Travel Soccer FAQ

Who can play travel soccer?

NRYS travel soccer is currently open to North Reading players in Grade 4 and older. High school teams may also be offered in the spring, depending on registration numbers.

Players who do not currently live in North Reading but have a prior or continuing connection to NRYS may be eligible. Please contact NRYS before registering so we can confirm eligibility.

What is the goal of the travel program?

NRYS travel soccer is a community-based program. Development is at the core of every decision we make.

Our goal is to place players in an appropriate soccer environment where they can be challenged, build confidence, improve their soccer skills, and continue to enjoy the game. We also believe soccer helps players develop important life skills, including teamwork, leadership, communication, resilience, accountability, and the ability to win and lose with grace.

Are players cut from travel?

No. NRYS does not cut players from the travel program. Every player who registers on time is placed on a team, provided there is roster space available.

How are travel teams formed?

Teams are formed with the goal of creating the best developmental and competitive fit for each player and each age group.

NRYS typically attempts to keep teams as grade-pure as possible. However, we also recognize that each age group is different. When registration numbers, roster size, player development, team balance, or level of competition make a mixed-grade team the better option, NRYS may make exceptions.

NRYS considers evaluations, coach feedback, game observations, player development, roster size, team balance, and the appropriate level of competition. The goal is to place players with teammates of reasonably similar ability so they can continue to grow, contribute, and compete successfully.

Do players have to attend evaluations?

Players are strongly encouraged to attend evaluations. Evaluations help NRYS understand each player’s current stage of development and form balanced teams.

If a player cannot attend, NRYS will use coach feedback, prior season observations, and other available information to determine placement.

Do rosters change from season to season?

They can. NRYS values continuity when it works, but rosters are not permanently fixed.

Roster changes may be made based on player development, registration numbers, team needs, or whether a different placement would better support a player’s growth.

Player placement is not always one-size-fits-all. Two players with similar skills may benefit from different environments. One player may grow by being pushed on a stronger team, while another may build confidence, leadership, and decision-making skills by taking on a larger role on a different team. NRYS tries to consider the full developmental picture when making roster decisions.

How are teams placed in ECYSA divisions?

NRYS recommends a competition level for each team before the season begins. These recommendations are based on the team’s roster, prior results when available, player experience, and overall developmental fit.

ECYSA makes the final division placements. The goal is for teams to play at a level where they can be challenged, compete meaningfully, and continue to grow.

What are the travel field formats?

Travel field formats vary by grade level:

Grade 4: 7v7
Grade 5/6: 9v9
Grade 7/8: 11v11
High School: 11v11

What are the requirements to coach a travel team?

NRYS travel coaches are volunteers, typically parents or community members. All coaches must complete required safety and registration steps, which may include CORI/background checks, SafeSport training, Mass Youth Soccer requirements, and any required ECYSA coach meetings.

Coaches are expected to support the mission of NRYS by creating a positive, organized, development-focused environment for players.

Why do we have to register so early?

We know the timing is not always ideal, especially during busy times of the school year. However, NRYS must submit teams to ECYSA well before each season begins. Before doing that, we need to know how many players, coaches, and teams we have at each level.

Late registrations may be placed on a waitlist and can only be added if roster space is available. To avoid missing important registration updates, please make sure you are subscribed to NRYS email communications. If you are not receiving emails, please contact NRYS to be added.

What is the difference between NRYS and club soccer?

NRYS is a community-based volunteer soccer program. Travel soccer provides a more competitive experience than intramural soccer while still focusing on development, participation, and community.

Club soccer typically involves professional coaching, additional training, more travel, higher cost, and a more selective environment. Many players participate in both, while others play only town soccer.

What is the refund policy?

An administrative fee of $5 is deducted from all refunds. After teams are announced, families may receive a 50% refund of the remaining registration fee. After the first week of the season, refunds are generally not available.

Exceptions may be considered for injuries, medical issues, financial hardship, or other special circumstances, with board approval.