INCREDIBLY gifted

Cole is playing soccer for the rec league here in Wichita Falls. We went to a practice or two and Cole was complaining how boring it was. He didn't want to go anymore. His Coach also coaches a 10 year group for his older son, and invited Cole to join them for practice. I sent a couple emails off to the Greater Wichita Falls Soccer Association President and Vice President. Here's how it all played out:




Mr. Whaley and Mr. Hood,

Hello! My name is Jennifer McDaniel and I have a son playing for GWFSA. We just moved to the area and I have a question about the rules and regulations of this league. It concerns "playing up" on an older team level and the issues surrounding it. My son is currently playing in his age bracket and we will continue to do so for the remainder of this season. I'm wondering what we need to do for him to move up for next spring? He already is developmentally ready. Do we need a coach recommendation or skills placement test?

Any and all helpful information would be appreciated! Thank you for your time,

Jennifer McDaniel
469=583-7837






Jennifer,

Playing up one year, age-wise, is typically an "event-free" process for you.

For the Spring season, you will need to register your son at the new player/transfer registration dates. They will be held around the last two Saturdays of January, at the GWFSA Main Building.

You will be able to request up to 3 possible teams for your son, but there will not be any team placement guarantees.

Any other questions, let us know.

Thanks,
Mark Hood






Thank you for the quick response. I do have a follow up question. How many years/levels can one move up? Is there only a one year move up allowance? I just want to make sure we have all the information needed before we make a decision for the spring registration. We are looking forward to a great season! Thanks again,

Jennifer McDaniel






Jennifer,

Unless a child is an incredibly gifted national-level player, one year up is plenty.

On the boys side especially, two physical years is a huge obstacle to overcome. From a safety/liability standpoint, we are pretty set against a two year jump.

Thanks,
Mark
Sent from my iPhone





Incredibly gifted national-level player! It does run in the blood!! I never even mentioned he was already practicing 3-4 years up! That's my boy.

Cole did get to scrimmage with the older kids. I was so nervous! They towered over my baby on the field. The only thing slowing Cole down was the dynamics in which they older kids understood the rules (like off sides) and positions better. Too big of a jump to play, but he did so well! I guess we'll see how this plays out next Spring!