The following will help travel coaches get ready for their games

Arrive at the field early to get oriented and find a warm-up area. If you are the Home team:

• Make sure the nets are secured and corner flags are out (enlist parent help if there is work to be done.) Have referee’s pay card (filled out and handy)
• Have a game ball properly inflated and set aside, ready to give the ref.

All games (home or away)

• Have 2 rosters copied and handy for the ref.
• Have your player identification cards (only applicable for Grade 5/6 and Grade 7/8 Spring games) ready and handy for the ref.
• Make note of the opposing coach’s name before the game.
• Do your starting line-up and position assignment ahead of time (you should make sure all players have equal opportunity to start)
• Note who your captains will be and instruct them as to what goal to take, etc. when the coin is tossed.

Pre-game routine

• Teach your team their warm-up routine (suggestions: stretch before you can get on the field – don’t use you limited field time before the game to jog or stretch; have two or three basic pre-game keep away, shooting and dribbling drills that the players know and recognize – don’t use pre-game time to introduce new material; pay special attention to your keepers – assign a parent or assistant to be in charge of warming up the keeper)
• Prepare the players for check-in by the ref. They should know to: line up on the touch line or 18; have all jewelry, watches, etc. off; equipment & uniform complete with shirts tucked in; be quiet and respectful of the referee.
• Call your team in at least 5 minutes before game time to allow time to give out the line up, give them encouragement and instruction: and, be organized and ready to take the field when summonsed by the ref.
• Greet the opposing coach and introduce yourself