April 29, 2020
Dear Club and League Representatives:
After much consideration, MSYSA is suspending all of our soccer activities*, all MSYSA sanctioned tournaments, and all MSYSA affiliated activities through May 31, 2020. Thus, our new return-to-play date is now June 1, 2020.
*MSYSA affiliated activities’ includes scheduled games, team practice/training sessions, or sponsored activities that are under the direct supervision of a team official; or sanctioned local or national tournaments as a member of a contestant team (e.g., any activity that MSYSA sanctions and insures).
With respect to our June 13
th
Official Try-Out Start Date, MSYSA will not be sanctioning or insuring in-person try-outs this year.
Current social distancing restrictions in the State of Michigan are not likely to be relaxed to enable a traditional try-out event in June
.
Furthermore, the anticipated summer calendar for many, and preparations for the fall season, made it impractical for MSYSA to move travel try-outs into July. In the absence of in-person try-outs, MSYSA has adopted a
2020-2021 Travel Team Formation Policy
, along with related
rule changes
, effective April 27, 2020. Please read, review, and share this information with others.
The redefined 2020 process is intended to try and normalize things for players, parents, and clubs. We are mindful of those who are hesitant to attend in-person try-outs, even if/when it is determined safe to return. We also know that a number of parents want to know where their child will play soccer this fall. In addition, our affiliated clubs are eager to field teams, order uniforms, and start preparing for the fall 2020 season. We believe what we have outlined in the policy presents appropriate balance.
Also, MSYSA’s Spring 2020 registration deadline has been extended until June 15, 2020. However, if your club or league is a direct member of MSYSA and you’ve made the decision to cancel your spring programming, please let us know by emailing
stateoffice@michiganyouthsoccer.org
.
Our next teleconference (Zoom) update will occur with club and league representatives on
Friday, May 1, 2020 at 4:00 pm
. A separate email communication will be disseminated to club and league representatives with the call-in number and meeting ID.
Please note: This call is limited to club & league representatives only.
In the interim, please review please review our FAQs on
our website
.
Our priority continues to be the safety and well-being of our players, team officials, and referees. These are difficult times for everyone. We know there are many players and team officials anxious to get back to the soccer fields. We appreciate your continued patience as we navigate the path forward.
Please continue to review our website, email communications, and social media platforms for updates.
Sincerely,
Thomas Faro
Executive Director
cc.: MSYSA Board of Directors
