ABOUT SONOMA VALLEY UNITED
ABOUT US
Sonoma Valley United (SVU) is a youth soccer organization that operates both recreational and competitive leagues. Sonoma Valley United is the consolidation of two soccer programs: Sonoma Valley Youth Soccer Association (SVYSA) and Sonoma SC. These clubs have been an integral part of the community for over 40 years, sharing a legacy of successful player development, stable operations, and a commitment to the community.
SVU was formed to continue providing excellent soccer programming for the Sonoma Valley community with the goal of fostering a unified love for the game of soccer and ongoing support for our youth. Initially offering youth recreational soccer, the organization’s programming has expanded to include competitive soccer, Tiny Cleats for children ages 3-4, winter Futsal, adult programs, and summer camps. SVU now serves over 1,000 local players seasonally. Programs are offered at various levels and are designed to serve anyone interested in the sport of soccer, with opportunities for young and old, and for novice to advanced players.
The original mission of the organization has not changed since its founding in 1977, but adaptive strategies for achieving this mission have been implemented over the years.
Sonoma Valley United’s Staff and Board of Directors are dedicated to ensuring the positive experience of every SVU member. It is our sincere hope that each participant enjoy their current activities and return for further involvement. SVU is here to provide the means for everyone to enjoy the world’s greatest game!
MISSION
Sonoma Valley United provides opportunities for youths up to and including 19 years of age to play soccer in the Sonoma Valley area. We strive to create safe, educational, and fun environments for players at all levels of competency and age, while encouraging the development of skills and enjoyment for the game of soccer.
VISION
To mentally and physically prepare players to enjoy soccer at the recreational, competitive, and high school level. To encourage the application of skills developed playing the game of soccer into life beyond the pitch.
Values:
- Sportsmanship and respect for the game
- Community building through participation and inclusion
- Promoting physical health and mental health
- Teaching teamwork and self-development.
SVU Player Code of Conduct
- Demonstrate a positive attitude.
- Listen attentively and respectfully to your coach, and follow your coach’s instructions.
- Refrain from any behaviors that are disruptive or that prevent you or others from learning.
- Be on time to all practices and games. Let the coach know of a scheduling conflict in advance.
- Wear appropriate gear (shirts, shorts, shin guards, proper shoes).
- Know and respect the rules of soccer and abide by them at all times.
- Show respect and courtesy to officials and coaches by following their instructions and directions.
- Respect the game officials and refrain from addressing them or commenting on their decisions during or after the game.
- Maintain control, avoiding the use of abusive or profane language, taunting or humiliating remarks, and/or gestures and physical assault upon another player at any time.
- Respect the coaching staff and players of the opposing team and display sportsmanship at the conclusion of a game and be humble and generous in victory and proud and courteous in defeat.
- Win with humility and grace. Lose with dignity, and without excuses. Never quit.
SVU Coach Code of Conduct
- Set the example of the highest standards of ethical conduct, dignity and respect.
- Place children’s physical, mental and emotional development and well-being ahead of all else.
- Nurture good sportsmanship and fair play within your team environment
- Set fair and reasonable expectations for each player.
- Instruct players and parents in the Laws of the Game.
- Do your best to teach the fundamentals of the game.
- Refrain from degrading a player for making a mistake or losing a competition, be positive with actions and words.
- Be on time to every game and practice.
- Help ensure that your players and parents treat the opposing team and referees with respect.
- Comply with US Soccer and SVU rules and policies at all times.
- Exercise a 24-hour cooling period before addressing a parent who has an issue.