EXTRA
The EXTRA program was developed for 9U through 14U players with advanced soccer skills who wish to develop their skills on a more competitive level. Recognizing the need to offer an AYSO based program for higher caliber players, and to help develop players, AYSO is providing a program that will provide a higher level of training from more experienced coaches and a higher level of competition for those involved. Players participating in this program will compete against EXTRA Play teams from other regions and local area’s during a season lasting from September to January. In addition to the fall season, many teams may continue into the spring season as a Spring Select Competitive team.
The EXTRA program requires more travel and commitment than a regular recreational team, so it may not be right for everyone. This program was designed for serious soccer players and their families and may not be appropriate for strong athletes who compete in many sports. Our recreational program still provides many opportunities for competitive soccer with fewer demands for time and travel.
While many EXTRA games will be played within Area 1F (South Bay), some games or tournaments will be played outside Area 1F. This could include games from Palos Verdes to Pacific Palisades. There also may be occasional Sunday games or double-headers.
Potential players must participate in a try-out and be selected to play on an EXTRA soccer team. The player selections will be made by the Regional Staff, and the head coach whom facilitate the try-out process. The player selection decision is based on soccer skill level, attitude, player position, and commitment to the EXTRA Play program. EXTRA Teams for the region will only be formed if a qualified coach is approved by the Board for the division, and then only if a competitive team can be formed based on the skill level of the players that tryout and commit to the team.
The EXTRA program allows each region to provide a team for each age level unlike recreational soccer where two ages are combined in a division. For example, AYSO recreational programs combine eleven-year-old players and twelve-year-old players in the 12 Under age group. Whereas the EXTRA program provides a team for 11 Under and a separate team for 12 Under.
If the EXTRA Play program sounds like the right program for your player and family, watch our calendar for try-out information. Try-outs are generally held in the middle of spring and these teams stay together for one full year. Registered players who are not selected for an EXTRA Play team will be notified and placed on a recreational soccer team within Region 14 for our fall program. All players placed on a recreational fall team will still have an opportunity to be considered for the Spring Select program from our recreational program.