Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
What is goal of the Upper Valley Soccer Foundation (UVSF)?
The Upper Valley Soccer Foundation is a volunteer run soccer organization. Our focus is to help youth 10 years and older in the Rexburg, Idaho area develop soccer skills and great character through our soccer programs.
Who runs UVSF?
The Upper Valley Soccer Foundation boards consists of the following individuals and positions:
Other staff members are:
What ages does UVSF serve?
Our organization is for youth 10 years of age and older. We run teams for age brackets of U10-U19.
What age group does my child belong in?
An age bracket for the current season year is calculated by subtracting the year a child was born, from the season year. A season year runs from Fall through Spring of the following year. Formula: Year Season Ends - Birth Year = Age Group
The Upper Valley Soccer Foundation is a volunteer run soccer organization. Our focus is to help youth 10 years and older in the Rexburg, Idaho area develop soccer skills and great character through our soccer programs.
Who runs UVSF?
The Upper Valley Soccer Foundation boards consists of the following individuals and positions:
- President - Jennifer Barzee
- Board of Directors - Allison Dustin, Curtis Chandler, Holly Allen, Betsy Billman and Jessica Badillo
Other staff members are:
- Director of Coaching - Dan Dümmar
- Director of Fields - Jaymon Birch
- Equipment - Alysia Kinney
- Referee Assignor - Jacob McRae
- Registrar - Jessica Badillo
- Secretary -
- Tournament Director - Holly Allen
- Treasurer - Jessi Cooper
- Uniforms - Lynette Williams
- Web Development - Kade Smith
What ages does UVSF serve?
Our organization is for youth 10 years of age and older. We run teams for age brackets of U10-U19.
What age group does my child belong in?
An age bracket for the current season year is calculated by subtracting the year a child was born, from the season year. A season year runs from Fall through Spring of the following year. Formula: Year Season Ends - Birth Year = Age Group
Example: Fall 2021-Spring 2022 Season - Born in 2006 = U16 Age Group
Can a child play in an older age group ("play up")?
In some circumstances a child might play up an age group due to numbers. This occurs when not enough players to form a team at a certain age bracket tryout. For example, if only 6-U11 players and 4-U12 players register, a U12 team may be formed with these 10 players.
It is generally not advised for players to "play up", but there may be circumstances where a player is approved to do so.
State rules do not allow for a player to play up more than 2 years. This means that a U15 player is only allowed to play as high as U17 and is not allowed to play with U18 teammates.
Can a child play in a younger age group ("play down")?
No.
What equipment is needed?
Shin guards and cleats are required for practice and games for all players. Bring a water bottle to every game and practice. Some soccer balls are provided by the club, but bringing your own ensures you will have one to practice with.
Full Uniforms which includes two numbered jerseys, soccer shorts, and socks.
Earrings are NOT ALLOWED in games. You are not allowed to just tape over them. Wait until after the season for new piercings.
When will practices and games be cancelled due to weather?
Rain/snow does not mean a game or practice is cancelled. For games, coaches and referees must meet at the field to determine playing conditions before canceling. Players should report to the field by game time. Soccer is safely played in the rain. We will not play or practice while lightning is visible from the field location.
Practices may be cancelled at the coach’s discretion. Make sure you have a clear understanding with your coach what the criteria and procedure is for canceling practice. Coaches may ask players to report to practice so that conditions can be evaluated before canceling.
What soccer associations does Upper Valley Soccer Foundation work with?
We form teams for participation in Idaho Youth Soccer. Teams also compete in approved U.S. Youth Soccer Tournaments
In some circumstances a child might play up an age group due to numbers. This occurs when not enough players to form a team at a certain age bracket tryout. For example, if only 6-U11 players and 4-U12 players register, a U12 team may be formed with these 10 players.
It is generally not advised for players to "play up", but there may be circumstances where a player is approved to do so.
State rules do not allow for a player to play up more than 2 years. This means that a U15 player is only allowed to play as high as U17 and is not allowed to play with U18 teammates.
Can a child play in a younger age group ("play down")?
No.
What equipment is needed?
Shin guards and cleats are required for practice and games for all players. Bring a water bottle to every game and practice. Some soccer balls are provided by the club, but bringing your own ensures you will have one to practice with.
Full Uniforms which includes two numbered jerseys, soccer shorts, and socks.
Earrings are NOT ALLOWED in games. You are not allowed to just tape over them. Wait until after the season for new piercings.
When will practices and games be cancelled due to weather?
Rain/snow does not mean a game or practice is cancelled. For games, coaches and referees must meet at the field to determine playing conditions before canceling. Players should report to the field by game time. Soccer is safely played in the rain. We will not play or practice while lightning is visible from the field location.
Practices may be cancelled at the coach’s discretion. Make sure you have a clear understanding with your coach what the criteria and procedure is for canceling practice. Coaches may ask players to report to practice so that conditions can be evaluated before canceling.
What soccer associations does Upper Valley Soccer Foundation work with?
We form teams for participation in Idaho Youth Soccer. Teams also compete in approved U.S. Youth Soccer Tournaments
Recreational FAQ
When will I be notified of when practices begin?
Typically, coaches will notify their players when practices begin in early to mid-August for Fall soccer and early to mid-March for Spring soccer.
When is the recreational season?
Fall Recreational season starts in August and runs through October.
Spring Recreational season starts in April and runs to early June.
Can I choose what day/time my child plays?
No. We rely on volunteers to coach and they choose the practice schedule that works best for them. Games are scheduled by the league we play in.
My child has little soccer experience. Will they get much playing time?
Coaches are directed to divide playing time, but playing time is not divided equally.
Will soccer conflict with other sports?
We encourage all kids to play multiple sports. There may be times when there is a conflict. Please inform your coach as early as possible of any/all conflicts. They will need to plan their practice/games accordingly.
Typically, coaches will notify their players when practices begin in early to mid-August for Fall soccer and early to mid-March for Spring soccer.
When is the recreational season?
Fall Recreational season starts in August and runs through October.
Spring Recreational season starts in April and runs to early June.
Can I choose what day/time my child plays?
No. We rely on volunteers to coach and they choose the practice schedule that works best for them. Games are scheduled by the league we play in.
My child has little soccer experience. Will they get much playing time?
Coaches are directed to divide playing time, but playing time is not divided equally.
Will soccer conflict with other sports?
We encourage all kids to play multiple sports. There may be times when there is a conflict. Please inform your coach as early as possible of any/all conflicts. They will need to plan their practice/games accordingly.
Competitive FAQ
What is the purpose of competitive soccer?
Our competitive program is designed for players to take soccer to a higher level.
When does the competitive season start and end?
Competitive soccer tryouts occur at the end of Fall season.
Practices typically begin after the new year.
Games and tournaments start as early as February or March.
The season typically ends in June.
Where are practices held?
Practice locations are up to individual coaches. During the colder months, practices will be held indoors.
If a tournament is cancelled, will we be refunded?
No.
How much travel is involved?
Our league is comprised of clubs throughout the Snake River Valley. Regular season games are held from Victor to Pocatello. Tournament travel varies by team. Older and more competitive teams may choose to travel more extensively determined by competitive goals. Our top teams within the older age groups will travel as necessary to find the level of desired competition and showcase opportunities for next level play.
When and where are tryouts?
Competitive soccer tryouts occur at the end of Fall season. Exact times and locations will be posted on our home page.
How does a player register for tryouts?
Registration is completed online through Got Soccer. A link for each season will be posted on our home page during the time that registration is open. Registration must be completed before a player is allowed to attend tryouts, this is in order for the player to be properly listed and insured.
What are the fees?
Fees vary based upon the team a child plays on, uniform costs, and tournaments attended. Please refer to our fees page for more information.
Does a player have to attend all tryout days?
In order to obtain a fair evaluation, attendance at all sessions is recommended. If a player is unable to attend a tryout, they must contact the coach and make alternate arrangements if available.
What if the player is sick, injured or otherwise cannot attend tryouts?
Contact a coach immediately. Coaches will try to make arrangements to evaluate the player at another time.
Will the club schedule additional tryout days?
If a tryout day is shortened because of inclement weather or evaluators need more time, some or all players may be called back.
Who can try out?
A soccer player (U10 and above) will be evaluated for the age group that corresponds to his or her birth date.
When are teams announced?
Teams are announced as soon as possible after tryouts.
Do players receive equal play time?
Players are not guaranteed equal play time at the competitive level.
What if my child plays multiple sports? How do the coaches view this?
We believe in allowing our players, especially at younger ages, to play multiple sports. Overall motor skills development, coordination and agility can be greatly affected by playing sports of differing demands. Coaches will have an understanding of these opportunities to build a more rounded athlete that ultimately benefit the player in the long run. Older teams will expect a higher level of commitment and it may become more difficult to participate in multiple sports.
What follows team formation?
Parent team meetings will be scheduled prior to practices. Parents and players are encouraged to check the website regularly on their team Facebook page or team web page. Coaches may develop a specific conduct and commitment policy for their team.
What if my child does not want to play travel soccer?
Our recreational program is designed for those players that do not want to play travel soccer.
Competitive travel teams consist of purely competitive players. Development players are encouraged to play in the recreational spring league, which is focused on development and fun.
For example, in order to form a travel team, there must be a sufficient number of players and coaches with experience to play at that level. Otherwise, the team is encouraged to register as a recreational team and will not attend tournaments. Madison United travel players and teams are purely competitive based and selected based upon athletic ability, technical skill, tactical understanding, and mental/social maturity of and commitment to the game.
How are coaches selected?
All coaches are selected and approved by the Director of Coaching, subject to review by the Board of Directors as desired, each year. No coach is guaranteed a position for future seasons. Unless otherwise desired by the Board of Directors, the Director of Coaching oversees the nomination and approval process.
I want to coach, what do I do?
Those interested in coaching should submit an online coaching profile through our web portal to be considered for the role of Head Soccer Coach or Assistant Coach.
The Coach Selection Process will be advertised as widely as possible, so that every interested parent and friend is aware of the opportunity to be considered. The process is intended to identify and select the most appropriate Coach for each team.
In order to review Coach candidates and have Coaches in place by the time rosters are selected, we request that coaches indicate their interest in coaching as soon as possible. Prospective Coaches are asked for a summary of experience and qualifications, either by answering questions on the website or through an interview. Those who choose to apply will receive a follow-up phone call/e-mail/text or letter after the information has been reviewed.
Are there any other expectations of the player or family?
All parents of Madison United players are expected to commit their voluntary efforts in some capacity in support of the club and their child's team. Each team must have a Manager. Other volunteer opportunities for teams include assistant manager, finance manager, coach, team photographer, equipment manager, field marshal, field preparation, fundraising and team board representative. Volunteer opportunities for the club as a whole include fundraising, camps, tournament help, publicity, registration, website, newsletter, planning, marketing, sponsorship and board membership. Teams are highly encouraged to have at least one team representative present at each Madison United board meeting. Many volunteer opportunities will arise from the discussions and decisions made at the monthly board meetings.
Our competitive program is designed for players to take soccer to a higher level.
When does the competitive season start and end?
Competitive soccer tryouts occur at the end of Fall season.
Practices typically begin after the new year.
Games and tournaments start as early as February or March.
The season typically ends in June.
Where are practices held?
Practice locations are up to individual coaches. During the colder months, practices will be held indoors.
If a tournament is cancelled, will we be refunded?
No.
How much travel is involved?
Our league is comprised of clubs throughout the Snake River Valley. Regular season games are held from Victor to Pocatello. Tournament travel varies by team. Older and more competitive teams may choose to travel more extensively determined by competitive goals. Our top teams within the older age groups will travel as necessary to find the level of desired competition and showcase opportunities for next level play.
When and where are tryouts?
Competitive soccer tryouts occur at the end of Fall season. Exact times and locations will be posted on our home page.
How does a player register for tryouts?
Registration is completed online through Got Soccer. A link for each season will be posted on our home page during the time that registration is open. Registration must be completed before a player is allowed to attend tryouts, this is in order for the player to be properly listed and insured.
What are the fees?
Fees vary based upon the team a child plays on, uniform costs, and tournaments attended. Please refer to our fees page for more information.
Does a player have to attend all tryout days?
In order to obtain a fair evaluation, attendance at all sessions is recommended. If a player is unable to attend a tryout, they must contact the coach and make alternate arrangements if available.
What if the player is sick, injured or otherwise cannot attend tryouts?
Contact a coach immediately. Coaches will try to make arrangements to evaluate the player at another time.
Will the club schedule additional tryout days?
If a tryout day is shortened because of inclement weather or evaluators need more time, some or all players may be called back.
Who can try out?
A soccer player (U10 and above) will be evaluated for the age group that corresponds to his or her birth date.
When are teams announced?
Teams are announced as soon as possible after tryouts.
Do players receive equal play time?
Players are not guaranteed equal play time at the competitive level.
What if my child plays multiple sports? How do the coaches view this?
We believe in allowing our players, especially at younger ages, to play multiple sports. Overall motor skills development, coordination and agility can be greatly affected by playing sports of differing demands. Coaches will have an understanding of these opportunities to build a more rounded athlete that ultimately benefit the player in the long run. Older teams will expect a higher level of commitment and it may become more difficult to participate in multiple sports.
What follows team formation?
Parent team meetings will be scheduled prior to practices. Parents and players are encouraged to check the website regularly on their team Facebook page or team web page. Coaches may develop a specific conduct and commitment policy for their team.
What if my child does not want to play travel soccer?
Our recreational program is designed for those players that do not want to play travel soccer.
Competitive travel teams consist of purely competitive players. Development players are encouraged to play in the recreational spring league, which is focused on development and fun.
For example, in order to form a travel team, there must be a sufficient number of players and coaches with experience to play at that level. Otherwise, the team is encouraged to register as a recreational team and will not attend tournaments. Madison United travel players and teams are purely competitive based and selected based upon athletic ability, technical skill, tactical understanding, and mental/social maturity of and commitment to the game.
How are coaches selected?
All coaches are selected and approved by the Director of Coaching, subject to review by the Board of Directors as desired, each year. No coach is guaranteed a position for future seasons. Unless otherwise desired by the Board of Directors, the Director of Coaching oversees the nomination and approval process.
I want to coach, what do I do?
Those interested in coaching should submit an online coaching profile through our web portal to be considered for the role of Head Soccer Coach or Assistant Coach.
The Coach Selection Process will be advertised as widely as possible, so that every interested parent and friend is aware of the opportunity to be considered. The process is intended to identify and select the most appropriate Coach for each team.
In order to review Coach candidates and have Coaches in place by the time rosters are selected, we request that coaches indicate their interest in coaching as soon as possible. Prospective Coaches are asked for a summary of experience and qualifications, either by answering questions on the website or through an interview. Those who choose to apply will receive a follow-up phone call/e-mail/text or letter after the information has been reviewed.
Are there any other expectations of the player or family?
All parents of Madison United players are expected to commit their voluntary efforts in some capacity in support of the club and their child's team. Each team must have a Manager. Other volunteer opportunities for teams include assistant manager, finance manager, coach, team photographer, equipment manager, field marshal, field preparation, fundraising and team board representative. Volunteer opportunities for the club as a whole include fundraising, camps, tournament help, publicity, registration, website, newsletter, planning, marketing, sponsorship and board membership. Teams are highly encouraged to have at least one team representative present at each Madison United board meeting. Many volunteer opportunities will arise from the discussions and decisions made at the monthly board meetings.
Sponsorship FAQ
What is the Upper Valley Soccer Foundation?
UVSF is the governing body overseeing soccer in Rexburg and the surrounding communities. We are an all-volunteer organization operating as a 501 © (3) non-profit organization. We provide opportunities for youth from age 5 through age 18 to participate in various soccer programs throughout the year.
Our program is sanctioned by Idaho Youth Soccer Association and US Youth Soccer.
What is the donated money used for?
Registration fees barely cover the expense of paying for the referees, line striping and uniforms. Donated money covers:
As a 501 © (3) non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible. Please follow the "Donate Now" link below and you will be routed to our on line registration system that has been designed to accept donations via VISA/MasterCard or Check. A printed receipt is available at the end of each donation/transaction.
All of us on the Board appreciate your generous donation, the youth in Rexburg are better off because of your generosity! Your companies logo is proudly displayed on our website based on your sponsorship commitment.
Sponsorship Levels:
$100-3 months
$250-6 months
$500-18 months
UVSF is the governing body overseeing soccer in Rexburg and the surrounding communities. We are an all-volunteer organization operating as a 501 © (3) non-profit organization. We provide opportunities for youth from age 5 through age 18 to participate in various soccer programs throughout the year.
Our program is sanctioned by Idaho Youth Soccer Association and US Youth Soccer.
What is the donated money used for?
Registration fees barely cover the expense of paying for the referees, line striping and uniforms. Donated money covers:
- Corner Flags
- Nets
- Balls
- Cones
- Discs
- Pinnies
- Field Maintenance
- Coach Training
- Referee Training
As a 501 © (3) non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible. Please follow the "Donate Now" link below and you will be routed to our on line registration system that has been designed to accept donations via VISA/MasterCard or Check. A printed receipt is available at the end of each donation/transaction.
All of us on the Board appreciate your generous donation, the youth in Rexburg are better off because of your generosity! Your companies logo is proudly displayed on our website based on your sponsorship commitment.
Sponsorship Levels:
$100-3 months
$250-6 months
$500-18 months
