2011 Annual General Meeting Table of Contents

Transcription

1 2011 Annual General Meeting Table of Contents Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Agenda and Meeting Rules 2010 MSYSA Awards & Recognition 2010 Annual General Meeting Minutes Book of Reports Section 5 MSYSA Financial Statements for FYE 2010 Section 6 Section 7 Section 8 MSYSA Proposed Budgets MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies Proposed Revisions to the MSYSA Bylaws, Rules Regulations and Policies Section 9 MSPSP Financial Statement FYE 2010 Section 10 Section 11 Section 12 Section 13 Section 14 MSPSP Budgets MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations Proposed Revisions to the MSPSP Bylaws, Rules and Regulations Ballot Notes

2 Section 1 Agenda and Meeting Rules

3 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: CALL TO MSYSA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING To: All MSYSA League Presidents and Delegates From: Sohail Qureshi, President Date: January 26, 2011 RE: 2011 Annual General Meeting Pursuant to the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Bylaws, I am officially calling all Presidents and Delegates to meet for the MSYSA Annual General Meeting. The AGM is scheduled for Saturday, March 12, 2011 from 9am-4pm at the Doubletree Hotel in Dearborn, Michigan. Breakfast will be served from 8am-9am, and the AGM will recess for lunch and the awards ceremony from approximately 1pm to 2:30pm. The agenda and meeting rules for the AGM will be included in a package sent to MSYSA Member League Presidents and Delegates and will be available on the MSYSA website. The Official MSYSA AGM Book will be available for download by January 28th at MSYSA will have the Official MSYSA AGM Book on hand but you may feel free to download and/or print your own for use at the AGM. Attendees who wish to stay overnight at the hotel on Friday may do by calling the hotel directly and making their reservations. The cost per room is $ plus tax. All reservations must be made by February 9, The phone number is In order to get the specially negotiated room rate, you must make your reservations by the deadline and reference the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Annual General Meeting. Please let us know if your league will be in attendance by sending an to Sarah Shiguango at sarah@michiganyouthsoccer.org no later than February 11, Include your league name, and the names and titles of all league representatives who be in attendance. If a League Board Member who is NOT the President will be voting on behalf of the League, the League President must send an to Ms. Shiguango designating the name of the voting representative. I look forward to your attendance at the upcoming AGM! Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, Mr. Sohail Qureshi President Michigan State Youth Soccer Association sohail@michiganyouthsoccer.org Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

4 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Annual General Meeting Rules Identification badges issued by the credentials committee shall be worn for admission to all meetings and events. Badges may not be transferred without proper action by the credentials committee. 2. The president shall appoint a committee of three to approve the Annual General Meeting minutes. 3. Members wishing to speak shall line up at the floor microphones. Upon being recognized, a member shall give his or her name and office, title or league. 4. All main motions and amendments shall be presented to the presiding officer and secretary in writing and shall be signed by the maker of the motion. 5. Debate shall be limited to one speech of not more than two (2) minutes for each member on each debatable motion or bylaw amendment. Allowed time is not transferable or cumulative. 6. An amendment to strike out one word or a set of words in multiple places and to insert a different word or a set of words in all of those places shall be in order, and shall be deemed to include appropriate modifications in capitalization, number (singular or plural), and case (possessive). 7. Motions to close, limit, or extend debate shall require a majority vote. 8. Members are required to follow rules of decorum in debate especially as it relates to confining remarks to the pending item of business, avoiding the use of other members names, and not carrying on discussion directly with another member. 9. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy. 10. Cell phones and pagers shall be silenced during all meetings. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

5 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: AGENDA 2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Saturday, March 12, 2011 from 9:00am 4:00pm 1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America 2. Roll Call of Leagues Present 3. Opening Remarks Sohail Qureshi, MSYSA President 4. Credentials Committee Report 5. Adoption of Meeting Rules 6. Approval of Agenda 7. Report of Approved 2010 Annual General Meeting Minutes 8. Open/Close of Nominations (MSYSA and MSPSP Positions) 9. Approval of New Leagues 10. Approval of Actions of MSYSA Board of Directors 11. Proposed Revisions to Budget for FY 11 and FY Proposed Budget for FY MSYSA Proposed Bylaws, Rules, Regulations and Policies Changes 14. MSPSP Proposed Bylaws, Rules, and Regulation Changes 15. Election of MSPSP Officers (Chairperson, Secretary/Treasurer, and Scheduler for 2 year terms) 16. Election of MSYSA Officers (Vice President and Secretary for 2 year terms) 17. Election of MSYSA Nominating Committee (1 person from each district - 2 year terms) 18. Election of District Commissioners (Recess for caucus and ballot collection) 19. Unfinished Business 20. New Business 21. For the Good of the Game 22. Adjournment Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

6 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: AGM WEEKEND - SCHEDULE OF EVENTS On March 12, 2011 at the Doubletree Hotel in Dearborn, MI 8:00am 9:00am: Breakfast 9:00am 1:00pm: AGM General Session 1:00pm 2:00 pm: Lunch 2:00pm 2:30pm: Ceremony for Annual Awards Winners and Scholarship Recipients 2:30pm 4:00pm: AGM General Session continued (if needed) Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

7 Section 2 Awards & Recognition

8 2010 MSYSA Annual Award Winners John Franken, USA Soccer Boys Competitive Coach of the Year Alan Kohley, Muskegon Soccer Administrator of the Year Rick Kurkechian, Goodrich Soccer Volunteer of the Year Jim Miazek, Canton Soccer Club Girls Recreational Coach of the Year Dave Muczynski, Oakland United Girls Competitive Coach of the Year Wade Sorenson, USL Boys Recreational Coach of the Year 2010 National Championship Series Team Accomplishments Region II Champions: U14 Girls Michigan Hawks U15 Boys Vardar (3 rd Place) U16 Boys Grand Rapids Crew Juniors U17 Girls Michigan Hawks Region II Representatives at Nationals: U16 Boys Waza FC Black (3 rd Place) Congratulations to all on a job well done!

9 Section AGM Minutes

10 Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Annual General Meeting Saturday, February 20, 2010 Call to Order: The Annual General Meeting of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association was called to order on Saturday, February 20, 2010 by President Sohail Qureshi at 9:00am at the McCamly Plaza Hotel, 50 Capital Avenue SW, Battle Creek, MI. Pledge of Allegiance is recited. MSYSA President Sohail Qureshi recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary Ruth Dober to call roll. League Ann Arbor United *Bay Area Benton Harbor Area Birmingham Bloomfield Bloomfield Hills Cadillac Canton Capital Area Central Michigan Cheboygan Clawson CW3 Dearborn Heights Dearborn Downriver Farmington Fraser Freeland Garden City Gaylord Gladwin Grand Valley Great Lakes Coed Great Lakes Grosse Pointe Hamburg Harbor Springs Hartland Huron Huron Valley Indian River La Liga Present/Absent/Excused Absent Present Present Present Absent Absent Present Present Present Absent Excused Present Absent Present Present Absent Present Excused Present Present Present Present Absent Present Present Present Absent Present Excused Present Absent Present 1 P age

11 Lakes Area Lakeshore Livonia Ludington Madison Heights Metro Michigan Chill Michigan Tigers Michigan Youth Midland Mid Michigan Milan Monroe North Macomb Northland Orion/Oxford Oxford Parks & Rec. Petoskey Redford Rochester Roscommon Rosedale Royal Oak Saginaw Saline Sault Soccer Blast Southeast Michigan South Oakland Southfield St. Clair Shores Superiorland Taylor Think Detroit Thunderbay Traverse Bay Troy United Soccer League Upper Peninsula Warren Wayne/Westland West Michigan Western Suburban MSPSP Sohail Qureshi Dave Mashni Present Absent Present Absent Present Present Present Absent Present Absent Present Present Absent Present Absent Excused Absent Present Present Excused Absent Absent Present Present Absent Absent Present Absent Present Present Present Present Present Absent Excused Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Present 2 P age

12 Robin Crawford Present Ruth Dober Present Marcia Kaline Present Gerhard Mengel Present **Francisco Villarruel Present Rob Erb Present Dan Raben Present Yvonne Curtis Present Gil Urban Present Mike Poulos Present Pete Fenwick Present *Bay Area Soccer Association was in attendance at the AGM and counted in the total vote count, however the court reporter did not hear the representative s response during roll call, and consequently the official transcript reflecting the league s absence is incorrect. **Francisco Villarruel missed the roll call (as reflected in the official transcript), but was present during the meeting and was counted in the total vote count as a Non Voting Delegate. President Sohail Qureshi acknowledges MSYSA Accounting Manager Char Patterson s 10 year anniversary with MSYSA. President Sohail Qureshi gives a presentation on his vision, goals, and current and future projects. President Sohail Qureshi acknowledges MSA President Gerhard Mengel for earning lifetime membership status with the US Soccer Federation. Special Guest Speaker Mike Edwards addresses the membership. Special Guest Speaker Bill Podewils addresses the membership. Vice President Dave Mashni advises the membership that the MSYSA Board of Directors adopted a motion not to support Dan Raben for President of MSYSA. Discussion ensued. Credential Committee Chairman Adam Keller reports that as of 9:17am, there are the following total members present: Total Voting Members: 53 Total Non Voting Delegates: 35 Total Number in Attendance: 88 Motion: Adoption of the Credentials Committee Report Motion: Approved President Sohail Qureshi recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary Ruth Dober to present the meeting rules. Motion: Recording Secretary Ruth Dober moves to adopt the meeting rules Second: David Newby (Great Lakes Soccer League) 3 P age

13 Motion: Approved by voting cards in a two thirds affirmative vote. President Sohail Qureshi asks if the membership wishes to make any changes to the agenda. No changes requested. Motion: Adoption of the agenda Motion: Approved President Sohail Qureshi announces the appointment of Char Patterson as timekeeper for the meeting. President Sohail Qureshi announces the following people who will serve on the 2010 AGM Minutes Approval Committee: Chair David Newby (Great Lakes Soccer League), Marv Purdy (Dearborn Soccer Club), and Mike Poulos (Western Suburban Soccer League). President Sohail Qureshi calls for a five minute recess. Upon reconvening, President Sohail Qureshi recognizes MSYSA Recording Secretary Ruth Dober to report on the 2009 AGM Minutes. Recording Secretary Ruth Dober announces that the 2009 AGM Minutes have been approved by the 2009 Minutes Approval Committee. The next item of business is the opening and closing of nominations for MSYSA and MSPSP office positions. President Sohail Qureshi appoints the following people as tellers: Steve Wilson, Jamie Wand, and Joel Dragan. Motion: Dave Harris (MYSL) moves to allow the candidates to speak for no more than two minutes. Second: Tom Curatti (MMYSL) Motion: Approved The nominated candidates for MSYSA President are Sohail Qureshi and Dan Raben. The nominated candidate for MSYSA Treasurer is Robin Crawford. There are no nominated candidates for MSYSA Recreational Director. The nominated candidate for MSPSP Vice Chairperson is Yvonne Curtis. The nominated candidate for MSPSP Statistician is Mark Caddy. The nominated candidate for MSPSP Commissioner is Bill Smith. The nominated candidates for MSYSA President are Sohail Qureshi and Dan Raben. President Sohail Qureshi opens the nominations for the MSYSA President. Nominations for MSYSA President are closed. The nominated candidate for MSYSA Treasurer is Robin Crawford. President Sohail Qureshi opens nominations for the MSYSA Treasurer. Nominations for MSYSA Treasurer are closed. There are no nominated candidates for MSYSA Recreational Director. President Sohail Qureshi opens nominations for the MSYSA Recreational Director. Nominated: Jim Clark (Hamburg) nominates Rob Erb. Rob Erb accepts the nomination. Nominated: Rick Christianson (USL) nominates Miriam Hickey. Miriam Hickey accepts the nomination. 4 P age

14 Nominations for MSYSA Recreational Director are closed. The nominated candidate for MSPSP Vice Chairperson is Yvonne Curtis. MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline opens nominations for MSPSP Chairperson. Nominated: Jim Clark (Hamburg) nominates Steve McGuirk. Steve McGuirk accepts the nomination. Nominations for MSPSP Vice Chairperson are closed. The nominated candidate for MSPSP Statistician is Mark Caddy. MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline opens nominations for MSPSP Statistician. Nominations for MSPSP Statistician are closed. The nominated candidate for MSPSP Commissioner is Bill Smith. MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline opens nominations for MSPSP Commissioner. Nominations for MSPSP Commissioner are closed. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Recording Secretary Ruth Dober to announce the new leagues. The new leagues are as followed: Copper County Select Soccer Association, Grand Rapids Urban Athletic Organization, Grand Traverse Soccer League, Marysville Youth Soccer Association, Michigan State Developmental Soccer League, Michigan United Soccer League, Northville Soccer Association, and Van Buren Soccer Association. President Sohail Qureshi asks for objections on the aforementioned leagues becoming full members of MSYSA. Hearing none, the leagues become full members of MSYSA. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Ruth Dober to call roll for the new leagues. League Copper Country Grand Rapids Urban Athletic Grand Traverse Marysville Michigan State Developmental Michigan United Northville Van Buren Present/Absent/Excused Absent Absent Present Present Present Present Present Absent Credential Committee Chairman Adam Keller reports that as of 11:21am, there are the following total members present: Total Voting Members: 58 Total Non Voting Delegates: 30 Total Number in Attendance: 88 Motion: Adoption of the Credentials Committee Report Motion: Approved The next item of business is approval of the actions of the MSYSA Board of Directors. 5 P age

15 Motion: David Newby (GLSL) moves to accept the actions of the Board. Second: Marv Purdy (Dearborn) Amendment to the Motion: Pete Alexander (Canton) moves to remove the recent action from the approval of actions to not support Dan Raben as a candidate for president due to conflicts of interest from the February 17, 2010, special meeting. Second to the Amendment: Todd Mattson (CW3) Motion to the Amendment: Approved Amendment to the Motion: Tom Curatti (MMYSL) moves that the Board of Directors governance policy be removed as part of the approval of board actions due to lack of time to adequately review and comment on said document. Second to the Amendment: Dave Harris (MYSL) Motion to the Amendment: Defeated Motion to Accept the Original Motion with Amendment: Approved The next item of business is the proposed budget for President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Treasurer Robin Crawford to present the budget. Motion: Treasurer Robin Crawford moves to accept the budget as presented. Second: Marv Purdy (Dearborn) Motion: Approved The next item of business is the proposed changes to the MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Bylaws Committee Chair Pat Grubbs to present the proposed changes. Motion: Pat Grubbs moves to authorize the Secretary to correct article and section designations, punctuations, cross references, and to make other such technical and conforming changes that may be necessary to reflect the intent of the membership in connection with the proposed amendments to the bylaws, rules, regulations, and policies as adopted at this 2010 Annual General Meeting. Second: Treasurer Robin Crawford Motion: Approved Bylaws Committee Chair commences with presenting the proposed changes. All MSYSA proposed changes are located in Section 8 of the 2010 AGM Book. Motion: Amend Bylaw Article VI, Nominations and Elections, Section 1, Nominations, as presented in Section 8 of the 2010 AGM Book. The MSYSA Bylaws Committee recommends that this amendment be adopted. Motion: Denied Motion: Amend Bylaw Article VII, Meetings, Section 7, Voting Body, as presented in Section 8 of the 2010 AGM Book. The MSYSA Bylaws Committee recommends that this amendment not be adopted. Amendment to the Motion: Rick Jacob (Grosse Pointe) moves to amend the existing amendment so that leagues have one vote for every 500 registered players with a maximum of five votes. 6 P age

16 Second to the Amendment: Dave Harris (MYSL). Motion to the Amendment: Approved Amendment to the Motion: Pete Alexander (Canton) moves to amend the original amendment to remove verbiage that allows members of the MSYSA Board of Directors to receive one vote each. Second to the Amendment: Marv Purdy (Dearborn) Motion to the Amendment: Denied, 24 in the affirmative and 28 in the negative. Amendment to the Motion that Passed: Rick Jacob moves to amend his initial amendment to the motion that passed to clarify that each member organization shall have a minimum of one vote. Second to the Amendment: Christie Mayhew (WSSL) Motion to the Amendment: Approved Motion to Accept the Original Motion as Amended: Denied, 21 in the affirmative and 33 in the negative. The next item of business is the proposed changes to the MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline to present the proposed changes. Motion: Amend Article V, Officers, Section 5, Statistician, as presented in Section 12 of the 2010 AGM Book. The MSPSP Board of Directors recommends that this amendment be adopted. Motion: Approved by a two thirds affirmative vote. The next item of business is elections to the MSPSP Board of Directors. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline to preside over the MSPSP elections. MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline asks for objections in electing by acclimation Mark Caddy for Statistician and Bill Smith for Commissioner given that both positions are not contested. There are no objections. Mark Caddy is elected as MSPSP Statistician. Bill Smith is elected as MSPSP Commissioner. MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline instructs membership to fill out their ballot for MSPSP Vice Chairperson and give it to the tellers. MSPSP Chair Marcia Kaline closes the polls. The next item of business is elections to the MSYSA Board of Directors. Upon request from the membership, President Sohail Qureshi allows one person from the membership to act as an independent observer when the tellers count votes. President Sohail Qureshi asks for objections in electing by acclimation Robin Crawford for MSYSA Treasurer given that the position was not contested. There are no objections. Robin Crawford is elected as MSYSA Treasurer. President Sohail Qureshi instructs membership to fill out their ballot for MSYSA President and MSYSA Recreational Director and give it to the tellers. President Sohail Qureshi closes the polls. 7 P age

17 President Sohail Qureshi asks if there are any objections to moving on to Unfinished Business in the agenda to allow the tellers time to count votes. There are no objections. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Vice President Dave Mashni to present on the state complex. President Sohail Qureshi breaks for lunch at 1:06pm. President Sohail Qureshi commences the Awards Ceremony at 2:00pm. The following people are honored during the Awards Ceremony: Emily Obudzinski Scholarship Recipient Zachariah Roggenkamp Scholarship Recipient Erika Jansen Scholarship Recipient Megan Gifford Scholarship Recipient Mason Krysinski Scholarship Recipient Rob Suffredini Male Competitive Coach of the Year Mario Galindo Female Competitive Coach of the Year Bob Basanese Male Recreational Coach of the Year Steve Bachelder Female Recreational Coach of the Year Curt Behnke Parent of the Year Mary Jo Messenger Administrator of the Year Steve Wilson Volunteer of the Year President Sohail Qureshi calls the meeting back to order. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Steve Wilson to report the results from the MSPSP and MSYSA elections. The following people are elected: Steve McGuirk is elected as MSPSP Vice Chairperson Sohail Qureshi is elected as MSYSA President Miriam Hickey is elected as MSYSA Recreational Director President Sohail Qureshi announces that the membership will recess for district commissioner elections. President Sohail Qureshi calls the meeting back to order. President Sohail Qureshi announces that the following people have been elected as District Commissioners by the members in their respective districts. Pete Fenwick is elected as District Commissioner for the Metro Central District Gil Urban is elected as District Commissioner for the West District Dan Raben is elected as District Commissioner for the North District Mike Poulos is elected as District Commissioner for the Metro Southwest District Yvonne Curtis is elected as District Commissioner Metro East District 8 P age

18 President Sohail Qureshi asks if there are any objections to destroying the ballots. There are no objections. The next item of business is New Business. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes West District Commissioner Gil Urban and MSYSA Executive Tom Frisbie to present on the new MSYSA Registration System, GotSoccer. Leagues are advised that in the Fall of 2010, Leagues will required to report registration data via GotSoccer. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Gavin Owen Thomas from GotSoccer to present on the new registration system. President Sohail Qureshi confirms that the new try out date is the second Saturday of June. For 2010, the second Saturday in June is June 12 th. President Sohail Qureshi informs the membership that Michigan Soccer Publication now has a new printer Grand River Printing. The next item of business is For the Good of the Game. President Sohail Qureshi recognizes Dianna Dykstra to present on the TOPSoccer program. President Sohail Qureshi adjourns the meeting at 3:30pm. Ruth Dober MSYSA Recording Secretary 9 P age

19 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION MINUTES APPROVAL ANNUAL MEETING Date: Saturday, February 20, 2010 Place: McCamly Plaza, 50 Capital Avenue SW, Battle Creek, MI The minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association held on Saturday, February 20, 2010, are approved. Minutes Approval Committee:

20 Section 4 Book of Reports

21 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Executive Director Report Thomas K. Faro Welcome to this year s Annual General Meeting! MSYSA experienced a slight membership increase this past fiscal year. However, there appears to be a trend within the Region and across the country as our national bodies have reported registration declines. Fortunately, MSYSA experienced a modest increase in the participation of our state tournaments, Olympic Development programs, and in our coach education courses. MSYSA beat initially anticipated budget expectations. Our initial projection was no profit or loss on the year. I am pleased to report that MSYSA recently closed its fiscal year with a net profit of $76,693. ($55,740 of this figure, however, represents the return of Foundation funds to MSYSA. For informational purposes, MSYSA net assets now total $1,602,425. $1,050,000 has been designated as operating reserve and for future development. The remaining balance serves as operating reserves.) MSYSA will begin use of social media immediately following this year s AGM. MSYSA will look to such tools as Facebook, Twitter, and an MSYSA mobile website as an additional means of communication with our members. On the sponsorship front, MSYSA s relationship with Under Armour, Detroit Medical Center, and Kohls will continue through MSYSA thanks them for their hard work and support of youth soccer. I wish to especially thank Sohail Quershi and the MSYSA Board of Directors for the confidence they have placed in hiring me as your new Executive Director in late November. I look forward to working with each of you and it is nice to be home again. Thank you to Bryan Thorp & Barb Sarkesian on their respective hard work and efforts in the areas of coach education and Olympic Development. Also, thank you to Sarah Shiguango, Jamie Wand, Char Patterson, and Joel Dragan in the office on MSYSA programs, events, tournaments, and on overall membership service. MSYSA is fortunate such dedicated individuals working on behalf of the MSYSA membership. As always, thank you for your support. Sincerely, Thomas K. Faro MSYSA Executive Director tfaro@michiganyouthsoccer.org (734) Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

22 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: President Report Sohail Qureshi As I enter my fourth year as MSYSA President, I feel much progress has been made at the state association level in terms of our programs, events, tournaments and state office services. As many of you know, MSYSA transitioned from an E-Registration System to the Got Soccer Registration Program and while this process has been difficult at times, MSYSA and its affiliated leagues are starting to see the benefits of the program and are utilizing tools within the system to become more efficient and also as a means of communicating with members easier. Items implemented through Got Soccer this year include state registration, risk management, permission to travel and coach education. MSYSA Registration this seasonal year (86,085) was slightly higher than the prior year (85,924). I am pleased MSYSA experienced growth while other State Associations and US Youth Soccer experienced declines in registration. Our ODP program, ODP 101 (U-11 & 12 age groups) & our Coach Education courses and clinic numbers continue to grow, especially in the North and West districts. MSYSA is now offering a coaching education video library, coaching video resources, MSYSA TV, as well as specific videos on skills, exercises and E license activities. MSYSA is also in the process of working with Region II to institute their 5 criteria Recreation Accreditation program. From a financial standpoint, MSYSA continues to demonstrate financial stability during difficult times. (Please see MSYSA s recent audit.) Our national body has been impacted by the loss of Adidas as a major sponsor. It is likely that State Associations, such as MSYSA, will be faced with possible fee increases in the near future from US Youth Soccer. In November, MSYSA hired Tom Faro to replace Tom Frisbie as our Executive Director. He began his employment on January 3, For those that do not know, Tom previously worked for MSYSA from The past 5 years, Tom worked as Ohio North s Executive Director. We are happy that Tom and his family have returned to Michigan. From a practical point of view the sport of soccer is slowly maturing and that in itself is going to bring unique challenges and opportunities. Community based soccer has always been the cornerstone of MSYSA and in changing times it would be even more crucial that we continue to place greater emphasis on community based programs, tailor our services and offerings to their needs and reach out to them. I would like to thank the Board of Directors for their continued progressive vision and support to the organization. The MSYSA Staff who have worked hard to adopt, implement and support all the process and procedure changes that have occurred in the past year. There is much to look forward to. In 2012, MSYSA & Saginaw Soccer Association will be hosting the Regional Championships. The event is projected to bring 14,000 to the area as well as $7M to the Tri- Cities area. The Great Lakes Bay Region is expected to realize $8-10M of new economic impact as a result of the upcoming tournament. We will continue to work toward becoming a service oriented, agile organization with configurable portfolio for our membership. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

23 Of course none of the success of past year would have been possible with the support of YOU the membership. I thank you for your support and look forward to your ideas and help as we continue our transition in the coming years. I am always available to you either by phone or . Sincerely, Sohail Qureshi President Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

24 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Secretary Report Ruth Dober It has been an honor to serve as Recording Secretary for the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA). It is a challenge to serve all of our members, each with their own unique needs and goals, but I believe that we always strive to meet the challenge. I am currently serving on the Bylaw Committee and the Building Committee. I also served on the committee that was aiding our President, Sohail Qureshi, in the selection of our new Executive Director, Thomas Faro. Welcome Tom! I would like to thank Sarah Shiguango, who in addition to her regular duties as Events Manager served as the Interim Executive Director. Also, thank you to the staff. Assistance was always given in a timely and professional manner. This has been my last year as Secretary of MSYSA and in accordance with our bylaws I will not be seeking reelection. It has been a privilege serving on the Executive Committee with Sohail Qureshi, David Mashni, and Robin Crawford. I will tell you from firsthand experience that they are honest, fiscally responsible, intelligent gentlemen. MSYSA has benefited greatly from their service, and they are personally dedicated to excellence in leading, educating and serving the soccer community. It was in 1978 that I first began as a volunteer in my local soccer club, the Livonia Youth Soccer Club (LSYC). The LYSC was a group of individuals that shared a love and passion for the game of soccer and wanted to share that with their children. They did this without any expectation or intention of gain, personally or financially. A few years later the MSYSA was formed, and the LYSC was joined by other like-minded club/leagues in becoming members of the MSYSA. I believe that the majority of the current MSYSA members serve without any expectation of personal gain and that is what makes MSYSA a great organization. The basic needs of our players are the same today as they were 32 years ago. That is the best possible coaching and training that we can provide, in a safe, positive environment that promotes fair play, team play, personal achievement and FUN! I believe that this is a statement that we all can agree upon. Yours in youth soccer, Ruth Dober MSYSA Secretary Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

25 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Recreational Director Report Miriam Hickey Soccer is the World s most popular sport and the reasons for this are clear as this game can be played by males and females ages 5 to 99, limited equipment is needed and it is easy to learn. In the US and in Michigan soccer is still growing and although the future looks promising for soccer to become the most popular sport in the US it is important that a few conditions are met: 1. Soccer needs to be affordable for every child that wishes to play the game. From recreational players to ODP State and regional level players. 2. A higher number of quality facilities need to become available supported by local and state government. There are numerous lighted baseball facilities, roller hockey rinks, basketball courts etc. but there are hardly any lighted soccer facilities in Michigan. Children should have the opportunity to play on a daily basis without supervision from coaches (street soccer). 3. The small sided game format needs to be adapted by all leagues to make the game more fun, and easier to learn by players in the younger age groups. (U6-U11) 4. The rules for the small sided games should be the same no matter what league or tournament teams play in. MSYSA and USYSA need to be stricter in the way soccer is run. 5. Programs need to be established to give all children a chance to experience the game at a young age so soccer can become a choice (cooperation with local schools and leagues/clubs). 6. The retention rate needs to improve as too many players leave the game while in middle school and high school. 7. Experienced soccer players need to stay involved in the game as coaches, trainers, referees, team managers, board members etc. 8. Coaching education needs to be a priority at the grass root level and the select/ premier level to ensure a higher quality experience by the players. 9. Referees need to be assessed more often so that promising young referees can be identified and further developed and weaker referees can get the support they need to improve. 10. Leagues and clubs need to cooperate to provide each and every player with the environment needed to reach his or her potential. For example recreational leagues could work together to ensure a good competition for the U12 - U18 age groups while the select leagues could cooperate and create U14, U16 and U18 leagues with multiple levels of competition. Each season one day tournaments could be organized between different leagues with a short commute for multiple age groups to give teams a chance to play against teams from different communities. (Kohl s Cup?) 11. The soccer hierarchy or pyramid idea needs to be developed and made clear for players and parents so that talented recreational players can matriculate to travel soccer, to ODP, and ultimately to National Teams. Players should not be held back at any level by a coach or club if that player is talented and driven and could succeed at the next level if given the opportunity. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

26 Other issues: MSYSA needs to formulate a detailed strategic plan with clear objectives for short and long term on how to improve soccer for every participant. Recreational leagues need to voice the issues they have with MSYSA through their district commissioner on a monthly basis. Only then is it possible for the State Association to really know what is happening at the grass roots level and what is needed to further improve the leagues and therefore improve the experience of the youth soccer players in Michigan. Leagues need to get support from the State Association to develop programs that will ensure a higher quality experience for players, parent coaches, referees and parents. MSYSA needs to have programs in place to support the leagues and communicate the programs already in place with the leagues this member s resource center should be made available on the website. Implementation of the league accreditation program will boost quality. Current activities available to recreational leagues and organized in 2010: In service training for recreational coaches by Bryan Thorp MSYSA Coaching Director Kohl s Cup (cancelled in West Michigan in the spring of 2010 due to low numbers) Kohl s Cup was played with about 90 teams in the fall of 2010 in Canton For the Good of the Game we need to be united! Yours in Soccer! Miriam Hickey miriamhickey@comcast.net Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

27 MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PROGRAM CHAIRMAN REPORT Marcia Kaline 2010 was a year of change and challenge for the Premier Program. We embarked on a very exciting switch in registration and scheduling systems to GOT SOCCER. This was our change and challenge. Anytime a change of this magnitude is implemented there are challenges in training our member leagues on the new procedures as well as realizing thru trial and error that some systems need to be changed to facilitate the system being more user friendly. The fall season was the first for MSPSP using the GOT SOCCER system. Thank you to all the leagues, clubs, and teams for your patience and persistence throughout the season. There were some highlights system printing the game cards and some lowlights trying to schedule with the fields not loading. All issues that came up have been addressed and either our staff received training on how to better utilize or explain a feature, or GOT SOCCER has worked with us to develop new software just for us. I believe the spring will run much smoother. An important component to the success of the system is that everyone actively use the system, and the more you use the system the easier it will become. Realizing change is never easy; we thank everyone who worked with us as we launched this new program. I would like to thank Gil Urban who has agreed to be the MSPSP special consultant to GOT SOCCER for this spring season to help us work out the user issues. Robin Crawford and Chico Villarruel worked tirelessly to get the schedule cleaned up and input correctly. Treasurer Pete Morrissey worked diligently to insure our finances were in order. Thank you to the remainder of the board who offer their time year-round so the program is available for the players of Michigan: Mark Caddy, Dave Mashni, Steve McGuirk, and Bill Smith. Please be sure and check out our new website. Joel Dragon began the process before leaving MSPSP to join MSYSA in July. New office administrator Michael Fosselman made the finishing touches and thanks to both of them for this wonderful new site. The Michigan State Youth Association staff, along with Executive Director Tom Frisbie, was both supportive and helpful. The MSYSA Board, especially President Sohail Qureshi was always available with extra help and guidance. We look forward to working with new Executive Tom Faro in the upcoming year. We are working diligently to maintain the program s integrity as well as move it forward. Yours in Premier Soccer, Marcia Kaline Chairman Michigan State Premier Soccer

28 MICHIGAN SOCCER ASSOCIATION Gerhard Mengel, President ~ G-8068 Fenton Road ~ Grand Blanc, MI Phone: (810) Fax: (810) gerhardme@worldnet.att.net REPORT OF GERHARD MENGEL Michigan State Youth Soccer Association 2011 Annual General Meeting I am happy to report that the Michigan Soccer Association enjoys a good relationship with the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association. I am proud to say that our registered membership has grown to over 5,000 players. Our teams competed in state, regional and national tournaments. The level of play has tremendously improved as well as the playing skills. The teams who competed at regional and national competitions represented the State of Michigan very well. The MSA is proud to subsidize our teams which participate in regional and national events. Our teams competed in the National Cup Regional Finals in Chicago; the National Cup National Finals in Philadelphia; the Region II Tournament of Champions in Cleveland; and the Veterans Cup in Boston. In 2010, two teams from the Michigan Premier Soccer League (MPSL) represented the MSA in the National Cups National Finals. The Carpathia Kickers coached by Mike Talan competed in the Men s Amateur Cup; the Detroit United coached by George Juncaj competed in the Men s Open Cup. Both teams had very difficult opponents at the State and Regional levels before advancing to the national finals. I am extremely proud of their accomplishments. In the national championship amateur match, the Carpathia Kickers were defeated in the 90 th minute of play. In the national open championship, the Detroit United lost in penalty kicks following very competitive play during regulation time and overtime. These teams brought recognition and honor to Michigan. Their accomplishments as national finalists are a reflection of the competition in adult soccer in Michigan. In the Regional Tournament of Champions finals, AAFC of Ann Arbor Premier Development League (AAPDL) competed in the over 30 and the Detroit Chaldeans of the Metro Detroit Soccer League competed in the men s open. In the Gerhard Mengel State Cup thirty-two teams entered in four divisions. The Detroit Chaldeans (MPSL) won the Men s Open division. The Men s Over-30 division was won by AAFC (AAPDL). The Livonia Bullets (Michigan United Soccer League) won the Men s Over-40 and Ann Arbor United (Great Lakes Women s Soccer League) won the Women s Open division. Our referees are in good hands under the direction of chairman Jim Wheeler and State Referee Administrator Carlos Folino. Michigan has more than 5,000 registered referees. However, too few chose to referee in the adult division. At the MSA Hall of Fame banquet, we inducted Dan Duggan, Helmut Egger, George Farah, Bert Martin, John Motzer, Fawzi Noocha, and Dyann Pugliese. Congratulations to these inductees. Because of our Board s hard work and commitment, Michigan is recognized at the regional and national levels. We are a state rich in history, commitment and love for the game of soccer. Looking back over the past years, we can see that Michigan has made progress on several fronts. This progress will be continued through our dedication, efforts and promotion of this great sport. Sincerely, Gerhard Mengel, President

29 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: State Youth Referee Administrator Francisco Villarruel In 2010, the number of certified referees, assignors, assessors, and instructors remains constant to previous years showing a small increase in the number of individual registered. 18 referees attended the US Youth Regional held in Dayton, OH. Connor Williams/Ann Arbor (Referee) and Korey Carter/Kalamazoo (Assistant Referee) were selected to be a referee for the US Youth Finals held in Overland Park, KS. Four referees were sent to the Regional President s Cup Tournament. Two (Mohamad Bachrouhe, Jon Nicholas) were invited to the National President s Cup Tournament Finals. Referees participated in the ODP program on a state, regional, and national level. Michigan referees went to various tournaments in the state, region, and nation. Congratulations to Jon Nicholas (Midland), a sophomore at the University of Michigan for being named Young Male Referee of the Year.. A new mentor/coach program was developed and implemented under the leadership of the SYRA and the State Director of Instruction. It will be fully implemented in 2011, with representation from the Michigan Referee Committee at recreation level tournaments to work with younger officials that may have less experience with officiating. The Michigan Referee Committee would like to thank all MSYSA board member and office staff, especially Sarah Shiguango and Jamie Wand, for their support and help. Yours in soccer, Francisco A. Villarruel State Youth Referee Administrator Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

30 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: West District Commissioner Gil Urban The West District is a growing area for MSYSA soccer. We have continued growth by our existing leagues. The existing leagues have strong leadership and are innovating as they grow. The USYSA MSYSA Kohl s Cup was not held on the West side this year. We have not experienced much growth in participation for this recreational tournament. Since there were not sufficient team registrations in 2010 MSYSA decided not hold the Kohl s Cup in the west district. We continue to have West District presidents meeting. We have had one such meeting in There was good participation in the meeting. The West District plans to continue to nurture the relationships between our west side league members. We are sharing best practices and discussing how to improve soccer on the West side. Thanks to the League Presidents for participating and making these events successful. MSYSA has completed the implementation of GotSoccer Risk Management, Registration, and Invoicing. The west side leagues adapted to the new system and have deployed it in all leagues. There have been challenges during this first year but the improvements in effectiveness and lower total cost is in already being seen in some leagues and in others it is expected in the future. It has been a privilege to serve the west district and to be on the MSYSA board. I am fully engaged at the board and with special assignments. I am excited about volunteering and working to improve soccer in Michigan. In closing let me thank Executive Director, Tom Frisbie and the entire MSYSA staff for their support of soccer in Michigan. This team does a good job in promoting soccer in Michigan. Also, let me thank the MSYSA Board members for their dedication to Michigan soccer. And finally I want to thank the MRC and it many member referees, instructors, assessors and assignors for all the work they do to develop soccer in Michigan. Thanks, Gil Urban West District Commissioner Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

31 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Metro Central District Commissioner Pete Fenwick I would like to thank all the members of the Metro Central District for their hard work again in this past season. After the holidays and before the AGM I feel it would be a good idea to have a district meeting. It would be a good time to discuss any issues from the last season and to talk about what we all hope will be a good 2011 soccer season. I also encourage all Metro Central members to take advantage of the coaching education opportunities that are offered by MSYSA. I am thankful to the Metro Central members for giving me the opportunity to serve them on the MSYSA Board of Directors. This year was a very interesting time as we dealt with everything from poaching issues, risk management issues and how to recognize and handle possible concussions. That report is still being worked on and will be made available in the coming months on the MSYSA website. I especially am looking forward to this report as the Doctor who volunteered her time and expertise to MSYSA once played soccer for me. I also am sitting on a committee that will be addressing the subject of ethnic and racial intimidation and how this should be handled by MSYSA and the individual associations/clubs. I had hoped, by this time, to be able to send all of the presidents in the district reports via a newsletter type report. Hopefully I will have that up and running in the near future. Next year should be very exciting time for soccer in Michigan, and I sincerely look forward to being able to represent the Metro Central District in a positive and informative way. I would like to thank the entire MSYSA office staff for their hard work. I also would like to thank President Sohail Qureshi for his leadership and counsel. Thank you, Pete Fenwick Metro Central Commissioner Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

32 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Metro East District Commissioner Yvonne Curtis First, I would like to thank Metro East for allowing me to represent them on the MSYSA board this year. It has been a great year and I am honored to represent our district. You all deserve a round of applause for the incredible leagues you run. The opportunities that you give children and young adults will enable them to become successful adults. Metro East had some very successful tournaments this year. I was honored to attend each and every one of them. Each tournament was run professionally. Players, parents and spectators all seemed to have a wonderful time. Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication. Without that, soccer in Michigan would not be the incredible sport that it is. In closing, I would like to encourage all Metro East to capitalize on the benefits MSYSA has to offer. Please ask that player and coaches visit their website regularly for up to date information. Also, please encourage your coaches to take advantage of the coaching classes and clinics being offered. Thank you again for allowing me to represent you. I am looking forward to another great year! Yvonne Curtis Metro East District Commissioner Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

33 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Metro Southwest District Commissioner Mike Poulos I want to give my sincere thanks to all members of the Metro Southwest district for their hard work in ensuring their players and parents experienced an enjoyable soccer experience by providing an opportunity to grow their soccer skill and knowledge while maintaining the fun and joy soccer provides. I want to especially thank those members who were able to attend our district meetings during which the MSYSA issues-of-the-day were discussed as well as member specific concerns. Among the issues of special interest were the following: While the 2010 tryout timing of the second Saturday in June was favorably received, Dave Newby pointed out 2011's short spring resulting from a later than normal Easter will make it difficult to play scheduled games before the tryout date. The members attending the meeting recommended Saturday, June 18 th, as the 2011 tryout start date. This concern and recommendation was brought to the MSYSA BOD for their review. Members continue to be concerned over the incidence of open pre-tryout practices. Proposed changes to poaching rules were reviewed with the strong recommendation they be adopted. There is continued interest in growing the academy approach for younger players. The proposed change to a player based insurance approach to replace the present roster based insurance will enable the academy option to be pursued. The concept of a graduated player fee schedule to better reflect the resources provided to players at different levels of play was discussed in several meetings. Should MSYSA make a formal proposal to adopt graduated player fees, is it strongly recommended that sufficient and complete information be provided to enable members to fully understand the basis for the proposed fee structure. During 2010, the MSYSA staff continued to provide strong support. The launch of Got Soccer was a challenge for both member leagues and the MSYSA staff, a challenge that was stressful for many. We can all agree we are pleased the launch is past. I want to thank Sohail Qureshi for maintaining an open mind when considering new ideas and initiatives. Sincerely, Mike Poulos Metro Southwest District Commissioner Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

34 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Process Improvement Study (GotSoccer Deployment) Report Gil Urban Purpose: Improve how MSYSA supports its membership. Focus on process improvement to serve members better and lowering total process cost. Simplify, improve productivity and enhance the process of doing administrative tasks within MSYSA. Value: Process automation will add value by increasing productivity and improving accuracy. MSYSA will be able to serve its members better with a comprehensive database of registration information. Leagues/Clubs will be able leverage the MSYSA agreement Organization: Sponsor: Sohail Qureshi; Owner: Tom Frisbie; Project Leader: Gil Urban; Key Subject Matter Expert: Adam Keller / Joel Dragan MSYSA GotSoccer Implementation Phase 1 Completion Steps: 1. MSYSA setup 2. MSYSA league / club training 3. League/club registration 4. Risk management transition for coaches and managers 5. League MSYSA registration submission and invoicing generation 6. Risk management for Michigan referees 7. State Cup tournament registration 8. Coaching education course registration 9. E-travel application 10. Assist MSPSP with Scheduling situation (redesign for spring) The MSYSA GotSoccer implementation was successful but not without significant challenges to overcome. It was a bumpy road but with the effort of MSYSA, GotSoccer, the leagues/clubs, and coaches we together succeeded. The state office staff has taken on ownership of future training and implementation activities. MSYSA GotSoccer Implementation Phase 2 Activities: 1. Manage outstanding issues and enhancement requests with GotSoccer 2. Assist MSPSP with scheduling process re-design and with advice to spring implementation 3. Various online forms submissions migration to GotSoccer 4. Olympic Development Program migration to GotSoccer 5. GotSoccer Training: webinars in February/March and possible breakouts at AGM 6. State tournament enhancements 7. Investigate Message Center applications 8. Consider development of Michigan GotSoccer process manual 9. Consider MSYSA staff cross training in GotSoccer functions Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

35 What s In It for MSYSA Member Leagues and Their Clubs? 1. Leagues/Clubs Get a Free Basic GotSoccer Tool to Manage Registration, Team Formation, and League Scheduling 2. Leagues/Clubs Receive a Significant State Discount in Pricing for GotSoccer Extended Basic GotSoccer Extended Basic Includes On Line Registration, Robust Capabilities, and Other League/Club Management Services League/Club Cost Is Only $2 per Player per Year 3. Discounts extended to MSYSA members by other software vendors to attempt to minimize the difference between the deep discounts for Extended Basic provided by GotSoccer. Thanks, Gil Urban Process Improvement Study Project Manager Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

36 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: TOPSoccer Report Dianna Dykstra It has been another great year for TOP Soccer, we currently have 8 locations that offer TOP Soccer and have had several soccer leagues that have shown interest in starting TOP Soccer in their area. We held our annual MSYSA Jeff Raben TOP Soccer Tournament in October, and we had about 40 athletes. Every athlete was awarded a medal at the end of the day and everyone enjoyed the pizza and beverages. Robin Crawford was the referee and seemed to be having as much fun as the children. Once again, Sarah and the rest of the office staff made this event great. We could not have done it without them. Plymouth TOP Soccer has been around the longest (12 years), this program is run by Lisa Kreza and many children have grown up and moved on to other things while others are still with the program. Currently there are 38 athletes and hopefully this program will continue to grow. Plymouth TOP Soccer has sessions in the fall and spring. Lakes Area TOP Soccer is run by Franci Silver, and this program is one of our largest with several different teams to make it interesting and fun. The children are always very excited and ready to play every week. Franci is always looking for new ideas and ways to keep the children interested. The children look forward to their end of the season party every year. There are about 45 athletes and they have sessions in the fall and spring. Franci has no shortage of volunteers and coaches and this program is very organized and always the first to get involved in anything extra we offer. Rochester TOP Soccer is run by Carol Dupak and is one of our smaller programs with about 12 athletes that we hope will continue to grow. Carol has many volunteers, many are students that need community service hours so the coach to player ratio is great. Sessions are in the fall and spring. Troy TOP Soccer is the largest program with about 80 athletes. They also have adult teams, they are a very competitive group, and this program is run by Don Courtright in the fall and spring. Berkley TOP Soccer is run by Sue Ann Larabell and is one of our smaller programs with about 10 athletes that we hope will continue to grow. Sessions are in the fall and spring. Downriver TOP Soccer is run by Shannon McIntyre, Shannon is very ambitious and is having a great time with the program. There are about 8 athletes in this program making it our smallest. They play in the summer and would eventually like to play other sessions. Ann Arbor TOP Soccer is run by Barry Scott, They have 32 athletes which play in the fall, winter and spring. They hold their winter sessions at the University of Michigan Coliseum in January and February. Grosse Pointe TOP Soccer which is run by Diane Karabetsos, finished another successful season with its annual Halloween party. All the players and many volunteers wore costumes and Elmo made a surprise visit to the delight of all. Most of the volunteers who worked one on one with the players came from the Grosse Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

37 Pointe Congregational Church's youth ministry under Alison Scarfone. Students from Wayne State's Special Ed. Dept. that needed community service hours volunteer for this program. The 20+ athletes continue to have the majority of special needs on the autism spectrum. There have been great strides made in socialization, especially when players are paired with the same volunteer every week. An emphasis is placed on warm ups and drills that improve balance and strengthening core muscles. This program is growing and has a lot of very young children that we hope will stick around for many years. This program has a volunteer that was in the program for many years and came back to help out. He brought along a Service Dog for autism and when any TOP Soccer athlete is nervous or has a meltdown they can sit on the blanket with the dog until they calm down. There is also a new assistant who is a student at Wayne State and is studying special education. He is tracking and recording data following improvements of the TOP Soccer athletes and games that work and do not work. Diane has fun buying special treats for her TOP Soccer athletes. Grosse Pointe TOP Soccer has sessions in the fall and spring. If anyone would like to volunteer for TOPSoccer, know of a child that might be interested, or if you would like to start a program, contact me at Thank you, Dianna Dykstra TOPSoccer Chair Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

38 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Poaching Committee Report Mike Poulos, Yvonne Curtis, Dan Raben, Miriam Hickey, Bryan Thorp, Brian Doyle, Wendy Zielen Proposed MSYSA Rule Changes to Discourage Poaching Present Poaching Rule Rule 3.7 Poaching Any club or team which, through its responsible officers or representatives, A. Attempts at any time prior to the second Saturday in June of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or guardian) of any team under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their team before the end of the current season; or B. Attempts at any time prior to the second Saturday in June of the seasonal year to induce the player to leave their team for the following seasonal year shall be deemed to have committed a poaching offense and shall be dealt with by the MSYSA board or directors. Proposed Poaching Rule Rule 3.7 Poaching Poaching is considered a significant offense by this Association and any league, club, or individual found to have committed a poaching violation shall be subject to a significant sanction as determined by the MSYSA board of directors. Any club, team, or league which through its responsible officers or representatives, A. Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation before the end of the current seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation. Rationale: Defines poaching efforts intended to recruit players/organizations for the present seasonal year. B. Attempts at any time prior to the approved tryout start date of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or their guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club, or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation for the following seasonal year will be considered a poaching violation. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

39 Rationale: Defines poaching efforts intended to recruit players/ organizations for the following seasonal year. C. Teams or clubs requesting to change MSYSA leagues during the seasonal year must obtain written permission of the president of their present league before that move is permitted. Rationale: This ensures any team or club movement during the seasonal year does not injure the team's or club's present league and its other member teams or clubs. D. Any player meeting, training camp, clinic or open house organized by leagues or clubs conducted after April 1st and prior to the approved tryout date will be considered a pretryout meeting. MSYSA affiliated leagues or clubs choosing to conduct pre-tryout meetings, training, camps, clinics or an open house: a. May not publish the pre-tryout meeting outside of their organization. b. May not permit any players registered with MSYSA to attend the pre-tryout meeting, training, camp, clinic or open house unless that player is presently a member of their organization. c. Organizations violating the above guidelines are considered to have conducted a poaching violation and are subject to an initial minimum financial sanction of $2,000 per event. A maximum financial sanction of $2,000 or more per unauthorized player participating in the pre-tryout event may be imposed as well as additional non-financial sanctions as determined by the MSYSA board of directors. Such additional sanctions may include ineligibility to participate in MSYSA authorized events including MSYSA's State Cup Tournament, the Midwest Regional League, or other appropriate sanctions. Rationale: Pre-tryout events are being used with increased frequency as unauthorized tryouts. There is little justification to hold a pre-tryout event for a club's own players since the club has had a seasonal year to train and evaluate those players. The true value of pre-tryout training is to provide a secure environment to evaluate and communicate with players presently not a member of the club conducting the event prior to the approved tryout date. This rule is an attempt to halt unauthorized player evaluations and communications for the two-month period prior to tryouts. Concern: Parents and players should have as much time as possible to investigate and evaluate clubs prior to tryouts. Establishing a two-month non-contact period restricts their ability to become better informed. Comment: MSYSA's ability to discourage unauthorized pre-tryout events will be significantly compromised without a clear "non-contact period". Parents and players have the opportunity to gather information prior to April 1 st. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

40 E. In those instances in which a coach moves from one club to another separate and distinct club at the end of the seasonal year, the coach may not coach or train players of the same gender and succeeding age group for that seasonal year. For example, if a U11 boys coach moves to another club, the coach may not coach a U12 boy's team the following seasonal year. This prohibition shall last one seasonal year. If a coach moves from one club to another separate and distinct club during the seasonal year, the prohibition shall be enforced for the remainder of that seasonal year and the following seasonal year. In the event a club dissolves, this rule does not apply. Rationale: Too often when coaches move from one club to another club, the effect is to bring the better players from the prior club to play for the coach's new team and club. This player movement harms the old team, club and players. In the worst instances, the players left behind are too few to form a team leaving those players without a team. Recommended Additions to Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration B. Player Transfers 9. The league from which a player is transferred may charge the new team a player transfer processing fee. Rationale: The relative ease in obtaining approved player transfers enables poaching during the seasonal year. Leagues that have imposed significant transfer fees have experienced major reductions in transfer requests. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

41 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: Nominating Committee Report Rick Jacob, Kelley Andersen, Tom Curatti, Jim Clark, and John Hall The following nominations were received by the Nominating Committee: Vice-President Dave Mashni Mr. Mashni is the current sitting Vice-President of the MSYSA. He is seeking a third term in office. Rick Jacob Mr. Jacob works as an IT Consultant and certified Project Manager. He holds following soccer related positions: Chairman of the Nominating Committee, MSYSA Registrar, Grosse Pointe Soccer Association Former Commissioner and Treasurer, Grosse Pointe Soccer Association Grade 8 Referee (Youth, MSPSP, State Cup, High School) Secretary Gil Urban Mr. Urban is the current sitting West District Commissioner of the MSYSA. He has participated in all aspects of the game as a player, coach, referee and administrator. He has been involved in multiple levels of soccer organizations from recreational thru college. Skills include leadership, decision making, project/change management and communications. Mr. Urban also has non-profit board experience from non soccer related organizations. Based on information available to us, the 2010 MSYSA Nominating Committee finds all candidates in good standing and qualified for their respective positions. Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

42 MICHIGAN STATE 9401 General Drive, Suite 120 Plymouth, MI YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION (734) Fax: (734) Website: MSYSA Board Motions February 2010 January 2011 February 2010 (Special Board Meeting) Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) To not allow Sohail Qureshi or Dan Raben to participate in any discussion or voting given the subject matter and governance policies. Second: Fenwick; Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner No Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) To not support the nomination of Dan Raben for President due to conflict of interest. Second: Fenwick; Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Inform league members via of the stance of the Board regarding their due diligence in following the governance policy. The governance policy would be included in the . Second: Erb, Rob; Recreation Director Discussion Motion: Failed Motion: (Fenwick; Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner) Inform league members via that there will be a discussion at the AGM regarding the governance policy and its effect on the election. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer No Discussion Motion: Passed February 2010 (After the AGM) No motions made. March 2010 Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Require that the Governance Document & Declaration be signed annually by all members of the Board. Second: Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Withdrawn Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Require that the Governance Document should be signed annually by all members of the Board after each election. Second: Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

43 April 2010 Motion: (Dober, Ruth; Secretary) Amend the Governance Document Section 10.2: Conflict of Interest (originally adopted 3/09) Second: Mashni, Dave; Vice President Discussion: Last sentence of Part C amended to read, The person potentially in conflict will be allowed to participate in the discussion and not in the vote. Part F amended to read, The disclosure and decision as to whether a conflict exists shall be duly recorded in the minutes of the meeting. The time the person left and returned to the meeting shall also be recorded. Motion: Passed Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Require that each Board Member signs the Governance Document within 60 days of the AGM Election. Second: Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Withdrawn Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Require that each member signs the Governance Document within 45 days of the AGM Election. Second: Mashni, Dave; Vice President No Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Raben, Dan; North District Commissioner) Approve Charlevoix Youth Soccer as Provisional Members of MSYSA. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer No Discussion Motion: Passed May 2010 Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) To not approve Pinckney Blues Soccer League as Provisional Members of MSYSA. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Allow Dan Raben and Mike Poulos to attend discussion of formal complaint concerning their clubs/leagues. Second: Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner No Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner) Table this discussion for two weeks. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Failed Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Interpret the existing MSYSA Poaching laws and rules to include players, parents, coaches, clubs, and leagues. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Failed Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

44 Motion: (Crawford, Robin; Treasurer) Send this issue to a Committee other than the Board, but to include the Board. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Withdrawn Motion: (Dober, Ruth; Secretary) Stop the debate/discussion. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Dober, Ruth; Secretary) Require that MSDSL stays within their original intent for the league: 6 clubs, ages U12 & under, 8v8 format. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Dismiss all poaching charges against MSDSL. Second: Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed June No Board of Directors meeting July Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Instruct Sohail Qureshi to sign the DEOA Agreement. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer Discussion Motion Amended: (Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner) Instruct Sohail Qureshi to sign the DEOA Agreement, and to send an blast to all the MSYSA Member League Presidents that a purchase agreement is being signed and that we have gained acreage. Motion: Passed Motion: (Crawford, Robin; Treasurer) Amend MSYSA Rule 3.7 Poaching to read: Rule 3.7: Poaching Any club, team or league which, through its responsible officers or representatives, A. Attempts at any time prior to the second Saturday in June of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or guardian) of any team, or any team as a whole, club or league under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their current affiliation before the end of the current season. B. Utilizes pre-tryout meetings of any kind or any contact that may be construed by MSYSA as an attempt to induce a player, team, club or league to leave their affiliation before the end of the current season shall be deemed to have committed a poaching offense. C. Attempts at any time prior to the second Saturday in June of the seasonal year to induce the player to leave their team for the following seasonal year shall be deemed to have committed a poaching offense. D. Found to be in violation of any of the above subsections will be subject to discipline enforceable by the MSYSA Executive Director. Second: Kaline, Marcia; Premier Program Chair Discussion Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

45 Motion: (Crawford, Robin; Treasurer) End the debate about amending poaching rule. No Discussion Motion: Passed to end debate Motion: Failed to amend rule Motion: (Crawford, Robin; Treasurer) Keep the rule the way it is Second: Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Crawford, Robin; Treasurer) To appoint a Poaching Committee. Second: Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner No Discussion Motion: Passed August 2010 No motions took place. September 2010 Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Provide guidance to the Nominating Committee that individuals who earn significant income 50% or more from MSYSA Leagues, Clubs or related soccer activities are not qualified to be members of the Executive Committee. Second: Kaline, Marcia; Premier Program Chair Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Provide guidance to the Nominating Committee that individuals who have significant involvement in competing soccer organizations are not qualified to be Executive Committee members. Second: Poulos, Mike; Metro Southwest District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Provide guidance to the Nominating Committee to utilize the Governance Document for MSYSA Board Positions as part of the qualification filtering process used to select qualified candidates. Second: Dober, Ruth; Secretary No Discussion Motion: Passed October 2010 Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Support the idea of investigating different fee structures (directional fee restructuring). Second: Mashni, Dave; Vice President No Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Move next year s (2011) tryouts to June 15 th. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

46 November 2010 Motion: (Raben, Dan; North District Commissioner) For the District Commissioners to provide a list of clubs, club representatives, and their contact information to the State Office so they may conduct a survey regarding tryout date options for the clubs. Second: Mengel, Gerhard; MSA Discussion: Commissioners will have names and contacts to the State Office by the Dec 13 th, the State Office will then distribute the survey to those contacts and have the results back by Jan 17 th to summarize and report at the January 24 th board meeting. Motion: Passed. Motion: (Poulos, Mike; Metro Southwest District Commissioner) To approve the Michigan Wolves-Hawks as a provisional member with MSYSA. Second: Dober, Ruth; Secretary. Discussion: Bylaws will need to be revised to meet declarations and board will want to review prior to approving at next BOD Meeting. Motion: Rescinded, will be tabled until next Board meeting. December 2010 No Board of Directors Meeting. January 2011 (Special Board Meeting) Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Approve the proposed tiered pricing model with the following amendments - coaches are the same price as players (except recreational). Effective for Fall of this year. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer Discussion Motion: Passed unanimously Motion: (Raben, Dan; North District Commissioner) Approve the Saginaw 2012 Regionals request for $5,000 seed money. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer Discussion: The funds will go to the Committee. Motion: Passed Motion: (Mashni, Dave; Vice President) Move the Tryout Date to the 3 rd Saturday in June. Second: Curtis, Yvonne; Metro East District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed January 2011 Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) For the district commissioners to ensure that there is a statement of purpose in each application for affiliation to MSYSA. Second: Poulos, Mike; Metro Southeast District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Poulos, Mike; Metro Southwest District) Accept Wolves/Hawks as Provisional Members of MSYSA. Second: Raben, Dan; North District Commissioner Discussion: The BOD agrees to approve for provisional membership if the following provisions are completed within 30 days: They must define what a member entails Their AGM must be stated Board must consist of 5 or more individuals They state their purpose Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

47 Motion: Passed Motion: (Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner) Accept Grosse Ile Soccer Association as Provisional Members of MSYSA. Second: Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner Discussion: The BOD agrees to approve for provisional membership if the following provisions completed within 30 days: An AGM is established Motion: Passed Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Remove Section B, Paragraph 10 from Recommendations to Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration in the Proposed MSYSA Rule Changes to Discourage Poaching document. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Urban, Gil; West District Commissioner) Change Section B, Paragraph 9 from Recommendations to Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration in the Proposed MSYSA Rule Changes to Discourage Poaching document to read The league from which a player is transferred may be allowed to charge the new team a player transfer processing fee. Under extraordinary circumstances, such as the dissolution of a team or a player s family moves a significant distance so that remaining with their team is a major hardship, the transfer fee may be waived. Player transfers within a club are not subject to this rule. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer No Discussion Motion: Passed unanimously Motion: (Hickey, Miriam; Recreational Director) Change Section D from Recommendation to Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration in the Proposed MSYSA Rule Changes to Discourage Poaching document to read Any player meeting, training camp, clinic or open house organized by leagues or clubs conducted after April 1 st and prior to the approved tryout date will be considered a pre-tryout meeting. Second: Crawford, Robin; Treasurer Discussion Motion: Passed unanimously Motion: (Crawford, Robin; Treasurer) Leave Section B from Proposed Poaching Rule, Rule 3.7 in the Proposed MSYSA Rule Changes to Discourage Poaching document as it currently reads (no changes). Second: Poulos, Mike; Metro Southeast District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed Motion: (Raben, Dan; North District Commissioner) Recommend to the Chair (President) to form a special committee to be established with the charter to monitor the efficacy of MSYSA s poaching rules and offer revisions when needed to provide fair and legal player recruitment for its members. Second: Fenwick, Pete; Metro Central District Commissioner Discussion Motion: Passed unanimously February 2011 not available at the time this AGM book was printed Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to excellence in leading, educating, and serving the soccer community.

48 2010 PLAYER REGISTRATION REPORT AGM 2011 SPRING 2010 FALL 2010 TOTALS SPRING '10 PLAYERS SPRING '10 MSPSP COUNT VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION TOTAL SPRING '10 PLAYERS FALL '10 PLAYERS 2010 AGM WEIGHTED VOTES Ann Arbor United Soccer Club Ann Arbor Youth Soccer Association Bay Area Soccer Association ,015 1, Benton Harbor Area Youth Soccer Birmingham-Bloomfield Soccer Club ,201 1, Bloomfield Hills Youth Soccer League ,065 1, Cadillac Soccer Association Canton Soccer Club ,275 2,112 2, Capital Area Soccer League ,436 2, Central Michigan Soccer Association Charlevoix Youth Soccer * Cheboygan Soccer Association Clawson Youth Soccer Copper Country Select Soccer Association Crawford AuSable Soccer Association CW3 Soccer Association , Dearborn Heights Soccer Club Dearborn Soccer Club ,340 1, Downriver Youth Soccer League Farmington Soccer Club Fraser Soccer Club Freeland Soccer Club Garden City Soccer Club Gaylord Soccer League Genesee Youth Soccer League Gladwin County Youth Soccer Association Grand Rapids Urban Athletic Organization Grand Traverse Soccer League Grand Valley Soccer Association , ,067 6, Great Lakes Coed Soccer League , ,882 3, Great Lakes Soccer League 1067 (1,055) (2,526) Grosse Ile Soccer Association * Grosse Pointe Soccer Association ,001 1, Hamburg Community Soccer Club Harbor Springs Soccer League Hartland Community Soccer Association Huron Soccer Association Huron Valley Soccer Club Indian River Soccer Association La Liga Lakes Area Youth Soccer League , Lakeshore Youth Soccer League Livonia City Soccer Club ,226 1, Ludington Soccer Club Madison Heights Youth Soccer Association Marysville Youth Soccer Association Metro Soccer League Michigan Chill Soccer Club Michigan Developmental League MSDSL (528) 1,290 1, Michigan Tigers Futbol Club Michigan United Soccer League Michigan Youth Soccer League (460) 2, (2,290) 6,489 8, Midland Soccer Club ,525 2, Mid-Michigan Youth Soccer League (608) 1,343 1, Milan Youth Soccer Club Monroe Area Soccer Association , North Macomb Community Youth Soccer Northland United Soccer Club Northville Soccer League ,172 1, Orion/Oxford Soccer League , Oxford Parks & Rec Soccer League Petoskey Youth Soccer Association Redford Soccer Club Rochester Youth Soccer League ,215 3, Roscommon North Youth Soccer Association Rosedale Soccer League Royal Oak Youth Soccer Association ,607 2, Saginaw Township Soccer Association ,082 1, Saline Area Soccer Association , Sault Soccer Association Soccer Blast South East Michigan Soccer Association South Oakland County Soccer (formerly BYSA) , Southfield Youth Soccer League St. Clair Shores Youth Soccer League Superiorland Soccer Association Taylor Soccer League Think Detroit , Thunderbay Soccer Association Traverse Bay Area Youth Soccer Troy Youth Soccer League ,399 1, United Soccer League Upper Peninsula Football Association FALL '10 MSPSP COUNT VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION TOTAL FALL '10 PLAYERS TOTAL LEAGUE PLAYERS '10

49 2010 PLAYER REGISTRATION REPORT AGM 2011 SPRING 2010 FALL 2010 TOTALS SPRING '10 PLAYERS SPRING '10 MSPSP COUNT VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION TOTAL SPRING '10 PLAYERS FALL '10 PLAYERS FALL '10 MSPSP COUNT VOTING STRUCTURE PLAYER ALLOCATION TOTAL FALL '10 PLAYERS TOTAL LEAGUE PLAYERS ' AGM WEIGHTED VOTES USASEM Van Buren Soccer Association Warren Youth Soccer Association , Wayne/Westland Soccer League West Michigan Youth Soccer Association ,622 3, Western Suburban Soccer League (774) 1, (2,898) 4,847 5, Wolves-Hawks Soccer Club * MSPSP 6,568 6,740 13,308 1 OTHER/MISCELLANEOUS ,228 TOTAL PLAYERS SPRING '10 24,916 TOTAL PLAYERS FALL '10 65,483 TOTAL PLAYERS ,399 MEMBER LEAGUES 83 NEW / PROVISIONAL LEAGUES #REF! INACTIVE / EXPIRED LEAGUES 5 TOTAL 2011 AGM WEIGHTED VOTES 853 The * symbol next to a new league's weighted vote indicates the voting strength after approval by the membership The below correspondence was sent on December 8 th 2010 requesting player allocation data. Please be sure to submit this data in the future to ensure proper voting distribution. MSYSA is now collecting player allocation data for voting purposes at the 2011 AGM. For those direct members of MSYSA who send players to another affiliated MSYSA league (scheduling league), the original member will get credit for those players if a weighted vote should be called. According to MSYSA bylaw, Article VII; Section 7: Voting Body: C. Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and one (1) vote, unless a weighted vote is called for regarding a motion, and authorized by a majority vote of the quorum. Weighted votes for full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body. D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations. E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players. In the event that a weighted vote is called at the AGM, MSYSA will need to know how many players and coaches from your league were sent to a different affiliated league (scheduling league). This year, MSYSA leagues will report the number of players they sent to a different affiliated league from the League Access page on the MSYSA website. The same login used to nominate board members and propose bylaws will be used to report players sent to other MSYSA affiliates. All player allocation data must be received by MSYSA no later than January 7 th After this date all player data for leagues will be finalized and votes will be allocated accordingly. Please remember that both player and coach data needs to be reported.

50 Section 5 MSYSA Financial Statement FYE August 31, 2010

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62 Section 6 MSYSA Proposed Budgets

63 MSYSA BUDGET MASTER BUDGET FY 10 FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 MSYSA INCOME APP. BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Membership Registration $ 875, ,115 $ 901, ,250 $ 928,288 $ - 928,288 $ 940,000 Member Services 75,000 63,005 79,500 (77,000) 2,500 81,885 (79,385) 2,500 3,000 Coach Education Program 105,000 93, , , , ,155 80,000 Risk Management Program 85,000 88,382 87,550-87,550 90,177-90,177 90,000 Boys ODP Program 168, , ,555 1, , ,761 1, , ,000 Girls ODP Program 168, , ,010 2, , ,170 2, , ,000 Boys & Girls State Cup 110, , ,000 10, , ,718 3, , ,000 Friendlies Cup Tournament 25,000-25,000 (25,000) - 25,750 (25,750) - - Telcom Credit Union Cup Tournament 8,400 8,990 8,904 (8,904) - 9,171 (9,171) - - Kohl's American Cup 8,500 (50) 8,500 6,500 15,000 8,755 11,245 20,000 20,000 Sponsorship/Donations 60,000 17,520 56,130 (11,130) 45,000 57,813 (12,813) 45,000 50,000 Advertising & MI Soccer 51,100 27,301 68,967 (33,967) 35,000 71,036 (36,036) 35,000 40,000 MSPSP Rent 18,000 15,405 18,000-18,000 18,540 (540) 18,000 18,000 Tournaments / Bonds 30,000 12,150 30,000 (17,500) 12,500 10,300 2,200 12,500 13,000 Misc/Interest/ Loss of disposal of equipment 35,000 13,482 37,100 (17,100) 20,000 38,213 (18,213) 20,000 20,000 Foundation Fund - 55, World Cup Bid Donations - 19, TOTALS $ 1,822,500 1,876,428 $ 1,902,766 $ (169,666) 1,733,100 $ 1,940,731 $ 161,611 1,779,620 $ 1,769,000 FY 10 FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 MSYSA EXPENSES APP. BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Salaries (Mgmt/Office) $ 190, ,474 $ 195,700 $ 15,300 $ 211,000 $ 201,571 $ 14,929 $ 216,500 $ 221,000 Salaries (Coaching) 95,000 90,006 95,000 10, ,210 97,850 10, , ,000 Salaries (Accounting) 40,000 35,367 40,000-40,000 41,200-41,200 42,000 Payroll Taxes & Processing 25,000 27,147 25,000 3,000 28,000 25,750 3,250 29,000 30,000 Property Taxes (Office) 1, ,500 (1,000) 500 1,545 (1,045) 500 1,000 Accounting (Audit & Other) 13,000 7,950 10,000 (2,000) 8,000 10,300 (2,300) 8,000 8,000 Legal & License Fees 12,500 24,308 13,000 (3,000) 10,000 13,390 (3,390) 10,000 10,000 Bank & Credit Online System Charges 12,000 16,043 15,368 (368) 15,000 15,829 (829) 15,000 15,000 MSYSA Scholarships 10,000 5,000 10,000 (5,000) 5,000 10,000 (5,000) 5,000 5,000 Coach Education 98,000 88,306 98,000 (13,000) 85, ,940 (940) 100,000 75,000 Risk Management Program 85,000 65,994 75,000-75,000 70,000 5,000 75,000 75,000 TOP Soccer 10,000 1,821 10,000-10,000 10,000-10,000 10,000 Advertising/ Marketing 20,000 9,000 20,000 (10,000) 10,000 20,600 (15,600) 5,000 5,000 Boys ODP Program 168, , , , ,761 1, , ,000 Girls ODP Program 167, , , , ,170 2, , ,000 Friendlies Cup 20,000-20,000 (20,000) - 20,600 (20,600) - - Boys & Girls State Cup 90, , , , , , ,000 Telcom Credit Union Cup 7,300 18,390 10,000 (10,000) - 10,300 (10,300) - - Kohl's American Cup 8,700 2,228 12,000 (1,700) 10,300 12,360 (2,360) 10,000 10,000 Web Maintenance - 8,739 15,000 (6,000) 9,000 15,450 (7,450) 8,000 7,000 Membership Fees (USYS, USSF) 225, , ,750 (14,250) 217, ,702 (21,202) 217, ,500 Insurance 185, , ,550 (20,550) 170, ,611 (611) 177, ,000 Auto Dep/Maint/Insurance 2,500 1,332 7,308 (5,808) 1,500 7,527 (6,027) 1,500 2,000 Office Telephone Expense 11,000 9,210 11,000 (1,000) 10,000 11,330 (1,330) 10,000 10,000 MI Soccer Printing & Postage 95,000 28, ,000 (71,000) 29, ,000 (73,000) 30,000 30,000 Travel & Meeting (Mgmt/Office) 19,500 13,967 25,000 (10,000) 15,000 25,750 (10,750) 15,000 15,000 Travel & Meeting (Coach Education) 15,000 6,799 15,000-15,000 15,450 (450) 15,000 15,000 Travel & Meeting (Board) 19,000 31,125 20,000-20,000 30,000 (10,000) 20,000 20,000 Annual General Meeting/Soccer Summit 15,000 16,243 15,000 5,000 20,000 15,000 5,000 20,000 20,000 State Office Rent/ Utilities 100,000 99, ,000 (3,000) 100, ,090 (6,090) 100, ,000 Office Expenses & Postage 26,000 13,495 26,000 (12,000) 14,000 26,000 (11,500) 14,500 14,500 Office Equipment & Leasing 20,000 14,958 10,000 5,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 15,000 15,000 Equipment Depreciation 10,000 15,741 10,000 5,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 15,000 15,000 Misc. & Got Soccer Implementation 6,000 13,458 6,000 (3,500) 2,500 6,000 (3,500) 2,500 - World Cup Bid Donation - 40, Disposal of Fixed Assets TOTALS $ 1,822,500 $ 1,799,735 $ 1,902,766 $ (169,666) $ 1,733,100 $ 1,940,731 $ (161,111) $ 1,779,620 $ 1,769,000 NET PROFITS (LOSSES) $ - $ 76,693 Less Foundation Fund (See Rev. Above) (55,740) NET PROFITS (LOSSES) - 20,953 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -

64 Coaching Education Budget FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 COACH EDUCATION INCOME BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Coaching Licenses $ 105,000 $ 70,805 $ 111,300 $ (6,300) $ 105,000 $ 113,155 $ (8,155) $ 105,000 $ 75,000 Club Development - 3,295-5,000 5,000-5,000 5,000 5,000 National C License National Youth License - 17, Misc. & (Coach License Reprints and Reissues) - 1,130-1,300 1,300-3,155 3,155 - TOTALS 105,000 93, , , , ,155 80,000 FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 COACH EDUCATION EXPENSES BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT 0 APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Facilities/Rentals $ 25,000 $ 9,621 $ 23,500 $ - $ 23,500 $ 27,000 $ - $ 27,000 $ 25,000 Contract Labor for Coach Ed. Courses 23,000 26,315 32,500-32,500 42,940 (940) 42,000 42,000 Office Expenses/Postage/Phone 5,000 1,960 7,000-7,000 10,000-10,000 5,000 Coaching Manuals/Equipment/Coach Apparel 12,000 18,693 10,000-10,000 11,000-11,000 3,000 Coaching Programs - 8,595-8,000 8, National USSF C License Course National USYS Youth License - 14, Other (Travel/Misc) - 10,798-4,000 4,000 10,000-10,000 - TOTALS $ 65,000 $ 90,266 $ 73,000 $ 12,000 $ 85,000 $ 100,940 $ (940) $ 100,000 $ 75,000 NET PROFITS (LOSSES) $ 40,000 $ 2,877 $ 38,300 $ (12,000) $ 26,300 $ 12,215 $ 940 $ 13,155 $ 5,000

65 Olympic Development Program Budget FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 BOYS ODP INCOME BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Boys ODP Try-outs $ 42,500 $ 60,290 $ 43,055 $ 1,945 $ 45,000 $ 43,000 $ 2,000 $ 45,000 $ 45,000 Boys ODP Training 40,000 52,430 40,000-40,000 35,000-35,000 35,000 Boys ODP Regional Camps 75,000 94,657 80,000-80,000 90,761 (761) 90,000 90,000 Boys ODP Regional Camps Holdover 6,500 7,930 6,500-6, Boys ODP Travel 4,000-4,000 (500) 3, Boys & Girls 101 Camp - 18, ,000-10,000 10,000 TOTALS $ 168,000 $ 233,657 $ 173,555 $ 1,445 $ 175,000 $ 178,761 $ 1,239 $ 180,000 $ 180,000 FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 BOYS ODP EXPENSES BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Boys ODP Field Rentals/Training $ 22,000 $ 28,704 $ 22,555 $ - $ 22,555 $ 23,000 $ - $ 23,000 $ 23,000 Boys ODP Staff 41,000 36,846 41,000-41,000 40,000-40,000 40,000 Boys ODP Regional Camps 75, ,548 80,000-80,000 90, ,000 91,000 Boys ODP Regional Camps Holdover 6,000 17,118 6,000-6, Boys ODP Tournaments 4,000 6,356 4,000-4,000 5,000-5,000 5,000 Boys ODP Try-outs 20,000 14,925 20,000-20,000 15,000-15,000 15,000 Boys ODP Offices Expenses/Misc. - 4, ,000 1,000 1,000 Boys ODP Try-out Camps ,000-5,000 5,000 Boy & Girls ODP 101 Camp - 7, TOTALS $ 168,000 $ 228,186 $ 173,555 $ - $ 173,555 $ 178,761 $ 1,239 $ 180,000 $ 180,000 NET PROFITS (LOSSES) $ - $ 5,471 $ - $ 1,445 $ 1,445 $ - $ - $ - $ - FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 GIRLS ODP INCOME BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Girls ODP Tryouts $ 43,500 $ 63,377 $ 43,500 $ 16,500 $ 60,000 $ 45,000 $ 15,000 $ 60,000 $ 60,000 Girls ODP Training 40,000 46,550 4,000 36,000 40,000 35,000 5,000 40,000 40,000 Girls ODP Regional Camps 75,000 70,002 80,000 (10,000) 70,000 87,170 (17,170) 70,000 70,000 Girls ODP Regional Camp Holdover 6,500 5,250 6,500 (4,000) 2,500 10,000 (5,000) 5,000 5,000 Girls ODP Travel 2,000-2, ,500-5,000 5,000 5,000 Girls ODP Misc. - 1, TOTALS $ 167,000 $ 186,719 $ 136,010 $ 38,990 $ 175,000 $ 177,170 $ 2,830 $ 180,000 $ 180,000 FYE 8/31/10 FY 11 FY 11 FY 11 FY 12 FY 12 FY 12 FY 13 GIRLS ODP EXPENSES BDGT ACTUAL APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT APP. BDGT ADJ PROP. BDGT PROP. BDGT Girls ODP Field Rentals/Training $ 22,000 $ 29,979 $ 22,000 $ 3,010 $ 25,010 $ 25,000 $ - $ 25,000 $ 25,000 Girls ODP Staff 40,000 31,223 40,000-40,000 40,000-40,000 40,000 Girls ODP Regional Camps 75,000 85,378 75,000-75,000 81,170 (6,170) 75,000 75,000 Girls ODP Regional Camp Holdover 6,000 11,455 6,000 4,000 10,000 6,000 4,000 10,000 10,000 Girls ODP Travel 4, ,000 1,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 10,000 10,000 Girls ODP Try-outs 20,000 12,199 20,000 (3,000) 17,000 15,000 5,000 20,000 20,000 Girls ODP Office Expenses/Misc. - 4, Girls ODP National Championships - 1, ,000 (5,000) - - TOTALS $ 167,000 $ 177,319 $ 167,000 $ 5,010 $ 172,010 $ 177,170 $ 2,830 $ 180,000 $ 180,000 NET PROFITS (LOSSES) $ - $ 9,400 $ 5,010 $ 5,010 $ 2,990 $ - $ - $ - $ -

66 Section 7 MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies

67 Effective July 31, 2010 MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION OF THE United States Youth Soccer Association BYLAWS Table of Contents Article I: Name 3 Article II: Purpose 3 Article III: Member Organizations 3 Section 1: Eligibility 3 Section 2: Full Member Organization Qualifications 3 Section 3: Associate Member Organizations 3 Section 4: Good Standing 3 Section 5: Member Responsibilities 3 Article IV: Fees and Finance 4 Section 1: Fees 4 Section 2: Budget 4 Section 3: Audit 4 Section 4: Fiscal Year 4 Article V: Officers 4 Section 1: Officers 4 Section 2: Qualifications 4 Section 3: Term of Office 5 Section 4: Vacancy in Elected Office 5 Section 5: Duties of Officers 5 Article VI: Nominations and Elections 7 Section 1: Nominations 7 Section 2: Election of Officers 7 Article VII: Meetings 8 Section 1: Parliamentarian 8 Section 2: Annual General Meetings 8 Section 3: Special Meetings 8 Section 4: Delegates Meetings 8 Section 5: Quorum 8 Section 6: Electronic Meetings 8 Section 7: Voting body 8 Section 8: Cancellation 9 Section 9: Fines 9 Article VIII: Board of Directors 9 Section 1: Composition 9 Section 2: Officers 9 Section 3: Duties 9 Section 4: Meetings 10 Section 5: Quorum 10 Section 6: Voting 11 Article IX: Executive Committee 11 Section 1: Composition 11 Section 2: Duties 11 Section 3: Meetings 11 Section 4: Quorum 11 Article X: Committees 11 Section 1: Committees 11 Section 2: Budget-Finance Committee 12 Section 3: Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee 12 Section 4: Cup Competition Committee 12 Section 5: Discipline and Appeals Committee 12 Article XI: Indemnification 13 Section 1: Third Party Suits 13 Section 2: Suits by or in Right of the Association 13 Section 3: Indemnification against Expenses 14 Section 4: Determination that Indemnification is Proper 14 1 of 15

68 Section 5: Reimbursement of Expenses 14 Section 6: Insurance 14 Section 7: Merged and Reorganized Corporations 14 Section 8: Severability 14 Article XII: Parliamentary Authority 14 Article XIII: Amendments 15 Article XIV: Dissolution 15 Provisos 15 Effective July 31, of 15

69 Effective July 31, 2010 ARTICLE I NAME The name of this organization shall be Michigan State Youth Soccer Association. ARTICLE II PURPOSE The purpose of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association is to provide an opportunity through our member leagues for all youth in the state to have an enjoyable soccer experience while moving toward their personal goals. The Association shall provide: A. The governing structure to administer youth soccer in Michigan, and B. A vehicle to communicate information to players, parents, coaches, referees, and other interested parties. Section 1. Eligibility Approval and Acceptance ARTICLE III MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS The Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, herein known as MSYSA, is a member of the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer), and a member of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). The MSYSA and its members are open to all soccer organizations. The MSYSA and its member organizations shall provide an equal opportunity to all soccer players, coaches, trainers, managers, administrators and officials, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex or national origin to participate. An organization or individual subject to suspension under Section 4 of USSF Bylaw 241 is ineligible. Provisional approval may be granted by the board of directors to eligible candidates, formal approval for membership is subject to acceptance by the members of this association. Section 2. Full Member Organization Qualifications Full Members are voting members of MSYSA. Full Members of MSYSA are domiciled and operating within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association territory and are in good standing with MSYSA and USSF. Only soccer organizations (sometimes referred to locally as clubs, leagues or associations) which conduct competition between soccer teams are eligible. Full Members must have youth players among its participant members with at least one hundred (100) players and containing a minimum of four (4) teams in the same divisional age group. Section 3. Associate Member Organizations Associate Members are non voting members of MSYSA. Associate Members of MSYSA are domiciled and operating within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association territory and are in good standing with MSYSA and the USSF. Associate Members must have youth players among its participant members with a minimum of four (4) teams participating. Section 4. Good Standing A member in good standing is one whose current MSYSA fees are paid and who complies with the provisions of the USSF Articles of Incorporations, Bylaws, policies and MSYSA Bylaws and Standing Rules. The board of directors may review the status of any member organization. If any member organization fails to meet member organization qualifications, the board of directors may recommend deactivation of their membership. In the event a member falls below the minimal player and/or team requirements, the Board of Directors may recommend a change to provisional membership status. Section 5. Member Responsibilities A. Each MSYSA Member Organization, Full or Associate, shall: 1. Annually submit: Membership Fee, Membership Affiliation Form, and Bylaws Policies and Procedures. 2. Have a Board of Directors that consist of at least five (5) officers who are distinct and different individuals. 3. Register at least one coach and an unlimited number of team officials for each team. 3 of 15

70 Effective July 31, Register every soccer player on a team which is sponsored, financed, coached or administered by the member. 5. Provide a list of fields and their location with address for insurance purposes. 6. Participate in the MSYSA Risk Management Program. 7. Develop coaching and referee education with the Director of Coaching and the State Youth Referee Administrator. 8. Send a copy of amendments to their bylaws, policies and procedures that are adopted at the member s annual meeting to the MSYSA office within ninety (90) days, for review by the MSYSA Board of Directors. Section 1. Fees Section 2. Budget ARTICLE IV FEES AND FINANCE A. Annual Member Organization Affiliation Fees shall be as determined by the board of directors. B. Annual Member Organization Affiliation Fees shall be due and payable to the MSYSA office at the time of fall registration. C. Spring and fall registration fees shall be determined by the member organizations. The board of directors shall determine when these fees are to be submitted by each member organization. The budget-finance committee shall prepare a budget annually for adoption by the membership. Section 3. Audit The financial records shall be audited at the end of the fiscal year, by an independent auditor, and at such other times as requested by the board of directors. The full audit report shall be presented to the member organizations annually for adoption annually. Section 4. Fiscal Year The fiscal year shall be from September 1 to August 31. Section 1. Officers ARTICLE V OFFICERS A. The elected officers shall be a president, a vice-president, a recording secretary, a treasurer, a recreational director and the state premier soccer program chairman. B. The appointed officer shall be a state youth referee administrator. Section 2. Qualifications A. A candidate for elected office shall: 1. Be in good standing with USSF for the past year; 2. Not be a paid employee of the Association; 3. Not hold more than one (1) office, or serve concurrently as an officer of a member organization. B. A candidate for the office of president shall have served on the board of directors for at least one (1) year. 4 of 15

71 Effective July 31, 2010 Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 4. Vacancy in Elected Office A. A vacancy in the office of president shall be filled by the vice-president. B. Any other vacancy in elected office shall be filled by ballot vote of the board of directors. Previous notice of any election shall be included in the call of the meeting. Section 5. Duties of Officers A. The President shall: 1. Be the Chief Executive Officer of the Association and preside at all meetings of MSYSA and of the board of directors; 2. Execute all authorized conveyances, contracts, or other obligations in the name of the Association except where required by law to be otherwise signed and executed, and except where the signing and the execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the board of directors to some other officer or agent of the Association; 3. Serve as an ex-officio member of all committees with the exception of the nominating committee; 4. Serve as the state youth commissioner; 5. Make employment decisions concerning the executive director with prior approval of the board of directors; 6. Appoint: a. A state referee administrator (SRA) subject to the approval of the board of directors and the Michigan Soccer Association (MSA), beginning January 1 of odd-numbered years for a two (2) year term; b. A state youth referee administrator (SYRA) subject to the approval of the board of directors and the State referee administrator (SRA); c. A state director of coaching subject to the approval of the board of directors, whose duties and remuneration shall be specified in a written contract approved by the board of directors; d. Except as otherwise provided for in these bylaws, standing committee chairmen subject to the approval of the board of directors; e. Special Committees. 7. Attend MSA board of directors meetings or send an appointee; 8. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors. B. The Vice-President shall: 1. Perform the duties of the president in the absence of the president; 2. Succeed to the office of president for the unexpired term in the event of a vacancy in that office; 3. Be an ex-officio member of the budget-finance committee; 5 of 15

72 Effective July 31, Be an ex-officio member of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Foundation (MSYSAF); 5. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors. C. The Recording Secretary shall: 1. Record the proceedings of all MSYSA member organization meetings, board of directors meetings and executive committee meetings and be custodian of the records of MSYSA during the term of office; 2. Provide oversight of the registration process as implemented by the Executive Director; 3. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors. D. The Treasurer shall: 1. Be custodian of all funds; 2. Be a member of the budget-finance committee and provide information to assist the committee in preparing a budget; 3. Be an ex-officio member of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Foundation (MSYSAF); 4. Direct the keeping of full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements; 5. Ensure all funds are deposited in a financial institution approved by the board of directors; 6. Oversee the preparation of financial statements on a monthly basis and send them to all member organizations; 7. At quarterly delegate meetings, present a complete financial report including receipts and disbursements by budget categories and the current balance of all MSYSA accounts; 8. At the AGM, submit an audited annual financial report, compiled by an independent auditor; 9. Provide the MSYSA with a bond in the amount and with such sureties as are satisfactory to the board of directors; 10. Be responsible for the preparation of forms relative to the MSYSA non-profit status and all federal and state tax returns; 11. Require two original signatures on all checks; 12. Provide the secretary general of the USSF with an annual report regarding MSYSA activities including the most current financial report no later than ninety (90) days following the beginning of the fiscal year; 13. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the financial policy and procedures manual, the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors. E. The Recreational Director shall: 1. Represent and advocate the recreational soccer player at all meetings and on the field; 2. Co-chair MSYSA recreational tournaments, which includes coordinating and supervising them; 3. Act as liaison between the adult community and the youth during tournaments; 4. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors. 6 of 15

73 Effective July 31, 2010 F. The Michigan State Premier Soccer Program Chairman shall: Section 1. Nominations 1. Be the chief executive officer of the MSPSP; 2. Preside at all meetings of the MSPSP delegates and of the MSPSP board of directors; 3. Have general and active management of the activities of the MSPSP; 4. Be responsible for the implementation of all resolutions adopted by the MSPSP board of directors; 5. Attend all MSYSA delegate and board of directors meetings, reporting all MSPSP activities; 6. Perform the duties of the office as set down in the bylaws, the standing rules of MSYSA, the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, and as assigned by the board of directors. ARTICLE VI NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS A. A nominating committee consisting of one (1) member from each district shall be elected by ballot for a two (2) year term at the annual general meetings held in the odd-numbered years: 1. Nominations for the committee shall be made from the floor with the consent of the nominee; 2. The election shall be held at the same time as the election of officers; 3. No member shall serve two (2) terms consecutively on the committee and board members (other than the chair of this committee) are ineligible; 4. A plurality vote shall elect. If more than one (1) member from a member organization receives sufficient votes to be elected, the one receiving the highest number of votes shall serve; 5. The nominee receiving the highest number of votes on the first ballot shall serve as chairman of the committee. In case of a tie, a separate ballot shall be cast with the names of the nominees with the tied number of votes placed on the ballot. A majority vote shall elect; 6. Vacancies on the nominating committee shall be filled by the president with the candidate who received the next highest number of votes, if available, in accordance with paragraph 3 above. If not available, by a ballot vote of the board of directors from qualified nominees nominated by the board of directors. In the event there is but one nominee, the election may be by voice vote. B. Duties of the Nominating Committee 1. The nominating committee shall accept nominations and consider the qualifications of the candidates proposed by the membership or the nominating committee no later than November 1. C. Report 1. The nominating committee shall submit at least one (1) name for each office to be filled. No member shall be nominated who has not given consent to serve. 2. The report of the nominating committee shall be sent to the president at least sixty (60) days prior to the date of the annual general meeting, included in the call of the meeting, and shall be read at the meeting when additional nominations from the floor may be made. Section 2. Election of Officers A. The election shall be under the direction of the elections committee appointed by the president. B. Election shall be by ballot unless there is but one (1) nominee for office, when the vote may be taken by voice. 7 of 15

74 Effective July 31, 2010 C. The president, treasurer and recreational director shall be elected by majority vote in the even-numbered years. D. The vice-president, recording secretary, and Michigan State Premier Soccer Program chairman shall be elected by majority vote in the odd-numbered years. Section 1. Parliamentarian ARTICLE VII MEETINGS The parliamentarian shall serve in an advisory capacity while in attendance at any meeting. Section 2. Annual General Meetings A. Annual general meetings of MSYSA shall be held in the first quarter of the year at a time and place determined by the board of directors. B. Notice shall be mailed at least thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days before the meeting. C. Meetings shall be for the purpose of electing officers and commissioners, receiving reports of officers and committees, approving the actions of the board of directors (since previous Annual General Meeting), electing a nominating committee in the odd-numbered years, and such other business as may properly come before it. D. Voting for the annual general meetings is per Section 7C of this Article. Section 3. Special Meetings A. Special meetings of MSYSA may be called by the president or shall be called by the majority of the board of directors or upon petition by at least twenty-five (25) full members. B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time, place and purpose. C. No business other than that stated in the call may be transacted. D. Voting for the special meetings is per Section 7C of this Article. Section 4. Delegates Meetings A. Meetings for the delegates of member organizations shall be held in January, April, August and November at a time and place determined by the board of directors. B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days or more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time and place. C. Meetings shall only be for the purposes of dissemination of information, and open discussion. Section 5. Quorum To transact any business at the annual general meeting or special meetings there shall be a minimum of fifteen (15) full member organizations in good standing, and at least three (3) elected officers present to constitute a quorum. Section 6. Electronic Meetings Electronic meetings of the membership shall be for the purpose of dissemination of information, and shall not be for the purpose of voting. Section 7. Voting Body A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 8 of 15

75 Effective July 31, A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy. C. Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and one (1) vote, unless a weighted vote is called for regarding a motion, and authorized by a majority vote of the quorum. Weighted votes for full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body. D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations. E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players. Section 8. Cancellation In the event of a national or local emergency, the executive committee by an affirmative vote of three (3) members in a meeting, by mail or telephone, may dispense with any meeting of MSYSA. All member organizations shall be notified and the meeting shall be rescheduled in a reasonable amount of time. Section 9. Fines Member organizations shall be assessed a fine, the amount determined by the board of directors, for each unexcused absence. Section 1. Composition Section 2. Officers A. The members of the board of directors shall be: 1. Elected officers; 2. Appointed officers; 3. District Commissioners; ARTICLE VIII BOARD OF DIRECTORS 4. The Michigan Soccer Association president or designee elected by their respective membership; 5. Chairman of the nominating committee (non voting); 6. Immediate past president (non voting); B. A district or committee appointed member may represent the district or committee if the district commissioner or committee chairman holds any other position on the board of directors or is unable to attend. The officers of MSYSA shall be the officers of the board of directors. Section 3. Duties A. The Board of Directors shall: 1. Fill vacancies, except for the office of president, in any elected office and in the nominating committee when required, by ballot from nominations proposed by members of the board of directors. A majority vote shall elect; 2. Adopt standing rules as needed to carry out the business of the board of directors; 3. Appoint one or more assistant secretaries and/or assistant treasurers as necessary; 9 of 15

76 Effective July 31, Create geographic divisions, called Districts, within the state of Michigan with clearly defined boundaries. 5. Have authority to bar completely, suspend, or otherwise discipline, any player, coach, manager, team assistant, member organization officer, state board member, team, league or other organization affiliated with or representing the MSYSA for unacceptable behavior or conduct either in carrying out the duties of their position or while holding aforementioned offices and/or position, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board of directors. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold four (4) district meetings per year; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Approve tournaments and bond releases; 10. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary. C. If an officer, director or district commissioner misses three (3) consecutive meetings without approval or without acceptable cause, these absences constitute an implied resignation by that member. Section 4. Meetings A. A regular meeting of the board of directors shall be held immediately following the annual general meeting for the purpose of planning the ensuing year and approving the appointments of the president. B. Other regular meetings shall be held at least quarterly and at such other times as may be determined by the board of directors. At least five (5) days but not more than sixty (60) days notice of meetings shall be given to the members of the board of directors. C. Unless otherwise restricted by the board of directors, attendance at all regular meetings of the board of directors shall be open to all MSYSA members without vote and without privilege of debate unless invited to do so by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board of directors. D. Special meetings of the board of directors may be called by the president or by any four (4) members of the board of directors. At least five (5) days but not more than sixty (60) days notice shall be given to the members of the board. Section 5. Quorum Eight (8) board members, two (2) of whom shall be elected officers, shall constitute a quorum for all meetings of the board of directors. A director may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or similar communication equipment, by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and their participation shall constitute presence at the meeting. Section 6. Voting 10 of 15

77 Effective July 31, 2010 A. Proposals concerning expenditures of funds not provided for in the adopted budget shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board of directors present or no fewer than five (5), whichever number is greater. B. A vote by mail is authorized when necessary. Proposals concerning expenditures of funds not provided for in the adopted budget shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire board of directors for adoption. A report of any action taken by mail shall be verified and made a part of the minutes at the next meeting of the board of directors. Section 1. Composition Section 2. Duties ARTICLE IX EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE A. The executive committee shall consist of the president, the vice-president, the recording secretary, and the treasurer. A. The Executive Committee shall: 1. Be empowered to act for the board of directors when it is not feasible to call a meeting of the board of directors; B. Be aware that all action of the executive committee is subject to ratification by the board of directors at the next regularly scheduled meeting. Section 3. Meetings Meetings shall be at the call of the president or of any two (2) members and shall require a notice to the members of at least three (3) days. Section 4. Quorum A majority of the executive committee shall constitute a quorum for all meetings. A member of the executive committee may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or similar communication equipment, by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and their participation shall constitute presence at the meeting. Section 1. Committees A. There shall be the following standing committees: ARTICLE X COMMITTEES 1. Budget-finance, bylaws and standing rules, cup competition, and discipline and appeals; 2. There shall be such other standing committees as are deemed necessary by MSYSA. B. There shall be special committees as deemed necessary by the president, board of directors, or MSYSA. C. Standing committee chairmen shall be appointed by the newly elected president with the approval of the board of directors for a two (2) year term. Special committee members shall be appointed by the president to serve until a specified task has been completed. D. The chairman of each standing committee, with the approval of the president, shall be authorized to appoint additional members to serve on subcommittees. E. The president shall be an ex-officio member of all committees except the nominating committee. F. Standing and special committees shall report to the board of directors at each board meeting. 11 of 15

78 Effective July 31, 2010 G. A majority of the committee members shall constitute a quorum. Section 2. Budget-Finance Committee A. The budget-finance committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members, one of which includes the treasurer, and in addition, the vice president and executive director as ex-officio members. B. The budget-finance committee shall: 1. Review the finances of MSYSA and make recommendations to the board of directors. 2. Prepare an annual budget covering a three (3) year period for consideration and recommendation by the board of directors prior to the annual general meeting, and adoption by the member organizations annually. Section 3. Bylaws and Standing Rules Committee A. The bylaws and standing rules committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members. The MSYSA bylaws and standing rules committee shall also serve as the bylaws and standing rules committee of the board of directors. B. The bylaws and standing rules committee shall: 1. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such bylaw amendments as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member organization or individual member no later than November 15; 2. Verify that bylaw amendments are not in conflict with the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 3. Present to MSYSA changes to the bylaws necessitated by amendments made in the US Youth Soccer Association and USSF bylaws; 4. Send proposed bylaw amendments with recommendations to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 5. Consider, edit, and/or correlate such standing rules as it may originate and as are referred to it by the board of directors, member organization or individual member; 6. Send proposed standing rules and amendments to the president for inclusion with the call of the meeting; 7. Review and update the MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies as needed; 8. Send a copy of the current bylaws of MSYSA to the US Youth Soccer and USSF annually, but within ninety (90) days of adoption of any amendments; 9. Make copies of the bylaws available to members. Section 4. Cup Competition Committee A. The cup competition committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members including the appointed cup competition chairman. 1. Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors. B. The Cup Competition Committee shall: 1. Determine tournament rules and/or may modify FIFA Laws of the Game when/where necessary. Section 5. Discipline and Appeals Committee A. Composition. The committee shall be composed of at least three (3) members who shall not be members of the board of directors. 12 of 15

79 Effective July 31, 2010 B. Chairman. Chairman shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the board of directors at its first meeting following the annual meeting in the even-numbered years to serve as chairman of the committee for a two (2) year term. C. Election to Committee. The committee chairman shall appoint enough additional members to the committee to provide a panel of three, disinterested and impartial, body of fact-finders for each hearing or appeal. The members of the committee shall be confirmed by the president or board of directors. Committee members shall serve at the discretion of the chairman of the committee. D. Accountability. The committee shall report to the president and executive director. E. Hearing Procedures. All hearings conducted under these Bylaws, shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy 701-1, and also refer to MSYSA Rules, Regulations and Policies. F. Litigation. 1. No member organization, player, coach, trainer, manager, club, team, administrator or referee may invoke the aid of the courts in the United States or the State of Michigan without first exhausting all available remedies within the appropriate soccer organization and as provided within Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, US Youth Soccer and United States Soccer Federation. 2. For violation of this bylaw, the offending party shall be subject to suspension and fines, and shall be liable to MSYSA for all expenses incurred by MSYSA and its officers in defending each court action, including but not limited to the following: a. Court cost; Section 1. Third Party Suits b. Attorney s fees; c. Reasonable compensation for time spent by MSYSA officials and employees in responding to and defending against allegations in the actions, including responses to discovery and court appearances; d. Travel expenses; e. Expenses for holding special meeting necessitated by the court action. ARTICLE XI INDEMNIFICATION To the extent permitted by Michigan law, from time-to-time in effect and subject to the provisions of this Article XI, this Association shall indemnify any person who was or is a party to or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed legal action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than action by or in the right of the Association) by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a trustee, director, officer, employee of agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the action, suit or proceeding, if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interest of the Association or its members, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceedings by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of Nolo Contendre or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably had cause to believe to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Association or its members and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. Section 2. Suits by or in Right of the Association To the extent permitted by Michigan law from time-to-time in effect and subject to the provisions of this Article XI, the Association shall indemnify any person who was or is a party to or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the Association to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the defense or settlement of the action or suit if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or 13 of 15

80 Effective July 31, 2010 she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Association or its members, except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which the person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his or her duty to the Association unless and only to the extent that the court in which the action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, the person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses as the court shall deem proper. Section 3. Indemnification against Expenses To the extent that a person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of any other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise with which he or she is or was serving at the request of the Association has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in Sections 1 and 2 of this Article XI, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he or she shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred in connection therewith. Section 4. Determination that Indemnification is Proper Any indemnification under Section 1 or Section 2 of this Article XI (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Association only upon a determination that indemnification of the person is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set fourth in Section 1 and Section 2. The determination shall be made (1) by the board of directors by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to the action, suit or proceeding, or (2) if such a quorum is not obtainable, or even if obtainable, a quorum of disinterested directors so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion. Section 5. Reimbursement of Expenses Expenses incurred by any person who may have a right to indemnification under this Article XI in defending a civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding may be paid by the association in advance of the final disposition of the action, suit or proceeding as authorized in the manner provided by Section 4 of this Article XI upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the person to repay the amount unless it shall ultimately be determined that he or she is entitled to be indemnified by the Association pursuant to this Article XI. Section 6. Insurance The Association may purchase and maintain insurance (and pay the entire premium thereof) on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against his or her status, as such, whether or not the Association would have the power to indemnify against such liability under the provisions of this Article XI or under the provisions of Sections 561 through 565 of the Michigan Business Corporation Act. Section 7. Merged and Reorganized Corporations For the purposes of this Article XI, references to the Association include all constituent corporations absorbed by the Association in a consolidation or merger, so that a person who is or was a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of a constituent corporation or is or was serving at the request of a constituent corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article XI with respect to the Association as he or she would if he or she had served the Association in the same capacity. Section 8. Severability The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Article XI shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Article XI. ARTICLE XII PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY The rules contained in the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the corporation in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws and any special rules of order that MSYSA may adopt. The parliamentary authority adopted by MSYSA shall be adopted by each member organization. ARTICLE XIII 14 of 15

81 Effective July 31, 2010 AMENDMENTS A. Article I and Article II of these bylaws shall be identical to the corresponding articles of the Articles of Incorporation. B. Any provision contained in these bylaws may be amended at any annual or special meeting of MSYSA by a twothirds (2/3) vote of all members present and voting in person, a quorum being present and at least thirty (30) days prior notice having been given. C. All bylaw amendments shall be received by the bylaw and standing rules committee no later than November 15. D. Revision. These bylaws may be revised only upon authorization of the membership. The bylaws committee shall be responsible for preparing and presenting an authorized version at the meeting which has been mailed at least thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting. E. In the event of a conflict between these bylaws of Michigan State Youth Soccer Association and the articles of incorporation, bylaws, policies and requirements of the United States Soccer Federation, the articles, bylaws, policies and requirements of the United States Soccer Federation govern. F. Any amendment to these bylaws and/or Rules, Regulations, and Policies necessitated by amendments to the articles of incorporation, bylaws, policies, and requirements of the United States Soccer Federation shall be automatically effected by the bylaws committee and reported to the board meeting following the adoption of such amendments by USSF and to the membership at the Annual General Meeting. G. Unless otherwise provided, any amendment to the bylaws of MSYSA is effective on that July 31 that occurs immediately after the amendment is adopted. ARTICLE XIV DISSOLUTION In the event of dissolution of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, and after payment of all liabilities, this association shall dispose of all assets in such a manner as defined by United States Youth Soccer Association and United States Soccer Federation. If the Association intends to dissolve for any reason, it shall immediately notify the United States Soccer Federation of its intentions. Provisos 1. Provided, That those in office prior to the adoption of this revision shall retain all the rights applicable to their office under the superseded bylaws until the close of this annual general meeting. 2. Provided, That following the adoption of this revision there shall be nominations from the floor for the nominating committee, followed by a ballot election. 3. Provided, That tournaments scheduled prior to the adoption of the revised rules, regulations, and policies shall not be required to meet the guidelines as adopted until their next scheduled tournament. 15 of 15

82 MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION RULES, REGULATIONS and POLICIES Effective July 31, 2010 Table of Contents Section 1: General 3 Rule 1.1: Establishment 3 Rule 1.2: Amendments 3 Rule 1.3: Members Organization s Prerogatives to Set Rules 3 Rule 1.4: Pleas of Ignorance 3 Rule 1.5: Matters not provided for 3 Section 2: Administration 3 Rule 2.1: Officers Expenses 3 Rule 2.2: Restrictions on Officers 3 Rule 2.3: Other Administrators 3 Rule 2.4: Notice of Meetings 3 Rule 2.5: Budget 3 Rule 2.6: Fees and Fines 4 Rule 2.7: Member Organization Responsibilities 4 Rule 2.8: Risk Management 4 Rule 2.9: Insurance 4 Rule 2.10: Non-Member Organizations; Territorial Affiliations 4 Rule 2.11: Seasonal Year; Seal; Notices 4 Rule 2.12: Miscellaneous 5 Rule 2.13: Administrative Operations 5 Rule 2.14: Professional Status 5 Rule 2.15: Tournament Games, Inter District Play, All-Star Games, and International Games 5 Rule 2.16: Permission to Travel 5 Rule 2.17: Permission to Host Foreign and Interstate Teams 6 Rule 2.18: Permission to Host a Tournament 6 Rule 2.19: Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) 6 Rule 2.20: Olympic Development Program (ODP) 6 Section 3: Registration 6 Rule 3.1: Individuals or Teams 6 Rule 3.2: Age Limit Definition 6 Rule 3.3: Maintaining Youth Eligibility 7 Rule 3.4: Player Registration, Member Organization Entry, and Team Affiliation Requirements 7 Rule 3.5: Roster Limit 8 Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration 8 Rule 3.7: Poaching 9 Section 4: Rules of Play 9 Rule 4.1: Rules of Play 9 Rule 4.2: Modifications 9 Rule 4.3: Field of Play 10 Rule 4.4: Length of Games and Size of Ball 10 Rule 4.5: Substitutions 10 Rule 4.6: Player Equipment 10 Rule 4.7: Uniforms 10 Rule 4.8: Home Team Responsibilities 11 Rule 4.9: Player Passcards 11 Rule 4.10: Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player 11 Rule 4.11: Coaching from the Sidelines 11 Rule 4.12: Team Benches 11 Rule 4.13: Misconduct 11 Section 5: Discipline Policies 12 Rule 5.1: Responsibility for Discipline 12 Rule 5.2: Discipline and Appeal Filing Procedure 12 Rule 5.3: Disciplinary Rulings, and Minimum Punishments 12 Appendix 15 USSF Policy 531-9: Misconduct Toward Game Officials 15 Section 1. General 15 Section 2. Rule Application 15 Section 3. Terms and References 15 Section 4. Jurisdiction and Hearings 15 Section 5. Penalties and Suspensions 16 Section 6. Appeals 16 1 of 20

83 Effective July 31, 2010 Section 7. Procedure for Reporting Assault and Abuse 16 USSF Policy : Misconduct of Game Officials 16 Section 1. Terms and References 16 Section 2. Procedures 16 Section 3. Penalties 17 Section 4. Appeals 17 Bylaw 701. Hearing Procedures 17 Policy 701-1: Hearing Procedures 18 Glossary 19 2 of 20

84 Section 1: General Effective July 31, 2010 Rule 1.1: Establishment The following Rules, Regulations and Policies are the standing rules of MSYSA. MSYSA is a member of US Youth Soccer, which is a member of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). USSF is the national association member for the United States of the international organization for soccer called FIFA or the Federation Internationale de Football Association. Rule 1.2: Amendments The rules, regulations and policies of this Association as now established and as hereafter amended may be altered, repealed or new rules, regulations and policies may be adopted in lieu thereof by a majority of the board of directors then in office and present at the meeting of the board of directors, subject to membership approval at the AGM or at a special meeting. These rules, regulations and policies shall take effect on that July 31 st that occurs immediately after the amendment is approved by the membership, unless specified in the motion when to take effect. Rule 1.3: Members Organization s Prerogatives to Set Rules Leagues may deem fit to enact rules and regulations more stringent than those included herein, but in no case may their rules and regulations be less stringent. However, no member organization may limit those privileges granted to players by the USSF, the US Youth Soccer, or the MSYSA. Rule 1.4: Pleas of Ignorance A plea of ignorance to the bylaws and these rules, regulations and policies is not sufficient, and violators may expect appropriate action by the board of directors of this Association. Rule 1.5: Matters not provided for Any matters not provided for in these rules shall be determined by the MSYSA board of directors and decisions so made shall be subject to the approval of the member organizations at the AGM or at a special meeting. Section 2: Administration Rule 2.1: Officers Expenses The Officers of the Association, as such, shall not be compensated for the performance of services for the Association, but may be reimbursed for expenses incurred on behalf of the Association, including but not limited to expenses for attendance at meetings of the board of directors. Rule 2.2: Restrictions on Officers If a business in which an officer of this Association has any interest and wishes to participate in the bidding process to provide goods or services to this Association, such business must do so by sealed competitive bid. All such bids are to be opened at the same time and place, and such officer may not participate in the decision to award the bid. Rule 2.3: Other Administrators The board of directors may establish other administrative positions by contract if there is remuneration or by appointment for positions without remuneration. All positions shall have written statements of duties and responsibilities. Contracts shall also specify the duration of such commitments and remuneration agreed upon. Rule 2.4: Notice of Meetings A. If notice of a meeting is mailed, the notices shall be directed to each member entitled to notices at its address as it appears on the affiliation form on file with MSYSA unless it shall have filed with the recording secretary a written request that notices be mailed to some other address, in which case it shall be mailed to the address designated in the request. B. Each member organization shall name its authorized representative(s) on the affiliation form. Rule 2.5: Budget The annual budget for the fiscal year will include categories for the Olympic Development Program, Coaching Education Program, State Cup Competition, Recreational Program, Michigan State Premier Soccer Program, and all other State operating 3 of 20

85 Effective July 31, 2010 programs. There will be separately proposed budgets for the next fiscal year for the Olympic Development Program, State Cup Competition, Recreational and State Operating Programs. Rule 2.6: Fees and Fines The board of directors, subject to member organizations approval at an AGM or a special meeting, may assess fees or require bonds for administrative functions undertaken on behalf of its member organizations or levee fines in specific disciplinary actions. Member organizations shall be assessed a fine, the amount to be determined by the board of directors, for each unexcused absence of a meeting. Rule 2.7: Member Organization Responsibilities A. Failure. A member organization who fails to fulfill its responsibilities, including paying current MSYSA fees, and ensuring their administrators, member organizations, clubs, and teams comply with the provisions of the MSYSA Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, rules, regulations and policies, may result in the member being placed in bad standing by the MSYSA board of directors. A member in bad standing will have no voice or vote(s) at any meeting including, special, delegates, or annual general meetings of this Association. B. Bylaws Available to Individuals. Member organizations shall make available to their member teams and clubs copies of these bylaws, rules and regulations, and other MSYSA approved policies, as well as copies of any other rules pertaining to and adopted by the member organization. Rule 2.8: Risk Management The MSYSA will establish a Risk Management Policy and shall maintain a Risk Management Program to ensure the safety of its members. The Risk Management Program will meet certain minimum criteria established by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). The program will include the use of an employee/volunteer disclosure statement for all volunteers, employees, coaches and program administrators who are involved with any approved or sponsored program of MSYSA or of an affirmed member organization. Rule 2.9: Insurance A. Player s Medical Insurance. All players registered with the Association shall be required to file medical insurance claims with their primary insurance company prior to filing medical claims with the State Association. B. Public Liability Insurance. All officers of the Association and member organization officials of the Association, noted on each member organization s affiliation paperwork, shall be protected against general liability claims by MSYSA s insurance carrier for performing acts and duties related to the work of the Association. MSYSA assumes the costs of general liability, and all deductibles associated with general liability coverage, to ensure the protection of its officers and member organization officials. C. Report of Insurance Claims. All injuries from MSYSA or US Youth Soccer activities must be reported, in writing, to both the member organization and MSYSA within 72 hours. MSYSA carries secondary medical coverage. All claims are required to first be made through each member s primary insurance carrier prior to being submitted to MSYSA. Any claims not submitted to MSYSA within 90 days will be denied. D. General Liability Insurance. All member organizations shall provide MSYSA a list of fields used for games and practices with the owner and the addresses by a specified date and time as determined by the MSYSA board of directors. Rule 2.10: Non-Member Organizations; Territorial Affiliations A. Unaffiliated Organizations. Any affiliated team or member organization, which plays games or otherwise does business with an organization not affiliated with the USSF or US Youth Soccer, shall face disciplinary action up to and including suspension as determined by the board of directors. MSYSA will not join any organization that has requirements that conflict with the USSF s articles bylaws, policies, and requirements. B. Affiliation Changes. Teams near the territorial limits of the Association may, if the board of director s consents, affiliate with other recognized associations, but thereafter may not change affiliations without the consent of the board of directors of this Association. A team may not change affiliated member organizations without the written agreement of both member organizations and the written approval of the MSYSA board of directors. Rule 2.11: Seasonal Year; Seal; Notices A. Seasonal Year. The seasonal year of this Association shall begin on September 1 and end on August 31 of the following calendar year. 4 of 20

86 Effective July 31, 2010 B. Corporate Seal. The board of directors may provide a suitable corporate seal for use by the Corporation. C. Notices. Any notice required by statute or by the bylaws to be given to the members, to the directors, or to any officers of the Association, unless another requirement is provided herein or in any statute, shall be sufficient if given by depositing it in a United States Post Office box or receptacle in a sealed, postpaid wrapper, addressed to the member, trustee or officer at his last address as that appears on the records of the Association, and the notice shall be deemed to have been given at the time of the mailing. Rule 2.12: Miscellaneous A. Activities. 1. Except for employees or authorized contractors and subcontractors, no private individual, corporation, contributor, or member of this Association may be granted or paid any income or interest from the assets or funds of this Association. 2. No part of the activities, assets, or funds of this Association shall be committed to the dissemination of propaganda or the attempting to influence legislation or other political action. The Association shall not participate or intervene in any political campaign or publish or distribute any statement or spend any funds on behalf of any candidate for public office. 3. The accomplishment of its purpose and exercise of its powers by the Association shall be in conformity with the requirements of the Nonprofit Corporation Act, Mich. Comp. Laws Sect (2), (Mich. Stat. Ann. Sect (108)(2). 4. MSYSA shall maintain its tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code. B. Gifts. The board of directors, the president, or any person expressly so authorized by the board of directors may accept gifts on behalf of the Association for the general purposes of the Association, but no conditional contribution, gift, bequest or devise and no contribution, gift, bequest or devise for a purpose more restricted than the general purposes of the Association shall be finally accepted without prior approval of the board of directors. C. Investments. The Association shall have the right to retain all or any part of any securities or other property acquired by it and to invest and reinvest any funds held in it, according to the judgment of the board of directors, without being restricted as to the class of investments to be made, provided that no action shall be taken on behalf of the Association if that action is a prohibited transaction or would result in denial of tax exemption under Section 503 or 504 of the Internal Revenue Code or the Regulations there under as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended. Rule 2.13: Administrative Operations The Administrative Operations of MSYSA is outlined in the Administrative Operations Manual located at the MSYSA State Office. Changes will be made by the executive director and the president, approved by the board of directors. Rule 2.14: Professional Status A. Definition. Any player signing a "letter of intent," a professional contract, or playing with a professional team without the permission of the board of directors shall be declared a professional. B. Play with Professionals. Only the board of directors along with the Michigan High School Athletic Association may grant a youth amateur permission to play in benefit or exhibition games where professional players are involved. C. Loss of Youth Status. No player who has signed a "letter of intent," a contract, or played in any game where professional players are involved without the permission of the board of directors will be permitted to be reinstated to a youth amateur status. Rule 2.15: Tournament Games, Inter District Play, All-Star Games, and International Games The authority for approval and/or operational control, including dates and times of games that are to be played for these competitions, when played or sponsored by an affiliated team(s) or member organization(s), shall be vested with the board of directors of this Association. Any team formed solely for the purpose of participating in tournaments only, will receive MSYSA sanctioning. Rule 2.16: Permission to Travel Teams that wish to travel out of Michigan to play games must request permission from the MSYSA in accordance with procedures detailed in the US Youth Soccer Travel and Tournament Manual. The board of directors may establish additional requirements. 5 of 20

87 Effective July 31, 2010 Rule 2.17: Permission to Host Foreign and Interstate Teams Teams that wish to host teams from another state or another country must request permission from the MSYSA in accordance with procedures detailed in the US Youth Soccer Travel and Tournament Manual. The board of directors may establish additional requirements. Rule 2.18: Permission to Host a Tournament A. Member organization Tournaments. Member organizations that wish to host a tournament must request permission from the MSYSA in accordance with procedures detailed in the US Youth Soccer Travel and Tournament Manual. The board of directors may establish additional requirements. B. MSYSA Sanctioned Tournaments. MSYSA may host a tournament in accordance with procedures detailed in the US Youth Soccer Travel and Tournament Manual. The board of directors may establish rules and additional requirements. Rule 2.19: Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) The board of directors may establish a statewide premier program, which shall have a member organization constitution and bylaws, playing rules and regulations. Changes to these governing and policy statements shall be presented to and accepted by the board of directors and approved by a vote of the member organizations at an AGM or a special meeting called for this purpose. Any subsequent changes to the playing rules and regulations proposed by the MSPSP board of directors must receive approval from the MSYSA board of directors before they are effective. The statewide program shall be known as the Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) and shall be a program of the MSYSA and shall be subject to the authority of the MSYSA. The MSPSP shall be considered a member of this Association and shall have a representative at all meetings of the board of directors, or as called for by bylaws, or at other meetings at the request of the MSYSA board of directors. However, at the annual general meeting of member organizations and whenever a vote is requested, the MSPSP shall have its weighted votes apportioned to the Leagues sponsoring teams to the MSPSP, and it shall have one vote only. In general cases, the MSPSP established pursuant to this article shall be responsible for its own affairs. However, the MSPSP may only accept teams sponsored by the members. Rule 2.20: Olympic Development Program (ODP) The MSYSA shall participate in the USSF and US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. Any player domiciled in the State of Michigan shall be eligible to tryout for the ODP pursuant to requirements and procedures that will be published annually by the MSYSA. Section 3: Registration Rule 3.1: Individuals or Teams A new team or individual may be assigned to a member organization within its district by the MSYSA board of directors. Registration is done through a member organization of MSYSA for individual players or teams. Rule 3.2: Age Limit Definition A. Youth Player. The term "youth player" shall mean an amateur player who has not attained his or her nineteenth (19th) birthday before the first day of August preceding the Seasonal Year in which he or she applies for registration. B. Attaining Age Limit. Players attaining the limited age for any age group on or after August 1 will be eligible to play for the full seasonal year. C. Age Groups. All member organizations, unless otherwise sanctioned by the board of directors, shall divide play among teams as listed below. Member organizations may utilize two (2) year age groups for age groups U14 and below, multi year age group for U15 and above rather than single year age groups without specific board of director s approval. Age divisions shall consist of players who on the first day of August preceding the current seasonal year, are: Under 19 years Under 14 years Under 9 years Under 18 years Under 13 years Under 8 years Under 17 years Under 12 years Under 7 years Under 16 years Under 11 years Under 6 years Under 15 years Under 10 years Under 5 years D. Authority to Contest Age. Any player may be called upon to prove his legal age by the board of director s, by a district commissioner, by their member organization, or by a majority vote of the teams in any given member organization. 6 of 20

88 Effective July 31, 2010 E. Legal Proof of Age. A birth certificate, passport, drivers license, board of health records, certificate of naturalization, or alien registration card shall be sufficient for proof of age, except in those competitions which specifically state otherwise. Rule 3.3: Maintaining Youth Eligibility A. A youth player who has reached age 17 by August 1 of the seasonal year may be permitted to play an unlimited number of senior games without losing youth eligibility if the Youth Participation Forms are approved by MSYSA. B. Any youth playing for a senior club without MSYSA approval shall be declared ineligible for youth games. C. Any youth team using an ineligible player shall forfeit all games in which that player took part under the forfeiture provisions of Rule 4.10: Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player. D. Reinstated Player. A reinstated player shall mean a player who has been reinstated to an amateur youth status. Rule 3.4: Player Registration, Member Organization Entry, and Team Affiliation Requirements A. Proper Registration Procedure. 1. All players are required to submit a properly completed member organization player registration form to the team. The submittal of a member organization player registration form signed by the player and his/her parent or guardian (if the player is under 18 years of age) and MSYSA player fees binds that player to that team for the seasonal year unless granted a release. (see Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration ) 2. Each team shall be required to submit to the appropriate member organization officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the Association and pay all dues, fees, or fines that may be levied by the member organization or Association. Also, each team is responsible for sending proper member organization affiliation forms and fees directly to the person responsible in its member organization. 3. Each member organization shall be responsible for ensuring proper registration of the players, affiliation of the teams, proper accounting of fiscal transactions and accurate reporting to the MSYSA board of directors. 4. A registered player shall be committed to a team for a full seasonal year. Once registered and in the absence of mitigating circumstances, a player must remain with the same team until the completion of the spring session for the member organization in which his team participates. Any attempt to induce a player to change teams for either the current or the following seasonal year prior to the end of the seasonal year shall be poaching in violation of Rule3.7. During the time during which a team has suspended member organization play, players and club or team officers or representatives may freely discuss new affiliation for the following seasonal year. 5. Tryouts for all MSYSA players for the fall and/or spring season of the seasonal year may not be held before the second Saturday in June of the preceding seasonal year. For high school age boys teams playing only in the spring session, tryouts may be held from the second Saturday inn June until the start of high school practice and after the high school season ends in the fall. Leagues, clubs or teams affiliated through member organizations having tryouts prior to the second Saturday in June and/or charging any type of fee for tryouts are not eligible for any MSYSA sponsored events. 6. Registered players on high school age girl s teams who play only during the fall season with MSYSA affiliated member organizations are expected to play in tournaments and cup games with the team to which they are rostered through June 30 of the seasonal year or until granted a proper transfer or release. 7. If a fall season girls team disbands or suspends play for the spring season because a majority of the team is playing high school spring sports, those players wishing to play on a MSYSA affiliated team in the spring season shall not be considered transfer players. 8. All tryouts for teams for the MSPSP must be announced in the Michigan Soccer Publication. B. Date of Registration. A player is registered the moment the player and his/her parent or guardian (if the player is under 18 years of age) signs the member organization player registration form and has submitted MSYSA player fees to a responsible team/ member organization official. C. Registration and Transfer Cut-off Dates. The board of directors may set cut-off dates for player transfer for each playing season or seasonal year. Transfer and registration dates will be announced at the annual general meeting of the MSYSA. The board of directors shall have the authority to accept player registration after these dates and such late registration shall be subject to a fee as approved at the annual general meeting. 7 of 20

89 Effective July 31, 2010 Rule 3.5: Roster Limit No roster may exceed the maximum roster limit for the specific age levels except when a split game model is utilized. See chart below: Playing Format Age Level Roster Maximum Roster Minimum 4v4 U5-U v5 U7-U v6 U9-U v8 U11-U v11 U13-U v11 U16-U19 22* 7 * The game roster for U16-U19 shall have a maximum of eighteen (18) players and a minimum of seven (7) players. Rule 3.6: Player Release, Transfer, Dual Registration A. Player Release. 1. Voluntary Release means the removal of a player from a team s roster at the request of the player or parent/guardian. A voluntary release will be granted if: a. The original team suspends operations for the remainder of the seasonal year or, b. The player moves to a new address, a distance which in the opinion of the board of directors, would make it impractical for him/her to continue with the original team or, c. There are mitigating circumstances, which in the opinion of the board of directors justify a release. 2. Involuntary Release means the removal of a player from a team s roster at the request of team authorities. An involuntary release will not be granted if the parent/player signatures do not appear on the MSYSA Release Form and will be granted only if the player is unable to play for one of the following reasons: a. The player has violated rules of this Association and has been suspended for a period greater than five (5) games or, b. The player is injured in such a manner that the player will not be able to participate for the remainder of the season or, c. The player moves to a new address, a distance that in the opinion of the board of directors would make it impractical for him to continue with the original team and has demonstrated an inability to continue in participation on the soccer team. In any of the above cases, where a player seeks a voluntary release or a member organization official seeks to involuntarily release a player, a MSYSA Player Release Form must be completed by the player and/or a member organization official and have the appropriate signatures. The form, with appropriate fees, must be submitted for approval to MSYSA. Once a player is released from a team he/she is eligible to apply for a player transfer. Once the player transfer is approved, that player may register with another team in a MSYSA recognized member organization. However, obtaining a player release does not guarantee the player a roster spot on another MSYSA team, nor is player transfer guaranteed. B. Player Transfers. 1. A player may apply for a player transfer once they have been granted a player release. 2. All player transfers must be approved by the member organization and/or member organizations before MSYSA will consider approving the transfer. Application for a player transfer must be made to the MSYSA on the required Player Transfer form. 3. Coach s signatures on the MSYSA transfer form are not required for the consideration of a player transfer by MSYSA. 4. The new team must have a spot on their roster to accept the transfer player. 5. During any seasonal year a team may have no more than three (3) transfer players on their roster. 8 of 20

90 Effective July 31, A player may transfer between MSYSA teams in the same member organization and/or club between seasons of a seasonal year. 7. All transfers must be in compliance with the member organization s transfer rules, policies, procedures or bylaws. 8. Player transfers will not be permitted by MSYSA during the months of May, June, September and October. C. Dual Rostering. A player may register with up to two (2) teams per seasonal year. 1. The dual registration form must be completed with appropriate signatures and fees before MSYSA will consider approving the dual registration. 2. A player may not play for more than one (1) team in the same competition (meaning tournament, cup, etc). A player must play on the primary team in the MSYSA State Cup. 3. In all cases of dual rostering involving a Midwest Regional League team (MRL), the MRL team must be the primary team. 4. In all cases of dual rostering involving a Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) team and a non-mrl team, the MSPSP team must be designated as the primary team. 5. In all other cases, the team with which a player first registers must be designated as the primary team and the other team must be designated as the secondary team. 6. An individual player may NOT dual roster on a MRL team and a MSPSP team. A team that plays in both the MRL and MSPSP must have identical rosters. Dual rostering is not necessary because the rosters are identical. 7. If the coaches of the two (2) teams disagree on the designation of the primary team, the player may not play until the issue has been resolved via the MSYSA appeals process. 8. A dual rostered player shall be issued two (2) US Youth Soccer passcards, one (1) for each team. 9. Any player who registers for a team without informing the responsible team official and member organization official that they already registered with another team shall forfeit all games for both teams for the time period that the player has not obtained the approved dual registration form from MSYSA. 10. Dual registrations will not be permitted by MSYSA during the months of May, June, September and October, unless a hardship case exists or upon review of the board of directors. Rule 3.7: Poaching Any club or team which, through its responsible officers or representatives, A. Attempts at any time prior to the second Saturday in June of any seasonal year to induce a registered player (or their parent or guardian) of any team under the jurisdiction of this Association to leave their team before the end of the current season; or B. Attempts at any time prior to the second Saturday in June of the seasonal year to induce the player to leave their team for the following seasonal year shall be deemed to have committed a poaching offense and shall be dealt with by the MSYSA board of directors. Section 4: Rules of Play Rule 4.1: Rules of Play Rules of play for youth shall be the "Laws of the Game," as published by FIFA. Modifications, as permitted for local associations and youth soccer, shall be published. All contests sanctioned by this Association shall abide by the "Laws of the Game," and the modifications as published by this Association. Rule 4.2: Modifications Players U5 to U12 shall play by the Modified Rules for Small Sided Games as published by US Youth Soccer unless modified herein. 9 of 20

91 Effective July 31, 2010 Rule 4.3: Field of Play A. General conditions. The field of play shall be reasonably flat, grassy fields, free from structures which may endanger the players. The field must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the goal line. The home team will be responsible for the condition of the grounds, the proper field markings and proper equipment. Nets and corner flags are recommended. Goals are required to be properly installed. Moveable goals must be anchored. The game will not be permitted to start if the movable goals are not anchored. (Refer to documents: U.S. Consumers Product Safety Commission Guidelines For Movable Goal Safety available on our website at or at U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission s web site at B. Dimensions. The following indicates field dimensions by age group. Rule 4.4: Length of Games and Size of Ball Age Field Size Length Width U13- U19 Required yards yards U11-U12 Recommended yards yards U9-U10 Recommended yards yards U7-U8 Recommended yards yards The length of games and the ball size shall be as follows: Age Length of Game Over Time Periods Ball Size Half Time Periods U17-U minute halves 2 15 minute halves Size 5 5 to 10 minutes U15-U minute halves 2 15 minute halves Size 5 5 to 10 minutes U13-U minute halves 2 10 minute halves Size 5 5 to 10 minutes U11-U minute halves 2 10 minute halves Size 4 5 to 10 minutes U9-U minute halves None Size 4 5 to 10 minutes U7-U minute quarters None Size 3 2 minutes between quarters, 5 minute halves U5-U6 4 8 minute quarters None Size 3 2 minutes between quarters, 5 minute halves Rule 4.5: Substitutions The number of substitutions shall be unlimited unless competition under MSYSA jurisdiction determines otherwise. Substitutes may not enter the field of play until receiving a signal to do so from the referee and must do so at the half line. Substitutions may be made by either team at the following times: A. Prior to a throw-in, with the following exception: If the team taking the throw-in does not substitute then substitution is prohibited. B. Prior to a goal kick. C. After a goal is scored. D. After an injury, when the referee stops play. E. At half time. F. After a Caution (a Yellow card), the carded player(s) may be substituted, and if substituted, the opposing team may substitute a like number of players. Rule 4.6: Player Equipment Player equipment shall consist of a jersey or shirt, shorts, stockings, footwear and shin guards. Shin guards are mandatory. Shin guards are covered entirely by the stocking, are made of suitable material, and shall be properly sized to provide a reasonable degree of protection. Rule 4.7: Uniforms With the exception of the goalkeepers, opposing teams shall be differentiated from each other. Goalkeepers must wear colors that differentiate them from the field players. 10 of 20

92 Effective July 31, 2010 Rule 4.8: Home Team Responsibilities A. If both teams wear uniforms that are of the same or similar colors, the home team must effect a change to colors that are distinct from those of the opponent if requested by the referee. B. The home team shall be responsible for the condition of the grounds, the proper field markings, and proper equipment. Goal nets and corner flags are recommended. C. The home team shall be responsible for providing a game ball. D. In the event the referee declares the condition of the grounds improper, the game is to be rescheduled. The home team will pay the referee fees for the cancelled game. Rule 4.9: Player Passcards A. If required all players shall present to the referee their player passcards before the start of the game. B. All passes are to be returned to the player or coach after the referee has completed the team check in. C. Should a player misplace their card, the player shall be permitted to play in the game. However, the player shall be open to "Challenge" by the coach of the opposing team. 1. If a coach desires to challenge, the coach shall notify the referee and the opposing coach that the player is under "Challenge" (not to be confused with Protest) prior to the start of the game. 2. The player(s) being challenged shall give their name, signature, and date of birth to the referee, who shall note this information on his "Game Report." The referee shall make this information available to the coach making the challenge at the conclusion of the game. 3. The challenging coach shall then contact the member organization registrar or MSYSA for verification that the challenged player(s) is properly registered within 72 hours. 4. If the registrar's records show the player is properly registered, the matter is finished. If the player is not properly registered, the forfeiture provisions of Rule 4.10 Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player apply. Rule 4.10: Ineligible or Improperly Registered Player A. Any team playing a player, who is ineligible, whether accidentally, intentionally, or otherwise, shall forfeit the game(s) in which that player takes part and may face further disciplinary action by the member organization and/or the board of directors, depending upon the nature of the violation. B. In case of forfeiture, the score shall stand 1-0 against the forfeiting team, unless the member organization or competition has a different forfeiture score. Rule 4.11: Coaching from the Sidelines Coaching from the sidelines, giving directions to one's own team on points of strategy and position, is permitted provided: A. No mechanical devices are used; B. Tone of voice is informative and not a harangue; C. No coach or substitute or player is to be anywhere except on the sidelines between the top of the penalty area and the half field mark during the game. Rule 4.12: Team Benches Teams shall take opposite sidelines for their benches. Home teams have choice of preferred sidelines. Parents and spectators must take the same sidelines as their respective team, unless the facility prevents otherwise. It will be the responsibility of each team s officials (coach, assistant coach or manager) to educate and see that their fans or spectators behave in a proper and respectful manner. 11 of 20

93 Rule 4.13: Misconduct Effective July 31, 2010 Coaches and other team officials shall be subject to all rules pertaining to misconduct contained herein and as published by the USSF, including cautions, ejections, and standard suspensions. Any coach or team official shall be held responsible for the actions of any individual(s) who violate these rules and who in the opinion of the disciplinary authority, is a supporter of that team. Section 5: Discipline Policies Rule 5.1: Responsibility for Discipline A. General Cases. In general cases, the member organizations shall be responsible for governing those persons associated within their operation, and shall establish procedures to that effect. However, it is the duty of all member organization officers, coaches, referees and assistant referees to report immediately any infraction of Misconduct Toward Game Officials and Misconduct of Game Officials (see appendix). B. Member organization Discipline and Appeal Procedures. Member organizations shall provide procedures for discipline, protest and appeals for their affiliated members. All grievances involving the right to participate and compete in activities sponsored by the USSF and the MSYSA and its members may be appealed to the USSF s appeal committee that shall have jurisdiction to approve, modify, or reverse a decision. All hearings shall comply with USSF Bylaw 701 and USSF Policy (see appendix). C. Line of Authority. Should any person, team or member organization want to appeal any decision, the line of authority shall be from the member organization to the MSYSA discipline and appeals committee, to the line of authority as specified by United States Soccer Federation. Rule 5.2: Discipline and Appeal Filing Procedure A. Types of Discipline and Appeals. The MSYSA discipline and appeals committee shall only hear appeals from decisions of lower authority, cases concerning referee assault, or matters referred by the board of directors. B. Line of Authority. The line of authority for an appeal is: 1. Member organization; 2. MSYSA discipline and appeals committee; 3. The line of authority as specified by the United States Soccer Federation. C. Grounds for Appeal. Appeals must be in writing, either on forms specified by the MSYSA or providing the information requested on such forms, and describe in detail the grounds for the appeal. D. Appeal Fee and Time Limit. The written appeal must be mailed within ten (10) days of the receipt of a written decision from a lower authority and must be accompanied by all supporting documents and by the $ fee in the form of a money order or cashier's check. E. Loss or Return of Fee. The appeal fee paid by the prevailing party will be returned; however, the fee shall not be returned if the appeal is denied. F. Decline to Hear Appeal. Authorities responsible for hearing appeals may decline a hearing if: 1. The appeal does not pertain to the original protest or the decision of a lower authority; 2. The appeal is filed by a party other than the original parties to the protest/appeal. G. Timeliness of Response. At all levels of the appeals process, if a decision is not reached within thirty (30) days of receipt of the written appeal, the party filing the appeal may submit the appeal to the next higher level and the appeal fee submitted will be applied to the next level. H. Status of Decisions. All decisions at all levels of the appeal process shall stand and be in full force and effect until changed by a higher authority. I. Ultimate State-level Authority. Decisions of the MSYSA discipline and appeals committee shall be binding unless the decisions are overturned by a higher authority. Failure to abide by decisions of the committee shall be grounds for disciplinary action by the MSYSA board of directors. 12 of 20

94 Effective July 31, 2010 Rule 5.3: Disciplinary Rulings, and Minimum Punishments (All Sections listed below are minimums) A. Minimum Penalties. A member organization may adopt more stringent penalties, which will prevail, but in no event may penalties be less than those listed. B. Player Fighting. A player guilty of fighting before, during or after games shall receive a two-game (2) suspension. C. Player Profanity. A player guilty of using profanity, either by word or sign, against another player, coach, spectator, or any member organization official shall receive a minimum two-game (2) suspension. D. Player Threats. A player guilty of making threatening gestures against another player, coach, spectator, or any member organization official shall receive a minimum two-game (2) suspension. Verbal threats are remarks that carry the implied or direct threat of physical harm. Such remarks as I ll get you after the game or You won t get out of here in one piece shall be deemed referee abuse. (See Appendix USSF Policy 531-9). E. Player Striking Official. A player guilty of pushing or striking any coach, or any member organization official shall receive a minimum one-year (1) suspension. F. Misconduct toward a Referee. Any player, coach, manager, or official committing some misconduct as defined by USSF Policy shall be dealt with in accordance with that policy. Reporting procedures are included in the policy. 1. Referee abuse is a verbal statement or physical act not resulting on bodily contact which implies or threatens physical harm to a referee or the referee s property or equipment. 2. Abuse includes, but is not limited to the following acts committed upon a referee: Using foul or abusive language toward a referee; spewing any beverage on a referee s property; spitting at (but not on) the referee; or verbally threatening a referee. 3. Referee assault involves physical contact with the referee, or the referee s uniform or personal property. G. Coach Threats. Coaches or team officials who make threatening gestures or use threatening language to other players, coaches, or any member organization officials shall be disciplined according to the following schedule: First Time: Second Time: Third Time: Minimum two-game (2) suspension. The offender shall appear before the MSYSA board of directors and be suspended for a minimum of four (4) games. The offender will be suspended for not less than one (1) year. H. Misconduct of Spectators. Any other individual who may be reasonably construed to be associated with a team, such as relatives and supporters, shall also be subject to the jurisdiction of this Association. 1. Assault or abuse of a referee by a spectator. If an individual who supports a team abuses or assaults a referee, such action shall be deemed loss of control by the coach and other team officials. Upon receipt of a report of an assault or abuse of a referee by a spectator, the chairperson of the discipline and appeals committee, or their designate, will form an ad hoc committee composed of the chairperson (or their designate) and two (2) individuals on the MSYSA board of directors who are not members of the member organization(s) involved in the case. The chairperson will perform a preliminary investigation and disclose the results of the investigation to the ad hoc committee. The ad hoc committee will determine if there is enough evidence to sustain a charge of assault or abuse. If not, no action will be taken. If there is enough evidence, a letter will be forwarded to the team informing them of the requirement to post a cash bond up to $1,000 with the MSYSA. After receiving written notification of the requirement for a bond, the team shall have forty-eight (48) hours to post the bond with MSYSA. Failure to remit that bond to this Association shall place that team temporarily under suspension and not in good standing. Any games missed or games played after the forty-eight (48) hour period but prior to the posting of said bond will be considered forfeit. 2. The matter will be referred to the discipline and appeals committee for a complete investigation and hearing. Said hearing will be conducted with the same procedures established for hearings conducted for assaults of referees by players, coaches or other team officials. After hearing all the evidence the discipline and appeals committee may return the bond if the charges prove untrue; may continue the bond for a period of time not less than one (1) year; may increase the amount of the bond to a maximum of twice the amount of the original bond; or may reduce the amount of the bond; depending on the severity of the offense. 3. If a second such offense occurs involving any supporter of the same team within a period of two (2) years, the amount of the bond shall be doubled. The original bond, if still in effect, will be forfeited. 13 of 20

95 Effective July 31, If a third such offense occurs involving any supporter of the same team, the team shall be suspended from all competition under the auspices of the MSYSA. Provisions will be made to prevent the reforming of the same team members with a new team name. 5. The MSYSA shall return the bond at the end of the period determined by the discipline and appeals committee. I. Misconduct of Game Officials. In case of misconduct by referees or other game officials, USSF Policy shall apply, including reporting procedures (See Appendix). 14 of 20

96 APPENDIX Effective July 31, 2010 The content of this Appendix is not meant to be rules that may be amended by the MSYSA. The information provided herein is for reference and any changes by USSF will be effective immediately upon any subsequent amendments by USSF and this Appendix will be updated as quickly as possible. USSF Policy Misconduct Toward Game Officials Section 1. General Misconduct against referees may occur before, during and after the match, including travel to and from the match. Misconduct may occur also at later times when directly related to duties of a game official as a referee. Section 2. Rule Application a. This policy shall supersede any inconsistent rules of Organization Members that pertain to assaults or abuse upon Federation referees, assistant referees, the manner and means of hearings, appeals, and rehearings in matters pertaining thereto. b. Nothing in this policy rule shall be construied to restrict or limit any league, event/tournament or Organization Member from applying equal or greater restrictions to anyone not listed in section 4(1)(1) of this policy (i.e., a spectator associated with a club or team). c. This policy shall not apply to players, coaches, managers, club officials, or league officials while participating in Professional League Member activities. Section 3. Terms and References As used in this policy 1. Referee includes the following: a. All currently registered USSF referees, assistant referees, 4 th officials or others duly appointed to assist in officiating in a match. b. Any non-licensed, non-registered person serving in an emergency capacity as a referee (under Rule 3040). c. Any club assistant referee. 2. Hearing means a meeting of at least three neutral members, one of which is designated or elected to serve as Chairperson. The hearing shall be conducted pursuant to guidelines established by the Organization Member. 3. (a)(i) Referee assault is an intentional act of physical violence at or upon a referee. (ii) For purposes of this policy, intentional act shall mean an act intended to bring about a result which will invade the interests of another in a way that is socially unacceptable. Unintended consequences of the act are irrelevant. (b) Assault includes, but is not limited to the following acts committed upon a referee: hitting, kicking, punching, choking, spitting on, grabbing or bodily running into a referee; head butting; the act of kicking or throwing any object at a referee that could inflict injury; damaging the referee s uniform or personal property, i.e. car, equipment, etc. 4. (a)referee abuse is a verbal statement or physical act not resulting in bodily contact which implies or threatens physical harm to a referee or the referee s property or equipment. (b) Abuse includes, but is not limited to the following acts committed upon a referee: using foul or abusive language toward a referee that implies or threatens physical harm; spewing any beverage on a referee s personal property; spitting at (but not on) the referee. Section 4. Jurisdiction and Hearings A. General 1. When any amateur or professional player, coach, manager, club official or game official assaults or abuses a referee, the original jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter shall vest immediately in the responsible Organization Member which is affiliated with the United States Soccer USSF. 2. When an allegation of assault is verified by the Organization Member, the person is automatically suspended until the hearing on the assault. 3. The Organization Member must hold a hearing within thirty (30) days of the verification by the Member of the abuse or assault or, if applicable, the thirty-day period provided by subsection (b)(3) of this section. If the Member does not adjudicate the matter within that period of time, original jurisdiction shall immediately vest in the Federation s Appeals Committee to adjudicate the matter, to which the same provisions as to the term of suspension shall apply. 4. Failure to hold the initial hearing shall not rescind the automatic suspension. B. Events and Tournaments 1. In the event an assault or abuse of a referee occurs in an event outside the alleged offender s home state, the referee shall (A) immediately notify the Event/Tournament Chairperson, and (B) forward a copy of the game report and his/her comments on the incident to the Event/Tournament Chairperson. 15 of 20

97 Effective July 31, The Event/Tournament Chairperson shall have the right to immediately convene a hearing at the site of the Event/Tournament, at which the alleged offender, the coach of the alleged offender when the offender is a player, and the game official should be present. Information presented at this hearing shall promptly be relayed to the alleged offender s Organization Member President by the Event/Tournament Chairperson, both orally and in writing; however, failure to provide written information shall not restrict the offender s Organization Member from taking action with regard to any referee abuse or assault. 3. Final jurisdiction shall vest with the alleged offender s Organization Member. A hearing shall be held by that Organization Member within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the initial report of the abuse or assault on a referee. Section 5. Penalties and Suspensions A. Assault 1. The person committing the referee assault must be suspended as follows: a. For a minor or slight touching of the referee or the referee s uniform or personal property, at least 3 months from the time of the assault; b. Except as provided in clause i. or ii., for any other assault, at least 6 months from the time of the assault: i. For an assault committed by an adult and the referee is 17 years of age or younger, at least 3 years; or ii. For an assault when serious injuries are inflicted, at least 5 years. 2. An Organization Member adjudicating the matter may not provide a shorter period of suspension but, if circumstances warrant, may provide a longer period of suspension. B. Abuse The minimum suspension period for referee abuse shall be at least three (3) scheduled matches within the rules of that competition. The Organization Member adjudicating the matter may provide a longer period of suspension when circumstances warrant (e.g., habitual offenders). Section 6. Appeals A person who is found to have committed the abuse and/or assault may appeal to the Appeals Committee by following the procedures of Federation Bylaw 705 within ten (10) days from receipt of the decision of the Organization Member. Section 7. Procedure for Reporting Assault and Abuse A. Procedures for reporting of referee assault and/or abuse shall be developed and disseminated by the National Referee Committee to all Federation registered referees. B. Referees shall transmit a written report of the alleged assault or abuse, or both, within 48 hours of the incident (unless there is a valid reason for later reporting) to the designee of the Organization Member and the State Referee Administrator. For tournaments or special events, the referee shall transmit a written report to the tournament director on the day of the incident and to his home state SRA within 10 days of the incident. USSF Policy Misconduct of Game Officials Section 1. Terms and References A. Game Officials includes the following: 1. All currently registered USSF referees, assistant referees, 4 th officials or others appointed to assist in officiating in a match. 2. Any non-licensed, non-registered person serving in an emergency capacity as a referee (See section 2 of Policy 531-8). 3. Any club assistant referee. 4. Any referee development program person performing any official function at a match B. Referee Development Program Person includes any referee, referee administrator, referee assessor, referee instructor, referee assignor, or other person serving in such capacity in a line or supervisory position, including members of any referee committee appointed by the Federation, its Divisions, Affiliates or Associates, a State Association, or a competition, tournament or other appropriate authority. C. Hearing means a meeting of at least five members, one of which is designated or elected to serve as a Chairperson. The Chairperson of a hearing shall not vote except to break a tie vote. Such members, including the Chairperson, shall not be the State Referee Administrator, the State Director of Referee Instruction, the State Director of Referee Assessment, a Federation National or FIFA Referee, or any other member of the State Referee Administration. D. State Association shall be that State Association through which the game official is registered or referee development is appointed. Where a state has both Amateur or Youth National State Associations, the reference shall mean that State Association which has legal authority within its state to administer the registration of the referee or the appointment of the referee development program person charged. Section 2. Procedures A. Misconduct at a Match When any game official is accused of having committed misconduct toward another game official, participant, or spectator at a match, or of having a conflict of interest, the original jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter shall vest 16 of 20

98 Effective July 31, 2010 immediately in the State Association or Organization Member through which the accused game official is registered. In the situation where Amateur and Youth State Associations exist in a state, and the incident of alleged misconduct occurred at a match sanctioned by one State Association, jurisdiction shall vest within the State Association sanctioning the match in question. B. Misconduct Away from a Match When any game official, referee, referee assistant or referee development program person is accused of unethical conduct, misuse or abuse of authority or conflict of interest is any matter in the pursuit of or may affect the individual s official dealings within and as authorized by the Federation, its Divisions, Affiliates or Associates, a State Associations or Organization Member, or a competition, tournament or other appropriate authority, the matter shall vest immediately in the State Association through which the accused game official is registered or through which the referee development program person is appointed. C. Any allegation of misconduct or of conflict of interest by a game official as described by subsection (A) of this section, or of unethical conduct, misuse or abuse of authority or conflict of interest as described by subsection (B) of this section, shall be made in writing to the State Referee Administrator or to the State Association(s) or Organization Member that shall report all such allegations including any allegations against the State Referee Administrator, to the State Association(s) or Organization Members through which the accused game official if registered or through which the accused referee development program person is appointed. D. Upon receipt by the appropriate Organization Member of a verified written complaint, a hearing shall be conducted within 30 days from verification pursuant to guidelines established by the Organization Member having jurisdiction as provided by subsection (A) or (B) of this section. The guidelines may include referring the complaint to the State Referee Committee for the hearing. The hearings and appeal process shall provide for adequate due process for the accused person including proper notice of charges, the right to bring witnesses in defense, and the right to confront and to cross-examine the accusers. E. The Chairperson of the hearing committee shall transmit the findings of the committee in writing to all parties concerned including the accused and the accusers and to the State Association(s) or Organization Member within seven days of the hearing. F. Any party subject to penalties shall receive, at the time of notification of the decision, a notice of the rights of appeal and a copy of the procedures and deadline dates required for such an appeal to be properly considered. Time for filing an appeal shall start with the date official receipt of the decision by the party making the appeal. Section 3. Penalties A. The severity of the penalty imposed upon an individual shall be determined by the decision-making body having jurisdiction. B. Penalties may be among the following: 1. Letter of reprimand; 2. A fine; 3. Suspension from all active participation in the Federation for a fixed period of time; 4. Any combination of clauses (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection; and 5. Dismissal from the Federation. C. Any individual while under suspension may not take part in any activity sponsored by the Federation or its members. Section 4. Appeals A. Any game official who is found guilty of misconduct as defined in this rule may appeal the decision of the hearing committee as follows: 1. To a Referee Disciplinary Committee jointly appointed by the Amateur and Youth State Associations. 2. To the Federation Appeals Committee as provided under USSF Bylaw 705. B. The party appealing the decision of a committee shall have ten (10) days to file the notice of appeal of a decision. Time for filing an appeal shall start with the date of official receipt of the decision by the party making the appeal. Bylaw 701. HEARING PROCEDURES In all hearings conducted under these bylaws, the parties shall be accorded: 1. notice of the specific charge or alleged violations in writing and possible consequences if the charges are found to be true; 2. reasonable time between receipt of the notice of charges and the hearing within which to prepare a defense; 3. the right to have the hearing conducted at a time and place so as to make it practicable for the person charged to attend; 4. a hearing before a disinterested and impartial body of fact-finders; 5. the right to be assisted in the presentation of one s case at the building; 6. the right to call witness and present oral and written evidence and argument; 7. the right to confront witness, including the right to provide the identity of the witness in advance of the hearing; 8. the right to have a record made of the hearing if desired; 9. a written decision, with reasons for the decision, based solely on the evidence of the record, issued in a timely fashion; 17 of 20

99 Effective July 31, notice of any substantive and material action of the hearing panel in the course of the proceeding; and 11. quality concerning communications and no ex parte communication is permitted between a party and any person involved in making its decision or procedural determination except to provide explanations involving procedures to be followed. Policy701-1 Hearing Procedures This policy provides the minimum rights that each party would have at a hearing with respect to the right to assistance in presenting one s case at a hearing, as must be allowed under Federation Bylaw 701(5). These minimum rights apply to hearings conducted by State Associations and their members or other hearing body. A copy of these minimum rights should be delivered to the parties with the notice of the hearing. (A) Each party at a hearing shall have the right to have an individual present at the hearing to assist the party in presenting the party s case. Such individual may, but shall not be required to be, an attorney. (B) If the State Association or member of the State Association ( Complainant ) is represented by another individual at any hearing and the hearing panel allows that individual to speak, question the parties and /or witnesses, or grant that individual any other rights, then it shall afford all other parties, or the individual representing the party, including an attorney, the same rights during the course of the hearing as is allowed to the individual representing the Complainant. (C) If an attorney is present at a hearing to assist a part in presenting the party s case, it shall be clear at the commencement of any such hearing that the hearing shall proceed in accordance with the State Association s hearing rules and procedures. All Federal, State or local Rules of Evidence or Civil Procedure shall not be applicable. (D) A State Association may provide, as part of its hearing rules and procedures, that an individual assisting a party may be allowed to speak on behalf of the party, make requests or ask questions at the hearing. (E) Regardless of whether the State Association allows the individual assisting the party the rights to speak, make requests or ask questions, as noted in Paragraph D above, an individual assisting the party in presenting the party s case shall have the right to be physically present in the hearing room, and so as not to interfere with the hearing procedure, it is also recommended that the individual be seated close to the party(either behind or next to the party) so that the party may seek assistance when desired during the course of the hearing. (F) During the course of the hearing, the party may confer briefly with the individual who is assisting before making a statement or request or prior to responding to a question. The panel conducting the hearing may limit the frequency and duration of the conferences so as not to unduly interfere with the proceeding. (G) If there is confusion or concern, the party may request a recess to confer with the individual assisting the party. Such a request should be granted unless the number of requests by the party becomes unreasonable or the length of a requested recess is deemed by the hearing panel to be unreasonable. (H) An individual assisting a party may prepare written material for the party and collect documents for the party. However, the party must submit or present the material and documents as material and documents of the party, and not of the individual assisting. The party has complete responsibility for those materials and documents and is subject to questioning about them. (I) Nothing contained in this policy shall prevent a State Association from allowing greater rights to assistance than those set forth in Paragraphs A-H above. For example, a State Association may, but shall not be obligate to, allow more than one individual to assist a party at any given time. (J) The rights, either mandatory or permissible under this policy, shall be consistently applied, and State Association should not arbitrarily allow or disallow the rights set forth above to those individuals assisting a party in the presentation or defense of the party s case. 18 of 20

100 GLOSSARY Effective July 31, 2010 For the purpose of interpretation, these definitions are offered but are not meant as rules themselves. 1. Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Soccer s world governing body is the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), which is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. The delegates of the association of France, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland signed the articles of foundation. In 1905 the English Football Association enrolled in FIFA along with Scotland, Wales and Ireland. FIFA is comprised of each country s national soccer associations and is responsible for promoting and organizing the game of soccer throughout the world. FIFA also determines the basic playing Laws of the Game. Those laws are available from the Federation in a special booklet. Today more than 150 million people throughout the world play soccer and in a given year up to 1 million referees officiate more than 20 million matches. FIFA governs all aspects of the game. 2. United States Soccer Federation, Inc (USSF) United States Soccer Federation, Inc (USSF) is the national governing body for all levels of soccer in the United States. It was formed in 1913 and affiliated with FIFA the following year. U.S. Soccer is recognized by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) as provided in the Amateur Sports Act of The constitution, rules, policies, and procedures of the Federation have evolved over a period of time to govern the game of soccer and protect the interests of all participants, players, officials, administrators, clubs, member organizations, national states associations, and the Federation. Therefore, they must be accepted and observed by all members of the Federation until changed in accordance with the procedure provided. 3. United States Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (USYSA; U.S. Youth Soccer) United States Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (USYSA; US Youth Soccer) is the largest member of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). US Youth Soccer is a non-profit and educational organization whose mission is to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America's youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition. Beginning in 1974, US Youth Soccer has always been recognized as a leader in youth sports organizations. Through a democratic structure, the membership of US Youth Soccer is able to provide uniform rules and guidelines. These guidelines facilitate intra-state, inter-state and international play. The national administration of US Youth Soccer is conducted by a nine member board of directors consisting of a chairman, vice chairman, secretary, treasurer, four regional directors, and a member at large. Each of these board members are elected into office by delegates from the 55 member State Associations. A tenth position that of past president is held by the past president for a single term of two years. The US Youth Soccer membership is divided into four regions, each with a director elected to the board of directors. The regions are essentially East (Region I), Midwest (Region II), South (Region III) and West (Region IV). Each State Association has a board of directors, elected by delegates from their member organizations, clubs or teams. 4. National State Association means an affiliated member association of US Youth Soccer representing all clubs, member organizations, teams, players, coaches, and administrators, within the territory assigned to the National State Association by the USSF National Council. The administrative body within the territory determined by the National Council to carry out the Federation s programs for amateur youth or amateur adult players or both. 5. Amateur Sports Act means the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act (chapter 2205 of title 36, United States Code). 6. Appeal means a procedure to be followed which provides that such matters be resolved on as low an organizational level as possible. This process is for disputes outside the decisions made by a referee on the field during the course of a match. 7. MSYSA means Michigan State Youth Soccer Association which is a National State Association. 8. board of directors or Board means the board of directors of MSYSA 9. Club means an organization that is a member (directly or indirectly) of MSYSA that has identifiable membership of youth soccer players on whose behalf the organization conducts or engages in youth soccer activities for one (1) or more soccer teams usually playing within a geographic area. 10. District means a geographical subdivision of the State of Michigan 11. League or member organization a structured group of 4 or more teams joined for the purpose inter-team play under a common set of administrative rules. 12. League team means a team that participates in regularly scheduled member organization play. 13. Protest means a complaint about field or referee qualifications prior to the start of a game, or the misapplication of rules or procedures during a game. 14. Standing Rules means rules, regulations and policies of Michigan State Youth Soccer Association. 19 of 20

101 Effective July 31, Team means a group of soccer players playing on the same side in soccer games. 16. Youth player means an individual who has not reached 19 years of age prior to August 1 immediately before the start of any seasonal year. A player who reaches 19 years of age during a seasonal year is allowed to complete that seasonal year. A player who reaches 19 years of age during August of one (1) seasonal year shall be allowed to complete all of the next seasonal year. 17. USOC means the United States Olympic Committee that is the corporation established under the Amateur Sports Act to oversee all amateur athletic activity in the United States. 20 of 20

102 Section 8 Proposed Revisions to MSYSA Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, and Policies

103 AMENDMENT #1A: Bylaw Article V. Officers. Section 3. Term of Office. Amend Section 3 by: Amending Paragraph B to read Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (4) four consecutive terms in the same office. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (4) four consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (4) four consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Proposed by: Robin Crawford, MSYSA Treasurer Rationale: As Michigan is the largest state in Region II, it takes an investment of time to establish ones credibility. This amendment will allow additional time for Michigan s President to establish himself or herself on the Regional and National Level. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee does NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. The current wording is very workable and limits an officer to 3 consecutive terms in the same office but does not limit their service to the EC board in another office if the member organizations feel they have skills to benefit the organization.

104 AMENDMENT #1B: Bylaw Article V. Officers. Section 3. Term of Office. Amend Section 3 by: Amending Paragraph B to read Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three terms in any office. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three terms in any office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three terms in any office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Proposed by: Rick Jacob, GPSA Registrar and MSYSA Nominating Committee Chair Rationale: For the health and vitality of our organization, we should strive to periodically seek out new ideas and experiences from our member organizations. It is a privilege to serve at the state level but it should not be allowed to become a career. After serving our group for 3 terms, we should thank our officers for their years of service and wish them well as they move on to a regional organization, return back to their local clubs or support this great game in some other way of their own choosing. Our member organizations are full of good people with great skills and a bounty of soccer experience. Approving this change would allow more opportunity for those interested to serve by removing some of the "conflict" associated with running against a long term incumbent. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee does NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. The current wording is very workable and it is not in the benefit of the organization to put itself at a disadvantage by eliminating experienced members willing to serve on the board. For the past number of years it has been difficult finding those who are willing to serve, so for those interested, the opportunities are there.

105 AMENDMENT #1C: Bylaw Article V. Officers. Section 3. Term of Office. Amend Section 3 by: Amending Paragraph B to read Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office, or more than (5) five consecutive terms as an officer. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office, or more than (5) five consecutive terms as an officer. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office, or more than (5) five consecutive terms as an officer. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Proposed by: John Staub, Canton Soccer Club President Rationale: Limiting the number of consecutive terms a person can serve as an officer of this organization ensures the following: 1. the promotion of new faces and current ideas into the decision-making process, and the elimination of career board members; and 2. the selection of leadership by merit instead of seniority. Opponents of this proposal will argue that term limits reduce a voter s right to choose their representatives and that an inexperienced board due to term limits may lead the organization astray. They may also point to difficulties created by term limits within the state legislature. All three arguments are invalid. The comparison to the state legislature is not accurate. The state legislature is a full-time job, and deals with the pressures of organizations, unions and lobbying firms and their financing. It is not a nonprofit lead by a volunteer board. An inexperienced board if one were to actually exist would still be guided by the bylaws and rules of this organization, as well as advised by the immediate past president. The day-to-day operations would still be conducted by the MSYSA office. The President position still requires a minimum of one year on the Board, which ensures the leader of the organization has experience. This is not a life-long ban for those who serve five consecutive terms. Anyone wishing to run for an officer position can do so the following year. Term limits do cause collateral damage: limiting voters rights is problematic, and there is a risk that a qualified and deserved person may be unable to run. However, this prospect is balanced by the possibility of problem-causing or lethargic career board members becoming entrenched in a position and causing the organization undue harm. It s important to remember that unlimited term limits may also keep talented and motivated candidates from running against more senior opponents. A term limited board member may be unfortunate given the right person, but they are not irreplaceable. Term limits should ensure that the officers of the organization better represent and are more informed of the current state of youth soccer in Michigan.

106 Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee does NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. The current wording is very workable and it is not in the benefit of the organization to put itself at a disadvantage by eliminating experienced members willing to serve on the board. For the past number of years it has been difficult finding those who are willing to serve, so for those interested, the opportunities are there.

107 AMENDMENT #1D: Bylaw Article V. Officers. Section 3. Term of Office. Amend Section 3 by: Amending Paragraph B to read Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office with the exception of the President, whom may serve four (4) consecutive terms. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office with the exception of the President, whom may serve four (4) consecutive terms. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Section 3. Term of Office A. All officers shall serve for a term of two (2) years or until their successors are elected or appointed. B. Elected officers shall assume office at the conclusion of the meeting at which they are elected. An officer may not serve more than (3) three consecutive terms in the same office with the exception of the President, whom may serve four (4) consecutive terms. C. Officers may be removed, with cause, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full member organizations at the annual general meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. Proposed by: MSYSA Bylaws Committee Rationale: As Michigan is the largest state in Region II, it takes an investment of time for the President to establish ones credibility at the Regional and National level. With only limited meetings at the Regional and National level each year it is difficult to build relationships with Presidents from other states and thus push critical issues at these levels that are important for soccer in Michigan. This amendment would allow Michigan's President additional time to establish themselves in the Regional and National organizations. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee RECOMMENDS adoption of this amendment.

108 AMENDMENT #2: Bylaw Article V. Officers. Section 4. Vacancy in Elected Office. Amend Section 4 by: Adding Paragraph C which reads For any vacancy filled, if the length of time served by the new officer in the position is 50% or greater of the normal term, this shall be deemed to be a "full term" served. Serving less than 50% of the normal term length shall not be recognized as a full term. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 4. Vacancy in Elected Office A. A vacancy in the office of president shall be filled by the vice-president. B. Any other vacancy in elected office shall be filled by ballot vote of the board of directors. Previous notice of any election shall be included in the call of the meeting. Section 4. Vacancy in Elected Office A. A vacancy in the office of president shall be filled by the vice-president. B. Any other vacancy in elected office shall be filled by ballot vote of the board of directors. Previous notice of any election shall be included in the call of the meeting. C. For any vacancy filled, if the length of time served by the new officer in the position is 50% or greater of the normal term, this shall be deemed to be a "full term" served. Serving less than 50% of the normal term length shall not be recognized as a full term. Section 4. Vacancy in Elected Office A. A vacancy in the office of president shall be filled by the vice-president. B. Any other vacancy in elected office shall be filled by ballot vote of the board of directors. Previous notice of any election shall be included in the call of the meeting. C. For any vacancy filled, if the length of time served by the new officer in the position is 50% or greater of the normal term, this shall be deemed to be a "full term" served. Serving less than 50% of the normal term length shall not be recognized as a full term. Proposed by: Rick Jacob, GPSA Registrar and MSYSA Nominating Chair Rationale: To determine eligibility to run for an elected office, further Bylaw clarification is needed with regards to time served by a person filling a vacancy. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee considers this amendment a clarification of the word "term" and RECOMMENDS adoption of this amendment. This will put in the Bylaw a clarification of what constitutes a "term" which is consistent with that addressed in Roberts Rules of Order.

109 AMENDMENT #3: Bylaw Article VII. Meetings. Section 2. Annual General Meetings. Amend Section 2 by: Strike out reference to 7C in paragraph D and replace simply with 7. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 2. Annual General Meetings A. Annual general meetings of MSYSA shall be held in the first quarter of the year at a time and place determined by the board of directors. B. Notice shall be mailed at least thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days before the meeting. C. Meetings shall be for the purpose of electing officers and commissioners, receiving reports of officers and committees, approving the actions of the board of directors (since previous Annual General Meeting), electing a nominating committee in the odd-numbered years, and such other business as may properly come before it. D. Voting for the annual general meetings is per Section 7C of this Article. Section 2. Annual General Meetings A. Annual general meetings of MSYSA shall be held in the first quarter of the year at a time and place determined by the board of directors. B. Notice shall be mailed at least thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days before the meeting. C. Meetings shall be for the purpose of electing officers and commissioners, receiving reports of officers and committees, approving the actions of the board of directors (since previous Annual General Meeting), electing a nominating committee in the odd-numbered years, and such other business as may properly come before it. D. Voting for the annual general meetings is per Section 7C of this Article. Section 2. Annual General Meetings A. Annual general meetings of MSYSA shall be held in the first quarter of the year at a time and place determined by the board of directors. B. Notice shall be mailed at least thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days before the meeting. C. Meetings shall be for the purpose of electing officers and commissioners, receiving reports of officers and committees, approving the actions of the board of directors (since previous Annual General Meeting), electing a nominating committee in the odd-numbered years, and such other business as may properly come before it. D. Voting for the annual general meetings is per Section 7 of this Article. Proposed by: MSYSA Bylaws Committee Rationale: The Bylaw Committee considers this a housekeeping amendment. The reference to paragraph C creates ambiguity and confusion. The original intention was to include the Executive Committee as members of the voting body as stated in Sec. 7 Paragraph. A of the same article. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee RECOMMENDS adoption of this amendment.

110 AMENDMENT #4: Bylaw Article VII. Meetings. Section 3. Special Meetings. Amend Section 3 by: Strike out reference to Section 7C in paragraph D and replace simply with Section 7. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 2. Special Meetings A. Special meetings of MSYSA may be called by the president or shall be called by the majority of the board of directors or upon petition by at least twenty-five (25) full members. B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time, place and purpose. C. No business other than that stated in the call may be transacted. D. Voting for the special meetings is per Section 7C of this Article. Section 2. Special Meetings A. Special meetings of MSYSA may be called by the president or shall be called by the majority of the board of directors or upon petition by at least twenty-five (25) full members. B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time, place and purpose. C. No business other than that stated in the call may be transacted. D. Voting for the special meetings is per Section 7C of this Article. Section 2. Special Meetings A. Special meetings of MSYSA may be called by the president or shall be called by the majority of the board of directors or upon petition by at least twenty-five (25) full members. B. Notification of the meeting shall take place no less than fifteen (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the meeting and shall state the time, place and purpose. C. No business other than that stated in the call may be transacted. D. Voting for the special meetings is per Section 7 of this Article. Proposed by: MSYSA Bylaws Committee Rationale: The Bylaw Committee considers this a housekeeping amendment. The reference to paragraph C creates ambiguity and confusion. The original intention was to include the Executive Committee as members of the voting body as stated in Sec. 7 Paragraph. A of the same article. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee RECOMMENDS adoption of this amendment.

111 AMENDMENT #5A: Bylaw Article VII. Meetings. Section 7. Voting Body. Paragraph A. Amend Section 7, Paragraph A by: Striking out Bullet Point #1 which reads Members of the executive committee and removing any numbered lists. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 7, Paragraph A. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. Section 7, Paragraph A. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. Section 7, Paragraph A. A. The voting body shall be composed of a representative from each full member organization in good standing. Proposed by: John Hall, GVSA President Rationale: Although serving important roles, the Executive Committee (President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary), should not have the right to vote on matters decided by the membership. This is an oversight that was never amended after the voting body was changed from weighted votes to one-voteper-member. In years past, weighted votes existed, which made the Executive Committee s voting more ceremonial than anything a league of 300 players possessed more voting power than an officer of the organization. With a one-vote-per-member bylaw in place, the members of the Executive Committee now have as much voting power as members of this association. Their ability to impact the outcome of votes pertaining to bylaws and elections especially considering the typical low attendance at Annual General Meetings is problematic. These votes are for members and decided by members; the officers serving on the Executive Committee are not member, and thus should not have the right to vote on member affairs. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee does NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. The Executive Committee was voted into office by the member organizations, who expect them to consider what is best for the organization as a whole. They are members of MSYSA, representing the total membership. For reference the executive committee consists of 4 voting members; President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary with the President voting only if there is a tie in the vote.

112 AMENDMENT #5B: Bylaw Article VII. Meetings. Section 7. Voting Body. Paragraph A. Amend Section 7, Paragraph A by: Adding the MSA Chairperson to the voting body and renumbering remaining items. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 7, Paragraph A. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. Section 7, Paragraph A. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. The MSA Chairperson 3. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. Section 7, Paragraph A. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. The MSA Chairperson 3. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. Proposed by: Robin Crawford, MSYSA Treasurer Rationale: This amendment will provide the MSA Chairperson a voice and a vote at the MSYSA AGM. This amendment is reciprocal to what is given to the MSYSA President at the MSA AGM. Currently, the MSA Chairperson has voice and vote at the MSYSA Board of Directors meetings. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee does NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. The MSA chairman participates at the board level within MSYSA and has some influence on the day-to-day structure of our organization. That is consistent with his advisory role within our association.

113 AMENDMENT #6: Bylaw Article VII. Meetings. Section 7. Voting Body. Amend Section 7 by: Striking out Bullet Point B which reads No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy and renumbering remaining items. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 7. Voting Body. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote in Section 7. Voting Body. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote Section 7. Voting Body. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote more than one (1) capacity. in more than one (1) capacity. in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting There shall be no absentee Proxy voting is permitted if or voting by proxy. voting or voting by proxy. the declaration is received by C. Each full member Proxy voting is permitted if that district s commissioner at organization in good standing the declaration is received least five (5) days prior to the shall have voice and one (1) vote, unless a weighted vote is called by that district s annual general meeting. The for regarding a motion, and commissioner at least five proxy statement must include authorized by a majority vote of (5) days prior to the annual the signature of that the quorum. Weighted votes for general meeting. The proxy organization s president and full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed statement must include the signature of that that of at least two other board members, and must clearly below. When the weighted vote organization s president and designate the name of the is called for and authorized by that of at least two other person representing that the assembly, as indicated in this board members, and must organization. For the entire Article, the members of the clearly designate the name meeting, the votes for every executive committee remain part of the person representing decision are given to the of the voting body. D. MSYSA member that organization. For the person carrying the proxy. The organizations shall register and entire meeting, the votes for district commissioner is retain player counts for their own every decision are given to responsible for notifying the players who play on teams in the person carrying the state soccer association other MSYSA member organizations. proxy. The district commissioner is responsible regarding leagues requesting a proxy vote. E. The weighted voting structure, for notifying the state soccer C. Each full member when used, will be one (1) vote association regarding organization in good standing per one-hundred (100) players. leagues requesting a proxy shall have voice and one (1) vote, vote. unless a weighted vote is called C. Each full member for regarding a motion, and organization in good standing authorized by a majority vote of shall have voice and one (1) vote, the quorum. Weighted votes for unless a weighted vote is called full member organizations will for regarding a motion, and follow the voting structure listed

114 authorized by a majority vote of the quorum. Weighted votes for full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body. D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations. E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players. below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body. D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations. E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players. Proposed by: Dan Raben, MSDSL Commissioner and MSYSA North District Commissioner Rationale: This association s Annual General Meeting and Special Presidents Meetings are significant events the decisions made during these meetings can shape the youth soccer landscape in this state for many years. The member organizations deserve to have their voice heard. Unfortunately, a member league s ability to have their voice heard is impaired by their inability to send a representative from their organization. Organizations may be unable to send their President or another league representative for several reasons: 1. schedule conflicts most organizations are lead by volunteers, who dedicate their time to their own organization and constituents, and may be unable to commit more time to attending a Special President s meeting that is 30 minutes long, or a day-long AGM. 2. geography although a large percentage of the state s youth soccer population is concentrated within our three Metro districts, there are many leagues in the West and North who have increased travel to and from these meetings who often choose not to have their voice heard instead of asking a league representative to attend. 3. cost for many of our members, there is additional cost inflicted on the member league to send a representative Several associations currently permit proxy voting. Opponents of this proposal will argue that a vote of significance will encourage representatives to attend, and for those who don t, the vote was not important to. While this is sound in theory, it does not occur in reality due to the aforementioned difficulties our members face. Leagues who wish to send a representative to these meetings will still do so. Those who are unable to do so deserve the right to have their voice still heard. Recommendation: With the following amendment, the Bylaw Committee RECOMMENDS adoption of this amendment. This is to amend the current practice where if a League President cannot attend the AGM, he/she may designate with an or letter another member from his/her League Board of Directors to represent and vote for the League. Currently that person must appear on the League Affiliation form on file with MSYSA. This amendment would allow someone other than their president, or their delegate of record, as a representative at an annual general meeting, or special meeting, by notification to the State Office in writing. This helps to make the procedure more flexible, clear and obvious.

115 Amendment to Proposal: Strike the last sentence in paragraph B, and replace with Proxy voting is permitted if the declaration is received by the State Office at least five (5) days prior to the meeting. The proxy statement must include the signature of that organization s president and that of at least two other board members. It must clearly designate the name of the person representing that organization. For the entire meeting, the votes for every decision are given to the person designated by the proxy. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 7. Voting Body. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy. Section 7. Voting Body. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. Proxy voting is permitted if the declaration is received by the State Office at least five (5) days prior to the meeting. The proxy statement must include the signature of that organization s president and that of at least two other board members. It must clearly designate the name of the person representing that organization. For the entire meeting, the votes for every decision are given to the person designated by the proxy. Section 7. Voting Body. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. Proxy voting is permitted if the declaration is received by the State Office at least five (5) days prior to the meeting. The proxy statement must include the signature of that organization s president and that of at least two other board members. It must clearly designate the name of the person representing that organization. For the entire meeting, the votes for every decision are given to the person designated by the proxy.

116 AMENDMENT #7: Bylaw Article VII. Meetings. Section 7. Voting Body. Amend Section 7 by: Amending Bullet Point C to read Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and vote according to the structure below: One (1) vote for one hundred (100) to five hundred (500) players Two (2) votes for five hundred and one (501) to one thousand (1,000) players Three (3) votes for one thousand and one (1,001) to two thousand (2,000) players Four (4) votes for two thousand and one (2,001) to three thousand (3,000) players Five (5) votes for three thousand and one (3,001) or more players Striking out Bullet Point E which reads The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one hundred players. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 7. Voting Body A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy. C. Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and one (1) vote, unless a weighted vote is called for regarding a motion, and authorized by a majority vote of the quorum. Weighted votes for full member organizations will follow the voting structure listed below. When the weighted vote is called for and authorized by the assembly, as indicated in this Article, the members of the executive committee remain part of the voting body. D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member organizations. E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote Section 7. Voting Body. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy. C. Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and vote according to the structure below: One (1) vote for one hundred (100) to five hundred (500) players Two (2) votes for five hundred and one (501) to one thousand (1,000) players Three (3) votes for one thousand and one (1,001) to two thousand (2,000) players Four (4) votes for two thousand and one (2,001) to three thousand (3,000) players Five (5) votes for three thousand and one (3,001) or more players D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in Section 7, Voting Body. A. The voting body shall be composed of the following: 1. Members of the executive committee; 2. A representative from each full member organization in good standing. B. No representative shall vote in more than one (1) capacity. There shall be no absentee voting or voting by proxy. C. Each full member organization in good standing shall have voice and vote according to the structure below: One (1) vote for one hundred (100) to five hundred (500) players. Two (2) votes for five hundred and one (501) to one thousand (1,000) players. Three (3) votes for one thousand and one (1,001) to two thousand (2,000) players. Four (4) votes for two thousand and one (2,001) to three thousand (3,000) players. Five (5) votes for three thousand and one (3,001) or more players D. MSYSA member organizations shall register and retain player counts for their own players who play on teams in other MSYSA member

117 per one-hundred (100) players. other MSYSA member organizations. E. The weighted voting structure, when used, will be one (1) vote per one-hundred (100) players. organizations. Proposed by: Yvonne Curtis, MYSL Vice President and MSYSA Metro East District Commissioner Rationale: A weighted voting system is common practice among state associations. The following state associations currently have weighted voting in their bylaws: Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Ohio North, Ohio South, and Wisconsin. A common concern about weighted votes is it prevents smaller leagues from having their voice heard. While this may have occurred in years past with the previous weighted voting structure (1 vote for 100 players registered), the proposed amendment still empowers smaller leagues while granting larger leagues who register a significantly more number of players a louder voice. Utilizing this structure and the registration data provided in last year s AGM book, the six largest leagues would possess 30 votes, while the voting body would consist of approximately 166 votes, plus the board members. The largest leagues in the state would have a louder voice, but not enough to approve or deny proposals. Approving this amendment returns our state association to a weighted voting structure that should never have been eliminated, without denying smaller leagues the opportunity to hear their voice. Recommendation: The Bylaw Committee does NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. The current vote breakdown was put into place at the last bylaw revision. It provides a balanced vote at the AGM giving greater representation and voice for the majority of the member leagues. The chart below shows breakdown of vote percentage (%) dependant on size of league as we currently operate (column 3) vs. that as per this amendment (column 6). Note average league size is 1117 players, based upon 2010 AGM. Players # Leagues % Total New # Votes Allowed New # Votes New # % Total % % % % % % % % % % Exec 4 5.0% % Totals % %

118 AMENDMENT #8: Bylaw Article VIII. Board of Directors. Section 3. Duties. Paragraph B. District Commissioners. Amend Section 3, Paragraph B by: Changing the number of district meetings per year from four (4) to one (1). Striking out Bullet Point #9 which reads Approve tournaments and bond releases and renumbering remaining items. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 3, Paragraph B. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold four (4) district meetings per year; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Approve tournaments and bond releases; 10. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary. Section 3, Paragraph B. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold at least one (1) district meeting per year; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Approve tournaments and bond releases; 10. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary. Section 3, Paragraph B. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold at least one (1) district meeting per year; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary.

119 Proposed by: Dan Raben, MSDSL Commissioner and MSYSA North District Commissioner Rationale: The District Commissioner role has changed, and their responsibilities within the bylaws need to be updated. Given the improved methods of communication , e-newsletters, mobile phones, text messaging, websites, etc hosting four district meetings is unnecessary, as the need to meet face-to-face on a quarterly basis to discuss youth soccer-related issues has been eliminated. An annual district meeting along with caucusing each year at the Annual General Meeting is ample time for member leagues to meet, and will ensure meetings are more effective with less frequency. District Commissioners are still permitted to host more than one meeting as they see fit. The tournament approval and bond release responsibilities are now the responsibility of the MSYSA office. This proposal updates a badly outdated bylaw. Recommendation: With the following amendment, the Bylaw Committee RECOMMENDS adoption of this amendment. District meetings provide the soccer community a chance to interact more than once a year to address issues as they arise. Not everyone is comfortable doing business by Internet. Internetlike communications do not cover all communication needs. The MSYSA office currently handles tournament activities such as approving tournaments and bond releases so these responsibilities are redundant and unnecessary by the District Commissioner. Amendment to Proposal: Strike the words in part 4 "four (4)", to be replaced with "three (3)" and add the words "with the AGM serving as one (1) of the meetings." CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 3, Paragraph B. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold four (4) district meetings per year; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for proposal to the board of directors for approval; Section 3, Paragraph B. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold three (3) district meetings per year with the AGM serving as one (1) of the meetings; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for Section 3, Paragraph B. B. The District Commissioners shall: 1. Be elected by their respective districts at the district s annual meeting, one (1) vote for each full member organization, one (1) commissioner from each district; 2. Be able to hold an office concurrently in a member organization, if already in office in the member organization; 3. Represent the MSYSA and coordinate activities within the district; 4. Hold three (3) district meetings per year with the AGM serving as one (1) of the meetings; 5. Attend their respective member organizations annual general meetings by invitation; 6. Review all bylaws received from new and existing member organizations; 7. Review a new member organization application for

120 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Approve tournaments and bond releases; 10. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary. proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Approve tournaments and bond releases; 10. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary. proposal to the board of directors for approval; 8. Review and assess tournament sites within the district for compliance with Risk Management, quality and quantity of fields, small-side game compliance and quality and quantity of referees; 9. Appoint an assistant district commissioner from their district, if necessary.

121 Section 9 MSPSP Financial Statement FYE June 30, 2010

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132 Section 10 MSPSP Budget

133 MSPSP BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 7/1/11 TO 6/30/12 REVENUE: REGISTRATION FEES $338, GAME FEE CHANGES 3, EARLY PASS CARDS 1, LATE REGISTRATION INTEREST TOTAL REVENUE $343, EXPENSES: PROGRAM SERVICES: MSYSA AFFILIATION FEES 185, POSTAGE 4, PRINTING AND COPYING 6, REFEREE FEES AND SCHEDULING 23, TELEPHONE 8, TROPHIES & AWARDS 8, WEBSITE & COMPUTER 7, PATCHES 3, MOVING EXPENSE 8, NEW OFFICE EQUIPMENT 7, DONATIONS 2, , SUPPORTING SERVICES: WAGES 20, PAYROLL TAXES 1, PAYROLL EXPENSE 1, RENT 16, DEPRECIATION 2, MEETING, CONFERENCES, TRAVEL 10, INSURANCE SUPPLIES 2, ACCOUNTING FEES 9, , TOTAL EXPENSES: $324, NET SURPLUS $18,775.00

134 Section 11 MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations

135 Effective July 1, 2010 Michigan State Premier Soccer Program Bylaws and Rules and Regulations Table of Contents Pages Contents 1 ARTICLE I Name and Purpose Article I. Section 1. Name. Article I. Section 2. Purpose. 1 ARTICLE II Members Article II. Section 1. Membership. Article II. Section 2. Method of Entry. Article II. Section 3. Divisional Placement of Teams. Article II. Section 4. Notice of Meetings. Article II. Section 5. Conduct of Meetings. 2 Article II. Section 6. Application Fees. 2 ARTICLE III Directors Article III. Section 1. Number and Qualifications. Article III. Section 2. Selections. Article III. Section 3. Quorum. Article III. Section 4. Action by Unanimous Written Consent. Article III. Section 5. Vacancies. Article III. Section 6. Regular Meetings 3 Article III. Section 7. General Powers as to Negotiable Paper. Article III. Section 8. Powers as to Other Documents. Article III. Section 9. Disciplinary Authority. 3 ARTICLE IV Committees Article IV. Section 1. Special Committees Article IV. Section 2. Other Committees Article IV. Section 3. Procedures. 4 Article IV. Section 4. Committee Action Without a Meeting 4 ARTICLE V Officers Article V. Section 1. Chairperson of the Board. Article V. Section 2. Vice Chairperson of the Board. Article V. Section 3. Secretary. Article V. Section 4. Registrar 4-5 Article V. Section 5. Treasurer. 5 Article V. Section 6. Scheduler. Article V. Section 7. Statistician. Article V. Section 8. Commissioner. Article V. Section 9. Chairperson Emeritus. 5 ARTICLE VI Advisors Article VI. Section 1. Referee Advisor. 5 ARTICLE VII Fiscal Year and Notices Article VII. Section 1. Fiscal Year. Article VII. Section 2. Notices. 6 ARTICLE VIII Miscellaneous Article VIII. Section 1. Affiliation. Article VIII. Section 2. Duties of Delegates. Article VIII. Section 3. Activities. Article VIII. Section 4. Gifts. Article VIII. Section 5. Dissolution. Article VIII. Section 6. Discrimination. 6 ARTICLE IX Amendments, Rules, and Regulations Article IX. Section 1. Amendments. Article IX. Section 2. Rules, Regulations and Policies. 7 MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PROGRAM RULES AND REGULATIONS Rule 1. General Cases and Line of Authority. 7-8 Rule 2. Disciplinary Ruling and Minimum Punishments. 8 Rule 3. Insurance. Rule 4. Laws of the Game. 8-9 Rule 5. Game Rules. 9 Rule 6. Age Limit Definition. 1

136 Effective July 1, Rule 7. Proof of Age. 10 Rule 8. Player Registration, League Entry and Team Affiliation Requirements. Rule 9. Challenge of a Player not in Possession of a Player Pass Card Rule 10. Player Release, Transfer, and Roster Limit Rule 11. Game Reports 12 Rule 12. Requirements of Players Rule 13. Coaches. 13 Rule 14. Uniforms Rule 15. Game Schedule Rule 16. Determination of Divisional Champions. 14 Rule 17. Ignorance of the Rules. Rule 18. Interpretations of the Bylaws and Rules. Rule 19. Rulings of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Rule 20. Team Definition. Rule 21. Elite Division Admission. Rule 22. Under 19 Open Division. BYLAWS 2

137 Effective July 1, 2010 and RULES AND REGLULATIONS of MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PRGRAM BYLAWS ARTICLE I Name and Purpose Article I. Section 1. Name. The name of this program shall be Michigan State Premier Soccer Program. The Premier Program may also use a name mutually agreed upon between itself and its' major sponsor(s) for the purpose of advertising, and public and/or community relations. Affiliated leagues shall not use the word "premier" in their league names Article I. Section 2. Purpose. The purpose of this Premier Program shall be to promote the development and execution of highly skilled youth soccer, sportsmanship, quality coaching and officiating within the State of Michigan. Article II. Section 1. Membership. ARTICLE II Members Membership shall be restricted to MSYSA affiliated member organizations. No team or club may be a member of this Premier Program but shall only be a member of the Premier Program through an affiliated MSYSA member organization. Any member organization affiliated with MSYSA is eligible for membership. The term member organization shall be used as defined in the MSYSA bylaws. Article II. Section 2. Method of Entry. Leagues must notify the Premier Program of the number of teams, which the affiliated league wishes to sponsor. This notification must be submitted on the designated Premier Program form, signed by an authorized League official, and must be received by the Premier Program no later than the date specified by the Premier Program. Article II. Section 3. Divisional Placement of Teams. This premier program starts at 11v11, however, any team may enter provided Article 1, Section 2 is adhered to. Affiliated leagues may sponsor U13 teams in the fall season only; no U13 teams will be accepted in the spring season. U13teams will be placed into divisions by the MSPSP board. If the MSPSP program exceeds 22 new teams or more for U13, they will be divisioned by a random draw. Existing teams shall be grouped into playing divisions based upon the record of team during the previous MSPSP season. All other teams shall be placed in the lowest division of play in a divisional availability basis (matrix will be set by the MSPSP Board of Directors.) The MSPSP reserves the right and may relegate out the bottom 25% of teams in each and every age group based on maximum points. Article II. Section 4. Notice of Meetings. The MSPSP Board of Directors at their discretion shall call meetings of member leagues and/or team representatives. Notice of such meetings shall be made as determined by the MSPSP Board of Directors to provide sufficient notification, and shall include the time, date and place of such meetings. Article II. Section 5. Conduct of Meetings. Meetings of the member leagues and/or team representatives shall be presided over by a Chairperson of the meeting who shall be the Chairperson of the MSPSP Board of Directors or, if the Chairperson is not present, by the Vice Chairperson or, if neither is present, by the Secretary or, if the Secretary is not present, by any other member of the MSPSP Board of Directors. In the absence of the Secretary, a person will be chosen to act as secretary of the meeting. All meetings of this Premier Program shall be conducted in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order, latest edition. Attendance at all meetings of the Premier Program is required of the MSPSP Board of Directors and its member leagues and/or team representatives. 3

138 Effective July 1, 2010 Article II. Section 6. Application Fees. Application fees for all teams in the amount determined from time to time by the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be payable at the time of team registration. All teams and sponsoring leagues fines and/or bonds must be paid prior to registration. All payments must be drawn on U.S. banks, financial institutions, or U.S. currency. No foreign financial institutions drafts will be accepted. Article III. Section 1. Number and Qualifications. ARTICLE III Directors The property, business, and affairs of the Premier Program shall be managed by its MSPSP Board of Directors. The MSPSP Board of Directors shall consist of the following: Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Registrar, Scheduler, Commissioner, Statistician, and Chairperson Emeritus (an ex officio non-voting member). Article III. Section 2. Selections. (1) The Chairperson, Secretary/Treasurer, and Scheduler, shall be elected by the MSYSA affiliated leagues in odd numbered years, at the annual general membership meeting of that body and shall serve a term of two years beginning on July 1st of the year in which elected. (2) The Vice Chairperson/Registrar, Statistician, and Commissioner shall be elected by the MSYSA affiliated leagues in even numbered years and shall serve term of two years commencing on July 1 of the year in which elected. (3) The MSPSP Board of Directors may appoint, at their sole discretion, other agents of the Premier Program, who shall serve at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Directors, officers and agents need not be members of an affiliated league. Article III. Section 3. Quorum. A majority of the MSPSP Board of Directors then in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business and the action of a majority of the MSPSP Board of Directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the action of the MSPSP Board of Directors, except as action by a majority of the Directors then in office may be specifically required by other sections of these bylaws. If at a meeting of the MSPSP Board of Directors there shall be less than a quorum present, a majority of those present may adjourn the meeting from time to time until a quorum shall have been obtained. Article III. Section 4. Action by Unanimous Written Consent. If and when the MSPSP Directors shall severally or collectively consent in writing to any action to be taken by the Premier Program either before or after the action is taken, that action shall be as valid corporate action as though it had been authorized at a meeting of the MSPSP Directors and written consents shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Article III. Section 5. Vacancies. Whenever any vacancy shall occur in the MSPSP Board of Directors by reason of death, resignation, removal, or otherwise, a majority of the MSPSP Directors then in office, though less then a quorum, may fill the vacancy at any meeting, and the person so elected shall, if confirmed by the MSYSA, MSPSP Board of Directors, be a director until affirmed by the membership as provided in Article III Section 2. The resignation of a Director shall be effective upon receipt by the Premier Program or a subsequent time as set forth in the notice of resignation. A Director or the entire MSPSP Board of Directors may be removed, with or without cause, by a vote of the majority of the members entitled to vote at an election of MSPSP Directors. If a Director misses three consecutive meetings, this Director must declare his/her intentions to the membership, and failing to do so, this office shall be declared vacant and filled in accordance with this section. Article III. Section 6. Regular Meetings. Meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be held monthly and can be held without notice at such other times or intervals and at such places within the State of Michigan as may from time to time be determined by resolution of the Board. The resolution may authorize the Chairperson to fix the specific date and place of each regular meeting, in which case notice of the time and place of such regular meetings shall be given in the manner hereinafter provided with respect to special meetings of the Board. Delegates meetings will be held monthly at a time and place and in a manner designated by the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors. Each member league currently sponsoring a team or teams must send a delegate to attend the monthly meeting. Any league not in attendance and not excused will be subject to fine as set by the MSPSP Board of Directors. 4

139 Effective July 1, 2010 Article III. Section 7. General Powers as to Negotiable Paper. The MSPSP Board of Directors shall, from time to time, prescribe the manner of making, signing, or endorsing of checks, drafts, notes, acceptances, bills of exchange, obligations and other negotiable paper or other instruments for the payment of money and designate the officer or officers, agent or agents, who shall from time to time be authorized to make, sign or endorse the same on behalf of the Premier Program. Article III. Section 8. Powers as to Other Documents. The MSPSP Board of Directors subject to approval of MSYSA Board of Directors may authorize any officer or officers, agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute or deliver any conveyance or other instrument in the name of the Premier Program, and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. When the execution of any contract, conveyance or other instrument has been authorized without specification of the officers authorized to execute, the same may be executed on behalf of the Premier Program by the Chairperson or Vice Chairperson, and attested by the Secretary, the Treasurer, or Registrar. Article III. Section 9. Disciplinary Authority. The MSPSP Board of Directors has authority to bar completely, suspend or otherwise discipline any player, coach, manager, team assistant, trainer, club officer, league officer, or other person associated with any team playing within the Premier Program, whether such person is paid or unpaid by one or more players, teams, clubs, or leagues. Article IV. Section 1. Special Committees. ARTICLE IV Committees The MSPSP Board of Directors may designate two or more of their number to constitute a special committee, who, during intervals between the meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors and subject to such limitations as may be required by law or imposed by resolution of the MSPSP Board of Directors, shall have the right and may exercise all powers and authority of the MSPSP Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the Premier Program, except that such special committees shall not have power or authority to: (A) Amend the article of incorporation; (B) Recommend to members a dissolution of the Premier Program or a revocation of a dissolution; (C) Amend the bylaws of the Premier Program; (D) Fill vacancies in the Board. Article IV. Section 2. Other Committees. The MSPSP Board of Directors may designate one or more of their numbers to constitute any other committee, who shall have only such powers as are expressly granted to them in such resolution. Subject to the approval of the MSPSP Board of Directors, the Chairperson may appoint other committees as required. The resolutions establishing committees and designating their members shall be passed by a majority of the MSPSP Directors then in office. Article IV. Section 3. Procedures. All committees, and each member thereof, shall serve at the discretion of the MSPSP Board of Directors. The MSPSP Board of Directors shall have the power at any time to increase or decrease the number of members of any committee, to fill vacancies, to change any member and to change the functions or terminate the existence of any committee. The MSPSP Board of Directors may designate one or more MSPSP Directors or other persons as alternate members of a committee who may replace an absent or disqualified member at a meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the members present at a meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the MSPSP Board of Directors to act at the meeting in place of an absent or disqualified member. The Special Committee and all other committees, if the MSPSP Board of Directors shall not have designated a chairperson thereof, shall elect a chairperson from their membership. All committees shall elect a secretary who need not be a member of the committee and who shall keep minutes of all meetings of the committee, which shall be submitted at the next meeting of the MSPSP Board of Directors for approval. Regular or special meetings of any committee may be held in the manner provided in the bylaws for regular or special meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors, and a majority of any committee shall constitute a quorum at any meeting. Article IV. Section 4. Committee Action Without a Meeting. 5

140 Effective July 1, 2010 If and when members of the Special Committee or any other committee shall severally or collectively consent in writing to any action authorized to be taken by the committee, either before or after the action is taken, the action shall be valid committee action as though it had been authorized at a meeting of the committee and the written consents shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the committee. Article V. Section 1. Chairperson of the Board. ARTICLE V Officers The Chairperson of the Board shall preside at all meetings of the members and of the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/she shall be the chief executive officer of the Premier Program and shall have general and active management of the activities of the Premier Program, and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board are carried into effect. As Chairperson, he/she shall attend all MSYSA Delegate and Board meetings and report all program activities to the MSYSA Board of Directors. He/She shall execute all authorized conveyances, contracts, or other obligations in the name of the Premier Program except where required by law to be otherwise signed and executed and except where the signing execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the MSPSP Board of Directors to some other officer or agent of the Premier Program. He/She shall assure all Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors members and Committees have their duties completed in a timely and proper fashion. Article V. Section 2. Vice Chairperson/Registrar. The Vice-Chairperson/Registrar of the Board, in the absence of the Chairperson, shall preside at all meetings of the members and of the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall represent the Program at all functions/meetings in the absence of the Chairperson. He/ She shall be the MSYSA Delegate for the Program. He/She shall be responsible, along with the other members of the Board, for preparing the coaches packets that are handed out prior to the start of each season. The Vice-Chairperson/Registrar shall keep a complete record of all teams and players for the purpose of player registration and team affiliation. He/She shall issue pass cards to each player, coach, assistant coach, and manager. He/She shall keep a count of all players and coaches. He/She shall provide a copy of all rosters to any member of the MSPSP Board of Directors requesting such copy and the MSYSA Registrar, and, shall notify all MSPSP Board of Directors upon request and the MSYSA Registrar of all changes in the team rosters Article V. Section 3. Secretary/Treasurer. The Secretary/Treasurer shall attend all meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors and all meetings of the member leagues and/or team representatives, and shall record all votes and minutes of all proceedings in a form and manner specified by the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall give or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the member leagues and/or team representatives and any meetings of the MSPSP Board of Directors for which notice may be required, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the MSPSP Board of Directors or the Chairperson, under whose supervision he/she shall act. He/She shall execute with the Chairperson all authorized conveyances, contracts or other instruments in the name of the Premier Program except as otherwise directed by the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall keep in safe custody the seal of the Program, if there is one, and affix or cause it to be affixed to any instrument requiring a seal. The Secretary will have the responsibility of filing the Michigan Annual Report. He/She shall send out, to member leagues, team representatives, MSPSP Board of Directors members, and/or Committee members, all official correspondence from the MSPSP Board of Directors or any of its' Committees or members. The Secretary/Treasurer shall have custody of the funds and securities of the Premier Program and shall keep full and complete records and shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Premier Program in such depositories as may be designated by the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall disburse the funds of the Premier Program as may be ordered by the MSPSP Board of Directors, making proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render whenever The MSPSP Board of Directors may require it, an accounting of all transactions as Secretary/Treasurer and of the financial condition of the Premier Program. If required by the MSPSP Board of Directors, the Secretary/Treasurer shall give the Premier Program a bond in such sum and with surety or sureties as shall be satisfactory to assure the restoration to the Premier Program (in case of death, resignation, or removal from office) of all books, records, papers, vouchers, moneys, negotiable paper, and other property of whatever kind in his/her possession or under his/her control and belonging to the Premier Program. The Secretary/Treasurer shall also be responsible for preparing any and all Federal and State tax returns. The Secretary/ Treasurer shall be responsible for preparing any and all papers regarding the Tax Exempt status of the Premier Program. He/She shall submit the financial records to the auditor within 30 days of the fiscal year end. The Premier Program s audited Financial Report shall be submitted to the MSYSA days 30 prior to the MSYSA AGM. He/She shall, with the approval of the MSPSP Board of Directors, prepare the budget and set the registration fees. He/She shall collect all application fees, moneys from sponsor(s), performance bonds, fines, or other miscellaneous income. He/She shall be responsible for the payment of all bills incurred in the operation of the Premier Program and shall review and approve any expenses the MSPSP Board of Directors or Committee members may expend in the performance of their duties. 6

141 Effective July 1, 2010 Article V. Section 4. Scheduler. The Premier Scheduler shall be responsible, together with the MSPSP Board of Directors, for the divisional placement of all teams registered in the Premier Program. He/She shall make or cause to be made a schedule for the regular playing season for each division. The Premier Scheduler must approve any changes in the schedule. He/She shall issue any forfeits for games scheduled that are not played. He/She shall be the final approving authority in the determination of rescheduling disputes. Article V. Section 5. Statistician. The Statistician shall be responsible for making sure accurate and up to date standings are kept for all divisions. He/she shall be provided a report from the program administrator of all violation and suspension data gathered from game sheets. He/she will make sure all suspensions are served. He/she shall provide a report to the MSPSP Board of Directors with this data. Article V. Section 6. Commissioner. The Commissioner shall investigate all protests and issue a decision along with the MSPSP Board of Directors. He/She shall issue a report, in writing, to the MSPSP Board of Directors as to the disposition of every protest. He/She shall act as chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee. He/She or his/her appointee shall preside at all Disciplinary Committee meetings and hearings. Article V. Section 7. Chairperson Emeritus. The Chairperson Emeritus is the immediate past Chairperson of the MSPSP Board of Directors and shall provide advice and consul to the MSPSP Board of Directors and shall perform other duties as mutually agreed upon. The Chairperson Emeritus shall be an ex-officio nonvoting member of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Article VI. Section 1. Referee Advisor. ARTICLE VI Officers The Referee Advisor shall receive all referee correspondence and make any necessary recommendations to the appropriate referee organization(s) and take any necessary action. Article VII. Section 1. Fiscal Year. ARTICLE VII Fiscal Year and Notices The fiscal year of the Premier Program shall be July 1 through June 30. Article VII. Section 2. Notices. Any notice required by statute or by these Bylaws to be given to the member leagues and/or team representatives, to the Directors, or to any officers of the Premier Program, unless another requirement is provided herein or in any statute, shall be sufficient if given by depositing it in a United States post office box or receptacle in a sealed, postage paid wrapper, addressed to the member, trustee or officer at his/her last address as that appears on the records of the Premier Program, and the notice shall be deemed to have been given at the time of the mailing Article VIII. Section 1. Affiliation. ARTICLE VIII Miscellaneous The Premier Program shall be an Affiliated member of and comply with the authority of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, the United States Youth Soccer Association and the United States Soccer Federation. Except where restricted of prohibited by law, these bylaws and superseded by the requirements of the United States Youth Soccer Association. 7

142 Effective July 1, 2010 Article VIII. Section 2. Duties of Delegates. Delegates should regularly meet with all team coaches sponsored by their League. All team profiles, team rosters, team information sheet, and player registration forms will be distributed through the league delegate. The delegate will be responsible to return all registration information to the Premier Program for the teams they are sponsoring at the Registration meeting. Article VIII. Section 3. Activities. In the accomplishment of its purposes and exercise of its powers, no part of the assets, funds or income of the Premier Program shall inure to the benefits of any private individual, corporation, contributor or member as earnings or dividends of the Premier Program. No substantial part of the activities of the Premier Program shall be carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation or other political action. The Premier Program shall not participate or intervene in any political campaign or publish or distribute any statement or spend any funds on behalf of any candidate for public office. The accomplishment of its purpose and exercise of its power by the Premier Program shall be in conformity with the requirements of Act 54, Michigan Public Acts of 1963 an amended or supplemented by State or Federal Legislation. Article VIII. Section 4. Gifts. The MSPSP Board of Directors, the Chairperson, or any person expressly so authorized by the MSPSP Board of Directors may accept gifts on behalf of the Premier Program for the general purposes of the Premier Program, but no conditional contribution, gift, bequest or devise for the purpose more restricted than the general purposes of the Premier Program shall be finally accepted without prior approval of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Article VIII. Section 5. Dissolution. Upon liquidation and /or dissolution and winding up the affairs of the Premier Program, whether voluntarily or otherwise, and after payment of all debts and liabilities of the Premier Program, the assets of the Premier Program remaining in the hands of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be distributed, transferred, conveyed, delivered and paid over to the MSYSA. Article VIII. Section 6. Discrimination. Girls teams, boys teams, and coed teams (which shall be considered a boys team) shall be established on an equal basis. Article IX. Section 1. Amendments. ARTICLE IX Amendments, Rules, and Regulations These bylaws may be altered or repealed or new bylaws in lieu thereof by a two-thirds vote of the affiliated leagues at the MSYSA general membership meeting with votes being cast in the same ratio as used for MSYSA business. Article IX. Section 2. Rules, Regulations, and Policies. The Rules, Regulations and Policies of this Premier Program as now established and as hereafter amended may be altered, repelled, or new Rules and Regulations, and Policies may be adopted in lieu thereof by a majority of the MSPSP Board of Directors then in office and present at a meeting of the MSPSP Board of Directors, if a notice of the proposed alteration, repeal or substitution is contained in the notice of the meeting and the proposed alteration, repeal or substitution is approved by the affiliated league at the MSYSA annual general membership meeting with votes being cast in the same ratio as used for MSYSA business. Rule 1. General Cases and Line of Authority. MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PROGRAM RULES AND REGULATIONS Section 1. General Cases. In general cases, the Premier Program shall be responsible for governing those persons associated with its' functioning and operation. It is the duty of all officials and coaches to report immediately any infraction of these rules to the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors. 8

143 Effective July 1, 2010 Section 2. Line of Authority. Should any person, team or league want to appeal any adverse decision, the line of authority shall be to the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors and then to the MSYSA. Rule 2. Disciplinary Ruling and Minimum Punishments. Section 1. Offensive, Insulating or Abusive Language. Players, coaches, or other team officials guilty of using offensive, insulating or abusive language before, during, or after a game as evidenced by the issuance of a Red card by the official at the game site shall receive a minimum of a two (2) game suspension. Any other person associated with the team guilty of the above offenses may cause the senior official to receive disciplinary action. Section 2. Violent Conduct and/or Serious Foul Play. Players guilty of violent conduct or serious foul play before, during, or after a game as evidenced by the issuance of a Red card by the official at the game site shall receive a minimum of a two- (2) game suspension. Section 3. Persistent Misconduct. Players, coaches, or other team officials guilty of persistent misconduct before, during, or after a game as evidenced by the issuance of two Yellow cards or a Red card by the official at the game site shall receive a minimum of a one (1) game suspension. Section 4. Pushing or Striking. (1) Players guilty of pushing or striking any coach, team official, or referee shall receive a minimum of one (1) year suspension; whether or not such an offense occurs at a game. (2) Coaches, managers, or other team officials guilty of pushing or striking any league official, coach, manager, player, referee, or assistant referee shall receive a minimum of a two- (2) year suspension; whether or not such an offense occurs at a game. Repeat offenders shall be barred from any further participation in the Premier Program. Section 5. Sent Off. Players or team officials sent off the field by the official at the game site shall receive a minimum of a one- (1) game suspension. Section 6. Alteration and/or Falsification of Birth Records and/or Rosters. Any coach, manager, team official, or player who knowingly alters any roster or game report or causes any roster or game report to be altered, or falsifies any birth date or causes any birth date to be falsified, or affixes or causes to be affixed to any pass card a photograph of any person other than the person named thereon may receive up to a seven (7) year suspension. Section 7. Multiple Offenses - Coaches and/or Teams. (1) Any coach, manager, team official, or player receiving three (3) Yellow cards in any single playing season shall automatically be issued a Red card for the next physically played Premier Program game. This is considered a one- (1) game suspension. (2) Any coach, manager, team official, or player receiving two (2) Red Cards is immediately suspended without notice from participating at any Premier Program games until an appearance before Premier Program Disciplinary Committee. It is incumbent upon the offender to request such a hearing from said Committee. Section 8. Tournament Suspensions. Any Red card suspension from any USYSA sanctioned Tournament not served within the issuing tournament(s), shall be served with a one (1) game suspension in the next physically played Premier Program game. Additional tournament issued suspensions shall be reviewed by the Disciplinary Committee for the imposition of additional penalties. Section 9. Playing Suspended Players. Any coach who allows a player to play in a game, during which that player was to serve a suspension, shall receive a two (2) game suspension. Repeat offenses by the same coach shall result in a Disciplinary hearing at which further action may be taken. Any team, which allows a player, who has received three (3) Yellow cards or a Red card, to play in a game, during which that player was to serve a suspension, shall suffer a forfeit of that game, and may be subject to a fine set by the MSPSP Board of Directors. Section 10. Participation by Suspended Team Officials. Any coach who allows a team official (coach, assistant coach, manager, etc.) to participate in a game, during which that team official was to serve a suspension, shall receive a two (2) game suspension. Repeat offenses by the same coach shall result in a Disciplinary hearing at which further action may be taken. Any team, which allows a team official to participate in a game, during which that team official was to serve a suspension, shall suffer a forfeit of that game, and may be subject to a fine set by the MSPSP Board of Directors. Section 11. Failure to Appear. Any coach, manager, team official, or player who fails to appear at a scheduled disciplinary hearing without due cause and seventy-two (72) hours notice will be suspended until such time as another hearing can be scheduled. 9

144 Effective July 1, 2010 Section 12. Application of Suspensions. All suspensions and/or probation s listed in sections 1 through 10 of these rules apply to the next physically played Premier Program game, whether or not such game is within the same season or seasonal year. Any forfeited game, canceled game or postponed game is not considered a played game. Rule 3. Insurance. Insurance shall be obtained through MSYSA via each team's affiliated league. Rule 4. Laws of the Game. Section 1. Rules of Play. The rules of play shall be the "Laws of the Game", as published by F.I.F.A. All contests sanctioned by Premier Program shall abide by the "Laws of the Game", and the modifications as permitted by the Premier Program shall be published under separate cover. Section 2. Bylaws. All teams, players, coaches, managers, team officials, clubs, and/or leagues will follow the Bylaws of this Premier Program, MSYSA and USSF. Rule 5. Game Rules. Section 1. Abandonment of Game. (1) Any game, which is abandoned because of inclement weather or darkness after 2/3 of the regulation time has been played, will be considered as a completed game. If 2/3 of the regulation time has not been completed, the game will be replayed in its entirety prior to the end of the scheduled season. (2) Any game abandoned for any other reason shall result in a review by the MSPSP Board of Directors as to the circumstances leading to the abandonment and a decision shall be rendered. Section 2. Length of Games and Size of Ball. The length of games and the ball size shall be as follows: Age Length of Game Ball Size U Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U Minute Halves Size 5 Ball U Minute Halves Size 5 Ball Section 3. Substitutions. The number of substitutions shall be unlimited unless competition under MSYSA jurisdiction determines otherwise. Substitutes may not enter the field of play until receiving a signal to do so from the referee and must do so at the half line. Substitutions may be made at the following times: (A) Prior to a throw-in, with the following exception: If the team taking the throw-in does not substitute, then the substitution is prohibited. (B) Prior to a goal kick, by either team. (C) After a goal is scored by either team. (D) After an injury, by either team, when the referee stops play. (E) At half time. (F) After a Yellow card, the carded player(s) may be substituted, and if substituted, the opposing team may substitute a like number of players. Substitutes may not enter the field of play until receiving a signal to do so from the referee. Section 4. Reporting of Scores. The winning team is responsible for notifying the Premier Program Statistician of the outcome of the game per instructions issued prior to the beginning of each season immediately following the game, to notify him/her of the outcome. In the event of a tie score, the home team shall be responsible for reporting the score. If A Game Score Is Not Reported Properly Within Forty-Eight (48) Hours Of The Date And Time The Game Is Played, A Penalty Set By The MSPSP Board or Directors for Each Violation Shall Be Imposed Upon The Team In Violation. Section 5. Delayed Game Start. Any team delaying the start of a scheduled game by more than fifteen (15) minutes without authorization from the Premier Program shall forfeit the game to their opponent and shall be responsible for full payment of the game officials' fees. Section 6. Failure to Appear for a Game. In the event that both teams do not appear for a scheduled game and the Referee rule the grounds playable, then both teams shall be assessed with a loss and the referee's fees. Section 7. Coaching from the Sidelines. Giving direction to one's own team on points of strategy and position is allowed pursuant to and in accordance with FIFA rules of the game. No mechanical or electrical devices are permitted and no coach manager, team official, or substitute is to be anywhere except on the sidelines within 25 yards of the halfway line of that team's bench side of the field during the 10

145 Effective July 1, 2010 game. Only those persons in possession of a passcard shall be allowed within the permissible coaching area. Likewise only persons with a pass card showing them to be a player, coach, assistant coach, manager, or team official shall be allowed to coach (give direction from the sidelines). Teams shall take opposite sidelines for their benches. Home teams have choice of preferred sidelines. Parents must take the same sideline as their respective team. Section 8. Home Team Responsibilities. (1) If that both teams wear uniforms that are of the same or similar colors, the home team must effect a change to colors that are distinct from those of the opponent. (See Rule 12 Visitor may change) (2) The home team shall be responsible for the condition of the grounds, the proper field markings, and proper equipment. Goal nets and corner flags are required. (3) The home team shall be responsible for providing a game ball. (4) In the event the referee declares the condition of the grounds improper due to improper or no markings, no corner flags, or no nets; the game is to be rescheduled. Both teams will pay their half of the referee fees for the cancelled game. The referee fees for the rescheduled game will be paid in full by the team whose field did not comply with the MSPSP Rules and Regulations. The rescheduled game will take place at the home field of the original visiting team. Section 9. Team Display of Sportsmanship. The traditional line-up for good sportsmanship shall take place prior to the start of the game and be presided over by the referees and coaches. All players, substitutes, coaches, assistant coaches, managers, or other team officials shall participate. Infraction of this rule constitutes unsporting conduct and is subject to disciplinary action as such. Rule 6. Age Limit Definition. Section 1. Youth. The term Youth as applied to these bylaws shall mean an amateur player who has not attained his/her 19th birthday before the first day of August of the seasonal year in which he/she applies for registration. Section 2. Attaining Age Limit. Players attaining the limiting age for any age group on or after August 1st, will be eligible to play for the remainder of the seasonal year. Section 3. Reinstated Player. A reinstated player shall mean a player who has been reinstated to an amateur youth status. Section 4. Age Groups. (1) Eligibility for age groups shall be determined by a player s age on August 1st of the seasonal year. (2) There will be single year age group (U-13 through U-19) in both the Boys and Girls divisions when enough teams are registered to comprise a division. (3) If there are not at least four (4) teams registered in an age division, there will be no division for that particular age group. (4) No team shall be allowed to play in an age group unless a minimum of 51% of the rostered players on that team were born within the year(s) specified for that specific age group (e.g. a team which rosters fifteen (15) players and wishes to play as a U-13 team must roster at least eight players who have attained the age of twelve (12) prior to August 1st of that seasonal year). No team shall be allowed to roster players who are too old for the age group they are playing in. (5) No player may play up more than two (2) age divisions except as defined in Rule 22. Rule 7. Proof of Age. Section 1. Authority to Contest. Any player can be called upon to prove his/her legal age by the MSPSP Board of Directors or the Registrar. Section 2. Legal Proof of Age. A birth certificate, drivers license, passport, board of health records, certificate of naturalization, or alien registration card shall be sufficient for proof of age. Rule 8. Player Registration, League Entry and Team Affiliation Requirements. Section 1. Player Registration (1) Players are registered to and mutually bound with a team when the Premier Program Registration form is signed by the player, his/her parent or guardian (for players under age 18), and the team coach. A copy of the signed and dated registration form must be given to the player at this time and no registration form shall be signed until or on or after June 15. Completion of this form by all parties binds the player to that team and its' affiliating league and binds the team and its' affiliating league to that player for the entire seasonal year which runs from September 1st to August 31st unless a release is granted under Rule 10. (2) Each affiliating league which wishes to sponsor a team or teams in the Premier Program shall be required to submit to the appropriate Premier Program officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the Premier Program and pay all fines, dues or fees, that may be levied by the Premier Program. (3) The final registration date for each playing season shall be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors. (4) Proof of age must accompany all registration forms when submitted to the Premier Program. 11

146 Effective July 1, 2010 Section 2. Player Possession of Pass Card. (1) All coaches, managers, and players shall present to the referee their pass cards, which shall be signed by the named individual and shall have a current photograph of the named individual permanently affixed, before the start of each game. (2) All pass cards are to be returned to the Coach. (3) If a player, coach, manager, or other team official is ejected for misconduct, then the Referee official must sign the Referee Game Report at the conclusion of the game. It is incumbent upon the Coach, Assistant Coach, Manager, or other team official to institute the proper suspension for committing such misconduct and indicate the reason for sitting out on subsequent Game Reports. (4) Should any players' pass card not be available, they shall be permitted to play in the game after having fulfilled the requirements of rule 9. However, they shall be open to "Challenge" by the opposing team under rule 9. (5) A fee set by the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be assessed for the replacement of a lost pass card. Section 3. Application Fees and Performance Bond. (1) Application fees shall be set prior to registration for each season. (2) Performance Bonds in an amount to be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors may be required. Section 4. Multiple Registration. (1) A player cannot play for more than one team in the Premier Program. (2) In the case of a player being registered to more than one team, the Premier Program team must be his/her primary team. (3) No pass card shall be issued by the Premier Program for tournament play only. Section 5. Club Passcards: (1) Players registered in the MSPSP may use their MSPSP player passcard to play for older age group teams within their same club that are also registered in the MSPSP. (2) Players registered in the MSPSP may use their MSPSP player passcard to play within their age group from a lower division team to a higher division team. (3) MSPSP passcards utilized in this manner are considered Club Passcards. (4) Teams utilizing an MSPSP club player passcards must meet all other roster requirements. (5) Each club will be responsible for identifying their MSPSP club passcards by adding a unique identification to the MSPSP passcard, i.e., sticker, stamp. etc. (6) MSPSP teams are limited to three (3) club passcarded players per game. Rule 9. Challenge of a Player not in Possession of a Player Pass Card. Section 1. Procedure. (1) If a player does not present a player pass card to the Referee prior to the game, he/she shall give his/her name, signature, and birth date to the Referee, who shall note this information on his Referee Game Report, and shall at the conclusion of the game, advise the coach of the opposing team of this information and make it available to him/her. (2) The opposing team coach has a right to challenge such a player by contacting the Vice-Chairperson for verification that the challenged player(s) is/are properly registered and eligible to play. If the Premier Program records show the player(s) is/are properly registered and eligible to play, the matter is finished. Section 2. Penalties. If a challenged player(s) is/are not properly registered or eligible to play, the offending team shall automatically forfeit that game and the coach may face further disciplinary action by the Premier Program, and receive up to a seven (7) year suspension under Rule 2 Section 6. Rule 10. Player Release, Transfer, and Roster Limit. Section 1. Release. A registered player, a player that has signed the proper MSPSP Registration Form, shall be committed to one Premier Program team for the entire seasonal year. Once registered, a player should remain with his/her team until June 30th of that seasonal year. However, any player wishing a release shall be granted one. Any player wishing a release must complete the MSYSA release form and must submit same and the appropriate fee to the MSYSA Registrar who shall process the release. Section 2. Inter-Premier Program Player Transfer. A player who has secured a release from his/her original team may be granted a transfer to a new Premier Program team upon the completion of the MSYSA transfer form and submission of same with the appropriate fee to the MSYSA Registrar who shall complete the transfer if approved by the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors. All denials shall be forwarded to the MSYSA Board of Directors for their review and concurrence. The MSPSP discourages and will not approve a transfer from one MSPSP team to another MSPSP team except for the following: (A) A player has moved his/her residence more than 60 miles. (B) The player s current team has disbanded. 12

147 Effective July 1, 2010 (C) Intra-League Transfers. Section 3. Poaching. The period of time on or after June 15th until the day of registration of the Premier Program shall be the designated open recruiting period. During this period of time any player, coach, manager, trainer, player parent or guardian, team official, or any other person associated with the team, may freely discuss new affiliation with players, who have not registered with any other Premier Program team for the following seasonal year, or if previously registered with another team have previously received a release from that team and had the same signed by the MSYSA Registrar. Any attempt to induce a registered player to change teams during the present seasonal year or for following seasonal year shall be deemed poaching." Any player, coach, team official, player parent or guardian, or any other agent associated with the team who attempts to induce a registered player to change MSPSP teams from July 1 to June 14 of the seasonal year, shall be deemed poaching. Any of the above that are charged with poaching shall be brought before the MSPSP Disciplinary Committee. Section 4. Transfer Cut-off Dates. The MSPSP Board of Directors may set cut-off dates for player transfers for each season or seasonal year. Section 5. Team Tryouts. Team tryouts cannot be held prior to June 15. All tryouts for teams playing in the Premier Program shall be advertised or published. No fees may be charged to any player for attending a team tryout. No player shall sign a registration form as a requirement for the tryout. Any form so executed shall be declared null and void by the Premier Program. Section 6. Roster Limit. No team shall be admitted to the Premier Program with less than fifteen (15) players. Teams U15 and below shall have no more than eighteen (18) players registered at any given time. Teams U16 through U19 may have no more than twenty-two (22) players registered at any given time. Game day rosters may only contain 18 of the 22 players registered to the team. Section 7. Roster Additions. (1) Anytime a named goalkeeper is injured and out of play, another named goalkeeper may be added for the remainder of the season, through the normal registration process. A second named goalkeeper may be added at any time. (2) Anytime a team's active roster drops to fourteen (14) players, due to injury or resignation of players, that team shall be allowed to add players to their roster through the normal registration process until they have reached an active roster of fifteen (15) players. Section 8. Penalties. (1) Any player found to be guilty of violating any of the above sections of this Rule 10 shall appear before the Disciplinary Committee and may receive up to a five game suspension (2) Any coach, manager, trainer, or team, club or league official found guilty of violating any of the above sections of Rule 10 may appear before the Disciplinary Committee and may receive up to a two (2) year suspension. Rule 11. Game Reports. Section 1. Team Responsibilities. Both teams shall be responsible for entering all appropriate information, on a legible report prior to the start of the game. Section 2. Referee Responsibilities. (1) The referee shall verify the identity of the players, coaches, managers, and team officials with their pass cards. (2) Prior to the start of the game the Referee shall make sure that each player's equipment is in proper order. (3) Prior to the start of the game the referee shall make sure that all goal nets and corner flags are properly installed and in proper repair, that the field has the proper makings, and that the ground is fit for play. (4) The referee shall not allow any player who does not possess a pass card to participate in the game (see Rule 8 for exceptions) nor shall he/she allow any individual without a pass card to accompany the team in their bench area. (5) The referee shall keep a complete record of the game on the official Referee Game Report. Upon completion of the game the Referee shall check this report before signing his/her name. (6) The Referee shall mail his/her report to the Statistician, and the referee shall include in this mailing any supplemental disciplinary report he/she may wish to make. Section 3. Referee Qualifications. (1) All referees will be registered on USSF referee registration forms through the State Referee Association. No person shall officiate as a referee or neutral lines person in any match under the sanction or jurisdiction (direct or indirect) of the USSF who is not registered with this Federation unless both coaches agree and sign the game report stating such agreement. All referee assignors must be USSF certified assignors. 13

148 Effective July 1, 2010 (2) If, due to unforeseen circumstances, a registered referee is unable to officiate, club or team officials may agree upon some other person to act in the emergency. Such emergencies shall be explained in writing by team officials and/or referee assignors and submitted with the Referee Game Report. (3) Referees may not officiate a game in which a team participant is a member of his/her family unless both coaches agree and sign the game report stating such agreement. (4) In the event both coaches do not agree on an alternate referee (per Section 3 Paragraph 2) the game will be replayed at the Visiting team s home field. The team responsible for the referees of the cancelled game will pay the entire referee fees for the rescheduled game. For U15 and older age groups that have the center referee assigned by the Premier Program Referee Assignor, the game will be played at the home team s home field and the referee fees will be paid equally by both teams. Section 4. Referee Game Reports The Premier Program Referee Advisor will be apprised of improperly completed Referee Game Reports Rule 12. Requirements of Players. Section 1. Shin Guards. All players are required to wear shin guards at all times while on the field of play. Shin Guards must be completely covered by socks at all times. Section 2. Player Possession of Pass Card. All players wishing to participate in a Premier Program game must be in possession of an official Premier Program Pass Card, which must be signed by the player, and have a current photograph of the player permanently affixed (see Rule 8 for Exceptions to this rule). Section 3. Uniforms. (1) In the event that the uniforms of both teams in the game are similar color and the referee determines that one team must change uniforms, the home team shall change uniforms unless both coaches agree that the visiting team may change. (2) All players must be in full Premier Program identified numbered uniforms. Each player s jersey shall have on the left chest or on the left sleeve the Premier Program Patch or a same size representation. All players on the field of play representing one team must have unique numbers on their uniforms. Players are not allowed to switch numbers after the team has been checked in by the referees without notifying the referee of the change. (3) The Premier Program shall provide, if requested, two sponsor patches for players requiring such patch. The patch must be permanently affixed (sewn on only) to the left chest or left sleeve of the jersey. A Team May Be Assessed A Per Game Fine Set Forth By The MSPSP Board of Directors Per Game Penalty For Each Violation Of This Rule 12 Section 3 Paragraph 2 Section 4. Minimum Playing Time. Minimum playing time per player shall be established and monitored by each league and/or club. Rule 13. Coaches. Section 1. Licenses. All head coaches in the Premier Program shall be required to have a minimum D State-coaching license or a NSCAA Advanced National Diploma. Section 2. Coach Possession of Pass Card. All Premier Program coaches, assistant coaches, managers, or other team officials must be identified by an official Premier Program Pass Card, which must be signed by the named individual and have a current photograph of the named individual permanently affixed. Section 3. Coaches Responsibilities. (1) Each coach is responsible for the conduct of his/her players, other team officials and spectators before, during and after the game and shall instruct all of the above to behave in a proper and respectful manner. (2) Each coach is responsible for correctly submitting a legible Referee Game Report, with the proper information to the Referee prior to the start of the game. (3) Each coach is responsible for submitting proper pass cards and Referee Fees prior to the start of the game. (4) Each coach must comply with the Coaches Procedures on game day. (5) In the event that a coach wishes to protest a game he/she must inform the Referee prior to the start of the match if possible, and will inform the referee in all cases at the end of the match so the Referee may note the reasons for the protest on the Referee Game Report. Rule 14. Uniforms. 14

149 Effective July 1, 2010 Section 1. Supply. Each team shall be responsible for acquiring its own uniforms. Section 2. Sponsor Patch. A sponsor patch, no larger than the Premier Program patch, may be on the jersey. All sponsor patches and their location on the uniform must be approved by the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors. Section 3. Jersey Numbers. All jerseys must be clearly numbered on the back. A number no larger than 4" may be displayed on the right front or center of the chest. No two players on the same team may share the same number except that the goalkeeper may wear any number he/she so desires. Section 4. Premier Program Patch. Each player's jersey shall be identified by a crest on the left chest or a patch on the left sleeve that may either be silk-screened or the Premier Program patch. Section 5. Other Jersey Markings. Leagues may display their team name or league name on the front of the jersey only. Rule 15. Game Schedule. Section 1. Official Schedule. The official schedule of the Premier Program shall be compiled by the Premier Program Scheduler. Section 2. Scheduled Dates. Teams must play games according to the official MSPSP schedule. Section 3. Dual Use of Game Results. There will be no dual use of game results. No Premier Program game can be used to fulfill the requirements of another competition i.e. State Cup. Section 4. Rescheduling of Games. Games are not to be rescheduled unless by the MSPSP Scheduler. Games must be played at scheduled date and time. Rescheduling games without proper approval will result in forfeiture by both teams. Section 5. Rescheduling due to an Emergency. Games may be rescheduled only if: Games may be rescheduled for State Cup, dangerous or unplayable field conditions as deemed by the Referee at the field or in the event the assigned Center Official does not show for the game. No other game changes will be accepted. Rule 16. Determination of Divisional Champions. Section 1. Game Points. During seasonal play, game points shall be awarded as follows: Each victory shall be worth three (3) points. Each tie shall be worth one (1) point. No points shall be awarded for a loss. Section 2. Forfeits. Any team, which forfeits a game, shall not be eligible for a divisional championship. The score of any forfeit game shall stand 4-0 against the forfeiting team. Section 3. Divisional Champions. (1) Divisional Champions shall be determined on the following basis: The team with the most game points (subject to adjustment per Section 4 below) shall be declared the Divisional Champions. (2) In the event that two teams have tied for the most game points the following tiebreaker shall apply: (a) The winner of head to head competition. (b) The winner of most games. (c) Goal Differential (Maximum of four goals per win). (d) Fewest goals allowed. (e) Team with least number of red/yellow cards issued. (f) Fair play points. (3) In the event that more than two teams have tied for the most game points, the following tiebreaker shall apply: (a) Points earned in head to head competition among the teams (b) The winner of most games. (c) Goal Differential (Maximum of four goals per win) (d) Fewest goals allowed (e) Team with least number of red/yellow cards issued. (f) Fair play points. 15

150 Effective July 1, 2010 Section 4. Unequal Number of Games Played. In the event that teams within a division have played an unequal number of games a calculation will be made to adjust for the different number of games played. For example, if one team played eight games and the other team played ten games the figures arrived at in Section 3 above would be multiplied by 80% (.80) for the team that played ten games. Rule 17. Ignorance of the Rules. It is the responsibility of each player, coach, manager, trainer, team official, and league official to know and understand the Bylaws and Rules of the Premier Program. Ignorance of these Bylaws and Rules will not be considered an excuse for failure to follow them and will not be considered as a defense in any Disciplinary Hearing of the Premier Program. Rule 18. Interpretations of the Bylaws and Rules. Any interpretation of the Bylaws and Rules of the Premier Program, MSYSA, or USSF shall not be considered as an official interpretation until the interpretation is rendered in writing and signed and dated by an authorized Premier Program Director or Official. Rule 19. Rulings of the MSPSP Board of Directors. Any ruling of the MSPSP Board of Directors shall be incorporated as a part of these rules through reference. Rulings shall be documented by the MSPSP Board of Directors and shall be published. Rule 20. Team Definition. Section 1. Existing Team. (1) An existing team shall be any team that has at least 51% of its players returning from the same sponsoring league from the team s roster of its previous Premier Program season. (2) A Team (winning or runners-up in the State Cup), which elects to play the National Regional League, may do so with out losing their Team position in the Premier Program. When they return, they will take the place of the Team, which displaced them in the National Regional League. They may also return on their own accord and will displace the lowest placed team of the division that they were in when the Team elected to join the National Regional League. Section 2. New Team. A new team is any team, which does not meet the requirements of section 1 above; regardless of whether or not that team physically played in the Premier Program in any previous playing season. Rule 21. Elite Division Admission. Section 1. Name. The Elite Division may use a name mutually agreed upon between the Premier Program and its major sponsor for all purposes of advertising and public and community relations. Section 2. Purpose. The Elite Division is established to provide superior competition in a high quality venue for Premier Program players and teams, U16 and above, to develop and participate in highly skilled youth soccer, sportsmanship, and quality coaching and officiating within the State of Michigan. Section 3. Method of Entry. Application for Admission to the Elite Division shall be open to all teams U16 and above admitted to the Premier Program. Affiliating leagues must complete an application for entry to the Elite Division for each team they wish to sponsor in this Division. The Premier Program must receive all Elite Division applications no later than the Elite Division application deadline, which may be set by the MSPSP Board of Directors from time to time. Acceptance into the Elite Division is at the sole discretion of the Premier Program MSPSP Board of Directors and shall be based upon the information provided by the submitted Application forms, and team and player history. Rule 22. Under 19 Open Division. The MSPSP Board of Directors at its sole discretion may elect to form a U-19 Open Division. This division is open to all U-16 and above players according the most current MSYSA Age Group Eligibility Chart. Teams applying for entry in this division are allowed to roster players attending high school full time up to and including the U19 age group. No other entry qualifications shall apply to this division except those referring to affiliation. 16

151 Section 12 Proposed Revisions to MSPSP Bylaws, Rules, and Regulations

152 MSPSP AMENDMENT #1: Rule 8. Player Registration, League Entry, and Team Affiliation Requirements. Section 1. Player Registration. Amend Section 1 by: Adding Bullet Point #5 which will read No team shall be allowed to register or play in the Premier program unless a minimum of 51% of the rostered players on the team meet at least one of the following criteria: a. Shall have played in the Midwest Regional League (MRL) the previous seasonal year b. Shall have played in the Michigan State Premier Soccer League (MSPSL) the previous seasonal year. c. Shall have been registered with, and played on, a team in the Sponsoring League the previous seasonal year. d. Shall have been registered with, and played on, a team in any MSYSA League the previous seasonal year, provided that the League in question is not sponsoring a team in the player's appropriate age and gender within the MSPSL during the current seasonal year. CURRENT WORDING PROPOSED AMENDMENT IF ADOPTED, WILL READ Section 1. Player Registration (1) Players are registered to and mutually bound with a team when the Premier Program Registration form is signed by the player, his/her parent or guardian (for players under age 18), and the team coach. A copy of the signed and dated registration form must be given to the player at this time and no registration form shall be signed until or on or after June 15. Completion of this form by all parties binds the player to that team and its' affiliating league and binds the team and its' affiliating league to that player for the entire seasonal year which runs from September 1st to August 31st unless a release is granted under Rule 10. (2) Each affiliating league which wishes to sponsor a team or teams in the Premier Program shall be required to submit to the appropriate Premier Program officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the Premier Program and pay all fines, dues or fees, that may be levied by the Premier Program. (3) The final registration date for each playing season shall be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors. Section 1. Player Registration (1) Players are registered to and mutually bound with a team when the Premier Program Registration form is signed by the player, his/her parent or guardian (for players under age 18), and the team coach. A copy of the signed and dated registration form must be given to the player at this time and no registration form shall be signed until or on or after June 15. Completion of this form by all parties binds the player to that team and its' affiliating league and binds the team and its' affiliating league to that player for the entire seasonal year which runs from September 1st to August 31st unless a release is granted under Rule 10. (2) Each affiliating league which wishes to sponsor a team or teams in the Premier Program shall be required to submit to the appropriate Premier Program officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the Premier Program and pay all fines, dues or fees, that may be levied by the Premier Program. (3) The final registration date for each playing season shall be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors. Section 1. Player Registration (1) Players are registered to and mutually bound with a team when the Premier Program Registration form is signed by the player, his/her parent or guardian (for players under age 18), and the team coach. A copy of the signed and dated registration form must be given to the player at this time and no registration form shall be signed until or on or after June 15. Completion of this form by all parties binds the player to that team and its' affiliating league and binds the team and its' affiliating league to that player for the entire seasonal year which runs from September 1st to August 31st unless a release is granted under Rule 10. (2) Each affiliating league which wishes to sponsor a team or teams in the Premier Program shall be required to submit to the appropriate Premier Program officer various forms as may be required for the operation of the Premier Program and pay all fines, dues or fees, that may be levied by the Premier Program. (3) The final registration date for each playing season shall be determined by the Premier Program Board of Directors.

153 (4) Proof of age must accompany all registration forms when submitted to the Premier Program. (4) Proof of age must accompany all registration forms when submitted to the Premier Program. (5) No team shall be allowed to register or play in the Premier program unless a minimum of 51% of the rostered players on the team meet at least one of the following criteria: a. Shall have played in the Midwest Regional League (MRL) the previous seasonal year b. Shall have played in the Michigan State Premier Soccer League (MSPSL) the previous seasonal year. c. Shall have been registered with, and played on, a team in the Sponsoring League the previous seasonal year. d. Shall have been registered with, and played on, a team in any MSYSA League the previous seasonal year, provided that the League in question is not sponsoring a team in the player's appropriate age and gender within the MSPSL during the current seasonal year. (4) Proof of age must accompany all registration forms when submitted to the Premier Program. (5) No team shall be allowed to register or play in the Premier program unless a minimum of 51% of the rostered players on the team meet at least one of the following criteria: a. Shall have played in the Midwest Regional League (MRL) the previous seasonal year b. Shall have played in the Michigan State Premier Soccer League (MSPSL) the previous seasonal year. c. Shall have been registered with, and played on, a team in the Sponsoring League the previous seasonal year. d. Shall have been registered with, and played on, a team in any MSYSA League the previous seasonal year, provided that the League in question is not sponsoring a team in the player's appropriate age and gender within the MSPSL during the current seasonal year. Proposed by: John Hall, GVSA President Rationale: The MSPSL is a program of the MSYSA for its members, which are the various affiliated leagues. This rule is designed to stop the practice of shopping for a sponsoring league by renegade teams or clubs, which have no connection to the league they are asking to sponsor them. The rule will also discourage the practice of selling sponsorships to teams by leagues. It gives MSYSA leagues more control over their teams and clubs and will foster a closer bond between Premier teams and their sponsoring leagues. The 51% rule allows for many exemptions (e.g. a player who may have played in AYSO, or who did not make a team sponsored by his/her home league). Subsections (a) and (b) grandfather in all existing MRL and MSPSL players, and allows players to move freely from one MSPSL team to another in succeeding years. Subsection (d) handles the case of players who played in leagues that do not sponsor MSPSL teams. Recommendation: The MSYSA Bylaw Committee and the MSPSP Board or Directors do NOT RECOMMEND adoption of this amendment. It is the belief of the Bylaws Committee and MSPSP that this proposal could have exactly the effect that it is trying to prevent, i.e. the selling of or strong arm control of sponsorships for teams to the Premier League. We believe that there are better ways to counter teams changing leagues than putting a rule that cannot be enforced unless a grievance is filed. This might also force MSYSA into a grievance with USSF based on denial of participation.

154 Section 13 Ballots

155 MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION ELECTION OF OFFICERS Please check only one box per position. For any write-in votes you cast you must write the name of the candidate on the line AND place a check in the box next to the name of the candidate. MSYSA Vice President 2 Year Term (check only one box) Dave Mashni (Incumbent) Rick Jacob MSYSA Recording Secretary 2 Year Term (check only one box) Gil Urban DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS 1 Year Terms Elected at AGM by each of the districts 2011 Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Annual General Meeting

156 MICHIGAN STATE PREMIER SOCCER PROGRAM ELECTION OF OFFICERS Please check only one box per position. For any write-in votes you cast you must write the name of the candidate on the line AND place a check in the box next to the name of the candidate. MSPSP Chairperson 2 Year Term (check only one box) Marcia Kaline (Incumbent) MSPSP Secretary/Treasurer 2 Year Term (check only one box) Pete Morrissey (Incumbent) MSPSP Scheduler 2 Year Term (check only one box) Robin Crawford (Incumbent) 2011 Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Annual General Meeting

157 MICHIGAN STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION NOMINATING COMMITTEE BALLOT For any votes you cast, you must write the candidate s name on the line AND place a check in the box next to the candidate s name. Metro Central District (check only one) Metro East District (check only one) Metro Southwest District (check only one) North District (check only one) West District (check only one) 2011 Michigan State Youth Soccer Association Annual General Meeting