Frequently Asked
Questions

GENERAL

What is the goal of the Upper Valley Soccer Foundation (UVSF)?
The Upper Valley Soccer Foundation is a volunteer run soccer organization. Our focus is to help youth 8 years and older in the Rexburg, Idaho area develop soccer skills and great character through our soccer programs.
Who runs UVSF?
The Upper Valley Soccer Foundation board consists of the following individuals and positions:

  • UVSF President - Holly Allen
  • UVSF Board Members - Jessica Badillo, Nate Watson, Sarah Robinson, Jake McRae, and Kristi Anderson

  • UVSF Committee Members:
    • Jessica Badillo - Registrar
    • Betsy Billman - Treasurer
    • Jessi Cooper - Accountant
    • Jake McRae - Referee Assignor
    • Jaymon Birch - Fields & Scheduling
    • Nate Watson - Communications
    • Janelle Anderson - Equipment​
    • Lynette Williams - Uniforms
    • Jake McRae - Coaching Director
    • Haley Bennion - Asst. Coaching Director
    • Jake McRae - Tryouts (Boys)
    • Haley Bennion - Tryouts (Girls)
    • Kristi Anderson - Secretary
    • Holly Allen - Yellowstone Cup Tournament Director
    What soccer associations does Upper Valley Soccer Foundation work with?
    We form teams for participation in Idaho Youth Soccer. Teams also compete in approved U.S. Youth Soccer Tournaments.
    What ages does UVSF serve?
    ​Our organization is for youth 8 years of age and older. We run teams for age brackets of U9-U19.
    What age group does my child belong in?
    An age bracket for the current season year is calculated by subtracting the year a child was born, from the season year. A season year runs from Fall through Spring of the following year. ​

    Formula: Year Season Ends - Birth Year = Age Group
    Example: (Fall 2023 - Spring 2024 Season) - (Born in 2008) = U16 Age Group​
    Can a child play in an older age group ("play up")
    In some circumstances a child might play up an age group due to numbers. This occurs when there are not enough players to form a team at a certain age bracket. For example, if only 6-U11 players and 5-U12 players register, a U12 team may be formed with these 11 players.

    It is generally not advised for players to "play up", but there may be circumstances where a player is approved to do so. These circumstances can only be approved by the UVSF Board.

    State rules do not allow for a player to play up more than 1 year in age. This means that a U12 player is only allowed to play up as high as U13 and is not allowed to play with U14 teammates, unless it is a combined U13/U14 team. Once a player starts U15, they are considered part of the High School bracket and can play up to 3 years in age. Meaning a U15 player can play up to U18 and a U16 player can play up to U19.
    Can a child play in a younger age group ("play down")
    No.
    Can I choose the day & time my child practices or plays?
    No. We rely on volunteers to coach our teams and they choose the practice schedule that works best for them and for the team. Games are scheduled by the league that we play in.
    When will I be notified of when practices begin?
    Typically, coaches will notify their players when practices will begin in early August for Fall soccer and early February for Spring soccer.
    When will practices and games be cancelled due to weather?
    Rain or snow does not mean a game or practice is canceled. For games, coaches and referees must meet at the field to determine playing conditions before canceling. Players should report to the field by game time. Soccer can be safely played in the rain. We will not play or practice while lightning is visible from the field location.

    ​Practices may be canceled at the coach’s discretion. Make sure you have a clear understanding with your coach what the criteria and procedure is for canceling practice. Coaches may ask players to report to practice so that conditions can be evaluated before canceling.
    Where are practices held?
    Practice locations are scheduled by the Upper Valley Soccer Foundation. During the colder months, practices will be held indoors.
    What equipment is needed?
    Shin guards and cleats are required for practice and games for all players. Bring a water bottle to every game and practice. Some soccer balls are provided by the club, but bringing your own ensures you will have one to practice with.

    A full uniform, which includes: two numbered jerseys, soccer shorts, 2 pairs of socks, and a practice pinnie.

    Earrings are NOT ALLOWED in games. You are not allowed to just tape over them. Wait until after the season for new piercings.
    Will soccer conflict with other sports?
    We encourage all kids to play multiple sports, especially at younger ages. Overall, motor skill development along with coordination and agility can be enhanced by playing different sports. These opportunities can help build a more rounded athlete that can ultimately benefit the player in the long run. There may be times when there is a conflict. Please inform your coach as early as possible of any or all conflicts. However, we do expect a high level of commitment and it may become more difficult to participate in multiple sports. Playing time may decrease if players have multiple conflicts that result in missed practices or games.
    Are there any other expectations of the player or family?
    All parents of UVSF United players are expected to commit their voluntary efforts in some capacity in support of the club and their child's team. Each team must have a team manager. Volunteer opportunities for the club as a whole include fundraising, camps, tournament help, publicity, registration, website, newsletter, planning, marketing, sponsorships and board membership. Many volunteer opportunities will arise from the discussions and decisions made at the monthly board meetings.
    I want to coach, what do I do?
    Those interested in coaching should submit a "coaching interest form" to be considered for the role of Head Soccer Coach or Assistant Coach.

    This process is intended to identify and select the most appropriate coach for each team. In order to review candidates and have coaches in place by the time rosters are selected, we request that you indicate your interest in coaching as soon as possible. Prospective coaches are asked for a summary of experience and qualifications. Those who choose to apply will be contacted by a member of our board in regard to coaching opportunities.
    How are coaches selected?
    All coaches are selected and approved by the Director of Coaching, subject to review by the UVSF Board members as desired each year. No coach is guaranteed a position for future seasons. Unless otherwise desired by the UVSF Board members. The Director of Coaching oversees the nomination and approval process.
    If a tournament is canceled, will we be refunded?
    Yes, minus administration fees.
    How much travel is involved?
    Our league is composed of clubs throughout the Snake River Valley. Regular season games are held from Jackson Hole to Twin Falls. Tournament travel varies by team. Older and more competitive teams may choose to travel more extensively determined by competitive goals. Our top teams within the older age groups will travel as necessary to find the level of desired competition and showcase opportunities for next level play.

    FALL - RECREATIONAL

    When does the recreational season start and end?
    Fall soccer tryouts typically occur at the end of the Spring season, after the Yellowstone Cup tournament, around mid to late June.

    The fall season typically starts in late August and runs through early October.

    Practices generally begin in early August.

    Tournaments are not part of the regular fall season. However, a team can participate in an open tournament if desired and approved by the UVSF board. This would be an additional cost for each participant.
    What are the fees?
    Fall fees vary based upon the team a child plays on, uniform costs, and tournaments attended. Please refer to our "Season Fees" page for more information.
    How does a player register for tryouts?
    Registration is completed online through Got Sport. A link for each season will be posted on our "Tryout Information" page during the time that registration is open. Registration must be completed before a player is allowed to attend tryouts, this is in order for the player to be properly listed and insured. There is a $5 registration fee for each player.
    When and where are tryouts?
    Fall soccer tryouts typically occur at the end of the Spring season, after the Yellowstone Cup tournament, around mid to late June. Exact times and locations will be posted on our "Tryout Information" page.
    Does a player have to attend all of tryouts?
    In order to obtain a fair evaluation, attendance for all of tryouts is recommended. If a player is unable to attend tryouts, they must contact the coaching director and make alternate arrangements if available.
    What if the player is sick, injured or otherwise cannot attend tryouts?
    Contact the coaching director immediately. The coaching director will try to make arrangements to evaluate the player at another time if available.
    Will the club schedule additional tryout datys?
    If a tryout day is shortened because of inclement weather or evaluators need more time, some or all players may be called back.
    When are teams announced?
    Teams are announced as soon as possible after tryouts.
    Do players receive equal playing time?
    Coaches are asked to divide playing time at the recreational level, but it is not guaranteed.

    SPRING - COMPETITIVE

    When does the competitive season start and end?
    Spring soccer tryouts typically occur at the end of the Fall season, around late October.

    The spring season typically starts in late April and runs through mid June.

    Practices generally begin in early February.

    The spring season includes the Yellowstone Cup tournament.. Then some tournaments start as early as February or March , some throughout the season and some tournaments go through June and into July. Teams may play in these tournaments if desired and approved by the UVSF board. This would be an additional cost for each participant.
    What are the fees?
    Spring fees vary based upon the team a child plays on, uniform costs, and tournaments attended. Please refer to our "Season Fees" page for more information.
    How does a player register for tryouts?
    Registration is completed online through Got Sport. A link for each season will be posted on our "Tryout Information" page during the time that registration is open. Registration must be completed before a player is allowed to attend tryouts, this is in order for the player to be properly listed and insured. There is a $5 registration fee for each player.
    When and where are tryouts?
    Spring soccer tryouts typically occur at the end of the Fall season, around late October. Exact times and locations will be posted on our "Tryout Information" page.
    Does a player have to attend all of tryouts?
    In order to obtain a fair evaluation, attendance for all of tryouts is recommended. If a player is unable to attend tryouts, they must contact the coaching director and make alternate arrangements if available.
    What if the player is sick, injured or otherwise cannot attend tryouts?
    Contact the coaching director immediately. The coaching director will try to make arrangements to evaluate the player at another time if available.
    Will the club schedule additional tryout days?
    If a tryout day is shortened because of inclement weather or evaluators need more time, some or all players may be called back.
    When are teams announced?
    Teams are announced as soon as possible after tryouts.
    Do players receive equal play time?
    Players are not guaranteed equal playing time at the competitive level.
    What if my child does not want to play competitive soccer?
    Competitive travel teams consist of purely competitive players. Developing players are encouraged to play in the recreational fall league, which is focused on development and fun.

    You can also contact the AYSO league at aysorexburg@gmail.com for information on recreational soccer.

    DONTATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS

    What is the Upper Valley Soccer Foundation?
    UVSF is the governing body overseeing soccer in Rexburg and the surrounding communities. We are an all-volunteer organization operating as a 501 © (3) non-profit organization. We provide opportunities for youth from age 9 through age 18 to participate in various soccer programs throughout the year.

    Our program is sanctioned by Idaho Youth Soccer Association and US Youth Soccer.
    What is the donated money used for?
    Donated money will be used for scholarships, equipment and other expenses not covered by registration fees.

    As a 501 © (3) non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible. Please use the "Donate" button found at the top right of the page and you will be shown the ways that you can donate to our foundation. We can send you a receipt upon request for each donation made.

    Your donations are greatly appreciated!
    Sponsorship Levels
    All of us on the UVSF board appreciate your generous sponsorships, the youth in Rexburg are better off because of your generosity! Your company's logo will proudly be displayed on our website based on your sponsorship commitment.

    $100-3 months
    $250-6 months
    $500-18 months