Metro Southwest District members.

MSYSA continues to provide, among other things, positive leadership and continuing education opportunities, and promotes fair play in and for all aspects of soccer for the greater good of the beautiful game.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Andrew Klaczkiewicz Nominated For: MSYSA North District Commissioner Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2012 – Present 2008 – Present 2006 – 2007 2005 – 2006

Position or Title North District Commissioner President Secretary U8 Girls Coordinator

Club/League Name MSYSA Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saginaw Township Soccer Association

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 2014 – Present 2013 – Present 2001 – Present 2010 – 2012 2009 – 2014

Position or Title Director of Coaching Varsity Girls Head Coach Coach Referee Referee

Club/League Name Saginaw Township Soccer Association Swan Valley High School Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saginaw Valley HS Soccer Referees Assn.

US Soccer

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: My vision for the North District is to continue to serve the member leagues that comprise the North District by disseminating information quickly and effectively, by soliciting their concerns (which are sometimes unique to the North district) and taking them to the Board of Directors, and by encouraging the North District leagues to communicate and share ideas with each other. Ultimately, I want to ensure that all of the players in every part of the state are accounted for, and we provide them the best possible environment to develop and be successful at all levels.

MSYSA Nominating Committee Report Continued Name: Doug Prim Nominated For: MSYSA West District Commissioner Previous Soccer Board Experiences: Years Served 2012 – Present 2009 – 2012 2006 – 2009 2003 – 2012

Position or Title President Vice President Co-Treasurer Director/President

Club/League Name Great Lakes Co-Ed Soccer League Great Lakes Co-Ed Soccer League Great Lakes Co-Ed Soccer League Laketon Youth SC/Reeths Puffer Youth SC

Other Soccer Experiences: Years Served 2004 – Present 1998 – 2016

Position or Title Referee Coach

Club/League Name US Soccer Laketon Youth SC/Reeths Puffer Youth SC

Vision & Goals for MSYSA: If elected, I will continue to work with MSYSA and the leagues in the West District to continue to grow soccer and soccer programs for our members.

MSYSA Bylaws Committee Report Mark Klein (Chair), Mike Poulos, Sam Crabtree, Ruth Dober, Robin Crawford, Tom Faro, and Joel Dragan On October 15, 2016, the Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee chairman received the proposed amendments from the MSYSA state office. Upon receipt, the proposed amendments were distributed to all committee members for review and discussion at the first committee meeting held on October 19, 2016. After a lengthy discussion of the proposed amendments, it was agreed that a second meeting was needed for further discussion on specific amendments and clarification on questions raised in the meeting.

The second committee meeting was held on November 2, 2016, where discussions of the proposed amendments continued with input and guidance from the Parliamentarian, Maurice Henderson. At the conclusion of the meeting, the committee had reached an agreement on its recommendations for each of the attached proposed amendments. See Section 5 of the AGM Book for the committee’s recommendations.

After discussions with Tom Faro on November 22, the MSYSA staff indicated that they wish to pull the proposed amendment change to MSYSA Bylaw Article VIII, Section 3.B.4. It was indicated that the staff would work with the committee in the upcoming year to propose a modified amendment at next year’s AGM.

Meetings: Meeting No. 1 Date: October 19, 2016 Time: 7:00 PM Location: MSYSA BOD Conference Room Invited Participants: Mark Klein, Mike Poulos, Sam Crabtree, Ruth Dober, Robin Crawford, Tom Faro, Joel Dragan Attending Participants: Mark Klein, Sam Crabtree (via conference call), Ruth Dober, Joel Dragan Meeting No. 2 Date: November 2, 2016 Time: 7:00 PM Location: MSYSA BOD Conference Room Invited Participants: Mark Klein, Mike Poulos, Sam Crabtree, Ruth Dober, Robin Crawford, Tom Faro, Joel Dragan Attending Participants: Mark Klein, Mike Poulos, Sam Crabtree (via conference call), Ruth Dober, Joel Dragan, Maurice Henderson

Proposed Amendments:  MSYSA Bylaw Article VIII, Section 3.B.4  MSYSA Bylaw Article X, Section 3.B  MSYSA Bylaw Article XIII: Amendments, Section B and D  MSYSA Rule 3.7 and Rule 3.4; MSYSA Bylaw, Article X, Section 1 and Section 6  MSYSA Bylaw Article V, Section 5.E  MSYSA Bylaw Article V, Section 5, D.7; Article VII, Section 4; and Article VII, Section 9 Please see Section 5 of the AGM Book for proposed amendments to the MSYSA bylaws/rules and for the committee’s recommendations on the proposed amendments.

Thank you, Mark Klein

MSYSA TOPSoccer Chair Report Dianna Dykstra MSYSA was selected to host the Region II symposium over the summer, which was attended by coaches and administrators involved with TopSoccer. The sessions were held at High Velocity in Canton which donated their facility for the event. Saturday morning we had speakers Mike and Tim from “Handicap This”, Easter Seals, and Rick Flores. On Saturday afternnon, we had a session on the “TopSoccer perspective” presented by Peter McGahey. He asked questions to athletes, parents, buddies, coaches and program directors followed by a field session with TopSoccer athletes. On Sunday, we offered the TopSoccer coaching course and ended with a TopSoccer roundtable discussion.

Ann Arbor TopSoccer, under the direction of Mark Swinley, runs 4 sessions a year. 5 weeks in the fall, 5 weeks in the winter, 5 weeks in the spring, and in the summer for a week. Typically they have about 20 players attending, ranging from 5-18 years.

Clawson Soccer Club TopSoccer, under the direction of Penny Cummings, runs two sessions a year. One in the spring which starts after Easter and one in the fall. They meet on Sundays for one and a half to two hours depending on the weather. They practice drills and basic concepts of the game at each practice. They emphasize teamwork and good sportsmanship as well. Each of the children are assigned a buddy who help them learn at their own pace and level. The season is concluded with the "big game" played against the local high school varsity team. They create as much excitement as possible including announcers/PA system, treats/gifts, cheerleaders and medals.

Midland Soccer Club TopSoccer, under the direction of Peter McGahey, continues to grow with new friends each season. This fall they had about 12 athletes. They are moving to formalize a buddy participation program and they are looking at holding a Winter Session (details still being finalized). In the spring, they played five weeks during April and May. They had 17 players registered from kindergarten through ninth grade. The Midland Soccer Club TopSoccer Facebook page has proven to be a great vehicle for sharing information with members and being able to answer questions globally for all to see.

Dearborn Heights Soccer Club TopSoccer, under the direction of Donna Smith, currently has 12 athletes, and they are always looking for new opportunities to recruit new families. They participate in Dearborn Homecoming Special All Star Day with opportunities for children to get familiar with the game of soccer. The children earn trophies and medals. Their coaches, Jason Smith and Jason Mkrtumian, do a wonderful job encouraging and training the athletes in the game of soccer. They have implemented new techniques they learned at the TopSoccer symposium.

Marysville Youth Soccer Association TopSoccer, under the direction of Karen Rosbury, had 12 athletes registered in the fall and they hope to continue to grow in the spring. The soccer teams from Marysville High School volunteered to work with the TopSoccer athletes and it was a great experience for everyone. Marysville has TOP Soccer sessions for 6 weeks in the fall and spring. The last session was a pizza party and trophy presentation.

Plymouth TopSoccer, under the direction of Mary Poisson, has 16 athletes and holds sessions in the fall and spring. Their program is designed to learn the game of soccer. They have the children stretch and exercise first, followed by passing and shooting drills, and then they divide the children up into 2 teams and play an actual game which involves passing the ball. This program provides the children with exercise, participation, socialization, team rules and having fun. The last game they provide trophies and have a pizza party.

West Michigan Youth Soccer Association TopSoccer, under the direction of Carrie Ogonowski, is our newest program and the only one on the west side of the state. They had a great season and everything went well with 16 athletes from 6 to 17 years old. The St. Joe Kickers donated indoor space and five practice/play sessions were organized. The buddies were primarily high school soccer players from area high schools including Lakeshore, St. Joseph, and Niles. SWM Kickers Club and West Michigan Youth Soccer also assisted with registration fees and tshirts. We are hopeful for continued growth and participation in the spring.

Rochester Soccer Club TopSoccer, under the direction of Keith Wienke, has about 15 athletes registered. They hold sessions in the fall, winter and spring. The practice sessions consist of drills and one-on-one interaction with their buddy. They wanted to create an environment of fun and free flow on what each athlete wanted. On the last day of their sessions, medals are given at an awards ceremony with a lot of photo opportunities for the parents.

Lakes Area TopSoccer, under the direction of Franci Silver, had a great year. This fall there were 46 players, and they played in all sorts of weather. The players learned some new skills and played some awesome games. The end of the season game was played in costume and they had a Halloween party afterward. The pizza went fast and the players were able to trick or treat at our field. Lakes Area TOP Soccer has sessions in the fall and spring.

Eastside FC TopSoccer, under the direction of GĂŠrard Jones, has 30 athletes and 30 volunteers. They have sessions in the fall and spring, and they end each season with a big awards ceremony where everyone receives a ball, t-shirt, treats, prizes and a trophy. They ran drills on passing, dribbling, and finishing before they ended the sessions with a scrimmage. There is a lot of focus on social learning and having fun.

North Macomb TOPSoccer, under the direction of Jessica Newby, holds sessions in the spring and fall with 31 athletes. They work on shooting and passing and end with a scrimmage.

If anyone would like to volunteer for TOP Soccer, know of a child that might be interested, or if you would like to start a program, please contact me at (810-388-0820) Sincerely yours, Dianna Dykstra

MSYSA Soccer Across America Chair Report Joel Dragan 2016 was another year of continued success for the MSYSA Soccer Across America program. MSYSA registered over 1,700 players in underserved areas throughout the state for Soccer Across America.

Primarily these children are from the city of Detroit and I am looking forward to seeing this program service more areas in the State.

I want to recognize Detroit PAL as our partner on the ground floor for Soccer Across America. Their program is truly amazing in the shear number of children they serve across multiple sports. Through their partnership with the US Soccer Foundation (Soccer for Success) they’re now reaching kids directly in schools and spreading the game of soccer to even more children.

Also in 2016, I received the honor of being named to the US Youth Soccer Region II Soccer Across America Committee. I attended and helped facilitate the Region II Soccer Across America Symposium in Chicago (attended by every state in Region II). The goal of the Regional Committee shall be to find other avenues to encourage participation in underserved areas. We will be trying to put together a start-up guide with resources and instructions to set up Soccer Across America sites.

MSYSA is pleased to welcome a new member to the Soccer Across America program. The Michigan Yemen Sports Association was officially accepted as a member at the 2016 MSYSA Annual General Meeting. They are working hard to grow their program and registered just over 100 players in their first year with MSYSA! Going forward, the goal of this committee shall be to grow Soccer Across America to other underserved areas in Michigan. We will be reaching out to local organizations in several areas in the state. If you have any contacts or would like to be involved, please contact me.

Yours in youth soccer, Joel P. Dragan

MSYSA Discipline & Appeals Committee Chair Report Steve Wilson The purpose of the MSYSA D&A Committee is to hear evidence regarding Misconduct of Game Officials, Referee Abuse or Assault that has been committed by either/or both: Player(s), Parent(s) or Coach(es)/Team Official(s).

Reports that involve Referee Assault/Abuse or Misconduct of Game Officials is reviewed by an independent party to determine if there is enough evidence/material to hold a hearing. Once it is determined that there is sufficient evidence/material to hold a hearing, the material is sent to the State Office and all parties involved are notified that a hearing will be taking place within 30 days on either the 2nd or 4th Wednesday of each month.

I wish to extend a thank you to all the volunteers who have served and assisted on countless MSYSA Discipline & Appeal Hearings. Thank you for the following individuals who have served as part on the MSYSA Discipline & Appeals Committee over the past year: Jeff Wilkinson, Annalisa Van Houten, Steve Anderson, Rita Vershum, Ruth Dober, Dave Mashni, David Jagodzinski, Steve Blanchard, Andrew Cislo, Dianna Dykstra, Chris Jackett, Nancy Jackett, Lee Katterman, Kelly Tomaszewski, Amy Grzymkowski, and Brian Fitzgerald. Also, I would like to thank MSYSA Executive Directo Tom Faro, MSYSA Director of Programs Josh Sherman, and the MSYSA Board of Directors for their assistance, efforts, and support towards the MSYSA Disciple & Appeal Hearings.

Additionally, over the past few years, the MSYSA D&A Committee, in conjunction with the MSYSA State Office, has assisted and advised various member organizations and the Michigan Referee Committee on Rule/Bylaw interpretations, US Soccer Policies as it relates to due process and the rights of all parties involved in a hearing, and much more. If you, or someone within your affiliating league, has questions relating to hearing procedures, please feel free to utilize the MSYSA Discipline & Appeals Committee for guidance and support. Additionally, please feel free to take the MSYSA online module that is available for free, Discipline & Appeals Resource Module. This free module assists member organizations with how to conduct a hearing and provide due process as well as provides template communications that can assist in the hearing process.

Since the 2016 MSYSA Annual General Meeting, the MSYSA D&A Committee has held the following hearing(s): Date: January 8, 2016 MSYSA Hearing: Appealed Decision of a Lower Authority Background: The decision of a member organization of MSYSA was appealed to the next level of authority. Thus, the MSYSA Discipline & Appeals Committee reviewed materials received for the appealed decision.

Decision: Initial decision of the lower authority was upheld due to timeliness of response to appeal the decision.

Additional Notes: Decision of the MSYSA Disciple and Appeals Committee to uphold the initial decision was appealed to US Soccer Federation. US Soccer Federation upheld the decision of the MSYSA Discipline & Appeals Committee.

In closing, if you, or someone you may know, is interested in participating as part of the MSYSA Discipline & Appeals Committee, please feel free to reach out to the MSYSA State Office. Thank you for your continued support of youth soccer in Michigan.

Sincerely, Steve Wilson

MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee Chair Report Ruth Dober The MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee consists of volunteer members. These members of the committee are ‘disinterested and impartial fact-finders’ for any cases relating to Poaching & Illegal Recruitment.

The Committee reports directly to the MSYSA President and the MSYSA Executive Director.

Committee Objectives  The MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee shall only hear disciplinary cases relating to poaching and illegal recruitment. (With the exception to MSYSA Rule 3.7.F.)  The Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee shall monitor the efficiency of the organization’s poaching rules and purpose amendments when appropriate as outlined in the MSYSA Bylaws.  The MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee shall continue, through the MSYSA State Office, to assist MSYSA Member Organizations with inquires on alleged poaching incidents, procedural matters and decision letters in order to comply with standards set by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF).

Key Outcomes  To date, the MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee has not conducted any hearings relating to poaching and/or illegal recruitment this past seasonal year. However, a number of alleged infractions were returned to MSYSA member organizations for handling per MSYSA rules.  Throughout the past year, MSYSA has reviewed, evaluated, and provided input on procedural matters to a number of inquiries relating to poaching and illegal recruitment.  The Committee will continue to provide a synopsis of its decisions when available.

2017 Outlook The MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee has reviewed and answered a number of inquiries as well as poaching allegations over the past year. The Committee will continue to conduct a review of each inquiry and develop prompt responses to better assist each Member Organization.

Hearing Calendar As outlined in the MSYSA Rules and Bylaws, any and all hearings relating to the MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee shall be scheduled within thirty (30) days after it is been determined necessary to schedule a hearing.

Thank you to the Committee Members for their help and assistance this past year. If you, or someone you know, are interested in becoming a member of the MSYSA Poaching & Illegal Recruitment Committee, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully Submitted, Ruth Dober

MSYSA Risk Management Committee Report Joel Dragan There have been many of changes in Risk Management for MSYSA in 2016. Most recently, MSYSA adopted no purposeful heading in accordance with US Soccer’s concussion initiatives. This decision impacts players aged 10 and under. This action now results in an indirect free kick awarded to the opponent at the spot of the infraction. The mandate is for all MSYSA affiliated activities, including but not limited to, affiliated member organization league play, practices and tournaments. In addition to no purposeful heading at matches, heading is limited in practice for all players in U12 and U13 programs. MSYSA recommends heading be limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per week with no more than 15-20 headers per player, per week (no limit on heading in games.)

With respect to background checks, the transition from two-year background check approvals to one-year approvals is nearly complete. MSYSA grandfathered in all reports submitted prior to 7/31/2015 to be valid for two years. All reports submitted on or after 8/1/2015 are valid for one year.

In 2016, nearly 8,000 background checks were submitted. The Risk Management Committee continues to improve its background check screening. MSYSA utilizes several different types of screen. As an example, MSYSA now requires international background check screening for those applicants who do not possess US Social Security Numbers.

MSYSA continues to remind all member organizations on proper goal anchoring and goal safety techniques.

According to MSYSA’s insurance provider Pullen Insurance Services, leagues and clubs should implement a goal safety program. The program should include communication to members regarding goal safety, proper anchoring anytime the goals are in use, and periodic inspection of portable goals. Most importantly, MSYSA insists that no players move soccer goals in any circumstance.

The Risk Management Committee would like to thank the MSYSA Board of Directors for their support in facilitating several Risk Management Appeal hearings in 2016. Their agenda is always full so our Committee appreciates their time. Finally, the Committee would like to recognize the efforts of Mr. Duane R. Johnson P.C. for his legal counsel and support of our risk management program.

Yours in youth soccer, Joel P. Dragan

MSYSA Board Motions 2016 January 2016 Motion (Gil Urban): To approve the proposed MSPSP Rule 6, Section 4, #4 with the amendment of adding the ‘exception verbiage’ to the Rule and MSPS Rule 8, Section 5, #5 as presented (with 5 club pass-carded players).

Second: Denise Moote Motion: Passed Motion (Wendy Zielen): To approve the proposed MSPSP Rule 14, Section 2 as presented.

Second: Denise Moote Motion: Passed Motion (Yvonne Curtis): To approve Saturday, June 17, 2017 as the official tryout start date for 2017.

Second: Pete Fenwick Motion: Passed.

February 2016 Motion (David Newby): To approve the Kingsley Recreational Soccer League as a provisional member of MSYSA. Second: Andrew Klackiewicz Motion: Passed.

Motion (Pete Fenwick): To approve the elimination of heading for all players in U11 programs and younger in all MSYSA affiliated activities, including but not limited to, MSYSA affiliated member organization league play, practices and tournaments. (This includes players 10 years and younger regardless of what age group they are playing in.)

Second: David Newby Motion: Passed.

Motion (David Newby): To approve the proposed MSPSP Rule 15, Section 4 & Section 5 as presented.

Second: Pete Fenwick Motion: Passed.

Motion (Gil Urban): To permit Mr. Crawford to investigate and determine a donation amount not to exceed $2,500 for the family of Tyler Smith.

Second: Wendy Zielen Motion: Passed.

March 2016 Motion (Denise Moote): To accept the MSYSA Committee Chairman recommendations as presented.

Second: Gil Urban Motion: Passed.

April 2016 Motion (Andrew Klackiewicz): To approve the proposed MSPSP Rule 10, Section 2 (Transfers) as presented.

Second: Sam Crabtree Motion: Passed Motion (Sam Crabtree): To remove the following inactive league from MSYSA’s Membership List: Anchor Bay Soccer Club.

Second: Gil Urban Motion: Passed.

May 2016 Motion (Denise Moote): To approve the proposed MSPSP Rule 10 Section 6 as presented.

Second: Mike Poulos Motion: Passed.

June 2016 Motion (Wendy Zielen): To support the initiative proposed by Francisco on behalf of the MRC to develop a Youth Assignor Award.

Second: Mike Poulos Motion: Tabled until the July 18, 2016 MSYSA Board of Director’s Meeting.

July 2016 No actions of the Board of Directors to report.

August 2016 Motion (Wendy Zielen): To approve the proposed MSPSP Rule 8, Section 5, #13 & #14 changes as presented to be effective immediately.

Second: Gil Urban Motion: Passed.

Motion (Mike Poulos): To appoint Mark Klein to serve as the MSYSA Bylaw and Standing Rules Committee Chairperson.

Second: Dan McEvilly Motion: Passed.

September 2016 Motion (Mike Poulos): To approve the FY17-01, FY17-02 and FY17-03 budget adjustments as presented.

Second: Andrew Klackiewicz Motion: Passed.

Motion (Gil Urban): Motion to approve the proposed MSYSA Rule changes as presented to reflect US Soccer PDIs. Second: Denise Moote Motion: Passed.

Motion (Denise Moote): To reject the United FC Michigan (New Member Organization) application.

Second: Mike Poulos Motion: Failed.

October 2016 Motion (Yvonne Curtis): To approve the reimbursements totaling $120 and $60 for ODP Coaches received in the prior MSYSA fiscal year.

Second: Denise Moote Motion: Passed.

November 2016 Motion (Andrew Klackiewicz): To continue to match employee 401K contributions, up to 3%, in January 2018 for the 2017 calendar year.

Second: Wendy Zielen

Motion: Passed.

Motion (Denise Moote): To approve the amended FY ’17, FY ’18 and proposed FY ’19 budgets as presented.

Second: Andrew Klackiewicz Motion: Passed.

December 2016 No Board of Directors Meeting

AGM 2017

2016 PLAYER REGISTRATION REPORT SPRING 2016 SPRING SPRING '16 '16 MSPSP COUNT PLAYERS

Anchor Bay Soccer Club Ann Arbor United Soccer Club Bad Axe Soccer Association Bay Area Soccer Association Birmingham-Bloomfield Soccer Club Bloomfield Hills Youth Soccer League Cadillac Soccer Association Canton Soccer Club Capital Area Soccer League Central Michigan Soccer Association Charlevoix Youth Soccer Cheboygan Soccer Association City of Plymouth Recreation Department Clawson Youth Soccer Crawford AuSable Soccer Association CW3 Soccer Association Dearborn Heights Soccer Club Dearborn Soccer Club Detroit PAL Downriver Youth Soccer League Eastside FC Elk Rapids Soccer Club Farmington Soccer Club Fraser Soccer Club Freeland Soccer Club Garden City Soccer Club Gaylord Soccer League Gladwin County Youth Soccer Association Goodrich Soccer Club Grand Traverse Soccer League Grand Valley Soccer Association Great Lakes Coed Soccer League Grosse Ile Soccer Association Hamburg Community Soccer Club Harbor Springs Soccer League Hartland Community Soccer Association Hillsdale Soccer Club Houghton Lake Soccer Association Huron Soccer Association Indian River Soccer Association Kalkaska Area Youth Soccer Organization Kingsley Recreational Soccer League Lakes Area Youth Soccer League Lakeshore Youth Soccer League Leelanau County Soccer Club Livonia City Soccer Club Ludington Soccer Club Madison Heights Youth Soccer Association Marysville Youth Soccer Association Metropolitan United Soccer League Michigan Chill Soccer Club Michigan Jaguars FC Michigan Premier Soccer Academy (MPSA) Michigan State Developmental Soccer League Michigan Tigers Futbol Club Michigan Youth Soccer League Michigan Yemen Sports Association Midland Soccer Club Mid-Michigan Youth Soccer League Milan Youth Soccer Club Monroe Area Soccer Association North Macomb Community Youth Soccer Northland United Soccer Club Northville Soccer League Orion/Oxford Soccer League Petoskey Youth Soccer Association Redford Soccer Club Reeths Puffer Soccer Club Rochester Youth Soccer League Roscommon North Youth Soccer Association Roseville Youth Soccer Club Royal Oak Youth Soccer Association Saginaw Township Soccer Association Saline Area Soccer Association Sault Soccer Association

Page 1

VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION

5 62 469 316 195 2 290 517 82 10 431 99 118 64 265 27 189 742 36 247 34 13 47 79 66 616 116 23

53

29

1

2 25

1165 1001 185 52 47 112 13 62 57 200

422

66 72 179 150 68 51 97 65 11 259 182 201 1352 102 597 327 93 172 218 128 1525 207 60 36 198 724 39 44 422 384 251

86

23 194 (16)

54 19

19

53 1

111 38 121

41 118

48 2 28

2 (51) 31 6 87 16 94

23

34

110

319

77 260

9 113 66 (133) 31 (285)

35 130 1486 70 45

282

7 (52) 40 88 14 9 252 47

21

122

36 51

32 19 32

1 44 10

FALL 2016

TOTAL SPRING '16 PLAYERS

87 62 472 341 195 25 570 517 66 10 431 153 137 64 376 84 310 742 36 341 35 131 95 81 94 616 116 25 1,536 1,001 216 58 47 199 29 62 151 200 66 129 179 150 497 51 97 65 97 632 248 103 161 2,553 102 674 320 133 260 232 137 2,059 254 81 68 217 878 39 44 459 479 261 -

FALL '16 PLAYERS

6 301 631 1043 978 29 499 2904 222 77 317 248 121 413 78 298 861 159 543 207 34 89 279 116 437 84 210

FALL '16 MSPSP COUNT

109

192

65 17

130 28

239

164 1,183 (50)

381 156 297 108 478

37 18

209 365 138 93 198

69

5667 1672 163 124 130 170 36 158 67 302 97 150 65 277 306 111 107 216 239

979

93 446 125 1984

155 528

5707 101 1208 1230 140 259 515 190 581 554 508 34 304 1752 74 56 1453 481 538 395

VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION

(434) 195 23

47

256 50 163

102

205

346 92 2541 145 248

635

117

86 109

502

111 709 364 (1,165) 264 (2,031) 184 (490) 112 66 164 107 1,227 145 94 163 277

207 101 166

TOTALS TOTAL FALL '16 PLAYERS

TOTAL LEAGUE PLAYERS '16

307 301 826 1,088 978 193 1,921 2,854 222 77 698 404 121 710 186 776 861 159 789 225 399 227 372 314 437 84 279 6,212 1,672 358 147 130 473 86 158 230 302 97 150 167 277 306 818 107 216 239 359 1,683 489 1,165 356 6,217 101 1,537 988 252 325 679 297 2,443 699 508 128 467 2,146 74 56 1,746 691 704 395

394 363 1,298 1,429 1,173 218 2,491 3,371 66 232 508 851 541 185 1,086 270 1,086 1,603 195 1,130 260 530 322 453 408 1,053 200 304 7,748 2,673 574 205 177 672 115 220 381 502 97 216 296 456 456 1,315 158 313 304 456 2,315 737 1,268 517 8,770 203 2,211 1,308 385 585 911 434 4,502 953 589 196 684 3,024 113 100 2,205 1,170 965 395

2017 AGM WEIGHTED VOTES

Prepared by Joel Dragan- Director of Member Services

3 3 12 14 11 2 24 33 2 5 8 5 1 10 2 10 16 1 11 2 5 3 4 4 10 2 3 77 26 5 2 1 6 1 2 3 5 2 2 4 4 13 1 3 3 4 23 7 12 5 87 2 22 13 3 5 9 4 45 9 5 1 6 30 1 1 22 11 9 3

AGM 2017

2016 PLAYER REGISTRATION REPORT SPRING 2016 SPRING SPRING '16 '16 MSPSP COUNT PLAYERS

South Lyon Soccer Club South Oakland County Soccer St. Clair Shores Youth Soccer League Superiorland Soccer Association Taylor Soccer League Thunderbay Soccer Association Traverse Bay Area Youth Soccer Troy Soccer Club Troy Youth Soccer League United Soccer League Upper Peninsula Football Association Van Buren Soccer Association Warren Youth Soccer Association Wayne/Westland Soccer League West Michigan Youth Soccer Association Western Suburban Soccer League Wolves-Hawks Soccer Club

44 186 61 1008 84 109 153 61 347 425 134 44 602 48 435 2815 85

Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP)

VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION

24 69 18 80 55 19

43

19 83 36 200 421

69 (2,006) 18

FALL 2016

TOTAL SPRING '16 PLAYERS

68 255 79 1,008 164 109 208 123 347 425 153 127 602 153 635 1,230 103

4,250

MSYSA Directors Academy Midwest Regional League (MRL)

FALL '16 PLAYERS

65 554 257 101 43 224 152 38 1018 1175 112 55 398 39 2321 9649 43

FALL '16 MSPSP COUNT

81

VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION

124 98 123 198

179 109

126 406

210 51 204 880

223 (7,465) 186

TOTAL FALL '16 PLAYERS

TOTAL LEAGUE PLAYERS '16

189 733 380 101 241 224 457 553 1,018 1,175 112 265 398 313 2,525 3,064 229

257 988 459 1,109 405 333 665 676 1,365 1,600 265 392 1,000 466 3,160 4,294 332

2 9 4 11 4 3 6 6 13 16 2 3 10 4 31 42 3

12,472

1

8,222 2955

2,998

-

327

1744

2,071

-

114

TOTAL PLAYERS SPRING '16 TOTAL PLAYERS FALL '16

27,595 69,248

TOTAL PLAYERS 2016

96,843

2017 AGM WEIGHTED VOTES

43

OTHER/MISCELLANEOUS

MEMBER LEAGUES NEW / PROVISIONAL LEAGUES INACTIVE / EXPIRED LEAGUES TOTAL 2017 AGM WEIGHTED VOTES

TOTALS

114

91 2 875

The BOLD leagues indicate the voting strength after approval by the membership The GREY leagues indicate a member who has been removed from MSYSA. These leagues have no voting privileges.

MSYSA Bylaws: Article VII; Section 7: Voting Body:

...

C. Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and one (1) vote, unless a weighted vote is called for regarding a motion, and authorized by a majority vote of the quorum. Weighted votes for full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body.

D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations.

E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players.

Page 2

Prepared by Joel Dragan- Director of Member Services

Section 4 MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies

Section 4: MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations and Policies

Effective July 31, 2016 MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION OF THE United States Youth Soccer Association BYLAWS Table of Contents Article I: Name Article II: Purpose Article III: Member Organizations Section 1: Eligibility Section 2: Full Member Organization Qualifications Section 3: Associate Member Organizations Section 4: Good Standing Section 5: Member Responsibilities Article IV: Fees and Finance Section 1: Fees Section 2: Budget Section 3: Audit Section 4: Fiscal Year Article V: Officers Section 1: Officers Section 2: Qualifications Section 3: Term of Office Section 4: Vacancy in Elected Office Section 5: Duties of Officers Article VI: Nominations and Elections Section 1: Nominations Section 2: Election of Officers Article VII: Meetings Section 1: Parliamentarian Section 2: Annual General Meetings Section 3: Special Meetings Section 4: Delegates Meetings Section 5: Quorum Section 6: Electronic Meetings Section 7: Voting body Section 8: Cancellation Section 9: Fines Article VIII: Board of Directors Section 1: Composition Section 2: Officers Section 3: Duties Section 4: Meetings Section 5: Quorum Section 6: Voting Article IX: Executive Committee Section 1: Composition Section 2: Duties Section 3: Meetings Section 4: Quorum Article X: Committees Section 1: Committees Section 2: Budget-Finance Committee Section 3: Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Section 4: Cup Competition Committee Section 5: Discipline and Appeals Committee Section 6: Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee Article XI: Indemnification

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 13

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Effective July 31, 2016 Section 1: Third Party Suits Section 2: Suits by or in Right of the Association Section 3: Indemnification against Expenses Section 4: Determination that Indemnification is Proper Section 5: Reimbursement of Expenses Section 6: Insurance Section 7: Merged and Reorganized Corporations Section 8: Severability Article XII: Parliamentary Authority Article XIII: Amendments Article XIV: Dissolution Provisos

13 13 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 15 15

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Effective July 31, 2016 ARTICLE I NAME The name of this organization shall be Michigan State Youth Soccer Association.

ARTICLE II PURPOSE The purpose of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is to provide an opportunity through our member leagues for all youth in the state to have an enjoyable soccer experience while moving toward their personal goals. The Association shall provide: A. The governing structure to administer youth soccer in Michigan, and B. A vehicle to communicate information to players, parents, coaches, referees, and other interested parties.

ARTICLE III MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS Section 1. Eligibility Approval and Acceptance The Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, herein known as MSYSA, is a member of the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer), and a member of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). The MSYSA and its members are open to all soccer organizations. The MSYSA and its member organizations shall provide an equal opportunity to all soccer players, coaches, trainers, managers, administrators and officials, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex or national origin to participate. An organization or individual subject to suspension under Section 4 of USSF Bylaw 241 is ineligible. Provisional approval may be granted by the board of directors to eligible candidates, formal approval for membership is subject to acceptance by the members of this association.

Section 2. Full Member Organization Qualifications Full Members are voting members of MSYSA. Full Members of MSYSA are domiciled and operating within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association territory and are in good standing with MSYSA and USSF. Only soccer organizations (sometimes referred to locally as clubs, leagues or associations) which conduct competition between soccer teams are eligible. Full Members must have youth players among its participant members with at least one hundred (100) players and containing a minimum of four (4) teams in the same divisional age group.

Section 3. Associate Member Organizations Associate Members are non-voting members of MSYSA. Associate Members of MSYSA are domiciled and operating within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association territory and are in good standing with MSYSA and the USSF. Associate Members must have youth players among its participant members with a minimum of four (4) teams participating.

Section 4. Good Standing A member in good standing is one whose current MSYSA fees are paid and who complies with the provisions of the USSF Articles of Incorporations, Bylaws, policies and MSYSA Bylaws and Standing Rules. The board of directors may review the status of any member organization. If any member organization fails to meet member organization qualifications, the board of directors may recommend deactivation of their membership. In the event a member falls below the minimal player and/or team requirements, the Board of Directors may recommend a change to provisional membership status.

Section 5. Member Responsibilities A.

Each MSYSA Member Organization, Full or Associate, shall: 1. Annually submit: Membership Fee and Membership Affiliation Form.

2. Have a Board of Directors that consist of at least five (5) officers who are distinct and different individuals.

3. Register at least one coach and an unlimited number of team officials for each team.

4. Register every soccer player on a team which is sponsored, financed, coached or administered by the member.

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Effective July 31, 2016 5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Provide a list of fields and their location with address for insurance purposes.

Participate in the MSYSA Risk Management Program.

Develop coaching and referee education with the Director of Coaching and the State Youth Referee Administrator.

Send a copy of any updated bylaws, policies and procedures that are adopted at the member’s annual meeting to the MSYSA office within ninety (90) days, for review by the MSYSA Board of Directors.

Adhere to the MSYSA Concussion Policy ARTICLE IV FEES AND FINANCE

Section 1. Fees A. B. C.

Annual Member Organization Affiliation Fees shall be as determined by the board of directors.

Annual Member Organization Affiliation Fees shall be due and payable to the MSYSA office at the time of fall registration.

Spring and fall registration fees shall be determined by the member organizations. The board of directors shall determine when these fees are to be submitted by each member organization.

Section 2. Budget The budget-finance committee shall prepare a budget annually for adoption by the membership.

Section 3. Audit The financial records shall be audited at the end of the fiscal year, by an independent auditor, and at such other times as requested by the board of directors. The full audit report shall be presented to the member organizations annually for adoption annually.

Section 4. Fiscal Year The fiscal year shall be from September 1 to August 31.

ARTICLE V OFFICERS Section 1. Officers A.

The elected officers shall be a president, a vice-president, a recording secretary, a treasurer, a recreational director and the state premier soccer program chairman.

B.

The appointed officer shall be a state youth referee administrator.

Section 2. Qualifications A.

A candidate for elected office shall: 1. Be in good standing with USSF for the past year; 2. Not be a paid employee of the Association; 3. Not hold more than one (1) office, or serve concurrently as an officer of a member organization.

4. Be risk management certified.

5. Have their principal residence and reside in the state of Michigan at the time of the election.

B.

A candidate for the office of president shall have served on the board of directors for at least one (1) year.

Section 3. Term of Office A.

All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed.

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Effective July 31, 2016 B. C.

Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office.

Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose.

Section 4. Vacancy in Elected Office A.

A vacancy in the office of president shall be filled by the vice-president.

B.

Any other vacancy in elected office shall be filled by ballot vote of the board of directors. Previous notice of any election shall be included in the call of the meeting.

C.

For any vacancy filled, if the length of time served by the new officer in position is 50% or greater of the normal term, this shall be deemed a “full term” served. Serving less than 50% of the normal term length shall not be recognized as a full term.

Section 5. Duties of Officers A.

The President shall: 1. Be the Chief Executive Officer of the Association and preside at all meetings of MSYSA and of the board of directors; 2. Execute all authorized conveyances, contracts, or other obligations in the name of the Association except where required by law to be otherwise signed and executed, and except where the signing and the execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the board of directors to some other officer or agent of the Association; 3. Serve as an ex-officio member of all committees with the exception of the nominating committee; 4. Serve as the state youth commissioner; 5. Make employment decisions concerning the executive director with prior approval of the board of directors; 6. Appoint: a. A state referee administrator (SRA) subject to the approval of the board of directors and the Michigan Soccer Association (MSA), beginning January 1 of odd-numbered years for a two (2) year term; b. A state youth referee administrator (SYRA) subject to the approval of the board of directors and the State referee administrator (SRA); c. A state director of coaching subject to the approval of the board of directors, whose duties and remuneration shall be specified in a written contract approved by the board of directors; d. Except as otherwise provided for in these bylaws, standing committee chairmen subject to the approval of the board of directors; e. Special Committees.

7. Attend MSA board of directors meetings or send an appointee; 8. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

B.

The Vice-President shall: 1. Perform the duties of the president in the absence of the president; 2. Succeed to the office of president for the unexpired term in the event of a vacancy in that office; 3. Be an ex-officio member of the budget-finance committee; 4. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

C.

The Recording Secretary shall: 1. Record the proceedings of all MSYSA member organization meetings, board of directors meetings and executive committee meetings and be custodian of the records of MSYSA during the term of office; 2. Provide oversight of the registration process as implemented by the Executive Director; 3. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

D.

The Treasurer shall: 1. Be custodian of all funds;

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Effective July 31, 2016 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

E.

F.

Be a member of the budget-finance committee and provide information to assist the committee in preparing a budget; Be an ex-officio member of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Foundation (MSYSAF); Direct the keeping of full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements; Ensure all funds are deposited in a financial institution approved by the board of directors; Oversee the preparation of financial statements on a monthly basis and send them to all member organizations; At quarterly delegate meetings, present a complete financial report including receipts and disbursements by budget categories and the current balance of all MSYSA accounts; At the AGM, submit an audited annual financial report, compiled by an independent auditor; Provide the MSYSA with a bond in the amount and with such sureties as are satisfactory to the board of directors; Be responsible for the preparation of forms relative to the MSYSA non-profit status and all federal and state tax returns; Require two original signatures on all checks; Provide the secretary general of the USSF with an annual report regarding MSYSA activities including the most current financial report no later than ninety (90) days following the beginning of the fiscal year; Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the financial policy and procedures manual, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

The Recreational Director shall: Represent and advocate the recreational soccer player at all meetings and on the field; Co-chair MSYSA recreational tournaments, which includes coordinating and supervising them; Act as liaison between the adult community and the youth during tournaments; Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

1.

2.

3.

4.

The Michigan State Premier Soccer Program Chairman shall: 1. Be the chief executive officer of the MSPSP; 2. Preside at all meetings of the MSPSP delegates and of the MSPSP board of directors; 3. Have general and active management of the activities of the MSPSP; 4. Be responsible for the implementation of all resolutions adopted by the MSPSP board of directors; 5. Attend all MSYSA delegate and board of directors meetings, reporting all MSPSP activities; 6. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

ARTICLE VI NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS

Section 1. Nominations A.

A nominating committee consisting of one (1) member from each district shall be elected by ballot for a two (2) year term at the annual general meetings held in the odd-numbered years: 1. Nominations for the committee shall be made from the floor with the consent of the nominee; 2. The election shall be held at the same time as the election of officers; 3. No member shall serve two (2) terms consecutively on the committee and board members (other than the chair of this committee) are ineligible; 4. A plurality vote shall elect. If more than one (1) member from a member organization receives sufficient votes to be elected, the one receiving the highest number of votes shall serve; 5. The nominee receiving the highest number of votes on the first ballot shall serve as chairman of the committee. In case of a tie, a separate ballot shall be cast with the names of the nominees with the tied number of votes placed on the ballot. A majority vote shall elect; 6. Vacancies on the nominating committee shall be filled by the president with the candidate who received the next highest number of votes, if available, in accordance with paragraph 3 above. If not available, by a ballot vote of the board of directors from qualified nominees nominated by the board of directors. In the event there is but one nominee, the election may be by voice vote.

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Effective July 31, 2016 B.

Duties of the Nominating Committee 1. The nominating committee shall accept nominations and consider the qualifications of the candidates proposed by the membership or the nominating committee no later than November 1.

C.

Report 1. The nominating committee shall submit at least one (1) name for each office to be filled. No member shall be nominated who has not given consent to serve.

2. The report of the nominating committee shall be sent to the president at least sixty (60) days prior to the date of the annual general meeting, included in the call of the meeting, and shall be read at the meeting when additional nominations from the floor may be made.

Section 2. Election of Officers A. B. C. D.

The election shall be under the direction of the elections committee appointed by the president.

Election shall be by ballot unless there is but one (1) nominee for office, when the vote may be taken by voice.

The president, treasurer and recreational director shall be elected by majority vote in the even-numbered years.

The vice-president, recording secretary, and Michigan State Premier Soccer Program chairman shall be elected by majority vote in the odd-numbered years.

ARTICLE VII MEETINGS

Section 1. Parliamentarian The parliamentarian shall serve in an advisory capacity while in attendance at any meeting.

Section 2. Annual General Meetings A.

Annual general meetings of MSYSA shall be held in the first quarter of the year at a time and place determined by the board of directors.

B.

Notices and materials required or permitted under these Bylaws may be distributed by U.S. mail or by electronic communication, or both, in accordance with procedures approved by the Board of Directors shall be distributed at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days before the meeting.

C.

Meetings shall be for the purpose of electing officers and commissioners, receiving reports of officers and committees, approving the actions of the board of directors (since previous Annual General Meeting), electing a nominating committee in the odd-numbered years, and such other business as may properly come before it.

D.

Voting for the annual general meetings is per Section 7 of this Article.

Section 3. Special Meetings A. B. C. D.

Special meetings of MSYSA may be called by the president or shall be called by the majority of the board of directors or upon petition by at least twenty-five (25) full members.

Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time, place and purpose.

No business other than that stated in the call may be transacted.

Voting for the special meetings is per Section 7 of this Article.

Section 4. Delegates Meetings A. B. C.

Meetings for the delegates of member organizations shall be held twice a year at a time and place determined by the board of directors.

Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days or more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time and place.

Meetings shall only be for the purposes of dissemination of information, and open discussion.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Section 5. Quorum To transact any business at the annual general meeting or special meetings there shall be a minimum of fifteen (15) full member organizations in good standing, and at least three (3) elected officers present to constitute a quorum.

Section 6. Electronic Meetings Electronic meetings of the membership shall be for the purpose of dissemination of information, and shall not be for the purpose of voting.

Section 7. Voting Body A.

The voting body shall be composed a representative from each full member organization in good standing.

B.

No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. Proxy voting is permitted if the declaration is received by the MSYSA State Office at least five (5) days prior to the Annual General Meeting. The proxy statement must include the signature of that organization’s president and that of at least two other board members, and must clearly designate the name of the person representing that organization. For the entire meeting, the votes for every decision are given to the person carrying the proxy. The voting representative designated as the voting member for that organization must be a current member of that organization’s board of directors and/or listed on the member organization’s affiliation form with the MSYSA State Office.

C.

Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and one (1) vote, unless a weighted vote is called for regarding a motion, and authorized by a majority vote of the quorum. Weighted votes for full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body.

D.

MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations.

E.

The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players.

Section 8. Cancellation In the event of a national or local emergency, the executive committee by an affirmative vote of three (3) members in a meeting, by mail, electronic communication, or telephone, may dispense with any meeting of MSYSA. All member organizations shall be notified and the meeting shall be rescheduled in a reasonable amount of time.

Section 9. Fines Member organizations shall be assessed a fine, the amount determined by the board of directors, for each unexcused absence.

ARTICLE VIII BOARD OF DIRECTORS Section 1. Composition A.

The members of the board of directors shall be: 1. Elected officers; 2. Appointed officers; 3. District Commissioners; 4. The Michigan Soccer Association president or designee elected by their respective membership; 5. Chairman of the nominating committee (non voting); 6. Immediate past president (non-voting);

B.

A district or committee appointed member may represent the district or committee if the district commissioner or committee chairman holds any other position on the board of directors or is unable to attend.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Section 2. Officers The officers of MSYSA shall be the officers of the board of directors.

Section 3. Duties A.

The Board of Directors shall: 1. Fill vacancies, except for the office of president, in any elected office and in the nominating committee when required, by ballot from nominations proposed by members of the board of directors. A majority vote shall elect; 2. Adopt standing rules as needed to carry out the business of the board of directors; 3. Appoint one or more assistant secretaries and/or assistant treasurers as necessary; 4. Create geographic divisions, called Districts, within the state of Michigan with clearly defined boundaries.

5. Have authority to bar completely, suspend, or otherwise discipline, any player, coach, manager, team assistant, member organization officer, state board member, team, league or other organization affiliated with or representing the MSYSA for unacceptable behavior or conduct either in carrying out the duties of their position or while holding aforementioned offices and/or position, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board of directors.

B.

The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district’s annual meeting for a one (1) year term, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district. District Commissioners shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected.

2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold two (2) district meetings per year with the AGM serving as one (1) of the meetings; 5. Attend their respective member organizations’ annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary.

9. Meet all the qualifications described in Article V, Section 2 Officer qualifications except Section 2,A3.

C.

If an officer, director or district commissioner misses three (3) consecutive meetings without approval or without acceptable cause, these absences constitute an implied resignation by that member.

Section 4. Meetings A.

A regular meeting of the board of directors shall be held immediately following the annual general meeting for the purpose of planning the ensuing year and approving the appointments of the president.

B.

Other regular meetings shall be held at least quarterly and at such other times as may be determined by the board of directors. At least five (5) days but not more than sixty (60) days notice of meetings shall be given to the members of the board of directors.

C.

Unless otherwise restricted by the board of directors, attendance at all regular meetings of the board of directors shall be open to all MSYSA members without vote and without privilege of debate unless invited to do so by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board of directors.

D.

Special meetings of the board of directors may be called by the president or by any four (4) members of the board of directors. At least five (5) days but not more than sixty (60) days notice shall be given to the members of the board.

Section 5. Quorum

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Effective July 31, 2016 Eight (8) board members, two (2) of whom shall be elected officers, shall constitute a quorum for all meetings of the board of directors.

A director may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or similar communication equipment, by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and their participation shall constitute presence at the meeting.

Section 6. Voting A.

Proposals concerning expenditures of funds not provided for in the adopted budget shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board of directors present or no fewer than five (5), whichever number is greater.

B.

A vote by mail is authorized when necessary. Proposals concerning expenditures of funds not provided for in the adopted budget shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire board of directors for adoption. A report of any action taken by mail shall be verified and made a part of the minutes at the next meeting of the board of directors.

ARTICLE IX EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Section 1. Composition A.

The executive committee shall consist of the president, the vice-president, the recording secretary, and the treasurer.

Section 2. Duties A.

The Executive Committee shall: 1. Be empowered to act for the board of directors when it is not feasible to call a meeting of the board of directors;

B.

Be aware that all action of the executive committee is subject to ratification by the board of directors at the next regularly scheduled meeting.

Section 3. Meetings Meetings shall be at the call of the president or of any two (2) members and shall require a notice to the members of at least three (3) days.

Section 4. Quorum A majority of the executive committee shall constitute a quorum for all meetings.

A member of the executive committee may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or similar communication equipment, by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and their participation shall constitute presence at the meeting.

ARTICLE X COMMITTEES Section 1. Committees A.

There shall be the following standing committees: 1. Budget-finance, bylaws and standing rules, cup competition, discipline and appeals, and poaching and illegal recruiting.

2. There shall be such other standing committees as are deemed necessary by MSYSA.

B.

There shall be special committees as deemed necessary by the president, board of directors, or MSYSA.

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Effective July 31, 2016 C.

Standing committee chairmen shall be appointed by the newly elected president with the approval of the board of directors for a two (2) year term. Special committee members shall be appointed by the president to serve until a specified task has been completed.

D.

The chairman of each standing committee, with the approval of the president, shall be authorized to appoint additional members to serve on subcommittees.

E.

The president shall be an ex-officio member of all committees except the nominating committee.

F.

Standing and special committees shall report to the board of directors at each board meeting.

G.

A majority of the committee members shall constitute a quorum.

Section 2. Budget-Finance Committee A. B.

The budget-finance committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members, one of which includes the treasurer, and in addition, the vice president and executive director as ex-officio members.

The budget-finance committee shall: 1. Review the finances of MSYSA and make recommendations to the board of directors.

2. Prepare an annual budget covering a three (3) year period for consideration and recommendation by the board of directors prior to the annual general meeting, and adoption by the member organizations annually.

Section 3. Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee A.

The bylaws and standing rules committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members. The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee shall also serve as the bylaws and standing rules committee of the board of directors.

B.

The bylaws and standing rules committee shall: 1. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such bylaw amendments as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member organization or individual member no later than October 15; 2. Verify that bylaw amendments are not in conflict with the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 3. Present to MSYSA changes to the bylaws necessitated by amendments made in the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 4. Send proposed bylaw amendments with recommendations to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 5. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such standing rules as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member organization or individual member; 6. Send proposed standing rules and amendments to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 7. Review and update the MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies as needed; 8. Send a copy of the current bylaws of MSYSA to the US Youth Soccer and USSF annually, but within ninety (90) days of adoption of any amendments; 9. Make copies of the bylaws available to members.

Section 4. Cup Competition Committee A.

The cup competition committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members including the appointed cup competition chairman.

1. Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors.

B.

The Cup Competition Committee shall: 1. Determine tournament rules and/or may modify FIFA Laws of the Game when/where necessary.

Section 5. Discipline and Appeals Committee

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Effective July 31, 2016 A.

Composition. The committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members who shall not be members of the board of directors.

B.

The discipline and appeals committee shall hear disciplinary and appeals cases unrelated to poaching and illegal recruitment.

C.

Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors at its’ first meeting following the annual meeting in the even-numbered years to serve as chairman of the committee for a two (2) year term.

D.

Election to Committee. The committee chairman shall appoint enough additional members to the committee to provide a panel of three, disinterested and impartial, body of fact-finders for each hearing or appeal. The members of the committee shall be confirmed by the president or board of directors. Committee members shall serve at the discretion of the chairman of the committee.

E.

Accountability. The committee shall report to the president and executive director.

F.

Hearing Procedures. All hearings conducted under these Bylaws, shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy 701-1, and also refer to MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies.

G.

Litigation.

1. No member organization, player, coach, trainer, manager, club, team, administrator or referee may invoke the aid of the courts in the United States or the State of Michigan without first exhausting all available remedies within the appropriate soccer organization and as provided within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, US Youth Soccer and United States Soccer Federation.

2. For violation of this bylaw, the offending party shall be subject to suspension and fines, and shall be liable to MSYSA for all expenses incurred by MSYSA and its officers in defending each court action, including but not limited to the following: a. Court cost; b. Attorney’s fees; c. Reasonable compensation for time spent by MSYSA officials and employees in responding to and defending against allegations in the actions, including responses to discovery and court appearances; d. Travel expenses; e. Expenses for holding special meeting necessitated by the court action.

Section 6. Poaching and Illegal Recruiting Committee A.

Composition. The committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members who shall not be members of the board of directors.

B.

The poaching and illegal recruitment committee shall; 1. Hear disciplinary cases relating to poaching and illegal recruitment 2. Monitor the efficacy of the organization’s poaching rules and propose amendments when appropriate

C.

Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors at its’ first meeting following the annual meeting in the even-numbered years to serve as chairman of the committee for a two (2) year term.

D.

Election to Committee. The committee chairman shall appoint enough additional members to the committee to provide a panel of three, disinterested and impartial, body of fact-finders for each hearing or appeal. The members of the committee shall be confirmed by the president or board of directors. Committee members shall serve at the discretion of the chairman of the committee.

E.

Accountability. The committee shall report to the president and executive director.

F.

Hearing Procedures. All hearings conducted under these Bylaws, shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy 701-1, and also refer to MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies.

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Effective July 31, 2016 G.

Litigation.

1. No member organization, player, coach, trainer, manager, club, team, administrator or referee may invoke the aid of the courts in the United States or the State of Michigan without first exhausting all available remedies within the appropriate soccer organization and as provided within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, US Youth Soccer and United States Soccer Federation.

2. For violation of this bylaw, the offending party shall be subject to suspension and fines, and shall be liable to MSYSA for all expenses incurred by MSYSA and its officers in defending each court action, including but not limited to the following: a. Court cost; b. Attorney’s fees; c. Reasonable compensation for time spent by MSYSA officials and employees in responding to and defending against allegations in the actions, including responses to discovery and court appearances; d. Travel expenses; e. Expenses for holding special meeting necessitated by the court action.

ARTICLE XI INDEMNIFICATION Section 1. Third Party Suits To the extent permitted by Michigan law, from time-to-time in effect and subject to the provisions of this Article XI, this Association shall indemnify any person who was or is a party to or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed legal action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than action by or in the right of the Association) by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a trustee, director, officer, employee of agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the action, suit or proceeding, if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interest of the Association or its members, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceedings by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of Nolo Contendre or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably had cause to believe to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Association or its members and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful.

Section 2. Suits by or in Right of the Association To the extent permitted by Michigan law from time-to-time in effect and subject to the provisions of this Article XI, the Association shall indemnify any person who was or is a party to or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the Association to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the defense or settlement of the action or suit if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Association or its members, except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which the person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his or her duty to the Association unless and only to the extent that the court in which the action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, the person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses as the court shall deem proper.

Section 3. Indemnification against Expenses To the extent that a person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of any other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise with which he or she is or was serving at the request of the Association has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in Sections 1 and 2 of this Article XI, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he or she shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred in connection therewith.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Section 4. Determination that Indemnification is Proper Any indemnification under Section 1 or Section 2 of this Article XI (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Association only upon a determination that indemnification of the person is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set fourth in Section 1 and Section 2. The determination shall be made (1) by the board of directors by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to the action, suit or proceeding, or (2) if such a quorum is not obtainable, or even if obtainable, a quorum of disinterested directors so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion.

Section 5. Reimbursement of Expenses Expenses incurred by any person who may have a right to indemnification under this Article XI in defending a civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding may be paid by the association in advance of the final disposition of the action, suit or proceeding as authorized in the manner provided by Section 4 of this Article XI upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the person to repay the amount unless it shall ultimately be determined that he or she is entitled to be indemnified by the Association pursuant to this Article XI. Section 6. Insurance The Association may purchase and maintain insurance (and pay the entire premium thereof) on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against his or her status, as such, whether or not the Association would have the power to indemnify against such liability under the provisions of this Article XI or under the provisions of Sections 561 through 565 of the Michigan Business Corporation Act. Section 7. Merged and Reorganized Corporations For the purposes of this Article XI, references to the Association include all constituent corporations absorbed by the Association in a consolidation or merger, so that a person who is or was a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of a constituent corporation or is or was serving at the request of a constituent corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article XI with respect to the Association as he or she would if he or she had served the Association in the same capacity.

Section 8. Severability The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Article XI shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Article XI. ARTICLE XII PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the corporation in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws and any special rules of order that MSYSA may adopt. The parliamentary authority adopted by MSYSA shall be adopted by each member organization.

ARTICLE XIII AMENDMENTS A.

Article I and Article II of these bylaws shall be identical to the corresponding articles of the Articles of Incorporation.

B.

Any provision contained in these bylaws may be amended at any annual or special meeting of MSYSA by a twothirds (2/3) vote of all members present and voting in person, a quorum being present and at least thirty (30) days prior notice having been given.

C.

All bylaw amendments shall be received by the bylaw and standing rules committee no later than October 15.

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Effective July 31, 2016 D.

Revision. These bylaws may be revised only upon authorization of the membership. The bylaws committee shall be responsible for preparing and presenting an authorized version at the meeting which has been distributed by U.S. mail or by electronic communication at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting.

E.

In the event of a conflict between these bylaws of Michigan State Youth Soccer Association and the articles of incorporation, bylaws, policies and requirements of the United States Soccer Federation, the articles, bylaws, policies and requirements of the United States Soccer Federation govern.

F.

Any amendment to these bylaws and/or Rules, Regulations, and Policies necessitated by amendments to the articles of incorporation, bylaws, policies, and requirements of the United States Soccer Federation shall be automatically effected by the bylaws committee and reported to the board meeting following the adoption of such amendments by USSF and to the membership at the Annual General Meeting.

G.

Unless otherwise provided, any amendment to the bylaws of MSYSA is effective on that July 31 that occurs immediately after the amendment is adopted.

ARTICLE XIV DISSOLUTION

In the event of dissolution of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, and after payment of all liabilities, this association shall dispose of all assets in such a manner as defined by United States Youth Soccer Association and United States Soccer Federation. If the Association intends to dissolve for any reason, it shall immediately notify the United States Soccer Federation of its intentions.

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MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION RULES, REGULATIONS and POLICIES

Effective July 31, 2016

Table of Contents Section 1: General Rule 1.1: Establishment Rule 1.2: Amendments Rule 1.3: Members Organization’s Prerogatives to Set Rules Rule 1.4: Pleas of Ignorance Rule 1.5: Matters not provided for Section 2: Administration Rule 2.1: Officers’ Expenses Rule 2.2: Restrictions on Officers Rule 2.3: Other Administrators Rule 2.4: Notice of Meetings Rule 2.5: Budget Rule 2.6: Fees and Fines Rule 2.7: Member Organization Responsibilities Rule 2.8: Risk Management Rule 2.9: Insurance Rule 2.10: Non-Member Organizations; Territorial Affiliations Rule 2.11: Seasonal Year; Seal; Notices Rule 2.12: Miscellaneous Rule 2.13: Administrative Operations Rule 2.14: Professional Status Rule 2.15: Tournament Games, Inter District Play, All-Star Games, and International Games Rule 2.16: Permission to Travel Rule 2.17: Permission to Host Foreign and Interstate Teams Rule 2.18: Permission to Host a Tournament Rule 2.19: Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) Rule 2.20: Olympic Development Program (ODP) Section 3: Registration Rule 3.1: Individuals or Teams Rule 3.2: Age Limit and Competitive Level Definitions Rule 3.3: Maintaining Youth Eligibility Rule 3.4: Player Registration, Member Organization Entry, and Team Affiliation Requirements Rule 3.5: Roster Limit Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration Rule 3.7: Poaching Section 4: Rules of Play Rule 4.1: Rules of Play Rule 4.2: Modifications Rule 4.3: Field of Play Rule 4.4: Length of Games and Size of Ball Rule 4.5: Substitutions Rule 4.6: Player Equipment Rule 4.7: Uniforms Rule 4.8: Home Team Responsibilities Rule 4.9: Player Passcards Rule 4.10: Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player Rule 4.11: Coaching from the Sidelines Rule 4.12: Team Benches Rule 4.13: Misconduct Section 5: Discipline Policies Rule 5.1: Responsibility for Discipline Rule 5.2: Discipline and Appeal Filing Procedure Rule 5.3: Disciplinary Rulings, and Minimum Punishments Appendix USSF Policy 531-9: Misconduct Toward Game Officials Section 1. General Section 2. Rule Application Section 3. Terms and References

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Glossary

Section 4. Jurisdiction and Hearings Section 5. Penalties and Suspensions Section 6. Appeals Section 7. Procedure for Reporting Assault and Abuse USSF Policy 531-10: Misconduct of Game Officials Section 1. Terms and References Section 2. Procedures Section 3. Penalties Section 4. Appeals Bylaw 701. Hearing Procedures Policy 701-1: Hearing Procedures

Effective July 31, 2016 17 18 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 20 21

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Section 1: General

Effective July 31, 2016

Rule 1.1: Establishment The following Rules, Regulations and Policies are the standing rules of MSYSA. MSYSA is a member of US Youth Soccer, which is a member of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). USSF is the national association member for the United States of the international organization for soccer called FIFA or the Federation Internationale de Football Association.

Rule 1.2: Amendments The rules, regulations and policies of this Association as now established and as hereafter amended may be altered, repealed or new rules, regulations and policies may be adopted in lieu thereof by a majority of the board of directors then in office and present at the meeting of the board of directors, subject to membership approval at the AGM or at a special meeting. These rules, regulations and policies shall take effect on that July 31st that occurs immediately after the amendment is approved by the membership, unless specified in the motion when to take effect.

Rule 1.3: Members Organization’s Prerogatives to Set Rules Leagues may deem fit to enact rules and regulations more stringent than those included herein, but in no case may their rules and regulations be less stringent. However, no member organization may limit those privileges granted to players by the USSF, the US Youth Soccer, or the MSYSA. Rule 1.4: Pleas of Ignorance A plea of ignorance to the bylaws and these rules, regulations and policies is not sufficient, and violators may expect appropriate action by the board of directors of this Association.

Rule 1.5: Matters not provided for Any matters not provided for in these rules shall be determined by the MSYSA board of directors and decisions so made shall be subject to the approval of the member organizations at the AGM or at a special meeting.

Section 2: Administration Rule 2.1: Officers’ Expenses The Officers of the Association, as such, shall not be compensated for the performance of services for the Association, but may be reimbursed for expenses incurred on behalf of the Association, including but not limited to expenses for attendance at meetings of the board of directors.

Rule 2.2: Restrictions on Officers If a business in which an officer of this Association has any interest and wishes to participate in the bidding process to provide goods or services to this Association, such business must do so by sealed competitive bid. All such bids are to be opened at the same time and place, and such officer may not participate in the decision to award the bid.

Rule 2.3: Other Administrators The board of directors may establish other administrative positions by contract if there is remuneration or by appointment for positions without remuneration. All positions shall have written statements of duties and responsibilities. Contracts shall also specify the duration of such commitments and remuneration agreed upon.

Rule 2.4: Notice of Meetings A.

If notice of a meeting is mailed, the notices shall be directed to each member entitled to notices at its address as it appears on the affiliation form on file with MSYSA unless it shall have filed with the recording secretary a written request that notices be mailed to some other address, in which case it shall be mailed to the address designated in the request.

B.

Each member organization shall name its authorized representative(s) on the affiliation form.

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Rule 2.5: Budget

Effective July 31, 2016

The annual budget for the fiscal year will include categories for the Olympic Development Program, Coaching Education Program, State Cup Competition, Recreational Program, Michigan State Premier Soccer Program, and all other State operating programs. There will be separately proposed budgets for the next fiscal year for the Olympic Development Program, State Cup Competition, Recreational and State Operating Programs.

Rule 2.6: Fees and Fines The board of directors, subject to member organizations approval at an AGM or a special meeting, may assess fees or require bonds for administrative functions undertaken on behalf of its member organizations or levee fines in specific disciplinary actions. Member organizations shall be assessed a fine, the amount to be determined by the board of directors, for each unexcused absence of a meeting.

Rule 2.7: Member Organization Responsibilities A.

Failure. A member organization who fails to fulfill its responsibilities, including paying current MSYSA fees, registering MSYSA players/coaches/team officials/teams with MSYSA online registration system, and ensuring their administrators, member organizations, clubs, and teams comply with the provisions of the MSYSA Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, rules, regulations and policies, may result in the member being placed in bad standing by the MSYSA board of directors. A member in bad standing will have no voice or vote(s) at any meeting including, special, delegates, or annual general meetings of this Association.

B.

Bylaws Available to Individuals. Member organizations shall make available to their member teams and clubs copies of these bylaws, rules and regulations, and other MSYSA approved policies, as well as copies of any other rules pertaining to and adopted by the member organization.

Rule 2.8: Risk Management The MSYSA will establish a Risk Management Policy and shall maintain a Risk Management Program to ensure the safety of its members. The Risk Management Program will meet certain minimum criteria established by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). The program will include the use of an employee/volunteer disclosure statement for all volunteers, employees, coaches and program administrators who are involved with any approved or sponsored program of MSYSA or of an affirmed member organization.

Rule 2.9: Insurance A.

Player’s Medical Insurance. All players registered with the Association shall be required to file medical insurance claims with their primary insurance company prior to filing medical claims with the State Association.

B.

Public Liability Insurance. All officers of the Association and member organization officials of the Association, noted on each member organization’s affiliation paperwork and/or MSYSA’s online registration system affiliation process, shall be protected against general liability claims by MSYSA’s insurance carrier for performing acts and duties related to the work of the Association. MSYSA assumes the costs of general liability, and all deductibles associated with general liability coverage, to ensure the protection of its officers and member organization officials.

C.

Report of Insurance Claims. All injuries from MSYSA or US Youth Soccer activities must be reported, in writing, to both the member organization and MSYSA within 7 days. MSYSA carries secondary medical coverage. All claims are required to first be made through each member’s primary insurance carrier prior to being submitted to MSYSA. Any claims not submitted to MSYSA within 30 days will be denied.

D.

General Liability Insurance. All member organizations shall provide MSYSA a list of fields used for games and practices with the owner and the addresses by a specified date and time as determined by the MSYSA board of directors.

Rule 2.10: Non-Member Organizations; Territorial Affiliations A.

Unaffiliated Organizations. Any affiliated team or member organization, which plays games or otherwise does business with an organization not affiliated with the USSF or US Youth Soccer, shall face disciplinary action up to and including suspension as determined by the board of directors. MSYSA will not join any organization that has requirements that conflict with the USSF’s articles bylaws, policies, and requirements.

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B.

Effective July 31, 2016 Affiliation Changes. Teams near the territorial limits of the Association may, if the board of director’s consents, affiliate with other recognized associations, but thereafter may not change affiliations without the consent of the board of directors of this Association. A team may not change affiliated member organizations without the written agreement of both member organizations and the written approval of the MSYSA board of directors.

Rule 2.11: Seasonal Year; Seal; Notices A.

Seasonal Year. The seasonal year of this Association shall begin on September 1 and end on August 31 of the following calendar year.

B.

Corporate Seal. The board of directors may provide a suitable corporate seal for use by the Corporation.

C.

Notices. Any notice required by statute or by the bylaws to be given to the members, to the directors, or to any officers of the Association, unless another requirement is provided herein or in any statute, shall be sufficient if given by depositing it in a United States Post Office box or receptacle in a sealed, postpaid wrapper, addressed to the member, trustee or officer at his last address as that appears on the records of the Association, and the notice shall be deemed to have been given at the time of the mailing.

Rule 2.12: Miscellaneous A.

Activities.

1. Except for employees or authorized contractors and subcontractors, no private individual, corporation, contributor, or member of this Association may be granted or paid any income or interest from the assets or funds of this Association.

2.

No part of the activities, assets, or funds of this Association shall be committed to the dissemination of propaganda or the attempting to influence legislation or other political action. The Association shall not participate or intervene in any political campaign or publish or distribute any statement or spend any funds on behalf of any candidate for public office.

3.

The accomplishment of its purpose and exercise of its powers by the Association shall be in conformity with the requirements of the Nonprofit Corporation Act, Mich. Comp. Laws Sect. 450.2108(2), (Mich. Stat. Ann. Sect.

21.197 (108)(2).

4.

MSYSA shall maintain its tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code.

B.

Gifts. The board of directors, the president, or any person expressly so authorized by the board of directors may accept gifts on behalf of the Association for the general purposes of the Association, but no conditional contribution, gift, bequest or devise and no contribution, gift, bequest or devise for a purpose more restricted than the general purposes of the Association shall be finally accepted without prior approval of the board of directors.

C.

Investments. The Association shall have the right to retain all or any part of any securities or other property acquired by it and to invest and reinvest any funds held in it, according to the judgment of the board of directors, without being restricted as to the class of investments to be made, provided that no action shall be taken on behalf of the Association if that action is a prohibited transaction or would result in denial of tax exemption under Section 503 or 504 of the Internal Revenue Code or the Regulations there under as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended.

Rule 2.13: Administrative Operations The Administrative Operations of MSYSA is outlined in the Administrative Operations Manual located at the MSYSA State Office. Changes will be made by the executive director and the president, approved by the board of directors.

Rule 2.14: Professional Status A.

Definition. Any player signing a "letter of intent," a professional contract, or playing with a professional team without the permission of the board of directors shall be declared a professional.

B.

Play with Professionals. Only the board of directors along with the Michigan High School Athletic Association may grant a youth amateur permission to play in benefit or exhibition games where professional players are involved.

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C.

Effective July 31, 2016 Loss of Youth Status. No player who has signed a "letter of intent," a contract, or played in any game where professional players are involved without the permission of the board of directors will be permitted to be reinstated to a youth amateur status.

Rule 2.15: Tournament Games, Inter District Play, All-Star Games, and International Games The authority for approval and/or operational control, including dates and times of games that are to be played for these competitions, when played or sponsored by an affiliated team(s) or member organization(s), shall be vested with the board of directors of this Association. Any team formed solely for the purpose of participating in tournaments only (tournament-only), will receive MSYSA sanctioning. Tournament-only teams may register directly with MSYSA. Rule 2.16: Permission to Travel Teams that wish to travel out of Michigan to play games must request permission from the MSYSA in accordance with procedures detailed in the US Youth Soccer Travel and Tournament Manual. The board of directors may establish additional requirements.

Rule 2.17: Permission to Host Foreign and Interstate Teams Teams that wish to host teams from another state or another country must request permission from the MSYSA in accordance with procedures detailed in the US Youth Soccer Travel and Tournament Manual. The board of directors may establish additional requirements.

Rule 2.18: Permission to Host a Tournament A.

MSYSA Sanctioned Tournaments. Member organizations that wish to host a tournament and have that tournament sanctioned by MSYSA must request permission from the MSYSA in accordance with the policies and procedures established by MSYSA, US Youth Soccer, and US Soccer. The board of directors may establish additional requirements. Member organizations that wish to host a sanctioned tournament shall be protected against general liability claims by MSYSA’s insurance carrier for performing acts and duties relating to the work of the Association.

The board of directors may establish additional requirements.

B.

MSYSA Hosted Tournaments. MSYSA may host a tournament in accordance with the policies and procedures established by US Youth Soccer and US Soccer. The board of directors may establish rules and additional requirements.

Rule 2.19: Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) The board of directors may establish a statewide premier program, which shall have a member organization constitution and bylaws, playing rules and regulations. Changes to these governing and policy statements shall be presented to and accepted by the board of directors and approved by a vote of the member organizations at an AGM or a special meeting called for this purpose. Any subsequent changes to the playing rules and regulations proposed by the MSPSP board of directors must receive approval from the MSYSA board of directors before they are effective. The statewide program shall be known as the Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) and shall be a program of the MSYSA and shall be subject to the authority of the MSYSA. The MSPSP shall be considered a member of this Association and shall have a representative at all meetings of the board of directors, or as called for by bylaws, or at other meetings at the request of the MSYSA board of directors. However, at the annual general meeting of member organizations and whenever a vote is requested, the MSPSP shall have its weighted votes apportioned to the Leagues sponsoring teams to the MSPSP, and it shall have one vote only. In general cases, the MSPSP established pursuant to this article shall be responsible for its own affairs. However, the MSPSP may only accept teams sponsored by the members.

Rule 2.20: Olympic Development Program (ODP) The MSYSA shall participate in the USSF and US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. Any player domiciled in the State of Michigan shall be eligible to tryout for the ODP pursuant to requirements and procedures that will be published annually by the MSYSA.

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Effective July 31, 2016

Section 3: Registration Rule 3.1: Individuals or Teams

A new team or individual may be assigned to a member organization within its district by the MSYSA board of directors.

Registration is done through a member organization of MSYSA for individual players or teams via the MSYSA online registration system.

Rule 3.2: Age Limit and Competitive Level Definitions A.

Youth Player. The term "youth player" shall mean an amateur player who has not attained his or her nineteenth (19th) birthday before the first day of January preceding the Seasonal Year in which he or she applies for registration.

B.

Attaining Age Limit. Players attaining the limited age for any age group on or after January 1 will be eligible to play for the full seasonal year.

C.

Age Groups. All member organizations, unless otherwise sanctioned by the board of directors, shall divide play among teams as listed below. Member organizations may utilize two (2) year age groups for age groups U14 and below, multi year age group for U15 and above rather than single year age groups without specific board of director’s approval. Age divisions shall consist of players who on the first day of January preceding the current seasonal year, are: U19 and younger U18 and younger U17 and younger U16 and younger U15 and younger

D.

U14 and younger U13 and younger U12 and younger U11 and younger U10 and younger

U9 and younger U8 and younger U7 and younger U6 and younger U5 and younger U4 and younger Authority to Contest Age. Any player may be called upon to prove his legal age by the board of director’s, by a district commissioner, by their member organization, or by a majority vote of the teams in any given member organization.

E.

Legal Proof of Age. A birth certificate, passport, drivers license, board of health records, certificate of naturalization, or alien registration card shall be sufficient for proof of age, except in those competitions which specifically state otherwise.

F.

Competition Level. One of the following levels must be specified for player/coaches/team officials/team when a player/team registration is submitted by the MSYSA member via the MSYSA online registration system. a.

b.

c.

d. e. f. g.

In-House Recreation: Players ages 4 thru 19/coach/team official registered on teams formed in a manner described here; Must prohibit the use of tryouts, invitations, recruiting, or any similar process to roster players to any team on the basis of talent or ability. The club or league administering In-house participants accepts any eligible youths ages 4 thru 19. In-house provides a system with a fair or balanced distribution of playing talent among all teams participating. In-house players participate and play in their administering league’s pre-defined geographic or community area and do not travel to other communities for games.

Recreation: A player/coach/team official registered on teams formed in a manner described here; Recreation Leagues must have an open sign-up period, which does not exclude any player except based on age or gender outside of the program scope, missing registration deadline or lives outside of a league’s predefined geographical or community area. Recreation Leagues attempt to balance the teams using a method they publicize in advance, such as teams formed using a draft, random distribution, neighborhood or school area groupings, etc. In the event, too many players register, the only methods allowed are ‘first come, first served’ or a blind draw in determining who is not provided a spot.

Select: A player/coach/team official registered on any team formed from a selection or try-out criteria, or a player/coach/team official on a team in an MSYSA affiliated league that designates itself as a Select League or a particular division as a Select Division. Select designation applies regardless of player age, selection/tryout criteria and team travel distances.

Premier: A player/coach/team official registered on any team playing in the MSPSP league. Any league having a self-titled premier division or elite division.

Elite: A player/coach/team official registered on any team playing in MRL & National League TopSoccer: A player/coach/team official registered on any team formed specifically for players with disabilities (mental or physical) are placed on teams with other players according to ability, not age.

Soccer Across America: A player/coach/team official registered on any teams formed with the purpose of making soccer available to lower-income children in underserved communities.

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h.

Effective July 31, 2016 Futsal: Futsal is a modified form of soccer played with five players per side on a smaller, typically indoor, field.

Rule 3.3: Maintaining Youth Eligibility A.

Any youth player regardless of age may be permitted to play an unlimited number of senior games without losing youth eligibility if the Youth Participation Forms are approved by MSYSA.

B.

Any youth playing for a senior club without MSYSA approval shall be declared ineligible for youth games.

C.

Any youth team using an ineligible player shall forfeit all games in which that player took part under the forfeiture provisions of Rule 4.10: Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player.

D.

Reinstated Player. A reinstated player shall mean a player who has been reinstated to an amateur youth status.

Rule 3.4: Player Registration, Member Organization Entry, and Team Affiliation Requirements A.

Proper Registration Procedure.

1.

All players are required to submit a properly completed member organization player registration form or by the MSYSA online registration system. The submittal of a member organization player registration form signed by his/her parent or guardian (if the player is under 18 years of age) or by the MSYSA online registration system electronically signed by his/her parent or guardian (if the player is under 18 years of age),and MSYSA player fees binds that player to that team for the seasonal year unless granted a release. (see “Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration”)

2.

Each team/club shall be required to submit to the appropriate member organization officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the organization and pay all dues, fees, or fines that may be levied by the member organization or Association. Also, each team/club is responsible for sending proper member organization affiliation forms and fees directly to the person responsible in its member organization.

3.

Each member organization shall be responsible for ensuring proper registration of the players and teams, proper accounting of fiscal transactions and accurate reporting via the MSYSA online registration system to the MSYSA board of directors.

4.

A registered player shall be committed to a team for a full seasonal year. The player may participate on other teams within the team’s organization dependent on the MSYSA member affiliate registration rules. Once registered and in the absence of mitigating circumstances, a player must remain with the same team until the completion of the spring session for the member organization in which his team participates. Any attempt to induce a player to change teams for either the current or the following seasonal year prior to the end of the seasonal year shall be poaching in violation of “Rule3.7”. During the time during which a team has suspended member organization play, players and club or team officers or representatives may freely discuss new affiliation for the following seasonal year.

5.

Tryouts for all MSYSA players for the fall and/or spring season of the seasonal year may not be held earlier than the date established by the board of directors. The board of directors shall establish a calendar tryout date at minimum of one year in advance with the exception of 2015 where the tryout date shall be established 11 months in advance. For high school age boys teams playing only in the spring session, tryouts may be held from the established date by the board of directors until the start of high school practice and after the high school season ends in the fall. Leagues, clubs or teams affiliated through member organizations having tryouts prior to the date established by the board of directors and/or charging any type of fee for tryouts are not eligible for any MSYSA sponsored events.

6.

Registered players on high school age girl’s teams who play only during the fall season with MSYSA affiliated member organizations are expected to play in tournaments and cup games with the team to which they are rostered through June 30 of the seasonal year or until granted a proper transfer or release.

7.

If a fall season girls team disbands or suspends play for the spring season because a majority of the team is playing high school spring sports, those players wishing to play on a MSYSA affiliated team in the spring season shall not be considered transfer players.

8.

All tryouts for teams for the MSPSP must be announced in the Michigan Soccer Publication.

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B.

C.

Effective July 31, 2016 Date of Registration. A player is registered the moment the player and his/her parent or guardian (if the player is under 18 years of age) signs the member organization player registration form or submits and electronically signs the online registration, and has submitted MSYSA player fees to a responsible team/club/ member organization official.

Registration and Transfer Cut-off Dates. The board of directors may set cut-off dates for player transfer for each playing season or seasonal year. If changing from previous season, transfer and registration dates will be announced at the annual general meeting of the MSYSA. The board of directors shall have the authority to accept player registration after these dates and such late registration shall be subject to a fee as approved by the board of directors.

Rule 3.5: Roster Limit A.

B.

No Select and Premier roster may exceed the maximum roster limit for the specific age levels except as noted below: Playing Format

Age Level

4v4 (No GK) 4v4 (No GK) 7v7 (6v6 with GK) 9v9 (8v8 with GK) 11v11 (10v10 with GK)

U6 and younger U7 & U8 U9 & U10 U11 & U12 U13 - U19

Roster Maximum 6 6 12 16 22

Roster Minimum 4 4 6 7 7

No recreational roster may exceed the maximum roster limit for the specific age levels except as noted below: Playing Format

Age Level

Roster Maximum

Roster Minimum

3v3 (No GK)

U5

6 (Ideally 4)

4

4v4 (No GK)

U6

6

4

4v4 (No GK)

U7 & U8

6

4

7v7 (6v6 with GK)

U9 & U10

12 (Ideally 9)

6

9v9 (8v8 with GK)

U11 & U12

16 (Ideally 12)

7

11v11 (10v10 with GK)

U13 - U19

22 (Ideally 15)

7

C.

When the Academy model is utilized, roster maximum may exceed the numbers noted in the chart above.

D.

MSYSA shall allow teams participating in the Midwest Regional League or National League to register the number of players as permitted by those leagues.

E.

For all age groups allowing a 22 player roster, the game roster shall have a maximum of eighteen (18) players and a minimum of seven (7) players.

Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration These rules apply to Select and Premier competitive levels and for transactions by member organizations.

A.

Player Release.

1.

Voluntary Release means the removal of a player from a team’s roster at the request of the player or parent/guardian. A parent/player must approve the voluntary release. A voluntary release will be granted if: a.

A parent/player request to be released.

b.

The player moves to a new address, a distance which in the opinion of the board of directors, would make it impractical for him/her to continue with the original team or,

c.

There are mitigating circumstances, which in the opinion of the board of directors justify a release.

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2.

Effective July 31, 2016 Involuntary Release means the removal of a player from a team’s roster at the request of team authorities. An involuntary release will be granted only if the player is unable to play for one of the following reasons: a.

The original team suspends operations for the remainder of the seasonal year or;

b.

The player has violated rules of this Association and has been suspended for a period greater than five (5) games or,

c.

The player is injured in such a manner that the player will not be able to participate for the remainder of the seasonal year or,

d.

The player moves to a new address, a distance that in the opinion of the board of directors would make it impractical for him to continue with the original team and has demonstrated an inability to continue in participation on the soccer team.

e.

There are mitigating circumstances, which in the opinion of the board of directors justify a release.

In any of the above cases, where a player seeks a voluntary release or a member organization official seeks to involuntarily release a player, a member organization Player Release Form must be completed by the player/his/her parent or guardian (if the player is under 18 years of age) and/or a member organization official and have the appropriate signatures. Player/parent signatures are not required for involuntary release. The member organization must validate the request before player release approved. Once a player is released from a team he/she is eligible to apply for a player transfer. However, obtaining a player release does not guarantee the player a roster spot on another MSYSA team, nor is player transfer guaranteed.

No player release form or fee is required to be submitted to MSYSA. B.

Player Transfers.

1.

A player may apply for a player transfer once they have been granted a player release.

2.

All player transfers must be approved by the player’s existing team member organization and new team member organization before MSYSA member organizations will consider approving the transfer. Application for a player transfer must be made to the MSYSA member organization on their required member Player Transfer form. It is the responsibility of the new team member’s organization to verify the player has been released from the existing team and is eligible for a transfer.

3.

Required and optional signatures on the member organization transfer form are dependent on member organization transfer process.

4.

The new team must have a spot on their roster to accept the transfer player.

5.

During any seasonal year a team may have no more than five (5) transfer players on their roster in order to be eligible to participate in MSYSA State Cup.

6.

All transfers must be in compliance with the member organization’s transfer rules, policies, procedures or bylaws.

7.

Player transfers will only be processed during the period between November 1 and March 1 by affiliated leagues.

Player transfers will not be processed during any other period expect for extraordinary circumstances as directed

by Rule 3.6 B9.

8.

No player transfer form or fee is required to be submitted to MSYSA. Identifying transferred players is required when submitting MSYSA State Cup roster.

9.

The league from which a player is transferred may charge the new team a player transfer fee. Under extraordinary circumstances, such as the dissolution of a team or player’s family moves a significant distance so that remaining with their team is a major hardship, the transfer fee may be waived. Player transfers within a club are not subject to this recommendation. It is expected the league will return a significant portion of the transfer fee to the player’s prior club.

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C.

Dual Rostering.

Effective July 31, 2016

A player may register with up to two teams per seasonal year. Permission to allow or not allow dual registered players is the MSYSA member organization jurisdiction.

1.

The member organization dual registration form (if applicable) must be completed with appropriate signatures before the MSYSA member organization will consider approving the dual registration.

2.

A player may not play for more than one team in the same competition (meaning MSYSA sanctioned tournament, MSYSA State Cup, MSYSA member organization league division, etc.). A player must play on a team within the primary team’s club in the MSYSA State Cup.

3.

In all cases of dual rostering involving a Midwest Regional League team (MRL), the MRL team must be the primary team.

4.

In all cases of dual rostering involving a Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) team and a non-MRL team, the MSPSP team must be designated as the primary team.

5.

In all other cases, the team with which a player first registers must be designated as the primary team and the other team must be designated as the secondary team. MSYSA member organization may change the primary and secondary designation if appropriate after the initial team registration.

6.

An individual player may NOT dual roster on a MRL team and a MSPSP team. A team that plays in both the MRL and MSPSP must have identical rosters.

7.

If the coaches of the two teams disagree on the designation of the primary team, the player may not play until the registration issue has been resolved by the MSYSA member organization.

8.

A dual rostered player shall be issued two US Youth Soccer passcards, one for each team.

9.

Any player who registers for a team without informing the responsible team official and member organization official that they already registered with another team shall forfeit all games for this team for the time period that the player has not obtained the approval for dual registration from MSYSA member organization.

10. Dual registrations will not be permitted by MSYSA during the months of May, June, October and November, unless a hardship case exists and approval is provided by MSYSA. 11. No Player dual registration form or fee is required to be submitted to MSYSA. Rule 3.7: Poaching Poaching is considered a significant offense by this Association and any league, club, or individual found to have committed a poaching violation shall be subject to a significant sanction as determined by the MSYSA board of directors. Such sanctions may include a financial penalty of $2,000 or more, loss of coaching privileges for a year, and ineligibility to participate in MSYSA authorized events including MSYSA’s State Cup Tournament, the Midwest Regional League or any other appropriate sanction.

Any club, team, or league which through its responsible officers or representatives, A.

B.

C. D.

Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation before the end of the current seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation.

Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation for the following seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation.

Teams or clubs requesting to change MSYSA leagues during the seasonal year must obtain written permission of the president of their present league before that move is permitted.

In those instances in which a coach moves from one club to another separate and distinct club at the end of the seasonal year, the coach may not coach any rostered players from teams of the former club he/she was identified as a primary or assistant coach (excluding the coach’s son or daughter) in the following seasonal year.

This rule does not apply under the following: 11 of 23

a. b. c.

E.

F.

Effective July 31, 2016 The coach’s club dissolves.

The coach moves 100 miles making the commute to the coach’s existing club impractical.

The appropriate prior club representative, the club president or DOC, agrees in writing to the coach’s move to a different club.

For purposes of this rule, contact is not limited to personnel contact, but will include contact by phone, text, emails, face book and all other social media. Responsible representatives include but are not limited to parents of team members, trainers, team managers, club or league board members, and club or league directors of coaching. The appropriate response by the responsible representative to player initiated contact is to provide requested information. Any recommendation for the player to attend training, tryouts or any other team, club or league soccer event by the representative would be inappropriate and considered an attempt to induce a player to leave their present soccer organization. A club or league advertising on their own website is not considered poaching.

Attendance by the player at such events when initiated by the player or player’s parents will not be considered poaching.

In those instances in which allegations of poaching involve only member clubs of a MSYSA member league, it is recommended the MSYSA member league conduct the initial hearing. If the findings of that hearing are appealed, the appeal is to be forwarded to the Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee for their review. Allegations involving clubs not associated with a common league should be sent directly to the Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee for review.

Section 4: Rules of Play Rule 4.1: Rules of Play Rules of play for youth shall be the “Laws of the Game,” as published by FIFA. Modifications, as permitted for local associations and youth soccer, shall be published. All contests sanctioned by this Association shall abide by the “Laws of the Game,” and the modifications as published by this Association.

Rule 4.2: Modifications Players U5 to U12 shall play by the Modified Rules for Small Sided Games as published by US Soccer and US Youth Soccer unless otherwise approved by the Board of Directors.

Rule 4.3: Field of Play A.

General conditions. The field of play shall be reasonably flat, grassy fields, free from structures which may endanger the players. The field must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the goal line. The home team will be responsible for the condition of the grounds, the proper field markings and proper equipment. Nets and corner flags are recommended. Goals are required to be properly installed. Moveable goals must be anchored. The game will not be permitted to start if the movable goals are not anchored. (Refer to documents: U.S. Consumers Product Safety Commission Guidelines For Movable Goal Safety available on our website at www.michiganyouthsoccer.org or at U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5118.pdf).

B.

Dimensions. The following indicates field dimensions by age group. Refer to U.S. Soccer standards chart: http://www.ussoccer.com/coaching-education/resources/us-soccer-player-development-initiatives or MSYSA Player Development Initiative video presentation at https://youtu.be/54XjZK4LDzc.

MAXIMUM Age

Length

Width

Goal Size

U14 - U19

120 yards

80 yards

8 ft. x 24 ft.

REQUIRED Penalty Area 18 yards

U13

112 yards

75 yards

8 ft. x 24 ft.

18 yards

No

U11- U12

70-80 yards

45-55 yards

7 ft. x 21 ft.

12 yards

No

U9 - U10

55-65 yards

35-45 yards

6.5 ft. x 18.5 ft.

10 yards

Yes*

Build Out Line No

U5 - U8 25-35 yards 15-25 yards 4 ft. x 6 ft.

6 yards No * Build out lines should be equidistant between the penalty area line & halfway line. (Approximately 18-22 yards).

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Effective July 31, 2016 Rule 4.4: Length of Games and Size of Ball The length of games and the ball size shall be as follows: Age

Length of Game

Over Time Periods (for tournaments)

Ball Size

Time Between Periods

U17-U19

2- 45 minute halves

2- 15 minute halves

Size 5

15 minutes

U15-U16

2- 40 minute halves

2- 15 minute halves

Size 5

15 minutes

U13-U14

2- 35 minute halves

2- 10 minute halves

Size 5

15 minutes

U11-U12

2- 30 minute halves

2- 10 minute halves

Size 4

10 minutes

U9-U10

2- 25 minute halves

2-10 minute halves

Size 4

10 minutes

U8

4- 10 minute quarters

None

Size 3

5 minutes

U5-U7

4- 10 minute quarters

None

Size 3

5 minutes

Rule 4.5: Substitutions The number of substitutions shall be unlimited unless competition under MSYSA jurisdiction determines otherwise. Substitutes may not enter the field of play until receiving a signal to do so from the referee and must do so at the half line. Substitutions may be made by either team at the following times: A.

Prior to a throw-in, with the following exception: If the team taking the throw-in does not substitute then substitution is prohibited.

B.

Prior to a goal kick.

C.

After a goal is scored.

D.

After an injury, when the referee stops play.

E.

At half time.

F.

After a Caution (a Yellow card), the carded player(s) may be substituted, and if substituted, the opposing team may substitute a like number of players.

Rule 4.6: Player Equipment Player equipment shall consist of a jersey or shirt, shorts, stockings, footwear and shin guards. Shin guards are mandatory.

Shin guards are covered entirely by the stocking, are made of suitable material, and shall be properly sized to provide a reasonable degree of protection.

Rule 4.7: Uniforms With the exception of the goalkeepers, opposing teams shall be differentiated from each other. Goalkeepers must wear colors that differentiate them from the field players.

Rule 4.8: Home Team Responsibilities A.

If both teams wear uniforms that are of the same or similar colors, the home team must effect a change to colors that are distinct from those of the opponent if requested by the referee.

B.

The home team shall be responsible for the condition of the grounds, the proper field markings, and proper equipment. Goal nets and corner flags are recommended.

C.

The home team shall be responsible for providing a game ball.

D.

In the event the referee declares the condition of the grounds improper, the game is to be rescheduled. The home team will pay the referee fees for the cancelled game.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Rule 4.9: Player Passcards A.

If required all players shall present to the referee their player passcards before the start of the game.

B.

All passes are to be returned to the player or coach after the referee has completed the team check in.

C.

Should a player misplace their card, the player shall be permitted to play in the game. However, the player shall be open to "Challenge" by the coach of the opposing team.

1.

If a coach desires to challenge, the coach shall notify the referee and the opposing coach that the player is under "Challenge" (not to be confused with Protest) prior to the start of the game.

2.

The player(s) being challenged shall give their name, signature, and date of birth to the referee, who shall note this information on his "Game Report." The referee shall make this information available to the coach making the challenge at the conclusion of the game.

3.

The challenging coach shall then contact the member organization registrar or MSYSA for verification that the challenged player(s) is properly registered within 72 hours.

4.

If the registrar's records show the player is properly registered, the matter is finished. If the player is not properly registered, the forfeiture provisions of Rule 4.10 Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player apply.

Rule 4.10: Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player A.

Any team playing a player, who is ineligible, whether accidentally, intentionally, or otherwise, shall forfeit the game(s) in which that player takes part and may face further disciplinary action by the member organization and/or the board of directors, depending upon the nature of the violation.

B.

In case of forfeiture, the score shall stand 1-0 against the forfeiting team, unless the member organization or competition has a different forfeiture score.

Rule 4.11: Coaching from the Sidelines Coaching from the sidelines, giving directions to one's own team on points of strategy and position, is permitted provided: A.

No mechanical devices are used;

B.

Tone of voice is informative and not a harangue;

C.

No coach or substitute or player is to be anywhere except on the sidelines between the top of the penalty area and the half field mark during the game.

Rule 4.12: Team Benches Teams shall take opposite sidelines for their benches. Home teams have choice of preferred sidelines. Parents and spectators must take the same sidelines as their respective team, unless the facility prevents otherwise. It will be the responsibility of each team’s officials (coach, assistant coach or manager) to educate and see that their fans or spectators behave in a proper and respectful manner.

Rule 4.13: Misconduct Coaches and other team officials shall be subject to all rules pertaining to misconduct contained herein and as published by the USSF, including cautions, ejections, and standard suspensions. Any coach or team official shall be held responsible for the actions of any individual(s) who violate these rules and who in the opinion of the disciplinary authority, is a supporter of that team.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Section 5: Discipline Policies Rule 5.1: Responsibility for Discipline A.

General Cases. In general cases, the member organizations shall be responsible for governing those persons associated within their operation, and shall establish procedures to that effect. However, it is the duty of all member organization officers, coaches, referees and assistant referees to report immediately any infraction of “Misconduct Toward Game Officials” and “Misconduct of Game Officials” (see appendix).

B.

Member organization Discipline and Appeal Procedures. Member organizations shall provide procedures for discipline, protest and appeals for their affiliated members. All grievances involving the right to participate and compete in activities sponsored by the USSF and the MSYSA and its members may be appealed to the USSF’s appeal committee that shall have jurisdiction to approve, modify, or reverse a decision. All hearings shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy 701-1 (see appendix).

C.

Line of Authority. Should any person, team or member organization want to appeal any decision, the line of authority shall be from the member organization to the MSYSA discipline and appeals committee, to the line of authority as specified by United States Soccer Federation.

Rule 5.2: Discipline and Appeal Filing Procedure A.

Types of Discipline and Appeals. The MSYSA discipline and appeals committee shall only hear appeals from decisions of lower authority, cases concerning referee assault, or matters referred by the board of directors.

B.

Line of Authority. The line of authority for an appeal is: 1.

Member organization;

2.

MSYSA discipline and appeals committee;

3.

The line of authority as specified by the United States Soccer Federation.

C.

Grounds for Appeal. Appeals must be in writing, either on forms specified by the MSYSA or providing the information requested on such forms, and describes in detail the grounds for the appeal.

D.

Appeal Fee and Time Limit. The written appeal must be mailed within ten (10) days of the receipt of a written decision from a lower authority and must be accompanied by all supporting documents and by the $250.00 fee in the form of a money order or cashier's check.

E.

Loss or Return of Fee. The appeal fee paid by the prevailing party will be returned; however, the fee shall not be returned if the appeal is denied.

F.

Decline to Hear Appeal. Authorities responsible for hearing appeals may decline a hearing if: 1.

The appeal does not pertain to the original protest or the decision of a lower authority;

2.

The appeal is filed by a party other than the original parties to the protest/appeal.

G.

Timeliness of Response. At all levels of the appeals process, if a decision is not reached within thirty (30) days of receipt of the written appeal, the party filing the appeal may submit the appeal to the next higher level and the appeal fee submitted will be applied to the next level.

H.

Status of Decisions. All decisions at all levels of the appeal process shall stand and be in full force and effect until changed by a higher authority.

I.

Ultimate State-level Authority. Decisions of the MSYSA discipline and appeals committee shall be binding unless the decisions are overturned by a higher authority. Failure to abide by decisions of the committee shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the MSYSA board of directors.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Rule 5.3: Disciplinary Rulings, and Minimum Punishments (All Sections listed below are minimums) A.

Minimum Penalties. A member organization may adopt more stringent penalties, which will prevail, but in no event may penalties be less than those listed.

B.

Player Fighting. A player guilty of fighting before, during or after games shall receive a two-game (2) suspension.

C.

Player Profanity. A player guilty of using profanity, either by word or sign, against another player, coach, spectator, or any member organization official shall receive a minimum two-game (2) suspension.

D.

Player Threats. A player guilty of making threatening gestures against another player, coach, spectator, or any member organization official shall receive a minimum two-game (2) suspension. Verbal threats are remarks that carry the implied or direct threat of physical harm. Such remarks as “I’ll get you after the game” or “You won’t get out of here in one piece” shall be deemed referee abuse. (See Appendix USSF Policy 531-9).

E.

Player Striking Official. A player guilty of pushing or striking any coach, or any member organization official shall receive a minimum one-year (1) suspension.

F.

Misconduct toward a Referee. Any player, coach, manager, or official committing some misconduct as defined by USSF Policy 531-9 shall be dealt with in accordance with that policy. Reporting procedures are included in the policy.

G.

1.

Referee abuse is a verbal statement or physical act not resulting on bodily contact which implies or threatens physical harm to a referee or the referee’s property or equipment.

2.

Abuse includes, but is not limited to the following acts committed upon a referee: Using foul or abusive language toward a referee; spewing any beverage on a referee’s property; spitting at (but not on) the referee; or verbally threatening a referee.

3.

Referee assault involves physical contact with the referee, or the referee’s uniform or personal property.

Coach Threats. Coaches or team officials who make threatening gestures or use threatening language to other players, coaches, or any member organization officials shall be disciplined according to the following schedule: First Time: Second Time: Third Time:

H.

Minimum two-game (2) suspension.

The offender shall appear before the MSYSA board of directors and be suspended for a minimum of four (4) games.

The offender will be suspended for not less than one (1) year.

Misconduct of Spectators. Any other individual who may be reasonably construed to be associated with a team, such as relatives and supporters, shall also be subject to the jurisdiction of this Association.

1.

Assault or abuse of a referee by a spectator. If an individual who supports a team abuses or assaults a referee, such action shall be deemed loss of control by the coach and other team officials. Upon receipt of a report of an assault or abuse of a referee by a spectator, the chairperson of the discipline and appeals committee, or their designate, will form an ad hoc committee composed of the chairperson (or their designate) and two (2) individuals on the MSYSA board of directors who are not members of the member organization(s) involved in the case. The chairperson will perform a preliminary investigation and disclose the results of the investigation to the ad hoc committee. The ad hoc committee will determine if there is enough evidence to sustain a charge of assault or abuse. If not, no action will be taken. If there is enough evidence, a letter will be forwarded to the team informing them of the requirement to post a cash bond up to $1,000 with the MSYSA. After receiving written notification of the requirement for a bond, the team shall have forty-eight (48) hours to post the bond with MSYSA. Failure to remit that bond to this Association shall place that team temporarily under suspension and not in good standing. Any games missed or games played after the forty-eight (48) hour period but prior to the posting of said bond will be considered forfeit.

2.

The matter will be referred to the discipline and appeals committee for a complete investigation and hearing.

Said hearing will be conducted with the same procedures established for hearings conducted for assaults of referees by players, coaches or other team officials. After hearing all the evidence the discipline and appeals committee may return the bond if the charges prove untrue; may continue the bond for a period of time not less than one (1) year; may increase the amount of the bond to a maximum of twice the amount of the original bond; or may reduce the amount of the bond; depending on the severity of the offense.

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3.

I.

Effective July 31, 2016 If a second such offense occurs involving any supporter of the same team within a period of two (2) years, the amount of the bond shall be doubled. The original bond, if still in effect, will be forfeited.

4.

If a third such offense occurs involving any supporter of the same team, the team shall be suspended from all competition under the auspices of the MSYSA. Provisions will be made to prevent the reforming of the same team members with a new team name.

5.

The MSYSA shall return the bond at the end of the period determined by the discipline and appeals committee.

Misconduct of Game Officials. In case of misconduct by referees or other game officials, USSF Policy 531-10 shall apply, including reporting procedures (See Appendix).

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Effective July 31, 2016

APPENDIX

The content of this Appendix is not meant to be rules that may be amended by the MSYSA. The information provided herein is for reference and any changes by USSF will be effective immediately upon any subsequent amendments by USSF and this Appendix will be updated as quickly as possible.

USSF Policy 531-9 – Misconduct Toward Game Officials Section 1. General Misconduct against referees may occur before, during and after the match, including travel to and from the match. Misconduct may occur also at later times when directly related to duties of a game official as a referee.

Section 2. Rule Application a. b. c.

This policy shall supersede any inconsistent rules of Organization Members that pertain to assaults or abuse upon Federation referees, assistant referees, the manner and means of hearings, appeals, and rehearings in matters pertaining thereto.

Nothing in this policy rule shall be construed to restrict or limit any league, event/tournament or Organization Member from applying equal or greater restrictions to anyone not listed in section 4(1)(1) of this policy (i.e., a spectator associated with a club or team).

This policy shall not apply to players, coaches, managers, club officials, or league officials while participating in Professional League Member activities.

Section 3. Terms and References As used in this policy – 1. “Referee” includes the following: a. All currently registered USSF referees, assistant referees, 4th officials or others duly appointed to assist in officiating in a match. b. Any non-licensed, non-registered person serving in an emergency capacity as a referee (under Rule 3040). c. Any club assistant referee.

2.

3.

4.

“Hearing” means a meeting of at least three neutral members, one of which is designated or elected to serve as Chairperson. The hearing shall be conducted pursuant to guidelines established by the Organization Member. (a)(i) Referee assault is an intentional act of physical violence at or upon a referee. (ii) For purposes of this policy, “intentional act” shall mean an act intended to bring about a result which will invade the interests of another in a way that is socially unacceptable. Unintended consequences of the act are irrelevant. (b) Assault includes, but is not limited to the following acts committed upon a referee: hitting, kicking, punching, choking, spitting on, grabbing or bodily running into a referee; head butting; the act of kicking or throwing any object at a referee that could inflict injury; damaging the referee’s uniform or personal property, i.e. car, equipment, etc. (a)Referee abuse is a verbal statement or physical act not resulting in bodily contact which implies or threatens physical harm to a referee or the referee’s property or equipment. (b) Abuse includes, but is not limited to the following acts committed upon a referee: using foul or abusive language toward a referee that implies or threatens physical harm; spewing any beverage on a referee’s personal property; spitting at (but not on) the referee.

Section 4. Jurisdiction and Hearings A. General 1. When any amateur or professional player, coach, manager, club official or game official assaults or abuses a referee, the original jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter shall vest immediately in the responsible Organization Member which is affiliated with the United States Soccer USSF. 2. When an allegation of assault is verified by the Organization Member, the person is automatically suspended until the hearing on the assault.

3. The Organization Member must hold a hearing within thirty (30) days of the verification by the Member of the abuse or assault or, if applicable, the thirty-day period provided by subsection (b)(3) of this section. If the Member does not adjudicate the matter within that period of time, original jurisdiction shall immediately vest in the Federation’s Appeals Committee to adjudicate the matter, to which the same provisions as to the term of suspension shall apply.

4. Failure to hold the initial hearing shall not rescind the automatic suspension.

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B.

Effective July 31, 2016 Events and Tournaments 1. In the event an assault or abuse of a referee occurs in an event outside the alleged offender’s home state, the referee shall (A) immediately notify the Event/Tournament Chairperson, and (B) forward a copy of the game report and his/her comments on the incident to the Event/Tournament Chairperson.

2. The Event/Tournament Chairperson shall have the right to immediately convene a hearing at the site of the Event/Tournament, at which the alleged offender, the coach of the alleged offender when the offender is a player, and the game official should be present. Information presented at this hearing shall promptly be relayed to the alleged offender’s Organization Member President by the Event/Tournament Chairperson, both orally and in writing; however, failure to provide written information shall not restrict the offender’s Organization Member from taking action with regard to any referee abuse or assault.

3. Final jurisdiction shall vest with the alleged offender’s Organization Member. A hearing shall be held by that Organization Member within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the initial report of the abuse or assault on a referee.

Section 5. Penalties and Suspensions A. Assault 1. The person committing the referee assault must be suspended as follows: a. For a minor or slight touching of the referee or the referee’s uniform or personal property, at least 3 months from the time of the assault; b. Except as provided in clause i. or ii., for any other assault, at least 6 months from the time of the assault: i. For an assault committed by an adult and the referee is 17 years of age or younger, at least 3 years; or ii. For an assault when serious injuries are inflicted, at least 5 years.

2. An Organization Member adjudicating the matter may not provide a shorter period of suspension but, if circumstances warrant, may provide a longer period of suspension.

B.

Abuse The minimum suspension period for referee abuse shall be at least three (3) scheduled matches within the rules of that competition. The Organization Member adjudicating the matter may provide a longer period of suspension when circumstances warrant (e.g., habitual offenders).

Section 6. Appeals A person who is found to have committed the abuse and/or assault may appeal to the Appeals Committee by following the procedures of Federation Bylaw 705 within ten (10) days from receipt of the decision of the Organization Member.

Section 7. Procedure for Reporting Assault and Abuse A. Procedures for reporting of referee assault and/or abuse shall be developed and disseminated by the National Referee Committee to all Federation registered referees.

B. Referees shall transmit a written report of the alleged assault or abuse, or both, within 48 hours of the incident (unless there is a valid reason for later reporting) to the designee of the Organization Member and the State Referee Administrator. For tournaments or special events, the referee shall transmit a written report to the tournament director on the day of the incident and to his home state SRA within 10 days of the incident.

USSF Policy 531-10 – Misconduct of Game Officials Section 1. Terms and References A. “Game Officials” includes the following: 1. All currently registered USSF referees, assistant referees, 4th officials or others appointed to assist in officiating in a match.

2. Any non-licensed, non-registered person serving in an emergency capacity as a referee (See section 2 of Policy 531-8).

3. Any club assistant referee.

4. Any referee development program person performing any official function at a match B.

C.

D.

“Referee Development Program Person” includes any referee, referee administrator, referee assessor, referee instructor, referee assignor, or other person serving in such capacity in a line or supervisory position, including members of any referee committee appointed by the Federation, its Divisions, Affiliates or Associates, a State Association, or a competition, tournament or other appropriate authority.

“Hearing” means a meeting of at least five members, one of which is designated or elected to serve as a Chairperson.

The Chairperson of a hearing shall not vote except to break a tie vote. Such members, including the Chairperson, shall not be the State Referee Administrator, the State Director of Referee Instruction, the State Director of Referee Assessment, a Federation National or FIFA Referee, or any other member of the State Referee Administration.

“State Association” shall be that State Association through which the game official is registered or referee development is appointed. Where a state has both Amateur or Youth National State Associations, the reference shall 19 of 23

Effective July 31, 2016 mean that State Association which has legal authority within its state to administer the registration of the referee or the appointment of the referee development program person charged.

Section 2. Procedures A.

Misconduct at a Match When any game official is accused of having committed misconduct toward another game official, participant, or spectator at a match, or of having a conflict of interest, the original jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter shall vest immediately in the State Association or Organization Member through which the accused game official is registered. In the situation where Amateur and Youth State Associations exist in a state, and the incident of alleged misconduct occurred at a match sanctioned by one State Association, jurisdiction shall vest within the State Association sanctioning the match in question.

B.

Misconduct Away from a Match When any game official, referee, referee assistant or referee development program person is accused of unethical conduct, misuse or abuse of authority or conflict of interest is any matter in the pursuit of or may affect the individual’s official dealings within and as authorized by the Federation, its Divisions, Affiliates or Associates, a State Associations or Organization Member, or a competition, tournament or other appropriate authority, the matter shall vest immediately in the State Association through which the accused game official is registered or through which the referee development program person is appointed.

C.

D.

E. F.

Any allegation of misconduct or of conflict of interest by a game official as described by subsection (A) of this section, or of unethical conduct, misuse or abuse of authority or conflict of interest as described by subsection (B) of this section, shall be made in writing to the State Referee Administrator or to the State Association(s) or Organization Member that shall report all such allegations including any allegations against the State Referee Administrator, to the State Association(s) or Organization Members through which the accused game official if registered or through which the accused referee development program person is appointed.

Upon receipt by the appropriate Organization Member of a verified written complaint, a hearing shall be conducted within 30 days from verification pursuant to guidelines established by the Organization Member having jurisdiction as provided by subsection (A) or (B) of this section. The guidelines may include referring the complaint to the State Referee Committee for the hearing. The hearings and appeal process shall provide for adequate due process for the accused person including proper notice of charges, the right to bring witnesses in defense, and the right to confront and to cross-examine the accusers.

The Chairperson of the hearing committee shall transmit the findings of the committee in writing to all parties concerned including the accused and the accusers and to the State Association(s) or Organization Member within seven days of the hearing.

Any party subject to penalties shall receive, at the time of notification of the decision, a notice of the rights of appeal and a copy of the procedures and deadline dates required for such an appeal to be properly considered. Time for filing an appeal shall start with the date official receipt of the decision by the party making the appeal.

Section 3. Penalties A. The severity of the penalty imposed upon an individual shall be determined by the decision-making body having jurisdiction.

B. Penalties may be among the following: 1. Letter of reprimand; 2. A fine; 3. Suspension from all active participation in the Federation for a fixed period of time; 4. Any combination of clauses (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection; and 5. Dismissal from the Federation.

C.

Any individual while under suspension may not take part in any activity sponsored by the Federation or its members.

Section 4. Appeals A. Any game official who is found guilty of misconduct as defined in this rule may appeal the decision of the hearing committee as follows: 1. To a Referee Disciplinary Committee jointly appointed by the Amateur and Youth State Associations.

2. To the Federation Appeals Committee as provided under USSF Bylaw 705.

B. The party appealing the decision of a committee shall have ten (10) days to file the notice of appeal of a decision.

Time for filing an appeal shall start with the date of official receipt of the decision by the party making the appeal.

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Effective July 31, 2016 Bylaw 701. HEARING PROCEDURES In all hearings conducted under these bylaws, the parties shall be accorded: 1. notice of the specific charge or alleged violations in writing and possible consequences if the charges are found to be true; 2. reasonable time between receipt of the notice of charges and the hearing within which to prepare a defense; 3. the right to have the hearing conducted at a time and place so as to make it practicable for the person charged to attend; 4. a hearing before a disinterested and impartial body of fact-finders; 5. the right to be assisted in the presentation of one’s case at the building; 6. the right to call witness and present oral and written evidence and argument; 7. the right to confront witness, including the right to provide the identity of the witness in advance of the hearing; 8. the right to have a record made of the hearing if desired; 9. a written decision, with reasons for the decision, based solely on the evidence of the record, issued in a timely fashion; 10. notice of any substantive and material action of the hearing panel in the course of the proceeding; and 11. quality concerning communications and no ex parte communication is permitted between a party and any person involved in making its decision or procedural determination except to provide explanations involving procedures to be followed.

Policy701-1 Hearing Procedures This policy provides the minimum rights that each party would have at a hearing with respect to the right to assistance in presenting one’s case at a hearing, as must be allowed under Federation Bylaw 701(5). These minimum rights apply to hearings conducted by State Associations and their members or other hearing body. A copy of these minimum rights should be delivered to the parties with the notice of the hearing.

(A) Each party at a hearing shall have the right to have an individual present at the hearing to assist the party in presenting the party’s case. Such individual may, but shall not be required to be, an attorney.

(B) If the State Association or member of the State Association (“Complainant”) is represented by another individual at any hearing and the hearing panel allows that individual to speak, question the parties and /or witnesses, or grant that individual any other rights, then it shall afford all other parties, or the individual representing the party, including an attorney, the same rights during the course of the hearing as is allowed to the individual representing the Complainant.

(C) If an attorney is present at a hearing to assist a part in presenting the party’s case, it shall be clear at the commencement of any such hearing that the hearing shall proceed in accordance with the State Association’s hearing rules and procedures. All Federal, State or local Rules of Evidence or Civil Procedure shall not be applicable.

(D) A State Association may provide, as part of its hearing rules and procedures, that an individual assisting a party may be allowed to speak on behalf of the party, make requests or ask questions at the hearing.

(E) Regardless of whether the State Association allows the individual assisting the party the rights to speak, make requests or ask questions, as noted in Paragraph D above, an individual assisting the party in presenting the party’s case shall have the right to be physically present in the hearing room, and so as not to interfere with the hearing procedure, it is also recommended that the individual be seated close to the party(either behind or next to the party) so that the party may seek assistance when desired during the course of the hearing.

(F) During the course of the hearing, the party may confer briefly with the individual who is assisting before making a statement or request or prior to responding to a question. The panel conducting the hearing may limit the frequency and duration of the conferences so as not to unduly interfere with the proceeding.

(G) If there is confusion or concern, the party may request a recess to confer with the individual assisting the party.

Such a request should be granted unless the number of requests by the party becomes unreasonable or the length of a requested recess is deemed by the hearing panel to be unreasonable.

(H) An individual assisting a party may prepare written material for the party and collect documents for the party.

However, the party must submit or present the material and documents as material and documents of the party, and not of the individual assisting. The party has complete responsibility for those materials and documents and is subject to questioning about them.

(I) Nothing contained in this policy shall prevent a State Association from allowing greater rights to assistance than those set forth in Paragraphs A-H above. For example, a State Association may, but shall not be obligate to, allow more than one individual to assist a party at any given time.

(J) The rights, either mandatory or permissible under this policy, shall be consistently applied, and State Association should not arbitrarily allow or disallow the rights set forth above to those individuals assisting a party in the presentation or defense of the party’s case.

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GLOSSARY

Effective July 31, 2016

For the purpose of interpretation, these definitions are offered but are not meant as rules themselves.

1.

Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Soccer’s world governing body is the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), which is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. The delegates of the association of France, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland signed the articles of foundation. In 1905 the English Football Association enrolled in FIFA along with Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

FIFA is comprised of each country’s national soccer associations and is responsible for promoting and organizing the game of soccer throughout the world. FIFA also determines the basic playing “Laws of the Game.” Those laws are available from the Federation in a special booklet. Today more than 150 million people throughout the world play soccer and in a given year up to 1 million referees officiate more than 20 million matches. FIFA governs all aspects of the game.

2.

United States Soccer Federation, Inc (USSF) United States Soccer Federation , Inc (USSF) is the national governing body for all levels of soccer in the United States. It was formed in 1913 and affiliated with FIFA the following year.

U.S. Soccer is recognized by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) as provided in the Amateur Sports Act of 1978. The constitution, rules, policies, and procedures of the Federation have evolved over a period of time to govern the game of soccer and protect the interests of all participants, players, officials, administrators, clubs, member organizations, national states associations, and the Federation. Therefore, they must be accepted and observed by all members of the Federation until changed in accordance with the procedure provided.

3.

United States Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (USYSA; U.S. Youth Soccer) United States Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (USYSA; US Youth Soccer) is the largest member of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). US Youth Soccer is a non-profit and educational organization whose mission is to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America's youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition.

Beginning in 1974, US Youth Soccer has always been recognized as a leader in youth sports organizations. Through a democratic structure, the membership of US Youth Soccer is able to provide uniform rules and guidelines. These guidelines facilitate intra-state, inter-state and international play. The national administration of US Youth Soccer is conducted by a nine member board of directors consisting of a chairman, vice chairman, secretary, treasurer, four regional directors, and a member at large. Each of these board members are elected into office by delegates from the 55 member State Associations. A tenth position that of past president is held by the past president for a single term of two years. The US Youth Soccer membership is divided into four regions, each with a director elected to the board of directors. The regions are essentially East (Region I), Midwest (Region II), South (Region III) and West (Region IV). Each State Association has a board of directors, elected by delegates from their member organizations, clubs or teams.

4.

“National State Association” means an affiliated member association of US Youth Soccer representing all clubs, member organizations, teams, players, coaches, and administrators, within the territory assigned to the National State Association by the USSF National Council. The administrative body within the territory determined by the National Council to carry out the Federation’s programs for amateur youth or amateur adult players or both.

5.

“Amateur Sports Act” means the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act (chapter 2205 of title 36, United States Code).

6.

“Appeal” means a procedure to be followed which provides that such matters be resolved on as low an organizational level as possible. This process is for disputes outside the decisions made by a referee on the field during the course of a match.

7.

“MSYSA” means Michigan State Youth Soccer Association which is a National State Association.

8.

“board of directors” or “Board” means the board of directors of MSYSA

9.

“Club” means an organization providing soccer to youth players that is either a direct member of MSYSA or that registers players with MSYSA through an affiliated member. At no time shall an affiliated member who functions as a “scheduling league” also be considered a “club”. In the case where a club sets up one or more satellite clubs in the state, those satellite clubs may only be considered part of the main club for the purposes of the National Championship Series if all the following criteria are met: 1. The main club and satellite club have the same Board of Directors 2. The main club and satellite club have the same Tax ID number 3. The main club and satellite club are in the same MSYSA District as determined by the MSYSA Board of Directors.

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10. “District” means a geographical subdivision of the State of Michigan

Effective July 31, 2016

11. “League” or “member organization” a structured group of 4 or more teams joined for the purpose inter-team play under a common set of administrative rules.

12. “League team” means a team that participates in regularly scheduled member organization play.

13. “Protest” means a complaint about field or referee qualifications prior to the start of a game, or the misapplication of rules or procedures during a game.

14. “Standing Rules” means rules, regulations and policies of Michigan State Youth Soccer Association.

15. “Team” means a group of soccer players playing on the same side in soccer games.

16. “Youth player” means an individual who has not reached 19 years of age prior to August 1 immediately before the start of any seasonal year. A player who reaches 19 years of age during a seasonal year is allowed to complete that seasonal year. A player who reaches 19 years of age during August of one (1) seasonal year shall be allowed to complete all of the next seasonal year.

17. “USOC” means the United States Olympic Committee that is the corporation established under the Amateur Sports Act to oversee all amateur athletic activity in the United States.

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Section 5 Proposed Revisions to the MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies

Section 5: Proposed Revisions to Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, & Policies

The following proposed amendments to the MSYSA Bylaws and MSYSA Rules, Regulations, and Policies will be considered by membership at the Annual General Meeting to be held on February 18, 2017 in Auburn Hills, MI. In addition to stating the amendments in a formal manner, the proposed amendments are presented in a manner displaying the current wording and the effect of the proposed amendment. Proposed changes where words are inserted or added are underlined. Proposed omissions are printed with strikethrough text (lines drawn through words).

Each proposed amendment includes the identity of the proposer and the rationale furnished by the proposer.

AMENDMENT #1 - Recreational Director Duties Amend Bylaws Article V, Section 5E by striking out 2. Co-chair MSYSA recreational tournaments, which includes coordinating and supervising them; 3. Act as liaison between the adult community and the youth during tournaments; and inserting 2. Promote the game of soccer in the state of Michigan to non-participants; 3. Promote soccer events, tournaments and programs to the recreational player; 4. Help and support the recreational/volunteer coaches with resources and educational opportunities; and renumbering remaining item.

CURRENT WORDING E. The Recreational Director shall: 1. Represent and advocate the recreational soccer player at all meetings and on the field; 2. Co-chair MSYSA recreational tournaments, which includes coordinating and supervising them; 3. Act as liaison between the adult community and the youth during tournaments; 4. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT E. The Recreational Director shall: 1. Represent and advocate the recreational soccer player at all meetings and on the field; 2. Co-chair MSYSA recreational tournaments, which includes coordinating and supervising them; 3. Act as liaison between the adult community and the youth during tournaments; 2. Promote the game of soccer in the state of Michigan to non-participants; 3. Promote soccer events, tournaments and programs to the recreational player; 4. Help and support the recreational/volunteer coaches with resources and educational opportunities; 4. 5. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors.

Proposed by: Dan McEvilly, MSYSA Recreational Director Rationale: Revise responsibilities to better align with the goals of the MSYSA and to grow the game of soccer.

Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Recommendation: The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee recommends adoption of this proposed amendment.

AMENDMENT #2A – Removal of Delegates Meetings Amend Bylaws Article VII, Section 4 by striking it out in entirety and renumbering renaming sections.

CURRENT WORDING Section 4. Delegates Meetings A. Meetings for the delegates of member organizations shall be held twice a year at a time and place determined by the board of directors.

B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days or more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time and place.

C. Meetings shall only be for the purposes of dissemination of information, and open discussion.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT Section 4. Delegates Meetings A. Meetings for the delegates of member organizations shall be held twice a year at a time and place determined by the board of directors.

B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days or more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time and place.

C. Meetings shall only be for the purposes of dissemination of information, and open discussion.

Consequential amendment AMENDMENT #2B Amend Bylaws Article V, Section 5D by striking out item 7 and renumbering remaining items CURRENT WORDING 7. At quarterly delegate meetings, present a complete financial report including receipts and disbursements by budget categories and the current balance of all MSYSA accounts;

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT 7. At quarterly delegate meetings, present a complete financial report including receipts and disbursements by budget categories and the current balance of all MSYSA accounts;

AMENDMENT #2C Amend Bylaws Article VII, Section 9 by striking it in its entirety CURRENT WORDING Section 9. Fines Member organizations shall be assessed a fine, the amount determined by the board of directors, for each unexcused absence.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT Section 9. Fines Member organizations shall be assessed a fine, the amount determined by the board of directors, for each unexcused absence.

Proposed by: MSYSA State Office Rationale: Technology has enhanced the dissemination of information and streamlined the communication channels between Delegates and the Association. (This Bylaw has not been exercised due to technology enhancements.) Should a ‘Delegates Meeting’ be hosted, the procedures for a ‘Special Meeting’ (MSYSA Bylaw Article VII, Section 3) shall be followed.

Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Recommendation: The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee recommends adoption of this proposed amendment.

AMENDMENT #3 - Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Duties Amend Bylaws Article X, Section 3B1 through 3B6 by substituting as provided below and renumbering the remaining sections.

1. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such bylaw and standing rule amendments received no later than October 15 as are referred to it by the board of directors, staff, member organization or individual member and originate bylaw and standing rules amendments as the committee deems necessary; 2. Verify that bylaw amendments are not in conflict with the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 3. Present to MSYSA changes to the bylaws necessitated by amendments made in the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 4. Distribute proposed bylaw and standing rule amendments received no later than October 15 with recommendations and rationale, if needed, to the president and board of directors at the November board of directors meeting and for inclusion with the call of the MSYSA Annual General Meeting; CURRENT WORDING B. The bylaws and standing rules committee shall: 1. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such bylaw amendments as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member organization or individual member no later than October 15; 2. Verify that bylaw amendments are not in conflict with the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 3. Present to MSYSA changes to the bylaws necessitated by amendments made in the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 4. Send proposed bylaw amendments with recommendations to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 5. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such standing rules as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member organization or individual member; 6. Send proposed standing rules and amendments to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 7. Review and update the MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies as needed; 8. Send a copy of the current bylaws of MSYSA to the US Youth Soccer and USSF annually, but within ninety (90) days of adoption of any

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT B. The bylaws and standing rules committee shall: 1. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such bylaw and standing rule amendments received no later than October 15 as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, staff, member organization or individual member no later than October 15 and originate bylaw and standing rules amendments as the committee deems necessary; 2. Verify that bylaw amendments are not in conflict with the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 3. Present to MSYSA changes to the bylaws necessitated by amendments made in the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 4. Send Distribute proposed bylaw and standing rule amendments received no later than October 15 with recommendations and rationale, if needed, to the president and board of directors at the November board of directors meeting and for inclusion with the call of the meeting MSYSA Annual General Meeting; 5. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such standing rules as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member

amendments; 9. Make copies of the bylaws available to members.

organization or individual member; 6. Send proposed standing rules and amendments to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 7. 5. Review and update the MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies as needed; 8. 6. Send a copy of the current bylaws of MSYSA to the US Youth Soccer and USSF annually, but within ninety (90) days of adoption of any amendments; 9. 7. Make copies of the bylaws available to members.

Proposed by: Mark Klein, MSYSA Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Chairman Rationale: Revised to make responsibilities of the bylaws and standing rules committee clearer and align with the goals of the MSYSA Board of Directors.

Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Recommendation: The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee recommends adoption of this proposed amendment.

AMENDMENT #4 - Amendments Amend Bylaws Article XIII, Sections B and D by substituting as provided below.

B. Any provision contained in these bylaws may be amended at any annual or special meeting of MSYSA by a two- thirds (2/3) vote of all members present and voting in person, a quorum being present and at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days prior notice having been given. Any proposed amendments that are in conflict with US Youth Soccer Association and/or USSF Bylaws will not be considered or brought forth to the members.

D. Revision. These bylaws may be revised only upon authorization of the membership. The bylaws and standing rules committee shall be responsible for preparing and presenting an authorized revision at the MSYSA Annual General Meeting which has been distributed by U.S. mail or electronic communication at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting.

CURRENT WORDING B. Any provision contained in these bylaws may be amended at any annual or special meeting of MSYSA by a two- thirds (2/3) vote of all members present and voting in person, a quorum being present and at least thirty (30) days prior notice having been given.

D. Revision. These bylaws may be revised only upon authorization of the membership. The bylaws committee shall be responsible for preparing and presenting an authorized version at the meeting which has been distributed by U.S. mail or electronic communication at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT B. Any provision contained in these bylaws may be amended at any annual or special meeting of MSYSA by a two- thirds (2/3) vote of all members present and voting in person, a quorum being present and at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days prior notice having been given. Any proposed amendments that are in conflict with US Youth Soccer Association and/or USSF Bylaws will not be considered or brought forth to the members.

D. Revision. These bylaws may be revised only upon authorization of the membership. The bylaws and standing rules committee shall be responsible for preparing and presenting an authorized version revision at the MSYSA Annual General mMeeting which has been distributed by U.S. mail or electronic communication at least thirty (30) days but no more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting.

Proposed by: MSYSA Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Rationale: The addition of the 60 days maximum notice brings this bylaw into alignment with other notice requirements in the bylaws (Article VII, Section 2B; Article XIII, Item D).

MSYSA Bylaws cannot be in conflict with US Youth Soccer Association or USSF Bylaws. This addition to Article XIII Section B clarifies that no conflicting amendments will be considered.

Changes to Section D are housekeeping changes for clarification.

Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Recommendation: The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee recommends adoption of this proposed amendment.

AMENDMENT #5A - Poaching Amend Rule 3.7 by substituting the following: Rule 3.7: Coach Affiliation A. In those instances in which a coach moves from one club to another separate and distinct club at the end of the seasonal year, the coach may not coach any rostered players from teams of the former club he/she was identified as a primary or assistant coach (excluding the coach’s son or daughter) in the following seasonal year. This rule does not apply under the following: 1. The coach’s club dissolves.

2. The coach moves 100 miles making the commute to the coach’s existing club impractical.

3. The appropriate prior club representative, the club president or DOC, agrees in writing to the coach’s move to a different club.

CURRENT WORDING Rule 3.7: Poaching Poaching is considered a significant offense by this Association and any league, club, or individual found to have committed a poaching violation shall be subject to a significant sanction as determined by the MSYSA board of directors. Such sanctions may include a financial penalty of $2,000 or more, loss of coaching privileges for a year, and ineligibility to participate in MSYSA authorized events including MSYSA’s State Cup Tournament, the Midwest Regional League or any other appropriate sanction.

Any club, team, or league which through its responsible officers or representatives, A. Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation before the end of the current seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation.

B. Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation for the following seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT Rule 3.7: Poaching Coaching Affiliation Poaching is considered a significant offense by this Association and any league, club, or individual found to have committed a poaching violation shall be subject to a significant sanction as determined by the MSYSA board of directors. Such sanctions may include a financial penalty of $2,000 or more, loss of coaching privileges for a year, and ineligibility to participate in MSYSA authorized events including MSYSA’s State Cup Tournament, the Midwest Regional League or any other appropriate sanction.

Any club, team, or league which through its responsible officers or representatives, A. Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation before the end of the current seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation.

B. Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation for the following seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation.

C.

D.

E.

F.

Teams or clubs requesting to change MSYSA leagues during the seasonal year must obtain written permission of the president of their present league before that move is permitted.

In those instances in which a coach moves from one club to another separate and distinct club at the end of the seasonal year, the coach may not coach any rostered players from teams of the former club he/she was identified as a primary or assistant coach (excluding the coach’s son or daughter) in the following seasonal year. This rule does not apply under the following: 1. The coach’s club dissolves.

2. The coach moves 100 miles making the commute to the coach’s existing club impractical.

3. The appropriate prior club representative, the club president or DOC, agrees in writing to the coach’s move to a different club.

For purposes of this rule, contact is not limited to personnel contact, but will include contact by phone, text, emails, face book and all other social media. Responsible representatives include but are not limited to parents of team members, trainers, team managers, club or league board members, and club or league directors of coaching. The appropriate response by the responsible representative to player initiated contact is to provide requested information. Any recommendation for the player to attend training, tryouts or any other team, club or league soccer event by the representative would be inappropriate and considered an attempt to induce a player to leave their present soccer organization. A club or league advertising on their own website is not considered poaching. Attendance by the player at such events when initiated by the player or player’s parents will not be considered poaching.

In those instances in which allegations of poaching involve only member clubs of a MSYSA member league, it is recommended the MSYSA member league conduct the initial hearing. If the

C.

Teams or clubs requesting to change MSYSA leagues during the seasonal year must obtain written permission of the president of their present league before that move is permitted.

A. In those instances in which a coach moves from one club to another separate and distinct club at the end of the seasonal year, the coach may not coach any rostered players from teams of the former club he/she was identified as a primary or assistant coach (excluding the coach’s son or daughter) in the following seasonal year. This rule does not apply under the following: 1. The coach’s club dissolves.

2. The coach moves 100 miles making the commute to the coach’s existing club impractical.

3. The appropriate prior club representative, the club president or DOC, agrees in writing to the coach’s move to a different club.

E. For purposes of this rule, contact is not limited to personnel contact, but will include contact by phone, text, emails, face book and all other social media. Responsible representatives include but are not limited to parents of team members, trainers, team managers, club or league board members, and club or league directors of coaching. The appropriate response by the responsible representative to player initiated contact is to provide requested information. Any recommendation for the player to attend training, tryouts or any other team, club or league soccer event by the representative would be inappropriate and considered an attempt to induce a player to leave their present soccer organization. A club or league advertising on their own website is not considered poaching. Attendance by the player at such events when initiated by the player or player’s parents will not be considered poaching.

F. In those instances in which allegations of poaching involve only member clubs of a MSYSA member league, it is recommended the MSYSA member league conduct the initial hearing. If the

findings of that hearing are appealed, the appeal is to be forwarded to the Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee for their review.

Allegations involving clubs not associated with a common league should be sent directly to the Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee for review.

findings of that hearing are appealed, the appeal is to be forwarded to the Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee for their review.

Allegations involving clubs not associated with a common league should be sent directly to the Poaching and Illegal Recruitment Committee for review.

Consequential amendment AMENDMENT #5B Amend Rule 3.4 by striking out “Any attempt to induce a player to change teams for either the current or the following seasonal year prior to the end of the seasonal year shall be poaching in violation of “Rule3.7”.”

CURRENT WORDING 4. A registered player shall be committed to a team for a full seasonal year. The player may participate on other teams within the team’s organization dependent on the MSYSA member affiliate registration rules. Once registered and in the absence of mitigating circumstances, a player must remain with the same team until the completion of the spring session for the member organization in which his team participates. Any attempt to induce a player to change teams for either the current or the following seasonal year prior to the end of the seasonal year shall be poaching in violation of “Rule3.7”. During the time during which a team has suspended member organization play, players and club or team officers or representatives may freely discuss new affiliation for the following seasonal year.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT 4. A registered player shall be committed to a team for a full seasonal year. The player may participate on other teams within the team’s organization dependent on the MSYSA member affiliate registration rules. Once registered and in the absence of mitigating circumstances, a player must remain with the same team until the completion of the spring session for the member organization in which his team participates. Any attempt to induce a player to change teams for either the current or the following seasonal year prior to the end of the seasonal year shall be poaching in violation of “Rule3.7”. During the time during which a team has suspended member organization play, players and club or team officers or representatives may freely discuss new affiliation for the following seasonal year.

Consequential amendment AMENDMENT #5C Amend Article X, Section 1A1 by striking out “and poaching and illegal recruiting.”

CURRENT WORDING A. There shall be the following standing committees: 1. Budget-finance, bylaws and standing rules,

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT A. There shall be the following standing committees: 1. Budget-finance, bylaws and standing rules,

cup competition, discipline and appeals, and poaching and illegal recruiting.

cup competition, and discipline and appeals, and poaching and illegal recruiting.

Consequential amendment AMENDMENT #5D Amend Bylaws Article X, Section 6 in its entirety.

CURRENT WORDING Section 6. Poaching and Illegal Recruiting Committee A. Composition. The committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members who shall not be members of the board of directors.

B. The poaching and illegal recruitment committee shall; 1. Hear disciplinary cases relating to poaching and illegal recruitment 2. Monitor the efficacy of the organization’s poaching rules and propose amendments when appropriate C. Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors at its’ first meeting following the annual meeting in the even-numbered years to serve as chairman of the committee for a two (2) year term.

D. Election to Committee. The committee chairman shall appoint enough additional members to the committee to provide a panel of three, disinterested and impartial, body of fact-finders for each hearing or appeal. The members of the committee shall be confirmed by the president or board of directors. Committee members shall serve at the discretion of the chairman of the committee.

E. Accountability. The committee shall report to the president and executive director.

F. Hearing Procedures. All hearings conducted under these Bylaws, shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy 701-1, and also refer to MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies.

G. Litigation.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT Section 6. Poaching and Illegal Recruiting Committee A. Composition. The committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members who shall not be members of the board of directors.

B. The poaching and illegal recruitment committee shall; 1. Hear disciplinary cases relating to poaching and illegal recruitment 2. Monitor the efficacy of the organization’s poaching rules and propose amendments when appropriate C. Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors at its’ first meeting following the annual meeting in the even-numbered years to serve as chairman of the committee for a two (2) year term.

D. Election to Committee. The committee chairman shall appoint enough additional members to the committee to provide a panel of three, disinterested and impartial, body of fact-finders for each hearing or appeal. The members of the committee shall be confirmed by the president or board of directors. Committee members shall serve at the discretion of the chairman of the committee.

E. Accountability. The committee shall report to the president and executive director.

F. Hearing Procedures. All hearings conducted under these Bylaws, shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy 701-1, and also refer to MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies.

G. Litigation.

1. No member organization, player, coach, trainer, manager, club, team, administrator or referee may invoke the aid of the courts in the United States or the State of Michigan without first exhausting all available remedies within the appropriate soccer organization and as provided within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, US Youth Soccer and United States Soccer Federation.

2. For violation of this bylaw, the offending party shall be subject to suspension and fines, and shall be liable to MSYSA for all expenses incurred by MSYSA and its officers in defending each court action, including but not limited to the following: a) Court cost; b) Attorney’s fees; c) Reasonable compensation for time spent by MSYSA officials and employees in responding to and defending against allegations in the actions, including responses to discovery and court appearances; d) Travel expenses; e) Expenses for holding special meeting necessitated by the court action.

1. No member organization, player, coach, trainer, manager, club, team, administrator or referee may invoke the aid of the courts in the United States or the State of Michigan without first exhausting all available remedies within the appropriate soccer organization and as provided within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, US Youth Soccer and United States Soccer Federation.

2. For violation of this bylaw, the offending party shall be subject to suspension and fines, and shall be liable to MSYSA for all expenses incurred by MSYSA and its officers in defending each court action, including but not limited to the following: a) Court cost; b) Attorney’s fees; c) Reasonable compensation for time spent

by MSYSA officials and employees in responding to and defending against allegations in the actions, including responses to discovery and court appearances; d) Travel expenses; e) Expenses for holding special meeting necessitated by the court action.

Proposed by: Joel Dragan, MSYSA Staff Rationale: This proposal revolves around giving players and parent’s greater freedoms when selecting a soccer organization. Additionally, this removes MSYSA restrictions on organization's ability to market and advertise. The poaching rule as currently written is difficult to enforce. “Inducement” (referenced throughout the rule) could be conceived as nearly any act of advertisement (fliers, local advertisement, pre-tryout trainings, meetings, tournament guest players, etc.).

If player(s) want to leave their organization after the season, the poaching rule will not stop them. Clubs offering a quality experience that meets their member’s needs should not be concerned about competition and losing players. Removing the poaching rule creates a free market for soccer players and parents. It will allow them more exposure to other clubs and what they can offer in relation to their needs (competition, coaches, social environment, etc.).

Note this proposal does NOT remove the tryout deadline (date players can sign/commit for the following season) OR the transfer rule. Both of these rules will keep player committed to their registered

organization for an entire seasonal year. Finally, the removal of MSYSA’s poaching rules would not preclude Member Organizations, aka Scheduling Leagues, from enacting and enforcing poaching/illegal recruitment rules or policies of their own.

Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee Recommendation: The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee has engaged in significant discussions regarding the proposed poaching rules and bylaws amendment. Given the complex nature of this proposed amendment, and that there are valid points to both sides, the committee makes no recommendation.

Section 6: MSYSA Financial Statement FYE August 31, 2016

Section 6

MSYSA Financial Statement FYE August 31, 2016

Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Financial Statements For The Year Ended August 31, 2016

MSYSA Budgets

Section 7: MSYSA Budgets

Section 7

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS 11/21/2016 (POST-AUDIT)

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS COACH EDUCATION PROGRAM

FY 16 FYE 19,687.50 24,204.38 17,258.20 93.40 15,798.17 11,503.64 1,585.67 90,130.96

FY 16 APP. BDGT $ 22,500.00 $ 21,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 84,500.00 $

GIRLS ODP EXPENSES Girls ODP Field Rentals/Training Girls ODP Staff/Scouting Girls ODP Camps Uniforms/T-Shirts G - ODP Girls ODP Tournaments Girls ODP Try-outs Girls ODP National Championships Girls ODP Office Exp/Misc.

TOTALS

SURPLUS (LOSSES)

*BOD Approved Adjustments on 11/21/2016

FY 16 FYE $ 51,450.00 $ 17,200.00 $ 2,600.00 $ 71,250.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 88,750.00

FY 16 APP. BDGT $ 50,000.00 $ 17,000.00 $ $ 67,000.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,500.00

GIRLS ODP INCOME Girls ODP Tryouts/Scouting Girls ODP Indoor Training Girls ODP Camps SUB TOTALS ODP 101 Support TOTALS

-

$

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$

(1,380.96)

(5,087.72)

$

SURPLUS (LOSSES)

-

FY 16 FYE 19,687.50 27,224.38 15,649.66 168.52 15,398.76 10,272.20 1,461.70 89,862.72

FY 16 APP. BDGT $ 22,500.00 $ 21,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 84,500.00

BOYS ODP EXPENSES Boys ODP Field Rentals/Training Boys ODP Staff/Scouting Boys ODP Camps Uniforms/T-Shirts B - ODP Boys ODP Tournaments Boys ODP Try-outs Boys ODP National Championships Boys ODP Office Exp/Misc.

TOTALS $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

FY 16 FYE $ 44,175.00 $ 19,700.00 $ 3,400.00 $ 67,275.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,775.00

FY 16 APP. BDGT $ 50,000.00 $ 17,000.00 $ $ 67,000.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,500.00

BOYS ODP INCOME Boys ODP Try-outs/Scouting Boys ODP Indoor Training Boys ODP Camps SUB TOTALS ODP 101 Support TOTALS

-

$

-

FY 17 APP. BDGT $ 22,500.00 $ 21,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 84,500.00

FY 17 APP. BDGT $ 50,000.00 $ 17,000.00 $ $ 67,000.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,500.00

$

FY 17 APP. BDGT $ 22,500.00 $ 21,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 84,500.00

FY 17 APP. BDGT $ 50,000.00 $ 17,000.00 $ $ 67,000.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,500.00

$

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$ $ $ $ $ $

$

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$ $ $ $ $ $

-

FY 17* ADJ (2,500.00) 4,000.00 (10,000.00) (1,000.00) (9,500.00)

FY 17* ADJ (5,000.00) 13,000.00 8,000.00 (17,500.00) (9,500.00)

-

FY 17* ADJ (2,500.00) 4,000.00 (10,000.00) (1,000.00) (9,500.00)

FY 17* ADJ (5,000.00) 13,000.00 8,000.00 (17,500.00) (9,500.00)

-

$

-

FY 17 PROP. BDGT $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ $ 75,000.00

FY 17 PROP. BDGT $ 45,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00

$

FY 17 PROP. BDGT $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ $ 75,000.00

FY 17 PROP. BDGT $ 45,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00

-

$

-

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 22,500.00 $ 21,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 84,500.00

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 50,000.00 $ 17,000.00 $ $ 67,000.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,500.00

$

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 22,500.00 $ 21,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 84,500.00

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 50,000.00 $ 17,000.00 $ $ 67,000.00 $ 17,500.00 $ 84,500.00

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS OLYMPIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

$

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$ $ $ $ $ $

$

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$ $ $ $ $ $

-

FY 18* ADJ (2,500.00) 4,000.00 (10,000.00) (1,000.00) (9,500.00)

FY 18* ADJ (5,000.00) 13,000.00 8,000.00 (17,500.00) (9,500.00)

-

FY 18* ADJ (2,500.00) 4,000.00 (10,000.00) (1,000.00) (9,500.00)

FY 18* ADJ (5,000.00) 13,000.00 8,000.00 (17,500.00) (9,500.00)

-

$

-

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ $ 75,000.00

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 45,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00

$

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ $ 75,000.00

FY 18 PROP. BDGT $ 45,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00

-

$

-

FY 19 PROP. BDGT $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ $ 75,000.00

FY 19 PROP. BDGT $ 45,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00

$

FY 19 PROP. BDGT $ 20,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ 15,000.00 $ $ $ 75,000.00

FY 19 PROP. BDGT $ 45,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00 $ $ 75,000.00

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS OLYMPIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 101

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS STATE CUP

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS JR. STATE CUP

MSYSA PROPOSED BUDGETS DIRECTOR’S ACADEMY PROGRAM

Associated Cost $378.00 $378.00 $50,000.00

Category Title: Identify & organize technology platform elements (technology interface) that will best support the implementation of the marketing.

E-mail Utilities/Systems Total Category Cost: Overall Cost for Marketing Branding Committee:

*BOD Approved Adjustments on 11/21/2016

Category Title: Tournament Participation Grants/Scholarships

Category Title: New Recreational Player Recruiting Website Development

Associated Cost $30,000.00 $30,000.00 $33,000.00 $85,000.00

Total Category Cost: Overall Cost for Recreational Soccer Committee: Overall Strategic Plan Committee Costs:

Total Category Cost:

Overall Cost for Education Resources Committee:

Associated Cost $3,000.00 $3,000.00

$2,000.00

Total Category Cost:

Category Title: Develop/deploy spectator, administartor education materials and create and administrative guide.

Education Materials & Admin. Guide Print Services

Associated Cost $2,000.00 $2,000.00

Category Title: Pursue ‘low hanging fruit’ opportunities while the marketing plan is under development.

Live Streaming (Professional Company & In-House) Video Equipment Enhancements & Upgrades Signage (Banners, Tear Drops, A Frames, etc.)

Event Tents (10x10 MSYSA Branded) Credentials (Media, Photographers, Videographers, etc.)

Program & Event Logo Design/Creation Advertisements & Promotions Total Category Cost:

Total Category Cost:

Associated Cost $3,075.00 $3,075.00 Associated Cost $14,628.00 $7,096.00 $1,360.00 $22,800.00 $113.00 $300.00 $250.00 $46,547.00

Category Title: Develop a marketing plan for MSYSA. Professional Services & Support

PROPOSED BUDGET

MSYSA Strategic Plan Proposed MSYSABudget STRATEGIC PLAN

Section 8 MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations Section 8: MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, & Regulations

Michigan State Premier Soccer Program- Bylaws Table of Contents Pages 1 1

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5 5 6 6

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Contents ARTICLE I Name and Purpose Article I. Section 1. Name.

Article I. Section 2. Purpose.

ARTICLE II Members Article II. Section 1. Membership.

Article II. Section 2. Method of Entry.

Article II. Section 3. Divisional Placement of Teams.

Article II. Section 4. Notice of Meetings.

Article II. Section 5. Conduct of Meetings.

Article II. Section 6. Application Fees.

ARTICLE III Directors Article III. Section 1. Number and Qualifications.

Article III. Section 2. Selections.

Article III. Section 3. Quorum.

Article III. Section 4. Action by Unanimous Written Consent.

Article III. Section 5. Vacancies.

Article III. Section 6. Regular Meetings Article III. Section 7. General Powers as to Negotiable Paper.

Article III. Section 8. Powers as to Other Documents.

Article III. Section 9. Disciplinary Authority.

ARTICLE IV Committees Article IV. Section 1. Special Committees Article IV. Section 2. Other Committees Article IV. Section 3. Procedures.

Article IV. Section 4. Committee Action Without a Meeting ARTICLE V Officers Article V. Section 1. Chairperson of the Board.

Article V. Section 2. Vice Chairperson/Registrar.

Article V. Section 3. Secretary/Treasurer.

Article V. Section 4. Scheduler.

Article V. Section 5. Statistician.

Article V. Section 6. Commissioner.

Article V. Section 7. Chairperson Emeritus.

ARTICLE VI Advisors Article VI. Section 1. Referee Advisor.

ARTICLE VII Fiscal Year and Notices Article VII. Section 1. Fiscal Year.

Article VII. Section 2. Notices.

ARTICLE VIII Electronic Communication Article VIII. Section 1. Meetings Article VIII. Section 2. Communication ARTICLE IX Miscellaneous Article IX. Section 1. Affiliation.

Article IX. Section 2. Duties of Delegates.

Article IX. Section 3. Activities.

Article IX. Section 4. Gifts.

Article IX. Section 5. Dissolution.

Article IX. Section 6. Discrimination.

ARTICLE X Amendments, Rules, and Regulations Article X. Section 1. Amendments.

Article X. Section 2. Rules, Regulations and Policies.

Effective: July 31st, 2015 BYLAWS OF MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PRGRAM ARTICLE I Name and Purpose Article I. Section 1. Name.

The name of this program shall be Michigan State Premier Soccer Program. The Premier Program may also use a name mutually agreed upon between itself and its' major sponsor(s) for the purpose of advertising, and public and/or community relations.

Affiliated leagues shall not use the word "premier" in their league names Article I. Section 2. Purpose.

The purpose of this Premier Program shall be to promote the development and execution of highly skilled youth soccer, sportsmanship, quality coaching and officiating within the State of Michigan.

ARTICLE II Members Article II. Section 1. Membership.

Membership shall be restricted to MSYSA affiliated member organizations. No team or club may be a member of this Premier Program but shall only be a member of the Premier Program through an affiliated MSYSA member organization. Any member organization affiliated with MSYSA is eligible for membership. The term member organization shall be used as defined in the MSYSA bylaws.

Article II. Section 2. Method of Entry.

Leagues must notify the Premier Program of the number of teams, which the affiliated league wishes to sponsor. This notification must be submitted on the designated Premier Program form, signed by an authorized League official, and must be received by the Premier Program no later than the date specified by the Premier Program.

Article II. Section 3. Divisional Placement of Teams.

This premier program starts at 11v11, however, any team may enter provided Article 1, Section 2 is adhered to. Affiliated leagues may sponsor U13-U19 High School Open teams. U13-U19 High School Open teams will be placed into divisions by the MSPSP Board of Directors. Existing teams shall be grouped into playing divisions primarily based upon the record of team during the previous MSPSP season. The MSPSP reserves the right and may relegate out the bottom 25% of teams in each and every age group based on maximum points.

Article II. Section 4. Notice of Meetings.

The MSPSP Board of Directors at their discretion shall call meetings of member leagues and/or team representatives. Notice of such meetings shall be made as determined by the MSPSP Board of Directors to provide sufficient notification, and shall include the time, date and place of such meetings.

Article II. Section 5. Conduct of Meetings.

Meetings of the member leagues and/or team representatives shall be presided over by a Chairperson of the meeting who shall be the Chairperson of the MSPSP Board of Directors or, if the Chairperson is not present, by the Vice Chairperson or, if neither is present, by the Secretary or, if the Secretary is not present, by any other member of the MSPSP Board of Directors. In the absence of the Secretary, a person will be chosen to act as secretary of the meeting. All meetings of this Premier Program shall be conducted in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order, latest edition. Attendance at all meetings of the Premier Program is required of the MSPSP Board of Directors and its member leagues and/or team representatives.

Article II. Section 6. Application Fees.

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Effective: July 31st, 2015 Application fees for all teams in the amount determined from time to time by the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be payable at the time of team registration. All teams and sponsoring leagues fines and/or bonds must be paid prior to registration. All payments must be drawn on U.S. banks, financial institutions, or U.S. currency. No foreign financial institutions drafts will be accepted.

ARTICLE III Directors Article III. Section 1. Number and Qualifications.

The property, business, and affairs of the Premier Program shall be managed by its MSPSP Board of Directors. The MSPSP Board of Directors shall consist of the following: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson/Registrar, Secretary/Treasurer, Scheduler, Commissioner, Statistician, and Chairperson Emeritus (an ex officio non-voting member).

Article III. Section 2. Selections.

(1) The Chairperson, Secretary/Treasurer, and Scheduler, shall be elected by the MSYSA affiliated leagues in odd numbered years, at the annual general membership meeting of that body and shall serve a term of two years beginning on July 1st of the year in which elected.

(2) The Vice Chairperson/Registrar, Statistician, and Commissioner shall be elected by the MSYSA affiliated leagues in even numbered years and shall serve term of two years commencing on July 1 of the year in which elected.

(3) The MSPSP Board of Directors may appoint, at their sole discretion, other agents of the Premier Program, who shall serve at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Directors, officers and agents need not be members of an affiliated league.

Article III. Section 3. Quorum.

A majority of the voting MSPSP Board of Directors then in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

Unless specifically required elsewhere in these bylaws, any actions of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall require a majority of the voting board members present at a meeting. If at a meeting of the MSPSP Board of Directors there shall be less than a quorum present, a majority of those present may adjourn the meeting from time to time until a quorum shall have been obtained.

Article III. Section 4. Action by Unanimous Written Consent.

If and when the MSPSP Directors shall severally or collectively consent in writing to any action to be taken by the Premier Program either before or after the action is taken, that action shall be as valid corporate action as though it had been authorized at a meeting of the MSPSP Directors and written consents shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the MSPSP Board of Directors.

Article III. Section 5. Vacancies.

Whenever any vacancy shall occur in the MSPSP Board of Directors by reason of death, resignation, removal, or otherwise, a majority of the MSPSP Directors then in office, though less then a quorum, may fill the vacancy at any meeting, and the person so elected shall, if confirmed by the MSYSA, MSPSP Board of Directors, be a director until affirmed by the membership as provided in Article III Section 2. The resignation of a Director shall be effective upon receipt by the Premier Program or a subsequent time as set forth in the notice of resignation. A Director or the entire MSPSP Board of Directors may be removed, with or without cause, by a vote of the majority of the members entitled to vote at an election of MSPSP Directors. If a Director misses three consecutive meetings, this Director must declare his/her intentions to the membership, and failing to do so, this office shall be declared vacant and filled in accordance with this section.

Article III. Section 6. Regular Meetings.

Meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be held monthly and can be held without notice at such other times or intervals and at such places within the State of Michigan as may from time to time be determined by resolution of the Board. The resolution may authorize the Chairperson to fix the specific date and place of each regular meeting, in which case notice of the time and place of such regular meetings shall be given in the manner hereinafter provided with respect to special meetings of the Board.

Delegates’ meetings will be held at the call of the MSPSP Board of Directors who shall also set the time and place for the meeting. Each member league currently sponsoring a team or teams must attend delegate meetings.

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Effective: July 31st, 2015

Article III. Section 7. General Powers as to Negotiable Paper.

The MSPSP Board of Directors shall, from time to time, prescribe the manner of making, signing, or endorsing of checks, drafts, notes, acceptances, bills of exchange, obligations and other negotiable paper or other instruments for the payment of money and designate the officer or officers, agent or agents, who shall from time to time be authorized to make, sign or endorse the same on behalf of the Premier Program.

Article III. Section 8. Powers as to Other Documents.

The MSPSP Board of Directors subject to approval of MSYSA Board of Directors may authorize any officer or officers, agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute or deliver any conveyance or other instrument in the name of the Premier Program, and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. When the execution of any contract, conveyance or other instrument has been authorized without specification of the officers authorized to execute, the same may be executed on behalf of the Premier Program by the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson/Registrar, and attested by the Secretary/Treasurer.

Article III. Section 9. Disciplinary Authority.

The MSPSP Board of Directors has authority to bar completely, suspend or otherwise discipline any player, coach, manager, team assistant, trainer, club officer, league officer, or other person associated with any team playing within the Premier Program, whether such person is paid or unpaid by one or more players, teams, clubs, or leagues.

ARTICLE IV Committees Article IV. Section 1. Special Committees.

The MSPSP Board of Directors may designate two or more of its directors or members to constitute a special committee, who, during intervals between the meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors and subject to such limitations as may be required by law or imposed by resolution of the MSPSP Board of Directors, shall have the right and may exercise all powers and authority of the MSPSP Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the Premier Program, except that such special committees shall not have power or authority to: (A) (B) (C) (D)

Amend the article of incorporation; Recommend to members a dissolution of the Premier Program or a revocation of a dissolution; Amend the bylaws of the Premier Program; Fill vacancies in the Board.

Article IV. Section 2. Other Committees.

The MSPSP Board of Directors may designate one or more of its directors or members to constitute any other committee, who shall have only such powers as are expressly granted to them in such resolution. Subject to the approval of the MSPSP Board of Directors, the Chairperson may appoint other committees as required. The resolutions establishing committees and designating their members shall be passed by a majority of the voting MSPSP Directors then in office.

Article IV. Section 3. Procedures.

All committees, and each member thereof, shall serve at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors. The MSPSP Board of Directors shall have the power at any time to increase or decrease the number of members of any committee, to fill vacancies, to change any member and to change the functions or terminate the existence of any committee. The MSPSP Board of Directors may designate one or more MSPSP Directors or other persons as alternate members of a committee who may replace an absent or disqualified member at a meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the members present at a meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the MSPSP Board of Directors to act at the meeting in place of an absent or disqualified member. The Special Committee and all other committees, if the MSPSP Board of Directors shall not have designated a chairperson thereof, shall elect a chairperson from their membership. All committees shall elect a secretary who need not be a member of the committee and who shall keep minutes of all meetings of the committee, which shall be submitted at the next meeting of the MSPSP Board of Directors for approval. Regular or special meetings of any committee may be held in the manner provided in the bylaws for regular or special meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors, and a majority of any committee shall constitute a quorum at any meeting.

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Effective: July 31st, 2015

Article IV. Section 4. Committee Action Without a Meeting.

If and when members of the Special Committee or any other committee shall severally or collectively consent in writing to any action authorized to be taken by the committee, either before or after the action is taken, the action shall be valid committee action as though it had been authorized at a meeting of the committee and the written consents shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the committee.

ARTICLE V Officers Article V. Section 1. Chairperson of the Board.

The Chairperson of the Board shall preside at all meetings of the members and of the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/she shall be the chief executive officer of the Premier Program and shall have general and active management of the activities of the Premier Program, and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board are carried into effect. As Chairperson, he/she shall attend all MSYSA Delegate and Board meetings and report all program activities to the MSYSA Board of Directors. He/She shall execute all authorized conveyances, contracts, or other obligations in the name of the Premier Program except where required by law to be otherwise signed and executed and except where the signing execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the MSPSP Board of Directors to some other officer or agent of the Premier Program. He/She shall assure all Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors members and Committees have their duties completed in a timely and proper fashion.

Article V. Section 2. Vice Chairperson/Registrar.

The Vice-Chairperson/Registrar of the Board, in the absence of the Chairperson, shall preside at all meetings of the members and of the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall represent the Program at all functions/meetings in the absence of the Chairperson. He/ She shall be the MSYSA Delegate for the Program. He/She shall be responsible, along with the other members of the Board, for preparing the coaches packets that are handed out prior to the start of each season.

The Vice-Chairperson/Registrar shall keep a complete record of all teams and players for the purpose of player registration and team affiliation. He/She shall issue pass cards to each player, coach, assistant coach, and manager. He/She shall keep a count of all players and coaches. He/She shall provide a copy of all rosters to any member of the MSPSP Board of Directors requesting such copy and the MSYSA Registrar, and, shall notify all MSPSP Board of Directors upon request and the MSYSA Registrar of all changes in the team rosters Article V. Section 3. Secretary/Treasurer.

The Secretary/Treasurer shall attend all meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors and all meetings of the member leagues and/or team representatives, and shall record all votes and minutes of all proceedings in a form and manner specified by the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall give or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the member leagues and/or team representatives and any meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors for which notice may be required, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the MSPSP Board of Directors or the Chairperson, under whose supervision he/she shall act.

He/She shall execute with the Chairperson all authorized conveyances, contracts or other instruments in the name of the Premier Program except as otherwise directed by the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall keep in safe custody the seal of the Program, if there is one, and affix or cause it to be affixed to any instrument requiring a seal. The Secretary will have the responsibility of filing the Michigan Annual Report. He/She shall send out, to member leagues, team representatives, MSPSP Board of Directors members, and/or Committee members, all official correspondence from the MSPSP Board of Directors or any of its' Committees or members.

The Secretary/Treasurer shall have custody of the funds and securities of the Premier Program and shall keep full and complete records and shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Premier Program in such depositories as may be designated by the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall disburse the funds of the Premier Program as may be ordered by the MSPSP Board of Directors, making proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render whenever The MSPSP Board of Directors may require it, an accounting of all transactions as Secretary/Treasurer and of the financial condition of the Premier Program. If required by the MSPSP Board of Directors, the Secretary/Treasurer shall give the Premier Program a bond in such sum and with surety or sureties as shall be satisfactory to assure the restoration to the Premier Program (in case of death, resignation, or removal from office) of all books, records, papers, vouchers, moneys, negotiable paper, and other property of whatever kind in his/her possession or under his/her control and belonging to the Premier Program.

The Secretary/Treasurer shall also be responsible for preparing any and all Federal and State tax returns. The Secretary/ Treasurer shall be responsible for preparing any and all papers regarding the Tax Exempt status of the Premier Program. He/She shall

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Effective: July 31st, 2015 submit the financial records to the auditor within 30 days of the fiscal year end. The Premier Program’s audited Financial Report shall be submitted to the MSYSA days 30 prior to the MSYSA AGM. He/She shall, with the approval of the MSPSP Board of Directors, prepare the budget and set the registration fees. He/She shall collect all application fees, moneys from sponsor(s), performance bonds, fines, or other miscellaneous income. He/She shall be responsible for the payment of all bills incurred in the operation of the Premier Program and shall review and approve any expenses the MSPSP Board of Directors or Committee members may expend in the performance of their duties.

Article V. Section 4. Scheduler.

The Premier Scheduler shall be responsible, together with the MSPSP Board of Directors, for the divisional placement of all teams registered in the Premier Program. He/She shall make or cause to be made a schedule for the regular playing season for each division. The Premier Scheduler must approve any changes in the schedule. He/She shall issue any forfeits for games scheduled that are not played. He/She shall be the final approving authority in the determination of rescheduling disputes.

Article V. Section 5. Statistician.

The Statistician shall be responsible for making sure accurate and up to date standings are kept for all divisions. He/she shall be provided a report from the program administrator of all violation and suspension data gathered from game sheets. He/she will make sure all suspensions are served. He/she shall provide a report to the MSPSP Board of Directors with this data.

Article V. Section 6. Commissioner.

The Commissioner shall investigate all protests and issue a decision along with the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall issue a report, in writing, to the MSPSP Board of Directors as to the disposition of every protest. He/She shall act as chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee. He/She or his/her appointee shall preside at all Disciplinary Committee meetings and hearings.

Article V. Section 7. Chairperson Emeritus.

The Chairperson Emeritus is the immediate past Chairperson of the MSPSP Board of Directors and shall provide advice and consul to the MSPSP Board of Directors and shall perform other duties as mutually agreed upon. The Chairperson Emeritus shall be an ex-officio non-voting member of the MSPSP Board of Directors.

ARTICLE VI Advisors Article VI. Section 1. Referee Advisor.

The Referee Advisor shall receive all referee correspondence and make any necessary recommendations to the appropriate referee organization(s) and take any necessary action.

ARTICLE VII Fiscal Year and Notices Article VII. Section 1. Fiscal Year.

The fiscal year of the Premier Program shall be July 1 through June 30.

Article VII. Section 2. Notices.

Any notice required by statute or by these Bylaws to be given to the member leagues and/or team representatives, to the Directors, or to any officers of the Premier Program, unless another requirement is provided herein or in any statute, shall be sufficient if given by depositing it in a United States post office box or receptacle in a sealed, postage paid wrapper, addressed to the member, trustee or officer at his/her last address as that appears on the records of the Premier Program, and the notice shall be deemed to have been given at the time of the mailing ARTICLE VIII Electronic Communication Article VIII. Section 1. Meetings.

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Effective: July 31st, 2015 The MSPSP Board of Directors and all committees and subcommittees shall be authorized to meet by telephone conference or through other electronic communications media so long as all the members can simultaneously hear each other and participate during the meeting.

Article VIII. Section 2. Communication.

Unless members indicate otherwise to the MSPSP office, all communication required in these bylaws, including meeting notices, may be sent electronically.

ARTICLE IX

Miscellaneous Article IX. Section 1. Affiliation.

The Premier Program shall be an Affiliated member of and comply with the authority of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, the United States Youth Soccer Association and the United States Soccer Federation. Except where restricted of prohibited by law, these bylaws and superseded by the requirements of the United States Youth Soccer Association.

Article IX. Section 2. Duties of Delegates.

Delegates should regularly meet with all team coaches sponsored by their League. All team profiles, team rosters, team information sheet, and player registration forms will be distributed through the league delegate. The delegate will be responsible to return all registration information to the Premier Program for the teams they are sponsoring at the Registration meeting.

Article IX. Section 3. Activities.

In the accomplishment of its purposes and exercise of its powers, no part of the assets, funds or income of the Premier Program shall inure to the benefits of any private individual, corporation, contributor or member as earnings or dividends of the Premier Program. No substantial part of the activities of the Premier Program shall be carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation or other political action. The Premier Program shall not participate or intervene in any political campaign or publish or distribute any statement or spend any funds on behalf of any candidate for public office. The accomplishment of its purpose and exercise of its power by the Premier Program shall be in conformity with the requirements of Act 54, Michigan Public Acts of 1963 an amended or supplemented by State or Federal Legislation.

Article IX. Section 4. Gifts.

The MSPSP Board of Directors, the Chairperson, or any person expressly so authorized by the MSPSP Board of Directors may accept gifts on behalf of the Premier Program for the general purposes of the Premier Program, but no conditional contribution, gift, bequest or devise for the purpose more restricted than the general purposes of the Premier Program shall be finally accepted without prior approval of the MSPSP Board of Directors.

Article IX. Section 5. Dissolution.

Upon liquidation and /or dissolution and winding up the affairs of the Premier Program, whether voluntarily or otherwise, and after payment of all debts and liabilities of the Premier Program, the assets of the Premier Program remaining in the hands of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be distributed, transferred, conveyed, delivered and paid over to the MSYSA. Article IX. Section 6. Discrimination.

Girls teams, boys teams, and coed teams (which shall be considered a boys team) shall be established on an equal basis.

ARTICLE X Amendments, Rules, and Regulations Article X. Section 1. Amendments.

These bylaws may be altered or repealed or new bylaws in lieu thereof by a two-thirds vote of the affiliated leagues at the MSYSA general membership meeting with votes being cast in the same ratio as used for MSYSA business.

Article X. Section 2. Rules, Regulations, and Policies.

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Effective: July 31st, 2015 The Rules, Regulations and Policies of this Premier Program as now established and as hereafter amended may be altered, repelled, or new Rules and Regulations, and Policies may be adopted in lieu thereof by a majority of the voting MSPSP Board of Directors then in office and present at a meeting of the MSPSP Board of Directors, if a notice of the proposed alteration, repeal or substitution is contained in the notice of the meeting and the proposed alteration, repeal or substitution is approved by the affiliated league at the MSYSA annual general membership meeting with votes being cast in the same ratio as used for MSYSA business.

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Michigan State Premier Soccer Program Rules and Regulations Table of Contents Pages 1 1-2 2-3 3-4 5-6 6-7

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Contents Rule 1. General Cases and Line of Authority.

Rule 2. Disciplinary Ruling and Minimum Punishments.

Rule 3. Insurance.

Rule 4. Laws of the Game.

Rule 5. Game Rules.

Rule 6. Age Limit Definition.

Rule 7. Proof of Age. Rule 8. Player Registration, League Entry and Team Affiliation Requirements.

Rule 9. Challenge of a Player not in Possession of a Player Pass Card.

Rule 10. Player Release, Transfer, and Roster Limit.

Rule 11. Game Reports Rule 12. Requirements of Players.

Rule 13. Coaches.

Rule 14. Uniforms Rule 15. Game Schedule.

Rule 16. Determination of Divisional Champions.

Rule 17. Ignorance of the Rules.

Rule 18. Interpretations of the Bylaws and Rules.

Rule 19. Rulings of the MSPSP Board of Directors.

Rule 20. Team Definition.

Rule 21. Elite Division Admission.

Rule 22. Under 19 Open Division.

Effective: August 16th, 2016 RULES AND REGULATIONS OF MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PROGRAM Rule 1. General Cases and Line of Authority.

Section 1. General Cases. In general cases, the Premier Program shall be responsible for governing those persons associated with its' functioning and operation. It is the duty of all officials and coaches to report immediately any infraction of these rules to the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors.

Section 2. Line of Authority. Should any person, team or league want to appeal any adverse decision, the line of authority shall be to the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors and then to the MSYSA.

Rule 2. Disciplinary Ruling and Minimum Punishments.

Section 1. Red Card Offenses: Any player, coach or team official who is sent off during or after a game as evident by the issuance of a Red Card by the official shall receive a minimum one (1) game suspension. The head coach shall be responsible for any person(s) associated with the team guilty misconduct at a match.

Section 2. Additional Punishment. The MSPSP Disciplinary Committee upon review of all issued red cards may impose additional suspensions and disciplinary action.

Section 3. Persistent Misconduct. Players, coaches, or other team officials guilty of persistent misconduct before, during, or after a game as evidenced by the issuance of two Yellow cards or a Red card by the official at the game site shall receive a minimum of a one (1) game suspension.

Section 4. Pushing or Striking.

(1) Players guilty of pushing or striking any coach, team official, or referee shall receive a minimum of one (1) year suspension; whether or not such an offense occurs at a game.

(2) Coaches, managers, or other team officials guilty of pushing or striking any league official, coach, manager, player, referee, or assistant referee shall receive a minimum of a two- (2) year suspension; whether or not such an offense occurs at a game. Repeat offenders shall be barred from any further participation in the Premier Program.

Section 5. Sent Off. Team officials sent off the field by the official at the game site shall receive a minimum of a one- (1) game suspension.

Section 6. Alteration and/or Falsification of Birth Records and/or Rosters. Any coach, manager, team official, or player who knowingly alters any roster or game report or causes any roster or game report to be altered, or falsifies any birth date or causes any birth date to be falsified, or affixes or causes to be affixed to any pass card a photograph of any person other than the person named thereon may receive up to a seven (7) year suspension.

Section 7. Multiple Offenses - Coaches and/or Teams.

(1) Any coach, manager, team official, or player receiving three (3) Yellow cards in any single playing season shall automatically be issued a Red card for the next physically played Premier Program game. This is considered a one- (1) game suspension.

(2) Any coach, manager, team official, or player receiving two (2) Red Cards is immediately suspended without notice from participating at any Premier Program games until an appearance before Premier Program Disciplinary Committee. It is incumbent upon the offender to request such a hearing from said Committee.

Section 8. Tournament Suspensions. Any Red card suspension from any USYSA sanctioned Tournament not served within the issuing tournament(s), shall be served with a one (1) game suspension in the next physically played Premier Program game.

Additional tournament issued suspensions shall be reviewed by the Disciplinary Committee for the imposition of additional penalties.

Section 9. Playing Suspended Players. Any coach who allows a player to play in a game, during which that player was to serve a suspension, shall receive a two (2) game suspension. Repeat offenses by the same coach shall result in a Disciplinary hearing at which further action may be taken. Any team, which allows a player, who has received three (3) Yellow cards or a Red card, to play in a game, during which that player was to serve a suspension, shall suffer a forfeit of that game, and may be subject to a fine set by the MSPSP Board of Directors.

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Effective: August 16th, 2016 Section 10. Participation by Suspended Team Officials. Any coach who allows a team official (coach, assistant coach, manager, etc.) to participate in a game, during which that team official was to serve a suspension, shall receive a two (2) game suspension. Repeat offenses by the same coach shall result in a Disciplinary hearing at which further action may be taken.

Any team, which allows a team official to participate in a game, during which that team official was to serve a suspension, shall suffer a forfeit of that game, and may be subject to a fine set by the MSPSP Board of Directors.

Section 11. Failure to Appear. Any coach, manager, team official, or player who fails to appear at a scheduled disciplinary hearing without due cause and seventy-two (72) hours notice will be suspended until such time as another hearing can be scheduled.

Section 12. Application of Suspensions. All suspensions and/or probation’s listed in sections 1 through 10 of these rules apply to the next physically played Premier Program game, whether or not such game is within the same season or seasonal year. Any forfeited game, canceled game or postponed game is not considered a played game.

Rule 3. Insurance.

Insurance shall be obtained through MSYSA via each team's affiliated league.

Rule 4. Laws of the Game.

Section 1. Rules of Play. The rules of play shall be the "Laws of the Game", as published by F.I.F.A. All contests sanctioned by Premier Program shall abide by the "Laws of the Game", and the modifications as permitted by the Premier Program shall be published under separate cover.

Section 2. Bylaws. All teams, players, coaches, managers, team officials, clubs, and/or leagues will follow the Bylaws of this Premier Program, MSYSA and USSF.

Rule 5. Game Rules.

Section 1. Abandonment of Game.

(1) Any game, which is abandoned because of inclement weather or darkness after 2/3 of the regulation time has been played, will be considered as a completed game. If 2/3 of the regulation time has not been completed, the game will be replayed in its entirety prior to the end of the scheduled season.

(2) Any game abandoned for any other reason shall result in a review by the MSPSP Board of Directors as to the circumstances leading to the abandonment and a decision shall be rendered.

(3) Any game not played by the end of the MSPSP season will incur a fine set by the MSPSP Board of Directors.

Section 2. Length of Games and Size of Ball. The length of games and the ball size shall be as follows: Age Length of Game Ball Size U-19 2 – 45 Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U-17 2 – 45 Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U-16 2 – 40 Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U-15 2 – 40 Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U-14 2 – 35 Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U-13 2 – 35 Minute Halves Size 5 Ball Section 3. Substitutions. Substitutions shall be unlimited. Substitutions are permitted by either team at any stoppage of play with the referee’s permission and receiving a signal from the referee to enter the field. Substitutes must enter the field of play at the half after the player(s) they are being substituted for leave the field of play.

Section 4. Reporting of Scores. The winning team is responsible for notifying the Premier Program Statistician of the outcome of the game per instructions issued prior to the beginning of each season immediately following the game, to notify him/her of the outcome. In the event of a tie score, the home team shall be responsible for reporting the score. If A Game Score Is Not Reported Properly Within Forty-Eight (48) Hours Of The Date And Time The Game Is Played, A Penalty Set By The MSPSP Board or Directors for Each Violation Shall Be Imposed Upon The Team In Violation.

Section 5. Delayed Game Start. Any team delaying the start of a scheduled game by more than fifteen (15) minutes without authorization from the Premier Program shall forfeit the game to their opponent and shall be responsible for full payment of the game officials' fees.

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Effective: August 16th, 2016 Section 6. Failure to Appear for a Game. In the event that both teams do not appear for a scheduled game and the Referee rule the grounds playable, then both teams shall be assessed with a loss and the referee's fees.

Section 7. Coaching from the Sidelines. Giving direction to one's own team on points of strategy and position is allowed pursuant to and in accordance with FIFA rules of the game. No mechanical or electrical devices are permitted and no coach manager, team official, or substitute is to be anywhere except on the sidelines within 25 yards of the halfway line of that team's bench side of the field during the game. Only those persons in possession of a passcard shall be allowed within the permissible coaching area. Likewise only persons with a pass card showing them to be a player, coach, Director of Coaching, assistant coach, manager, or team official shall be allowed to coach (give direction from the sidelines). Teams shall take opposite sidelines for their benches. Home teams have choice of preferred sidelines. Parents must take the same sideline as their respective team.

Section 8. Home Team Responsibilities.

(1) If that both teams wear uniforms that are of the same or similar colors, the home team must effect a change to colors that are distinct from those of the opponent. (See Rule 12 Visitor may change) (2) The home team shall be responsible for the condition of the grounds, the proper field markings, and proper equipment.

Goal nets and corner flags are required. If entry fees for the facility are collected, the home team shall be responsible for reimbursing the entire referee crew.

(3) The home team shall be responsible for providing a game ball.

(4) In the event the referee declares the condition of the grounds improper due to improper or no markings, no corner flags, or no nets; the game is to be rescheduled. Both teams will pay their half of the referee fees for the cancelled game. The referee fees for the rescheduled game will be paid in full by the team whose field did not comply with the MSPSP Rules and Regulations. The rescheduled game will take place at the home field of the original visiting team.

(5) The home team shall be responsible for all facility entry fees for visiting teams in advance of their entry to the facility.

Section 9. Team Display of Sportsmanship. The traditional line-up for good sportsmanship shall take place prior to the start of the game and be presided over by the referees and coaches. All players, substitutes, coaches, assistant coaches, managers, or other team officials shall participate. Infraction of this rule constitutes unsporting conduct and is subject to disciplinary action as such.

Rule 6. Age Limit Definition.

Section 1. Youth. The term Youth as applied to these bylaws shall mean an amateur player who has not attained his/her 19th birthday before the first day of January of the seasonal year in which he/she applies for registration.

Section 2. Attaining Age Limit. Players attaining the limiting age for any age group on or after January 1st, will be eligible to play for the remainder of the seasonal year.

Section 3. Reinstated Player. A reinstated player shall mean a player who has been reinstated to an amateur youth status.

Section 4. Age Groups.

(1) Eligibility for age groups shall be determined by a player’s age on January 1st of the seasonal year.

(2) There will be single year age group (U-13 through U-19) in both the Boys and Girls divisions when enough teams are registered to comprise a division.

(3) If there are not at least four (4) teams registered in an age division, there will be no division for that particular age group.

(4) No team shall be allowed to play in an age group unless a minimum of 51% of the rostered players on that team were born within the year(s) specified for that specific age group. Exceptions to this rule are applied at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors and to the U19 High School Open Division as defined in Rule 22. Automatic exceptions are granted for the 16/17, 17/18, and 18/19 seasonal years.

(5) No team shall be allowed to roster players who are too old for the age group in which they are playing.

(6) No player may play up more than two (2) age divisions except as defined in Rule 22.

Rule 7. Proof of Age. Section 1. Authority to Contest. Any player can be called upon to prove his/her legal age by the MSPSP Board of Directors or the Registrar.

Section 2. Legal Proof of Age. A birth certificate, drivers’ license, passport, board of health records, certificate of naturalization, or alien registration card shall be sufficient for proof of age.

Rule 8. Player Registration, League Entry and Team Affiliation Requirements.

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Effective: August 16th, 2016 Section 1. Player Registration (1) Players are registered to and mutually bound with a team when the Premier Program Registration form is signed by the player, his/her parent or guardian (for players under age 18) and the team coach and once MSYSA player fees have been paid to a responsible team/club/member organization. A copy of the signed and dated registration form must be given to the player at this time and no registration form shall be signed until or on or after the third Saturday in June.

Completion of this form by all parties binds the player to that team and its' affiliating league and binds the team and its' affiliating league to that player for the entire seasonal year which runs from September 1st to August 31st unless a release is granted under Rule 10.

(2) Each affiliating league which wishes to sponsor a team or teams in the Premier Program shall be required to submit to the appropriate Premier Program officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the Premier Program and pay all fines, dues or fees, that may be levied by the Premier Program.

(3) Payment for team affiliation into the Premier Program must be submitted by the league that affiliates the team(s).

(4) The final registration date for each playing season shall be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors.

(5) Proof of age and eligibility are to be confirmed by MSPSP affiliating leagues. MSPSP will not collect birth certificates.

(6) MSPSP affiliating leagues or clubs are responsible for the collection of player and coach concussion awareness documentation pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 333.9155 & 333.9156 and Michigan Public Acts 342 and 343 of 2012.

Section 2. Player Possession of Pass Card.

(1) All coaches, managers, and players shall present to the referee their pass cards and shall have a current photograph of the named individual permanently affixed, before the start of each game.

(2) All pass cards are to be returned to the Coach.

(3) If a player, coach, manager, or other team official is ejected for misconduct, then the Referee official must sign the Referee Game Report at the conclusion of the game. It is incumbent upon the Coach, Assistant Coach, Manager, or other team official to institute the proper suspension for committing such misconduct and indicate the reason for sitting out on subsequent Game Reports.

(4) Should any players' pass card not be available, they shall be permitted to play in the game after having fulfilled the requirements of rule 9. However, they shall be open to "Challenge" by the opposing team under rule 9.

(5) A fee set by the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be assessed for the replacement of a lost pass card.

Section 3. Application Fees and Performance Bond.

(1) Application fees shall be set prior to registration for each season.

(2) Performance Bonds in an amount to be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors may be required.

Section 4. Multiple Registration.

(1) A player cannot play for more than one team in the Premier Program.

(2) In the case of a player being registered to more than one team, the Premier Program team must be his/her primary team.

(3) No pass card shall be issued by the Premier Program for tournament play only.

(4) No teams participating in the Midwest Regional League (MRL) or National League may play in MSPSP. Section 5. Club Passcards: (1) MSPSP registered teams may utilize players from within both the same club and MSPSP affiliated league to participate in the team’s MSPSP league games.

(2) Players utilized in this manner are considered “Club Passcard Players”.

(3) Players wishing to Club Passcard to an MSPSP team must be currently registered with MSYSA. (4) Players can Club Passcard up a maximum of two age groups from their eligible age group.

(5) MSPSP teams are limited to five (5) club passcarded players per game.

(6) Teams utilizing an MSPSP club passcard player must meet all other roster requirements.

(7) Game day rosters may not exceed 18 total players including club passcarded players.

(8) Players can Club Passcard a maximum of twice a week with the week starting on Sunday.

(9) Players may Club Passcard within their own age group only from a lower division team to a higher division team.

(10) Players cannot club passcard down in competition or age groups from their primarily rostered team. MRL and National League players may not participate in MSPSP. (11) At the U13 age group in the fall season, players may Club Passcard across the statewide divisions. Players registered on a statewide team may not Club Passcard into the regional division. Regional division players may Club Passcard onto statewide teams.

(12) Players needing to serve a suspension for misconduct are not permitted to club passcard until their suspension is served with their primary rostered team. Suspensions may not be served in club passcarded matches.

(13) Select and Recreational MSYSA registered players may club passcard in MSPSP matches. Club passcarding Select and Recreational players must be age-eligible for the MSPSP division.

(14) U13 MSYSA Directors Academy players may NOT club passcard to U13 MSPSP Matches. All other Directors

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Effective: August 16th, 2016

Academy to MSPSP club passcarding scenarios are permitted.

Section 6. Violation of Club Passcard Procedures: A violation of MSPSP club passcard procedures will be reviewed by the MSPSP Board of Directors. Punishments can include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: (1) Replaying of the match with the violating team paying for match fees including referee and facility costs.

(2) Match forfeiture.

(3) A monetary fine to the offending team, coach, or league.

(4) Suspensions of the offending coach.

Rule 9. Challenge of a Player not in Possession of a Player Pass Card.

Section 1. Procedure.

(1) If a player does not present a player pass card to the Referee prior to the game, he/she shall give his/her name, signature, and birth date to the Referee, who shall note this information on his Referee Game Report, and shall at the conclusion of the game, advise the coach of the opposing team of this information and make it available to him/her. a. In the event a player is club passcarding and does not present a player pass card to the Referee prior to the game, he/she shall follow the above criteria as well as provide the team name they are officially rostered on for the Referee to indicate on the Game Report.

(2) The opposing team coach has a right to challenge such a player by contacting the Vice-Chairperson for verification that the challenged player(s) is/are properly registered and eligible to play. If the Premier Program records show the player(s) is/are properly registered and eligible to play, the matter is finished.

Section 2. Penalties. If a challenged player(s) is/are not properly registered or eligible to play, the offending team shall automatically forfeit that game and the coach may face further disciplinary action by the Premier Program, and receive up to a seven (7) year suspension under Rule 2 Section 6.

Rule 10. Player Release, Transfer, and Roster Limit.

Section 1. Release. A registered player, a player that has signed the proper MSPSP Registration Form, shall be committed to one Premier Program team for the entire seasonal year. Once registered, a player should remain with his/her team until the tryout deadline of the following seasonal year. However, any player wishing a release shall be granted one. Any player wishing to be released must make the request to the MSPSP Office. Releases will always be granted but a transfer to another team is not guaranteed.

Section 2. Inter-Premier Program Player Transfer. MSPSP will only approve a transfer from one MSPSP team to another MSPSP team if the following conditions are met: (A) The player transfer is supported (approved) by the player’s originally registered team, club and league (documentation required).

(B) The player transfer is supported (approved) by the player’s new team, club and league.

(C) The transfer occurs during the MSYSA Transfer Window (November 1 st- March 1st).

(D) All other MSYSA and MSPSP Rules and Regulations are followed.

Section 3. Poaching. Any player, coach, team official, player parent or guardian, or any other agent associated with the team who attempts to induce a registered player to change MSPSP teams from the day of Premier Program registration to the third Friday in June of the seasonal year, shall be considered poaching. Any of the above that are charged with poaching shall be brought before the MSPSP Disciplinary Committee.

The period of time on or after the third Saturday in June until the day of registration of the Premier Program shall be the designated open recruiting period. During this period of time any player, coach, manager, trainer, player parent or guardian, team official, or any other person associated with the team, may freely discuss new affiliation with players, who have not registered with any other Premier Program team for the following seasonal year. Any attempt to induce a registered player to change teams during the present seasonal year or for following seasonal year shall be deemed poaching.

Section 4. Transfer Cut-off Dates. Transfers in MSPSP may only occur in the month of January and must adhere to MSPSP Rule 10 Section 2.

Section 5. Team Tryouts. The date for team tryouts for MSPSP teams will be established by Michigan State Youth Soccer Association and will be adhered to by all Premier Program teams. All tryouts for teams playing in the Premier Program shall be advertised or published in the MSYSA Tryout Publication. No fees may be charged to any player for attending a team tryout. No

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Effective: August 16th, 2016

player shall sign a registration form as a requirement for the tryout. Any form so executed shall be declared null and void by the Premier Program.

Section 6. Roster Limit.

(A) No team shall be admitted to the Premier Program with less than fifteen (15) players.

(B) Teams may roster no more than 22 players per team.

(C) Game day rosters may only contain 18 of the 22 players registered to the team.

(D) Team coaches/managers must designate a maximum of 18 active players on the match report before the start of each match.

(E) Non-participating players may sit on the team bench but they must be either in street clothes or non-game day jerseys.

Section 7. Roster Additions.

(1) Anytime a named goalkeeper is injured and out of play, another goalkeeper may be added for the remainder of the season, through the normal registration process.

(2) Anytime a team's active roster drops to fourteen (14) players, due to injury or resignation of players, that team shall be allowed to add players to their roster through the normal registration process until they have reached an active roster of fifteen (15) players.

(3) Player additions to MSPSP rosters are permissible up to forty-eight (48) hours before a teams’ first match except for additions outlined in Rule 10 Sections 7. 1 and 7.2 (which can occur at any point in the season).

Section 8. Penalties.

(1) Any player found to be guilty of violating any of the above sections of this Rule 10 shall appear before the Disciplinary Committee and may receive up to a five game suspension (2) Any coach, manager, trainer, or team, club or league official found guilty of violating any of the above sections of Rule 10 may appear before the Disciplinary Committee and may receive up to a two (2) year suspension.

Rule 11. Game Reports.

Section 1. Team Responsibilities. Both teams shall be responsible for entering all appropriate information, on a legible report prior to the start of the game.

Section 2. Referee Responsibilities.

(1) The referee shall verify the identity of the players, coaches, managers, and team officials with their pass cards immediately upon arriving at the field.

(2) Prior to the start of the game the Referee shall make sure that each player's equipment is in proper order.

(3) Prior to the start of the game the referee shall make sure that all goal nets and corner flags are properly installed and in proper repair, that the field has the proper makings, and that the ground is fit for play.

(4) The referee shall not allow any player who does not possess a pass card to participate in the game (see Rule 8 for exceptions) nor shall he/she allow any individual without a pass card to accompany the team in their bench area.

(5) The referee shall ensure all coaches, assistant coaches and managers have a valid MSYSA Risk Management (background check) card.

(6) The referee shall keep a complete record of the game on the official Referee Game Report. Upon completion of the game the Referee shall check this report before signing his/her name.

(7) The Referee shall mail his/her report to the Statistician, and the referee shall include in this mailing any supplemental disciplinary report he/she may wish to make.

Section 3. Referee Qualifications.

(1) All referees will be registered on USSF referee registration forms through the State Referee Association. No person shall officiate as a referee or neutral lines person in any match under the sanction or jurisdiction (direct or indirect) of the USSF who is not registered with this Federation unless both coaches agree and sign the game report stating such agreement. All referee assignors must be USSF certified assignors.

(2) If, due to unforeseen circumstances, a registered referee is unable to officiate, club or team officials may agree upon some other person to act in the emergency. Such emergencies shall be explained in writing by team officials and/or referee assignors and submitted with the Referee Game Report.

(3) Referees may not officiate a game in which a team participant is a member of his/her family unless both coaches agree and sign the game report stating such agreement.

(4) In the event both coaches do not agree on an alternate referee (per Section 3 Paragraph 2) the game will be replayed at the home team’s home field and the referee fees will be paid equally by both teams.

Section 4. Referee Game Reports The Premier Program Referee Advisor will be apprised of improperly completed Referee Game Reports

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Effective: August 16th, 2016 Section 5. Referee Assignors (1) Referee Assignors may not assign 25% or more of an individual age groups matches to themselves or their direct family members.

Rule 12. Requirements of Players.

Section 1. Shin Guards. All players are required to wear shin guards at all times while on the field of play. Shin Guards must be completely covered by socks at all times.

Section 2. Player Possession of Pass Card. All players wishing to participate in a Premier Program game must be in possession of an official Premier Program Pass Card, which must be signed by the player, and have a current photograph of the player permanently affixed (see Rule 8 for Exceptions to this rule).

Section 3. Uniforms.

(1) In the event that the uniforms of both teams in the game are similar color and the referee determines that one team must change uniforms, the home team shall change uniforms unless both coaches agree that the visiting team may change.

(2) All players must be in full Premier Program identified numbered uniforms. Each player’s jersey shall have on the left chest or on the left sleeve the Premier Program Patch or a same size representation. All players on the field of play representing one team must have unique numbers on their uniforms. Players are not allowed to switch numbers after the team has been checked in by the referees without notifying the referee of the change.

(3) The Premier Program shall provide, if requested, two Premier Program patches. The patch must be permanently affixed (sewn on only) to the left chest or left sleeve of the jersey.

(4) A team may be assessed a per game fine set forth by the MSPSP Board of Directors for each violation of Rule 12 Section 3.

Section 4. Minimum Playing Time.

Minimum playing time per player shall be established and monitored by each league and/or club.

Rule 13. Coaches.

Section 1. Licenses. All head coaches of teams playing in Premier division 1 and Premier division 2 shall be required to have a minimum “D” coaching license or a NSCAA National Diploma. All head coaches of teams playing in any Classic divisions shall be required to have a minimum “E” coaching license.

(1) A head coach of a Classic division team that advances to the Premier division shall have one (1) season to obtain his/her "D" coaching license or NSCAA National Diploma.

(2) Individuals listed as head coaches in both the Premier and Classic divisions shall be required to attend 80% of scheduled MSPSP matches.

(3) Head coaches not attending 80% their teams scheduled matches shall be subject to disciplinary action.

Section 2. Coach Possession of Pass Card. All Premier Program coaches, assistant coaches, managers, or other team officials must be identified by an official Premier Program Pass Card, which must be signed by the named individual and have a current photograph of the named individual permanently affixed.

(1) Passcards for Directors of Coaching will be issued at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Directors of Coaching, who have obtained a Director of Coaching Passcard from MSPSP, can coach any MSPSP match for their club.

Section 3. Coaches Responsibilities.

(1) Each coach is responsible for the conduct of his/her players, other team officials and spectators before, during and after the game and shall instruct all of the above to behave in a proper and respectful manner.

(2) Each coach is responsible for correctly submitting a legible Referee Game Report, with the proper information to the Referee prior to the start of the game.

(3) Each coach is responsible for submitting proper pass cards and Referee Fees prior to the start of the game as well as reimbursing any entry fees the referee incurred to enter the facility.

(4) Each coach must comply with the Coaches Procedures on game day.

(5) In the event that a coach wishes to protest a game he/she must inform the Referee prior to the start of the match if possible, and will inform the referee in all cases at the end of the match so the Referee may note the reasons for the protest on the Referee Game Report.

(6) Each coach, assistant coach, manager, and or other team officials must have a valid MSYSA Risk Management (background check) card.

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Effective: August 16th, 2016

Rule 14. Uniforms.

Section 1. Supply. Each team shall be responsible for acquiring its own uniforms.

Section 2. Sponsor Patch. Sponsorship or advertising (if appropriate) is permitted on player jerseys with the written approval of the MSPSP Program Director and MSPSP Chairperson.

Section 3. Jersey Numbers. All jerseys must be clearly numbered on the back. A number no larger than 4" may be displayed on the right front or center of the chest. No two players on the same team may share the same number except that the goalkeeper may wear any number he/she so desires.

Section 4. Premier Program Patch. Each player's jersey shall be identified by a crest on the left chest or a patch on the left sleeve that may either be silk-screened or the Premier Program patch.

Section 5. Other Jersey Markings. Leagues may display their team name or league name on the front of the jersey only.

Rule 15. Game Schedule.

Section 1. Official Schedule. The official schedule of the Premier Program shall be compiled by the Premier Program Scheduler.

Section 2. Scheduled Dates. Teams must play games according to the official MSPSP schedule.

Section 3. Dual Use of Game Results. There will be no dual use of game results. No Premier Program game can be used to fulfill the requirements of another competition i.e. State Cup. Section 4. Rescheduling of Games. Games must be played at scheduled date and time. Rescheduling games without proper MSPSP approval will result in forfeiture by both teams. Rescheduled match logistics must be agreed upon by both teams and approved by MSPSP. The MSPSP Board of Directors will set the criteria and possible fees for reschedules.

Rule 16. Determination of Divisional Champions.

Section 1. Game Points. During seasonal play, game points shall be awarded as follows: -

Each victory shall be worth three (3) points.

Each tie shall be worth one (1) point.

No points shall be awarded for a loss.

Section 2. Forfeits. Any team, which forfeits a game, shall not be eligible for a divisional championship. The score of any forfeit game shall stand 4-0 against the forfeiting team.

Section 3. Divisional Champions.

(1) Divisional Champions shall be determined on the following basis: The team with the most game points (subject to adjustment per Section 4 below) shall be declared the Divisional Champions.

(2) In the event that two teams have tied for the most game points the following tiebreaker shall apply: (a) The winner of head to head competition. (b) The winner of most games. (c) Goal Differential (Maximum of four goals per win). (d) Fewest goals allowed. (e) Team with least number of red/yellow cards issued. (f) Fair play points.

(3) In the event that more than two teams have tied for the most game points, the following tiebreaker shall apply: (a) The winner of most games. (b) Goal Differential (Maximum of four goals per win) (c) Fewest goals allowed (d) Team with least number of red/yellow cards issued. (e) Fair play points.

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Effective: August 16th, 2016 Section 4. Unequal Number of Games Played. In the event that teams within a division have played an unequal number of games a calculation will be made to adjust for the different number of games played. For example, if one team played eight games and the other team played ten games the figures arrived at in Section 3 above would be multiplied by 80% (.80) for the team that played ten games.

Rule 17. Ignorance of the Rules.

It is the responsibility of each player, coach, manager, trainer, team official, and league official to know and understand the Bylaws and Rules of the Premier Program. Ignorance of these Bylaws and Rules will not be considered an excuse for failure to follow them and will not be considered as a defense in any Disciplinary Hearing of the Premier Program.

Rule 18. Interpretations of the Bylaws and Rules.

Any interpretation of the Bylaws and Rules of the Premier Program, MSYSA, or USSF shall not be considered as an official interpretation until the interpretation is rendered in writing and signed and dated by an authorized Premier Program Director or Official.

Rule 19. Rulings of the MSPSP Board of Directors.

Any ruling of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be incorporated as a part of these rules through reference. Rulings shall be documented by the MSPSP Board of Directors and shall be published.

Rule 20. Team Definition.

Section 1. Existing Team.

(1) An existing team shall be any team that has at least 51% of its players returning from the same sponsoring league from the team’s roster of its previous Premier Program season. Exceptions to this rule are applied at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors and to the U19 High School Open Division as defined in Rule 22. Automatic exceptions are granted for the 16/17, 17/18, and 18/19 seasonal years.

(2) A Team (winning or runners-up in the State Cup), which elects to play the National Regional League, may do so without losing their Team position in the Premier Program. When they return, they will take the place of the Team, which displaced them in the National Regional League. They may also return on their own accord and will displace the lowest placed team of the division that they were in when the Team elected to join the National Regional League.

Section 2. New Team. A new team is any team, which does not meet the requirements of section 1 above; regardless of whether or not that team physically played in the Premier Program in any previous playing season. New teams are subject to placement in the lowest division of a given age group. Any team may petition the MSPSP Board of Directors for divisional placement.

Rule 21. Elite Division Admission.

Section 1. Name. The Elite Division may use a name mutually agreed upon between the Premier Program and its major sponsor for all purposes of advertising and public and community relations.

Section 2. Purpose. The Elite Division is established to provide superior competition in a high quality venue for Premier Program players and teams, U16 and above, to develop and participate in highly skilled youth soccer, sportsmanship, and quality coaching and officiating within the State of Michigan.

Section 3. Method of Entry. Application for Admission to the Elite Division shall be open to all teams U16 and above admitted to the Premier Program. Affiliating leagues must complete an application for entry to the Elite Division for each team they wish to sponsor in this Division. The Premier Program must receive all Elite Division applications no later than the Elite Division application deadline, which may be set by the MSPSP Board of Directors from time to time. Acceptance into the Elite Division is at the sole discretion of the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors and shall be based upon the information provided by the submitted Application forms, and team and player history.

Rule 22. Under 19 Open Division.

The MSPSP Board of Directors at its sole discretion may elect to form a U-19 Open Division. Teams applying for entry in this division are allowed to roster players attending high school full time up to and including the U19 age group. No other entry qualifications shall apply to this division except those referring to affiliation.

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Section 9

Proposed Revisions to the MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations

Section 9: Proposed Revisions to MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, & Policies

Michigan State Premier Soccer Program 9401 General Drive Suite 130 Plymouth, MI 48170 Phone (734) 459-6650 Fax (734) 459-6664 Web site: www.mspsl.org

Proposed Amendment to MSPSP Bylaw Article VI, Proposed by Pete Morrissey, MSPSP Secretary/Treasurer I.

Current Bylaw: ARTICLE VI Advisors Article VI. Section 1. Referee Advisor.

The Referee Advisor shall receive all referee correspondence and make any necessary recommendations to the appropriate referee organization(s) and take any necessary action.

II. Proposed Bylaw Amendment: ARTICLE VI Advisors Article VI. Section 1. Referee Advisor.

The Referee Advisor shall receive all referee correspondence and make any necessary recommendations to the appropriate referee organization(s) and take any necessary action.

Add to Article III Section 2 Selections: (4) The Referee Advisor will be appointed by a majority of MSPSP Board of Directors then in office with a recommendation of the State Referee Administrator. The Referee Advisor will serve a term of one (1) year beginning July 1 and ending June 30. There are no term limits for the MSPSP Referee Advisor.

Add to Article V: Article V. Section 8. Referee Advisor The referee advisor shall receive all referee correspondence and make any necessary recommendations to MSPSP and/or the appropriate referee organization(s).

III. Rationale: This proposal will make the current position of Referee Advisor on the MSPSP Board of Directors a voting member of the board opposed to simply an advisor. Currently, the MSPSP Referee Advisor plays an important role on the Board of Directors as the liaison to the referee community. Making this a voting position with MSPSP will give the board a better perspective from Michigan referees. Similarly, MSYSA has referee representation on their Board of Directors. The MSPSP Board of Directors supports this proposal.

Section 10

MSPSP Financial Statement FYE June 30, 2016

Section 10: MSPSP Financial Statement FYE June 30, 2016

Section 11: MSYSA Budget

Section 11

MSPSP Budget

Michigan State Premier Soccer Program 9401 General Drive- Suite 130 Plymouth, MI 48170 Phone (734) 459-6650 - Fax (734) 459-6664

Budget- Fiscal Year 7/1/2017- 6/30/2018 INCOME Registration Fees Late Registration Fees Early Passcards Game Changes Interest Miscellaneous

$407,500.00 4,000.00 2,500.00 4,000.00 500.00 500.00

Total Income

$419,000.00

EXPENSES PROGRAM SERVICES: MSYSA Affiliation Fees Postage Printing & Copying Referee & Scheduling fees Telephone Trophies & Awards Website & Computer Coaching Education Scholarship

$183,000.00 3,000.00 7,000.00 40,000.00 6,000.00 19,000.00 4,000.00 20,000.00 12,000.00

Total Program Service

$294,000.00

SUPPORTING SERVICES: Contracted Employee(s) Accounting Fee Rent Depreciation Meeting, Conferences & Travel Supplies Insurance Patches & Lanyards Players Events Contributions/donations Total Supporting Services TOTAL EXPENSES NET SURPLUS

$40,500.00 9,000.00 16,500.00 3,000.00 19,000.00 6,000.00 2,000.00 4,000.00 10,000.00 15,000.00 $125,000.00 $419,000.00 $0.00

Notes & Miscellaneous

Section 12: Notes & Miscellaneous

Section 12

GOLF OUTING Where ....................................................................Cattails GC, South Lyon When ...........................................................................Friday, July 28, 2017 Time .................................. 1pm Shotgun Start (Check-in/Lunch @12pm) Why ............To benefit the John Bieniewicz Memorial Scholarship Fund Cost ....................................................$125 per golfer ($50 for dinner only)

All funds raised from the outing will go to the John Bieniewicz Memorial ScholarshipFund.

The fund was setup John’s family and is intended for graduating high school seniors that are soccer referees looking to continue their education. In 2017 we were able to award four (4) $2,000 scholarships!!!!

RESPECT THE GAME HOLE SPONSOR = $200

If you are looking a a unique sponsorship opportunity, please contact Pete Morrissey at 248-207-5757 or petemorrissey@wowway.com

3rd Annual John Bieniewicz Memorial Schlorship Golf Outing Friday, July 28th, 2017 1:00pm Shotgun Start Check-In at noon with Lunch

Cattails Golf Course 57737 9 Mile Road South Lyon, MI 48178 248-486-8777

Cost $500 per team ( Team of 4 players) LIMITED TO FIRST 144 GOLFERS!!!

Raffle: • Raffle Tickets for prizes available for purchase on the day of the event

Includes: • 18 Holes Plus Cart • Range, Range Balls and Putting Green Access • Lunch on arrival at check in (hotdog/chips/drink) • Steak dinner after event

Sponsorship: • Platinum – 4some + Hole Sponsorship $650 • Silver – 2some + Hole Sponsorship $425 • Bronze – Hole Sponsorship $200 • Hole Sponsorship: Company/Organizaion on Tee Box Sign

Prizes: • Best Team Score • Men’s and Women’s Longest Drive • Men’s and Women’s Closest to the Pin • Skins (Additional $10 Per Player/$40 Per Team) • Other games Registration: • Registration will be assigned on a first come first served basis and is also available @ cantonsoccerclub.com • Teams are not registered until names and full payment is received.

Donations: • All monies raised go directly into our college scholar ship fund • All donations are greatly appreciated, as are prizes and baskets for the raffle.

Notes: • Event is open to adult & youth golfers • All golf cart drivers must have a valid driver’s license

Register online by clicking the button or visiting http://www.michiganreferee.org/johnb.html

Please Cut and Return

TEAM NAME: ________________________________________

Golfer 1: ____________________________________________

Contact Name: _______________________________________

Golfer 2: ____________________________________________

Email: ______________________________________________

Golfer 3: ____________________________________________

Phone: _____________________________________________

Golfer 4: ____________________________________________

Please send all registrations/sponsorships and payment to “Michigan Referee Committee Inc.” and mail to: Pete Morrissey • 20076 Rippling Lane • Northville, MI 48167

Notes

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