League Championship Weekend!
Three weeks ago, nearly every one of our teams were in contention for the postseason, but each had work to do to secure their place. By the end of last weekend, nine teams had qualified. Three teams clinched home games for the semis as #1 or 2 seeds and six other teams secured #3 or 4 seeds.
After a full slate of Saturday semis (Nov 16) we emerged with three finalists for Sunday and saw every team play well. Sunday’s final matches saw Wilton teams grab a runner’s up trophy and two championships!
Here are the highlights. Oh yeah and don’t miss this Instagram reel !
Boys 2013 Blue - Secured the #1 seed for the playoffs and hosted Darien, a team they tied 2-2 in the final week of the regular season. Wilton came out determined and stuck to the game plan, earning a sound 2-1 victory to advance to the Sunday championship against a talented Bridgeport side. Wilton again came ready to play, taking a 1-0 lead into the half. They battled in the second half, conceding a game tying goal before bouncing right back with an eventual game winner to secure the championship 2-1. The team concluded the season 8-2-1 as regular season and divisional champs.
Boys 2014 Blue - Entered the playoffs as the top seed in a very tight division. Out on the friendly confines of Allen’s Meadows the team put together a clinical semifinal performance - scoring two goals while giving up none. They advanced to the Sunday dance with Brookfield, a team they tied 1-1 in a late regular season match. Wilton again came out with a winning attitude going up 1-0 then quickly 2-0 … showing championship form throughout the game. The team played composed, attacking soccer and quite confident in defense. They kept their team shape, defended with numbers and attacked with urgency. They wrapped the season with a 9-1-1 record and both the regular season and postseason titles.
Boys 2012 Blue - This group has grown stronger and stronger as teammates with each passing week and over the last few seasons. They are often found on the fields between practices and games, just playing - no coaches, no parents, just players. They entered the playoffs with a 7-2 record earning them a 3rd seed and a rematch with a Westport side that handed them a 1-5 loss in week 2. With something to prove Wilton stepped on the game early, scoring four unanswered goals to advance to the final match. While the championship didn’t go their way, it easily could have with a few more favorable bounces. Their opponent, #1 seed Bethel, proved a tough group to crack as they went up 0-1 and secured an insurance goal late to close it out. Wilton finishes the season 8-3 and a divisional runner-up. The future is bright for this team!
Season notes on the rest of our playoff eligible U11+ teams — most of which participated in championship weekend…
Girls 2014 Blue won their final two games of the regular season to leapfrog into the playoffs in a highly competitive division. While they came up one goal shy in their semifinal match, the team had much to be proud of… they outscored opponents 27-17 on the season and secured their first ever win in a CT Cup game upstate.
Girls 2014 White demonstrated growth and commitment all season long. While they finished just out of the playoff picture, they played many a close game all season long with an even goals for/against ratio. From beginning to end, this group learned about each other and their potential and are ready to take another jump forward come spring.
Girls 2012 Blue had a season to be proud of securing a post season birth and advancing in the CT Cup. The team is known for its cohesiveness and commitment, leveraging teamwork and talent to put goals in the net and points on the board. They were toe-to-toe with the league’s #2 seed and eventual divisional winner in the semis until very late in the match. The future is bright for this group.
Boys 2014 White had a fantastic season finishing third in the league with a 6-2-1 regular season record. The team was known for an attacking style, high paced game and relentless pursuit on defense.
Boys 2014 Gold grew perhaps more than any other group… achieving a winning record that landed them in the playoffs. The team saw players find their confidence, increase their impact and learn how to win games, together.
Boys 2013 White outworked many an opponent all season long also securing a coveted playoff spot. The team’s willingness to compete each week showed well as they won more close games than they conceded.
Boys 2011/10 Blue took massive steps from the beginning of the season to the end. The team won the mid-season SCOR tourney, competed hard in CT Cup and finished 6-2-1 in league play to earn a postseason spot. This group is excited for the spring season ahead.
Next Up!
Hopefully some rest! .. but for those looking for more…
Field Takedown Day - We need help on Sat or Sun, Nov 22nd or 23nd (to be finalized) (meet at Allen’s Meadows shed). We will move goals aside, take nets down and bring sandbags in. This is fast work with many helpers and is an opportunity for service hours for our players too… please join us! Sign up HERE.
Striker/GK clinics (Tues) and Pickup soccer (Wed) at Lilly Field are in full swing. Must be registered to play, Sign up HERE
Winter training registration is open. Capacity is limited by the gym space we have available. Sign up HERE.
Indicate player availability for Westport WIN Tournament in TeamSnap ASAP. Event is March 16 (Boys) and March 17 (Girls). We will register teams with sufficient players committed. Spring season officially begins after this warmup event, with first practices in late March (weather permitting) and first league games in early April.
Fall 2024 Epilogue -
For those who have been around our program for a few seasons or more - all of the parents, managers, coaches, board members and more… you know it’s a team effort through and through to get our teams to the field, to help them grow, to build bonds and to have success. You also know that the road to success is never straight or without bumps along the way. It takes all of us to navigate this adventure.
We do not measure ourselves by results, but we have endeavored to build a foundation that is strong and enduring. One that empowers kids to play, to improve, to show up for their teammates and so much more. With these values embedded and reinforced from the bottom up, inside out and all around, the players and teams are thriving. They compete every single game. They are invested. They are having fun.
While we are excited to have grabbed a few ‘chips this weekend, we are more excited for the growth we’ve seen in almost every single player and team on the field and as people. That is in large part due to the efforts of our WSA family at large, all of you, each involved in some meaningful way, whether a coach, parent manager, parent fan, board member or anyone else who shows up and contributes or cheers for our efforts along the way. Every team and every player have a squad of supporters around them that makes it all possible. In the season of thanks, we say… thank you.
Congratulations on a fantastic fall season and happiest and healthiest of holidays to your families. We’ll see you on the fields again very soon!
Week 7: Playoff Push, Late Fall Soccer, Winter Training and more
Why didn’t the skeleton play goalie? Because he didn’t have the guts! 😂
Halloween, Daylight Savings and other schedule updates
Boys teams - please check TeamSnap / confirm with respective Team Managers about practices on Thurs, Oct 31 (Halloween). Some are taking the day off, some are practicing. Wishing everyone a safe and fun night!
Due to Daylight Savings (clocks adjust this wknd) and resulting shortened daylight, practice times will be adjusted beginning on Mon, Nov 4th for impacted teams. Check your TeamSnap calendars (all will be updated as needed by this Friday). Most impacted practices that begin at 4PM or later normally will be shifted to Lilly Field under the lights at times to be finalized.
The last day of practices as scheduled for all teams will be Friday, Nov 8th. For those that qualify for playoffs, practices will be held through Friday, Nov 15th.
League Playoff Push - 2 Weeks to Go!
Our Wilton Soccer teams have reached the final frames of their regular season league schedules. With two games to go, we have most of our U11+ teams competing for coveted playoff spots and our U9-10 teams seeking to conclude their developmental seasons on high notes. The top four teams in each U11 and older division at the conclusion of the regular season qualify for league playoffs. Semifinals will be hosted by higher seeds on Sat, Nov 16, and league finals will be at neutral sites on Sun, Nov 17. We have added placeholders to your TeamSnap calendars.
Here’s a quick rundown of our U11+ teams - nearly all of our eligible teams are in the playoff hunt!
Boys 2014 Blue - within striking distance of clinching their place
Boys 2014 White - squarely in the mix for postseason birth
Boys 2014 Gold - pushing hard for their possible playoff spot
Girls 2014 Blue - has a pathway if they finish strong
Girls 2014 White - amidst a cluster and in the hunt
Boys 2013 Blue - battling for a top seed in a tight division
Boys 2013 White - meaningful games ahead with playoffs in sight
Boys 2012 Blue - focused on clinching their place
Girls 2012 Blue - controls its destiny with a few games to play
Boys 2010/2011 Blue - on brink of clinching their playoff spot
No matter how the last few games play out, we are proud of all our teams - they have played hard, competed well and grown as players and teams.
Wrapping Up Our Breast Cancer Awareness Efforts
Wilton Soccer players and their families stepped up again this October. Teams wore pink socks all month as a symbol of their support and we collectively raised over $3,000, an amount we are excited to pass along to our friends at PinkAid soon. We’ll send one more request for a $25 contribution in case you missed it and then close it out. Thank you!
End of Season Pizza Parties
WSA is sponsoring pizza parties for all of our teams over the next few weeks. This is just a small gesture to acknowledge all our teams’ commitment and teamwork this fall season. Team managers should be sharing details soon if they have not already. Enjoy and congrats on great seasons!
Late Fall Soccer - Sign Up Today
Registration is open for our “Late Fall” soccer offerings. We’ll be running our popular Striker/GK Clinics and Pickup Soccer Nights at Lilly Field from mid-November through December. Sign up for one or both. These programs fill up quick and players love them. More info and sign up here: https://wiltonsoccer.com/late-fall-programs
Winter 2025 Soccer - Coming Soon
Our schedule/registration for Winter 2025 is coming soon. We will offer indoor soccer training at convenient times and locations for our current and possible new Travel players consisting of a weekday and Sunday session (participate in one or both for one price) from January to early March. Winter soccer is set up to fit among other primary winter sports, is optional (but encouraged), for our teams and players to stay connected and continue skill work. We use futsal style soccer balls and focus on ball mastery and super fun, small sided play. Stay tuned, more to come!
We will also be offering Tots/PreK and K-2 clinics on Saturday mornings for younger siblings. This registration is also coming soon!
Westport WIN Tournament
Wilton Soccer teams will again have the opportunity to participate in the Westport WIN tournament on March 15 (Boys) and March 16 (Girls). This event is a fundraising event for a good cause and an excellent warm up event ahead of the outdoor spring season. The tournament date has been added to TeamSnap calendars. Please indicate your player’s availability by no later than Nov 15th so we may understand which teams will be able to participate. We must register teams shortly thereafter. Thanks for your attention!
Spring Season 2025
While we are still focused on Fall, Late Fall and Winter Soccer coming up, we are already prepping for spring season. Outdoor team practices will resume once fields re-open either the week of March 24th or 31st ideally, and first league games are targeted for Sun, April 6th. Practice days and times will likely remain very similar with some modest adjustments for coach and field availabilities. We will update TeamSnap with this information during the next few months. We will also consider a supplemental tryout for new players to fill open/available roster spots in December timeframe. If you are aware of interested players, please have them reach out to david.nuttall@wiltonsoccer.info
Week 6: Varsity Update, SCOR and League Recap, Silent Sidelines and More
As we approach the latter part of this fall season, our Wilton Soccer family has a lot to be proud of. Our varsity teams are pushing through their final weeks and chasing post-season dreams, our competitive Wilton youth teams are improving each week and competing well in their tourneys and league matches, and WSA’s recreational programs/teams return to the field this weekend after a restful Columbus Day break.
Wilton Varsity Soccer Updates
Boys Varsity is back on the field today (Friday, Oct 18, 4:30PM) for their final home game at Lilly Field vs. Fairfield Warde. The team has won four of their last six games and outscored opponents by 2:1 ratio over that stretch. Come out to Lilly and cheer them on!
Girls Varsity squad has wrapped their regular season with a 1-0 win over Stamford and a 0-0 draw vs. Fairfield Warde to qualify themselves for the State tournament. 1st year WHS (and longtime WSA) Coach Thomas Connolly has the team playing well and prepping for an exciting post-season run.
WSA Teams at Ridgefield SCOR Tournament
14 of Wilton’s teams competed at the Ridgefield SCOR Fall Classic this past weekend. Across the board, our teams played with heart, skill and joy. Combined, Wilton teams scored over 80 goals and won or tied 70% of their 44 total matches. Wow!
A few team specific highlights:
Wilton Boys:
Wilton U15 Blue won the tourney championship defeating a tough squad from La Grange, NY 1-0 in the final. The team scored 11 goals in the tourney and gave up only 2.
Wilton 2013s played three close matches, winning one and falling narrowly in the other two.
Wilton 2014 White/Gold finished in 2nd place scoring 11 goals and giving up only 3 in pool play. The team fought hard to a draw in regulation of the championship match, but succumbed to penalties.
Wilton 2015s had a strong weekend with Juventus posting a 2-1 record, and Ajax winning their division with a 3-0 record, scoring 6 while only giving up 3.
Wilton 2016 Wolves posted a solid performance in their first ever tourney… tying two matches and dropping one among a very tightly contested division.
Wilton Girls
Wilton 2012 Blue finished just out of 1st recording 2 wins and a loss scoring 4 goals while yielding only one.
Wilton 2014 Blue played their toughest competition yet across a four game stretch. The team recorded a win and a tie and dropped a one goal game to the eventual division winner. 2014 White had a fun day playing three very close matches.
Wilton 2015 Reign played some inspiring soccer, winning two and dropping their last by 0-1 score. They finished in 2nd in their group based on tiebreakers. Wilton 2015 Angels also played 4 very competitive matches against some strong competition. The team scored 7 goals and gave up a similar number ending the day with a 1-2-1 record that easily could have been 2-1-1 or better.
Wilton 2016 Courage finished just out of the top spot in their division with a 2-1 record. The team registered six goals while conceding only four, dropping a 1-2 result to eventual bracket winner. Wilton 2016 Spirit had a blast in their three games, recording a symmetrical 1-1-1 record. True to their names these teams played with spirit and courage.
WSA League Update
Wilton teams are deep in their league seasons with about 5 matches played by each and four to go.
Our U9-10 teams are playing a developmental schedule of games against area opponents with goal to grow and improve each week.
Our U11+ teams are similarly situated in developmentally competitive leagues which progress to an end of season playoff. A number of our teams are coming off some very strong CT Cup performances as well.
Below is a snapshot of the season thus far for all of our teams. We’ve hit the century mark in terms of matches played and are scoring close to 3 goals per match, which usually makes for a competitive, if not winning formula.
The last third of the season should provide some fun, competitive and exciting matches as our teams are poised to play their best soccer yet.
Let’s go Blue White!
CJSA Silent Sidelines Weekend (Oct 19-20)
This weekend is Silent Sidelines at all CJSA and Wilton Soccer events. Silent Sidelines is a CJSA sponsored and state wide effort to promote healthy game environments for play. Read more about it here.
https://www.cjsa.org/silet-sidelines/
Please refrain from verbal cheering and instructions from the sidelines of all games and instead opt for supportive clapping only. Thank you!
Playing for PinkAid!
WSA teams are wearing pink socks for selected October matches in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To make a contribution to our efforts please visit the below link and donate. 100% of dollars raised are going to Pink Aid!, a local not for profit whose focus is on offering compassion until there is a cure.
Week 5: Pink Socks for October and CT Cup Updates
October 2, 2024
Pink Socks in October!
WSA is again coming together this October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. WSA’s competitive teams will wear pink socks (provided by WSA) for selected October matches to create a visible symbol of their collective support and to remind fans of this important cause.
In addition, WSA is inviting all to make a donation in honor of this effort. 100% of dollars collected will be sent to a local not-for-profit organization called Pink Aid. Pink Aid’s tagline “compassion until there is a cure” describes its mission to provide support and emergency financial assistance to breast cancer patients in treatment, supporting patients and their families at most critical times.
Our goal is to raise $3,000. The funds we raise will make a difference immediately. If each of our families contributes just $25, we will exceed this goal by a lot!
In the next day or few, please look for the request for donation from WSA in your TeamSnap apps and email inboxes to make a one-click $25 contribution. Donations are of course optional, and if you’d like to donate more than $25, please use this LINK.
Thank you!
Team WSA
CT Cup Updates!
CT Cup continued this past weekend with three Wilton teams in action in next round matches with one more team beginning their Cup this weekend!
Girls 2014
Wilton’s 2014 Girls traveled 90 minutes north to South Windsor for their opening match and first ever CT Cup game. The team came ready to play, opening the scoring in the first minute with a great sequence that featured multiple passes before finding the back of the net to set the tone for the balance of the game. Wilton built on the momentum and didn’t let up, taking a 3-0 lead into the half and eventually wrapping the game with a 6-2 advantage. The performance was a full team effort from back to front where relentless pressure, depth and skill prevailed. Wilton is now in the Sweet 16 and will face CT soccer stalwart, Farmington, again on the road this Saturday.
Girls 2012
Wilton played a hard-fought match on Saturday morning vs. New Fairfield in their next round CT Cup game. The first half was all Wilton as they took a 2-0 lead into the break. A determined New Fairfield team answered quickly in the second half to tie the match. The balance of the game was a back and forth battle as both teams sought the go-ahead goal. Late in regulation, with the game tied 3-3, a conceded goal by Wilton among a congested goal box resulted in the winning tally for New Fairfield. The 2012 Girls are having a strong season and are set up for continued success having been tested by some of the best in the State.
Boys 2014
Wilton traveled north for their next round matchup with perennial powerhouse, Glastonbury. In an intense and quality game which featured frenetic up and down runs, hard tackling and gritty performances all over the field, Wilton took Glastonbury to the brink. Wilton contained a very strong Glastonbury team in the first half which ended with two teams in deadlock 0-0. Pressure from Glastonbury to open the second half saw them grab a well-deserved lead. However, Wilton did not relent. They dug in and found the equalizer midway through the half. In the waning minutes, Glastonbury earned and converted on a late free kick to take the lead and eventually the game as the one goal advantage held up. It was a performance by the Wilton boys to be proud of and to build on as the group continues to gain confidence. Wilton bounced back with a sound 4-1 victory over New Canaan on Sunday in league play, pushing their league record to 3-0-0 and top of the tables.
Boys 2010/2011
Wilton’s U15 team kicks off its CT Cup with a match this Saturday vs. New Fairfield.
Wilton Soccer: Week 4 Updates
Wilton Soccer “Jersey Day” at School (Friday, Sept 27)
Girls Varsity Senior Nights & WSA Youth Nights (Sept 26 and Oct 8)
Wilton Soccer CT Cup Updates
WSA Jersey Day @ School, Friday, Sept 27th
All WSA players in all programs are invited to wear their WSA jerseys and apparel to school this Friday
It’s Homecoming/Spirit Week for WHS and a big weekend for many of our Wilton Soccer teams, so let’s join the fun have the kids show off their Wilton Soccer jerseys, shirts and more for their friends, family and community
WHS Senior/WSA Youth Nights @ Lilly Field (Girls on Sept 26, Boys on Oct 8)
All WSA players are invited to WHS Varsity Senior Night and WSA Youth Nights coming up soon!
WSA Travel players to form “player tunnel” for pre-game ceremony to honor the WHS Soccer Seniors (see details in TeamSnap calendar events) - please be sure to arrive on time, this is a very special event!
All WSA players (rec and Travel of all ages) to run in the “Warrior Dash” at halftime of each game
Stay for the varsity games and grab some treats sponsored by WHS Soccer Boosters and WSA
Check out and like the Senior player spotlights on Instagram @wiltonctsoccer
Thursday, Sept 26th: GIRLS Varsity Senior Night / WSA Youth Night.
WSA Travel GIRLS players arrive 5:45 pm for pre-game ceremony in WSA WHITE or BLUE jerseys
6:00 pm Senior Ceremony
6:30 pm kickoff vs. Bridgeport Central
Tuesday, Oct 8th: BOYS Varsity Senior Night / WSA Boys Youth Night.WSA Travel BOYS players arrive 6:15 pm for pre-game ceremony in WSA WHITE or BLUE jerseys
6:30 pm Senior Ceremony
7:00 pm Kickoff vs. Brien McMahon
Connecticut Cup Highlights!
CT Cup is an exciting, single elimination tournament for U11+ teams endorsed by US Youth Soccer and organized by CJSA. It is held each season for each age group and has a 40+ year history. Winners can qualify for regional and national events. CT Cup attracts competitive teams from across the state with matchups and home/away teams determined by random draw a few weeks prior to the start of the tournament. The brackets for each age group can be viewed HERE. Below is a rundown of Wilton teams’ CT Cup performances so far this season.
Boys
2014 (U11)
Won a hard fought match against a very competitive Somers side that was determined to make the most of their lengthy road trip to Wilton. Wilton started strong and scored first. After the goal, Somers applied pressure for the remainder of the half and took a 2-1 lead into the break. A deserved penalty kick for Wilton and an unfortunate own goal from the visitors saw Wilton turn the game around in their favor resulting in a 3-2 victory. The team heads to Glastonbury for their next CT Cup game this Saturday. The boys capped a strong weekend with a 3-0 victory over league rival Fairfield on Sunday. The team is coached by WHS Junior Varsity Coach and seasoned youth coach, Xavier Cardona.
2013 (U12)
Played a strong Guilford side at home to a 2-2 draw through regulation and two full overtime periods. The team rallied from a goal down two times to tie the game, but came up just short in a penalty shootout. All involved commented that this was one of the best youth soccer games they have experienced - with the players playing hard and all, including coaches and fans demonstrating superb sportsmanship. The Wilton boys showed determination and unity that will serve them well through the rest of their season and well beyond. Wilton bounced back quickly on Sunday with a convincing 3-0 win vs. Danbury and are now sitting at the top of the league standings. The team is Coached by current WHS Varsity Assistant, former Wilton standout player and now seasoned youth and high school coach, Spencer Overbeeke.
2012 (U13)
Came up just short in a very tightly contested game on the road vs. a solid Somers side. Wilton fell behind 0-2 by the end of the first half but rallied in the second to draw even at 2-2 late in regulation. Despite the comeback, Wilton conceded a late goal off a corner kick restart which made the final tally 2-3 in favor of Somers. Wilton returned to its winning ways on Sunday with a convincing 6-4 win over a strong Bethel side in league play. The team is coached by long time/ former WHS Varsity coach, Jim Lewicki.
2010/2011 (U15)
Will play its opening match of the CT Cup on October 5th vs. New Fairfield. The team is coached by former standout WHS player and now WHS Varsity Boys Coach, Edwin Carvajal.
Girls
2014 Blue (U11)
Travels to South Windsor this coming Saturday for their first CT Cup match. This past weekend the team recorded a 2-2 draw vs. a strong Fairfield team in league play. The team is coached by WSA Coaching Director and John Jay High School Varsity Coach, Dave Nuttall.
2012 (U13)
Traveled to West Hartford and came home with a decisive 5-2 victory. The team set the tone early and maintained control of the match throughout. They earned a next round home match this coming weekend vs. New Fairfield. The team posted another victory on Sunday in league play, recording a 5-1 win over a strong Weston side. The team is coached by WHS Girls Varsity Coach and long-time WSA youth coach and Wilton-resident, Thomas Connolly.
CJSA, SWD and WSA Zero Tolerance Policy
Wilton Soccer Parents, Coaches, Managers and Players,
As we begin the Fall Season, we want to remind you of WSA’s Code of Conduct that all members of our club have agreed to uphold in all respects as part of their registration and participation in our programs. Please re-read the WSA Code of Conduct carefully and share with your players as well.
In addition, all are required to read carefully, the below renewed policy from the Connecticut Junior Soccer Association (CJSA) with respect to zero tolerance for unsporting behavior at all CJSA/WSA matches. The policy seeks to further enhance the environments around youth soccer games by eliminating issues with respect to sideline behavior.
CJSA and the CT Referee Program has given specific instructions to referees regarding the Zero Tolerance policy.
ANY unsporting behavior from spectators will lead to being asked to leave the field, and the game will be suspended indefinitely if they do not comply. Coaches will be subject to Caution (Yellow Card) and/or Send-off (Red Card) if they engage in unsporting behavior or refuse to deal with spectator issues. Any of these issues will also be subject to further action taken by either WSA, CJSA, or both.
Wilton Soccer Association fully supports the Zero Tolerance policy below, and will support our referees in making sure we are Giving the Game Back to the KIDS.
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF EACH OF YOU AND ALL OF US TO REPRESENT WILTON SOCCER, OUR PLAYERS AND YOURSELVES IN A MANNER WE CAN ALL BE PROUD OF. THE GAME IS FOR THE KIDS, LET IT BE THAT.
Give the Game Back to the KIDS
In an effort to eliminate violent and inappropriate behavior in the youth game environment, the Connecticut State Referee Program has asked CJSA for help at the association, league, and club levels to implement a “Give the Game Back to the KIDS” initiative.
In the youth game environment, referees are advised that dissent is a comment, or compilation of comments that is/are personal (Hey Ref…), disruptive to the game, and public in delivery (meaning someone heard it). Because there are thousands of forms of dissent, it’s easiest to say “We can’t describe it, but we all know it when we hear or see it”. At its most basic level, dissent is expressing an opinion that is different from an official position.
Below are a few examples of dissent. This is not an all-encompassing list, and are just a few of the many examples available:
Hey Ref: that was a foul; that was a handball; call it both ways; what are you watching; that’s not a penalty; etc.
Repeatedly questioning calls regardless of the tone of voice, a sarcastic clap or thumbs up, waiving the arms up and down in a ‘what was that’ motion.
Trying to become part of the referee’s decision-making process from the technical area.
Coaches with legitimate questions should politely ask the referee if it’s okay to approach and ask a question.
Spectators should NEVER address a referee with any comments and absolutely should NEVER ccross the field boundary lines to, or at any time, approach a referee before, during, or after the match.
With this in mind, the CSRP is instructing all referees to use the following protocols:
ZERO TOLERANCE - Referee Protocols
Spectator Misbehavior
Stop the game, bring the coaches to the center circle, ask them to identify the person, and have the COACH have the person(s) leave. If the coach does not comply, or if the person does not leave, referees will not restart and abandon the game. Referee(s) should leave the field, contact their assignor, and report the situation in the game report or the referee abuse app. REFEREES DO NOT AND WILL NOT ENGAGE WITH SPECTATORS DIRECTLY.
Coach Misbehavior
At the first sign of Coach dissent, referees will not talk to the coach. Referees will show the caution (yellow card). If the dissent continues, referees will not talk to the coach - they will show the caution; since it’s the second yellow card, it will be followed by a send-off (red card). If the coach does not leave, do not restart the game and abandon the game. Referee(s) should leave the field, contact their assignor, and report the situation in the game report or the referee abuse app.
The above protocols are not administered arbitrarily, they are taken directly from the book from which referees receive their training.
“Whether decisions are right or wrong, the ‘spirit’ of the game requires that referees’ decisions must always be respected. All those in authority, especially coaches and team captains, have a clear responsibility to the game to respect the match officials and their decisions” – 2024/2025 Laws of the Game, page 11
In support of this initiative, the SWD District (WSA’s League) Discipline Committee as of now:
Requires that any game that is halted for issues regarding Spectators, will automatically be placed under Silent Sidelines protocol for the remainder of the match. As part of the conversation with spectators when the match is halted, BOTH COACHES must inform the spectators that Silent Sidelines is now in force. This is the coaches responsibility, not the referees.
Silent Sidelines- The guidelines are simple. Spectators are to be quiet, talking in a normal tone to the person next to them. What is to be avoided are comments that can be heard by players, referees or opponents. Applause is permitted and encouraged.
When a match is halted for any reason, this does not signal the start of any debate or discussion. Coaches and Spectators are expected to comply and act immediately.
Finally …
WSA is reinforcing this zero tolerance policy as follows -
Should a WSA coach or spectator, or other member, receive or be the cause of a caution card, they AND their player may be suspended for the next match at least, and possibly longer at the sole discretion of the WSA Coaching Director, President and/or Board.
Coaches or spectators receiving card(s) may also be subject to multi-game or season long bans from sidelines and games at the sole discretion of WSA.
Should you have any questions in regards to how the referees will be handling dissent please email info@ctreferee.net
Connecticut Junior Soccer Association (CJSA)
www.cjsa.org
TeamSnap & More
We are rolling out invitations to the TeamSnap mobile app for all teams. A few notes to be mindful of as you accept invite and digest information in the app:
Re-read the important updates shared a few weeks ago HERE - uniforms, pre season camp, Labor Day tourney info, WSA merch sale and much more.
Update your profile information in the TeamSnap app. It is critical your contact info is accurate in the app. If you think you received an invite in error or are not sure if you received the correct invite, please email info@wiltonsoccer.info
Schedules are subject to change up until season begins, but we do our very best to avoid this if we can. Practice days most likely will not change, practice times and fields could change for a few teams based on field availability and coach constraints. We have done our best to align practices for all teams in an age group at the same day, time and location. We have also situated practices to take advantage of school buses and after school access wherever possible.
Rosters are subject to adjustment up until the season begins. WSA reserves right to make any adjustments to each age group and each team to optimize playing time, team experience or otherwise for the benefit of the program and teams overall. We appreciate your understanding on this matter.
Team Managers NEEDED! Team Managers coordinate game schedules, communicate important info among WSA, players/parents and coaches, set Parent on Duty schedules for practices and more. Teams can not function without a volunteer Team Manager. We will host a Manager training session prior to the season in coming weeks. No experience required to be a manager. Team Managers from last cycle have been enthusiastically re-hired (thank you!). The below teams all require a volunteer to step up to manage the team. If you would like to volunteer please email david.nuttall@wiltonsoccer.info
2016 Boys Real
2016 Boys United
2016 Boys Wolves
2014 Boys White
2013 Boys White
2016 Girls Spirit
2015 Girls Reign
2014 Girls White
Coach Assignments are still being finalized and will be added to TeamSnap ahead of first practices.
Note the important dates on your team calendar and indicate availability for each throughout the season. Click into each event, indicate your player’s availability by clicking Yes or No. This is critical information for our managers and coaches. Indicate availability at least one week in advance.
Indicate availability ASAP for the Labor Day tournament in South Salem, NY. Boys play on Sat, Aug 31 and Girls play on Sunday, Sept 1. If you do not indicate your player as available for the tourney by Aug 7th, we will assume they are NOT participating. If team’s do not show enough available players, we will NOT register those teams for the event.
Sunday league game schedules will not be posted until the end of August when the league produces them. There are nearly 500 teams in our league across the age groups and the process to set schedules takes time.
WHS Varsity Games and Ball Boy/Girl duties. We will be adding the WHS Girls and Boys varsity games to respective WSA schedules in TeamSnap. Watching varsity games is a great way for players to see the next level and get excited about their future in the game, playing for their hometown. In addition to watching games whenever they can, each of our WSA teams will be assigned a varsity home game (or two) to serve as ball boys/girls for those games. Teams must supply 4-6 players to serve in this role for their assigned games. This is a fun and important responsibility! The ball boy/girl assignments will also be added to TeamSnap.
Important Info Ahead of the Fall 2024 Season
Hi WSA families!
The fall 2024 soccer season is quickly approaching.
Please read below IMPORTANT INFO carefully and in its entirety. Please take actions as noted.
WSA Code of Conduct: WSA has memorialized a Code of Conduct HERE. Your player's participation in the program binds your player, you and your family to this Code. Please review and share with your player. Our commitment and respect for the game, our teams, our teammates and each other will make for the best possible experience for all. Please also watch the videos below this message/on this page!
Uniforms: Please review info about uniforms and ordering process HERE. In the coming days, you will receive an email from "MyUniform" /Soccer & Rugby prompting you to place your uniform orders. Uniforms are same as last season, so our returning players do not need to order a new kit, but may order replacement components as/if needed. Our new players must order a full uniform kit. The deadline to order uniform and components is August 3rd. Please also note that WSA members receive a discount at Soccer & Rugby on all in store purchases of non-uniform related gear, we recommend taking advantage of this in coming weeks!
Wilton Soccer Dustbowl Merch Flash Sale- deadline to order merch is July 26th! Based on overwhelming demand for a beta sale of Dustbowl hats we did this past spring, we have assembled an awesome selection of Wilton Soccer merch from our friends at Dustbowl, the lifestyle brand born on the ball field and founded by Wilton alums and friends of WSA. Fill out this FORM with your orders ASAP! Deadline to indicate orders is July 26th and min quantities in each product must be met to place the eventual batch orders. We will request payment after we receive orders/hit our minimums.
Pick Up Soccer and Pre Season Camp (more info/ register HERE). We have 3 more weeks of Pick Up Soccer on Tuesday evenings and Pre Season Camp is schedule for Aug 19-22 and 24th (no camp on Aug 23rd due to "Meet the Teacher Day" for schools). These dates and the times of pre season camp may shift slightly once we get school schedules. Pre Season Camp is recommended (but is optional) and is a separate fee.
TeamSnap mobile app In coming days, you will receive an invite to join your team on TeamSnap. This is the single source for all of the most important information for your team and where you should communicate (chat, email and post). Please look for the email invite, accept, update/re download the app as needed and follow prompts to update your contact/profile information. TeamSnap contains your team roster, prelim season schedule and messaging features for the entire team to stay in sync. WSA and Team Managers will update schedules in TeamSnap throughout the season. Parents should update their player's availability for each WSA event in TeamSnap. If you were associated with a team last year, please hide/remove your prior season's team(s) from the mobile app by clicking on the drop down menu at very top of the app (next to the team name) and then select “See All Teams” then, “Edit”… click on new team for Fall 2024 and click on the minus (-) sign to hide/remove an old team from prior season(s). The new teams are not yet populated in the app, but will be soon!
Practice Schedule: First practices are the week of August 26th. TeamSnap, when released, will contain a prelim day/time/location for your team's practices each week. As reminder, WSA Boys teams typically practice on Mon and Thurs and WSA Girls teams practice on Weds and Fri, with a few exceptions due to coach and field considerations. Wherever possible, we try to situate practices immediately after school and take advantage of buses to fields.
Practice Attire: Players should wear WSA practice attire (avail in uniform shop) to all practices. For all soccer events, all players will need a pumped up soccer ball, shin guard under socks, soccer cleats and a water bottle. Players are responsible for all of their gear.
Team Parent Meetings hosted by WSA Coaches in advance of season will be added to TeamSnap schedules. These will likely be scheduled during your child’s first week of practice and will be held at the fields. It is required that at least one parent attend this meeting.
Parents on Duty ("POD"): PODs attend duration of assigned practices to support coaches and/or players in event of emergency or other situation where another adult may be needed. Each player's family (one parent only needed) will have POD duties a couple of times during the season for their team. POD duties will be assigned by Team Managers in TeamSnap for each event - please check to see if you are on duty. If you can not serve as POD on your assigned day, please swap with a teammate as needed among yourselves.
Tournaments: Majority of WSA teams will play a tournament on Labor Day and Columbus Day weekends. Labor Day tournament is John Jay Tournament in South Salem, NY. Boys teams will play Saturday, Aug 31. Girls teams will play Sunday, Sep 1. Please reserve the day (games usually consume either the morning or the afternoon with full schedules not released until Aug 17 or thereabouts). New teams (2016/U9s) may play an in-town jamboree instead of the Labor Day tournament (decisions/details to be finalized soon). These prelim dates/tourneys will be in TeamSnap schedules, please indicate your availability ASAP for Labor Day when the app is released to you. When TeamSnap becomes available to you all, we will need all players to confirm their availability for Labor Day tourney asap.
League Game Schedules: first league games are Sun, Sept 8th and continue through early November. Dates/opponents/home or away info wont be available from our league until end of August (1-2 weeks before the season) as the divisions for all 400+ teams across Fairfield County are assembled and aligned. Game times and fields are confirmed weekly by your team Managers and WSA once the schedule of dates/opponents is released. You can count on a game each Sunday between 12 noon and 6 PM. WSA players are expected to prioritize practices and games as their primary sport in the fall season. Any anticipated conflicts should be communicated to your team Manager early and often.
Field Set Up Day (Aug 25): Volunteers needed to assist in field set up for the season (moving goals back into place, securing nets and sandbags, etc). Field Set Up Day will be Aug 25th from 8-10AM. This will also be opportunity for Team Managers to refresh or pick up their Manager bags and corner flags for season.
Team Managers Needed! All teams must have a volunteer parent team manager (ideally two per team). Team Managers coordinate game schedules, communicate with parents and coaches and ensure the team runs smoothly each season. If you were a prior manager, you have been automatically re-assigned to manage again (thanks!). New teams need a parent to step up to manage. Please email david.nuttall@wiltonsoccer.info if you are able to volunteer to manage your team.
If you have questions on any of the above, please email Coach Dave at david.nuttall@wiltonsoccer.info.
Thank you! WSA Team
Tryout / Team Formation Update
As previously shared, we plan to release updates on each age group on a rolling basis starting with our oldest age groups and progressing to youngest.
We will begin to send updates beginning today and continuing into next week, balancing end of season considerations for currently active players/teams and everyone’s desire for the update/information as soon as practical.
Players invited to a given team will receive an email requesting acceptance of a roster position. Please be attentive to these emails and accept your offered roster spot as soon as possible so we may complete this process efficiently. Roster positions are confirmed by way of completion of registration and payment.
Efficient acceptances benefit all our players and teams, as well as the volunteers seeking to complete the process for each group.
Reminders:
We had a record number of players register for and participate in tryouts
Each age group is unique in terms of number of players, depth of the player pool, and other considerations such as relative age and grade within a birth year
We consider closely how to best set up each age group and the adjacent age groups for success for not only this coming year, but the years that will follow as well (roster sizes expand every two years to match field format)
Team Formation Principles:
Place as many players as possible to maximize positive development and quality of teams
Consider competitiveness of each team in context of the leagues/divisions available for play
Place players on teams where they are challenged to grow, but also where they can build confidence
Consider selectively utilizing combined age group teams when it can help to optimize participation and competitiveness for more
Recognize that some players are best fit for our recreational programs, rather than competitive teams - while that is a difficult message to convey, it is always made with the player’s best interests in mind. We have a place for every player to participate and we have seen many players make future teams on their 2nd, 3rd or more tries. Every player’s entry point and soccer journey is different.
Age Group Considerations
Below is representative. Actual number of teams in each birth year and number of players per team will be different based on specifics of each age group.
U9 (2016), U10 (2015)
7x7 game format (small field)
Roster size of up to 12 players
2-4 teams per birth year per gender
2017s will be included to “play up” if 1) space available on rosters, AND 2) they are ready for the physical/competitive level and are socially/developmentally ready to be among older children for practices and games - it is most important their first more competitive soccer experience is a positive one
U11 (2014), U12 (2013)
9x9 game format (medium field)
Roster size of 14-16 players
1-3 teams per birth year per gender
U13 (2012), U15 (2011/2010)
11x11 game format (full size field)
Roster size of 16-20 players
1-2 team per birth year or age group per gender
For reminders about the program, please visit the WSA Info Session Presentation and the relevant program pages on this website.
Thank you,
The WSA Team
Wilton Soccer 2024/2025 Travel Tryout Update
Thank you for registering for WSA's 2024/2025 Travel Soccer Tryouts. Please review below closely and complete actions as appropriate.
Tryout Update: Tryout registrations +30% vs. last year (for the 3rd year in a row!) For those not yet signed up, registration link will be open for a few more days. Link to register is HERE
Travel Info Session - LINK to slides we shared live earlier this week
Tryout Schedule - LINK for the tryout schedule and tryout day reminders
Tryout Conflicts, Injuries or Change of Plans? - If your player is injured, has an unavoidable conflict, or no longer plans to tryout, you must let us know in advance of tryout dates by completing this FORM
Summer Soccer! - lots of awesome summer soccer offerings HERE, sign up soon!
Questions: If you have questions about the program or tryouts, please review the FAQ, and if that does not cover it, please email info@wiltonsoccer.info
Thank you!
the WSA team
Spring 2024!
March 22, 2024
Hi team!
Spring season is here. A few important updates as we launch into another season.
Team practices begin March 22nd for selected teams and week of March 25th for all. There are NO practices on March 29th.
Log back into your TeamSnap, find your squad, update your contact info and check your schedules. All practice and game details will be posted in TeamSnap. Games will be loaded as soon as we receive schedules from league.
Confirm your player’s availability for each practice and game in TeamSnap at the beginning of each week (or sooner) if you can.
Check assigned Parent on Duty (“POD”) responsibilities. Every team must supply a POD for every practice to ensure coaches have another adult on site to support if needed. Team Managers are coordinating POD duties.
Buses to Hurlbutt/Ambler practices (IMPORTANT): For players taking bus to practices, 1) must be entered as such in School Dismissal Manager; 2) for WSA to retain this privilege, players must be calm and respectful on the bus, towards driver and other student riders at all times - please remind your players!; 3) PODs must greet the bus at the field / entrance to Ambler upon arrival (one POD for each team that has players on the bus). PODs must arrive early and be waiting for bus to arrive or bus driver will not allow players off. PODs direct/walk players safely up to the field and ask them to get prepared for practice in orderly fashion.
First League games are Sunday, April 7th. League schedules are still being finalized and should be published this coming week. Please be patient as Team Managers have not yet received game schedules from League. Once they do, they must coordinate with opponents to finalize times/places. First game’s details likely won’t be final until 3-5 days before that first game date. Games are intended to be between 12 noon and 6PM on Sundays, unless mutually agreed by teams otherwise, so please plan accordingly for that.
For overview of our League (CJSA Southwest District) and related information on the season, please click link: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xUtWZYbBHHU_nwD_JNI8Y4WGAKztbdh_JZELssrVE6g/edit
NOTE: League schedule will have games on the two Sundays surrounding Wilton Public Schools’ Spring Break (Sunday, Apr 14, Sunday, Apr 21). Please inform your manager ASAP if you plan to be away either or both of these Sundays. We will need to ensure we have sufficient players for these games, or request to reschedule.
Spring season is a busy one with many of our players participating in multiple sports and activities. The WSA team will do its very best to navigate conflicts. For that to be possible it is imperative that you communicate clearly, early and often with your team manager about prospective conflicts.
Players must do their very best to uphold their commitment to the team, the success of any team relies upon the presence of its players.
For our new teams and players, if you have any specific questions about the upcoming season, please email david.nuttall@wiltonsoccer.info
Thinking ahead (already!), in coming weeks we will be opening registration for tryouts for the next cycle (Fall 2024/Spring 2025). Please register ASAP when it goes live. We will provide a full rundown on this process when registration opens.