SUMMER REC SOCCER
Welcome to the Summer Rec Soccer Page! All of your information can be found below utilizing the tabs. Please review ALL information prior to registering. Registration link is located below the informational tabs.
SEASON INFORMATION
Season starts on May 23rd, 2024 and continues through July 18th (July 20th for 3rd/4th grade), 2024.
Each Thursday, players are asked to be 10 minutes early allowing them enough time to get their equipment on and ready for an on-time start.
Start and End Times
- Pre-K & K - 6:30PM to 7:30PM
- 1st and 2nd Grade - 6:30PM to 7:45PM
- 3rd and 4th Grade - 6:30PM to 8:00PM
- 5th and 6th Grade - 6:30PM to 8:00PM
Important Dates
- 1st Week of May -- Teams are formed and communicated out via TeamSnap no later than the end of this week.
- Sunday, May 19th 2024 -- Coaches Training, Equipment & Uniform Pick-up (For Coaches Only)
- Thursday, May 23rd, 2024 -- First Night of Soccer
- Thursday, June 13th, 2024 -- Picture Night (tentative date)
- Thursday, July 4th, 2024 -- No Soccer (4th of July holiday)
- Thursday, July 18th, 2024 -- Last Night of Soccer for all age groups, except 3rd/4th Grade
- Saturday, July 20th, 2024 -- 3rd and 4th Grade Tournament
Upon completion of the season, each player will receive a medal as recognition of accomplish and hard work.
FIELD LOCATION
North Branch Recreational Soccer is played at the soccer fields adjacent to the North Branch Area Education Center & Middle School (38705 Grand Ave, North Branch, MN 55056) in North Branch. The map below highlights the route starting from the North Branch exit on I-35 to the North Branch Area Education Center/Middle School soccer fields.
PLEASE NOTE, ABSOLUTELY NO PARKING ON MAPLE ST AS INDICATED ON THE MAP.
Directions: Starting from the intersection of I-35 (exit 147) and Hwy 95 in North Branch, continue east on Hwy 95 through North Branch. Turn south on Grand Avenue. Travel 300 feet and the soccer fields will be on the east side of the road.
FIELD & PARKING GUIDE 2024
(can also be found in your TeamSnap event details)
ROAD MAP
PICTURE DAY IS TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 13TH!
Below you will find ordering information, how to order & other guides/video. Please start this process early to familiarize yourself with the ordering process. No paper forms!
Team picture schedules will be released no later than the Monday of picture week (will show on your Team Snap). PLEASE BE PREPARED TO START EARLY as some younger age groups may start pictures as early as 6:00 so the photographer can through all of the teams. do not be late or you will miss your group/team photo.
Picture Day Flyer & Access Code Lakes United Rec (LINK WILL BE UPDATED AT A LATER DATE)
Picture Day Step by Step How to Guide for Ordering (CLICK HERE)
PROGRAM AGE GROUPS
We offer four different age brackets:
Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten - Our Pre-K/K program is offered to support the youngest of players (must be age 5 by September 1st). This program is designed as an introduction to the game of soccer. Players will learn to work as a team, move in the right direction down the field, learn about basic foot work, dribbling and shooting. No goalies, no scoring and no team standings. Players practice for the first ~20 minutes as a team, with the remaining time reserved for a scrimmage against an opposing team. No scores or team standings recorded.
1st and 2nd Grade - Our 1st and 2nd grade program is designed to encourage, enable and educate players in the on-going maturity of their soccer skills. Players will be introduced to some additional rules of play. Enforcement of these rules will continue throughout the duration of the season. Players will participate in drills and other activities the first 20-30 minutes, while the remaining time is reserved for a scrimmage against an opposing team. No scores or team standings recorded.
3rd and 4th Grade - Our 3rd and 4th grade program is designed to promote team growth, education in advanced skills, education and enforcement of all rules and an introduction to strategic play. The pace is faster with a healthy and respective sense of competitiveness. Teams will practice for `~25/30 minutes with the remainder of the time spent playing a game. No scores or team standings are recorded.
Towards the end of the season, these players will participate in a tournament where they have the opportunity to compete against their fellow teams with the goal of earning a medal. This tournament is offered to help promote the experience of the true format of a competitive soccer league. This enables players to make a decision on progressing their interest in soccer to a competitive level. If your child is interested in participating in a competitive (traveling) league, email us or visit the Lakes United Competitive Page for more information.
5th and 6th Grade - As the players get older and enter into the 5th and 6th grade level, they'll have the opportunity to work with Lakes United Coaches & Trainers. Through LUFC's wealth of knowledge and guidance, players will be introduced to advanced drills, competitive techniques and participate in a fun, upbeat environment. They will also be guided and coached by local High School and/or Club players. Teams will practice for ~30-40 minutes with the remainder of the time spent playing a game. Scores WILL be recorded along with team standings.
WHAT TO BRING
Below is a quick checklist of things to bring each night of soccer. Please read carefully as some of these items differ across age levels.
Uniform
Each player will be provided a uniform the first night of soccer. Please ensure that you're child wears this uniform each night of soccer for the duration of the season. Players are welcome to proudly wear their soccer jersey to school to aid in promoting soccer with friends.
Soccer Ball
Each player should bring a soccer ball every Thursday. When purchasing a soccer ball for your child, ensure that your purchasing a soccer ball for their appropriate age. See below for our sizing recommendations.
- Size 3 for Pre-K/K
- Size 3 for 1st and 2nd Grade
- Size 4 for 3rd and 4th Grade
- Size 5 for 5th and 6th Grade
Shin Guards
Shin guards are a critical piece of safety equipment when stepping onto the soccer field. Please ensure your child has their shin guards properly attached before participating. If your child forgets their shin guards, they can support their team by cheering; however they will be unable to participate that evening (for safety reasons).
Water Bottle
We strongly encourage all players to bring a water bottle to aid in staying hydrated. Parents, please ensure that your child's water bottle is appropriately sized as we don't have a water source for players to refill.
Soccer Cleats [Optional]
Soccer cleats are allowed but not required. If you choose to purchase cleats, please ensure they are soccer cleats. Other cleats such as football cleats or baseball cleats are now allowed. Plastic cleats only - no metal.
WEATHER & OTHER CANCELLATION POLICIES
Any cancellation for reasons below will be made NO LATER THAN 5:00 PM on the day of play (typically NO EARLIER THAN 3:00 PM) via Team Snap & email. Please do not assume play will be cancelled. A determination will not be made until the Rec Coordinator is confident in making the call to cancel.
SEVERE WEATHER
- Light rain is playable
- Extreme cold temperatures, especially with light rain will likely warrant a cancellation (judgement of the coordinator)
- Severe weather such as lighting, tornado warnings, hail, etc will warrant a cancellation of activities
- High wind situations will be the judgment of the rec coordinator
HOT WEATHER - At our scheduled time of play (not necessarily what it is during mid-day) utilizing the Heat index
Based upon our governing body's guidance (US Club Soccer & Twin Cities Soccer League "TCSL")
- Heat Index < 89 degrees = Normal Play
- Heat Index 90-99 degrees = Mandatory 2-minute water breaks (consider shortening game times)
- Heat Index 100 - 105 degrees = Cancellation Likely, but determined by the judgement of the coordinator
- Heat Index > 105 = Cancelled
How Do We Measure Heat Index? We utilize OSHA-NIOSH's Heat Safety Tool, again at the guidance of our governing body.
AIR QUALITY - At our scheduled time of play (not necessarily what it is during mid-day)
As of summer 2024 we have now been given guidance and a standard to go by based upon our governing body's guidance and the aid of the MN Department of Health. The following are the current guidelines all based on the Air Quality Index "AQI".
- AQI 101-150 "orange" is members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected. Rec Soccer is NOT cancelled.
- AQI 151-200 "red" is unhealthy for sensitive groups and Rec Soccer will likely be cancelled IF THE AQI IS EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN IT'S LEVEL.
- AQI 201+ "purple" is considered very unhealthy and Rec Soccer is cancelled.
How Do We Measure the Air Quality Index "AQI"? We utilize AirNow.gov at the guidance of our governing body and the MN Department of Health. This measured at the LOCATION OF ACTIVITY, especially with AQI as it varies from location to location.
MAKE UP DATES
We will do our best to accommodate make up dates for any cancellation. This could cause extending the season 1 week, but ultimately dependent upon field availability and other circumstances out of our control. There is NO GAURANTEE any cancelled date will be made up.
UNIFORM SIZING INFO - UPDATED INFO FOR 2024 WILL BE PROVIDED SOON!
PLEASE NOTE: The following information is based upon last year's (2023) uniform supplier. As of this update we have not confirmed our supplier for this year, but is likely similar style and sizing. Once we have updated supplier info we will notify those registered & update this info.
This year we are going to ask that you indicate sizing for your player on the registration tab. Use the link below to double check the sizing. Ordering additional tops will be an additional cost.
Choosing the top size based on the "Adult" or "Youth" section of the link below. NOTE: Do NOT order based on Ladies, Girls, or Juniors.
REGISTRATION & PRICING
We are continuing to utilize TeamSnap for ALL communications via the TeamSnap app, emails and to offer electronic registration allowing parents to register your child(ren) with ease. TeamSnap allows a single platform to register, acknowledge consent forms, complete contact information and submit payment. Credit, Debit cards & ACH accepted.
How Do I Register?
Registration opens the first week of February and remains open through April 15th! Please register your child at their current grade level. To be eligible, your child must be the age of 5 by September 1, 2023.
To register, login using the registration link below.
- If you are new to our program, you'll need to create a new account with TeamSnap. Once completed, you'll receive an email confirming your new account creation. Login using that account and add your child(ren).
- If you are an existing TeamSnap user, login using your existing account. Continue through the remainder of the registration and finalize your registration by making a payment with your Credit Card, Debit Card, or ACH.
How Much Is The Program?
Registration cost is $89.00 per child. For families registering more than one child, a multi-child discount is available. See the Multi-Child discount section below for additional information.
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT applies through February 15th!
Late registration fees apply after April 15th and are on availability only! Late fees are included due to uniform order (non-bulk ordering, expedited shipping & handling, additional admin costs).
Registration fees include one jersey, one pair of shorts, one pair of socks, a participation medal and a summer full of soccer fun!
Payment Plan Option
We are offering a payment plan! To choose a payment plan please do so on your checkout screen. The payment plan requires a deposit at registration with remaining payments on the 1st of every month & a final payment on May 1st.
Are Their Discounts?
YES! We're pleased to offer a discount for families enrolling two or more children. We're also pleased to bring back our reimbursement for individuals who choose to volunteer coach this year.
Multi-Child Discount
Families registering multiple children are eligible for a discounted rate per child. All registered children must reside within the same family.
- 1st child is full price
- 2 children receive a $10.00 discount on total registration
- 3 children receive a $20.00 discount on total registration
- 4 children & more receive a $40.00 discount on total registration
Note: In order for the registration system to recognize that your family is registering multiple children, please make sure to follow the instructions on the registration. Discounts are applied at the checkout screen. Failure to do so will result in a forfeiture of your family's discounted rate.
Volunteer to Coach
Our program is only successful because of the overwhelming support of our parents who choose to volunteer as coaches each year. As a reward for their willingness to help, we are offering a $50.00 reimbursement/stipend for those that are willing to volunteer coach. We are looking for volunteers who are responsible, interested in investing in the growth of our youth and willing to commit attending each week. We're looking for both head coaches and assistance coaches. No experience necessary at the rec level. All coaches will be invited to participate in a 60-90 minute training session where we'll provide you with guidance and tools to help make this upcoming season a success. This training is a requirement to be eligible for the reimbursement. Reimbursements are paid out the last week of soccer. All coaches are required to undergo a background check prior to the first night of soccer. ANY COACH THAT COACHED LAST YEAR & DID NOT RECEIVE THEIR STIPEND, PLEASE REACH OUT TO admin@lakesunitedfc.org
Refund Policy
Partial refunds are given to players who opt out prior to May 1st of the program year. A notification of opting out and a refund request must be communicated via email to admin@lakesunitedfc.org prior to the end of the day on April 30th. No refunds will be granted in the full amount of the registration fee. It is understood by the registrant/participant that by completing the registration form Lakes United FC purchases non-refundable player insurance through it's governing body (US Club Soccer), as well as certain equipment (uniforms) that are non-refundable. The total non-refundable amount at the time of a completed registration per individual is $45. No refunds of any kind are provided beginning May 1st.
REGISTER WITH THE LINK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE
TeamSnap is the single most important tool for team and/or program specific communications. This Rec Page should be utilized as resource material, but TeamSnap is used for communicating, posting schedules (posted in May), as well as chat functions for members of teams & the Club ONCE TEAMS ARE FORMED (in May). Prior to team formation, please use this page and any inquiries after review should be emailed to info@lakesunitedfc.org. ALL MEMBERS at ALL LEVELS/PROGRAMMING must have TeamSnap on their mobile device to access schedules and receive team/program communications through the TeamSnap app. Here are some helpful links for you and common questions/needs for many of our members:
5TH/6TH GRADE STANDINGS (UPDATES APPEAR HERE ONCE THE SEASON BEGINS)
2024 3RD/4TH GRADE TOURNAMENT WILL UPDATED HERE THE WEEK OF THE TOURNAMENT
The previous year (2023) is currently shown for illustrative/sample purposes only.
Rules are listed below the bracket.
RULES
- 3-game guarantee
- 25 minute halves, 5 minute halftime
- Offside rule is in play
- Goal kicks & corner kicks
- Fouls in the box result in INDIRECT KICK from spot of foul
- No heading
GROUP STANDINGS
- Point System
- 6 points for a W
- 3 points for a T
- 0 points for a L
- 1 point for goal scored (max 3), no matter W ,L or T
- 1 point for a shutout
- (max points of 10 can be earned in single game, 6 for W, 3 for GF, & 1 for shutout)
- Example: Teams tie 3-3, both teams get 6 points (3 for T & 3 for GF)
GROUP STANDING TIEBREAKERS
- Head-to-Head
- Goal Differential (GD) - max 3 in a single game can be counted
- Goals Against (GA)
- Goals For (GF)
- Penalty Shootout
FINAL GAMES
- Teams seeded by standings at the end of group play (as described above)
- Games must have a winner, if tie at end of regular time
- (2) 5 minute halves (no "golden goal")
- If tie at end of extra time, penalty shoot out
- Penalty shoot out consists of 5 players, team with most goals at end of 5 wins, if still tie each team goes single rounds until a winner is decided
AWARDS
- 1st place team receives 1st place medals
- 2nd place team receives 2nd place medals
- All other teams receive Lakes United Rec Soccer medals
Thank you coaches for volunteering your time to make this a great soccer experience for all the kids!
The link below is your access to everything you may need as a Rec Soccer Coach! Remember this is password protected, so please check your TeamSnap team "2024 Rec Soccer Coaches" for the password to access the page
NEED HELP OR HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT REC?
