For Fall 2023 Silent Saturday is October 7, 2023
In holding a Silent Saturday, Davis AYSO joins AYSO Regions throughout the country to celebrate youth participation in sport and to support positive and enriching competitive experiences.
What is it? A day of soccer games without adults making noise: no shouting, no sideline coaching, minimal cheering from the sideline (and only when play is stopped). A day when the kids are allowed to just play.
Why? To recognize that youth sport is for and about the kids and to foster a positive sideline and coaching culture for all or our players.
What do I do? Whether you are a spectator or a coach, you are expected to watch and enjoy the game without verbal engagement. Be quiet when the ball is in play. Clap after great effort or play. And share a quiet, positive word or two when the play is stopped. For both teams! Spectators may make fun posters to support their team.
What if I am a coach? One of the most important tasks of a coach is to observe. This is your chance to do that, and see what your players have learned. And soccer is a players game. Let them play. You are required to be quiet during the game. Give feedback during breaks or talk to subs, but do not provide sideline direction.
Guidelines:
Davis AYSO Coaches are expected to fully understand, cooperate and communicate to every team member and parent the purpose and expected behavior of Silent Saturday.
U6-U8 Coaches: It is understood that you may need to direct your players sometimes during the game. Just keep it brief and positive.
Coaches from other regions should be encouraged to observe Silent Saturday as well and provide minimal direction to players while the game is being played.
Referees and players will participate as normal. Referees can suspend games if Silent Saturday is not appropriately observed.