What is VYSA, and how is it different than Park and Rec?
Viking Youth Soccer Association (VYSA) is a youth sports club that offers players the opportunity to travel and play in competitive events. The club offers programming at both the competitive and recreational levels as well as “off-season” training opportunities. The competitive program, for players 10U+, will have tryouts in June and run from August-July. Those teams will have a fall and spring season.
Viking Youth Soccer maintains a partnership with Holmen Parks and Recreations Department to share resources and enhance the quality of programming at all levels. VYSA’s recreational program, for ages 4-15, will have an open registration for a spring league. While the VYSA and park and recreations department entities are separate, we work together to provide programming for the recreational level of play.
Players in either program will be able to register for summer and winter training sessions. Please check out the “Programs” tab for more information.
When are tryouts held?
The Wisconsin Youth Soccer Association (WYSA) soccer season dates run August 1 through July 31 instead of a calendar year. To roster teams and adhere to the seasonal calendar, VYSA hosts tryouts in June to align with WYSA tryout policies.
How are teams decided?
Teams are created by the Director of Coaching who works with a Tryout Committee to review player evaluations. While players are assessed on their technical skills and tactical knowledge, other factors are considered when making teams such as team composition, balance, advanced skill, etc. Team creation is done with the goal of being able to match each player and team with the appropriate competitive levels in league and tournament play.
Can my son or daughter play only one session (Spring or Fall)?
Yes, players can choose to play one session or both. We request that the player’s intentions be made up front so we can roster accordingly. Additionally, players who are able to make a commitment to both seasons may be given priority on a roster if numbers allow for two teams.
What are the travel commitments?
VYSA’s competitive teams will participate in 3-4 tournaments per season. Most events are in Wisconsin and/or within a 4 hour radius of La Crosse County. Recreational teams will play league matches within 30 minutes of La Crosse County.
Can teams perform fundraising to offset their participation cost?
Yes, however, to maintain overall fundraising consistency, VYSA board approval is required prior to fundraising activities. VYSA requires that fundraising be performed as a team unit and that all members of the team receive equal benefit from that fundraising.
