St. Louis United Home School Soccer 

Player and Parent Handbook

Colossians 3:23  “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” 

Our Mission

At the core of St. Louis United Homeschool Soccer, we are a Christian organization dedicated to glorifying God through the sport of soccer. We seek to provide an environment that fosters spiritual growth, personal development, and athletic excellence. Our goal is to instill in our players Christian values such as integrity, discipline, teamwork, and respect, both on and off the field.

Who We Are

St. Louis United is a premier Christian homeschool soccer program serving high school boys across the St. Louis region, including St. Charles, St. Louis, Franklin, Lincoln, Warren, and Jefferson counties. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, we provide homeschooled athletes the opportunity to develop their soccer skills while honoring Christ. Our MSHSAA-affiliated high school teams compete at a high level against Missouri public and private schools, fostering excellence, sportsmanship, and faith-centered competition.

Our style of play is characterized by smart, disciplined, and balanced soccer, emphasizing team over self. Every player has responsibilities in both attack and defense, understanding when to press, cover, and support their teammates. We value intelligent decision-making, tactical awareness, and a strong work ethic both on and off the ball. Players are expected to be adaptable, communicate effectively, and play with purpose during every phase of the game.

Our program is dedicated to fostering a culture of accountability and trust, ensuring that players support each other and prioritize collective success, thus strengthening the unity and resilience of our team.

Team Values

• Faith in Christ: We dedicate our gifts, efforts, and victories to God. (Colossians 3:17)
• Integrity & Honesty: We compete fairly, with honesty and respect. (Proverbs 10:9)
• Excellence & Stewardship: We strive for excellence in all aspects of soccer. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
• Teamwork & Unity: We support and uplift one another. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
• Discipline & Self-Control: We practice self-discipline and hard work. (1 Corinthians 9:25)
• Humility & Servant Leadership: We put others before ourselves. (Philippians 2:3-4)
• Perseverance & Endurance: We press on through challenges. (Hebrews 12:1)
• Respect & Love for Others: We treat all with love and respect. (Matthew 7:12)
• Joy & Gratitude: We play with joy and thanksgiving. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
• Evangelism & Discipleship: We use soccer as a platform to share Christ. (Matthew 28:19-20)

Our Season

St. Louis United is a MSHSAA Affiliate Registered School and plays against high school teams throughout the region, including public and private high schools and other home school teams.  While Missouri allows homeschool affiliate teams to compete against other high school teams, we are not eligible for the yearly state tournament or district-level competitions. However, our Varsity team competes in the yearly “National HomeSchool Soccer Tournament,” which features 60+ teams in a multi-day tournament held in late October. All senior players will be rostered for the tournament regardless of team assignment.

Timeline

• March-May: Weekly Kick-Around (“open gym”) open to prospective and current players, including the current seniors class.  This is skill-focused but features small-sided games in a fun atmosphere.
• June-July: STL United Soccer Camp.  An optional but highly recommended training opportunity that focuses on fitness and individual skills. The camp will be split into two weeks, with the first week focusing on fitness level and the second on enhancing soccer skills. During the camp, we will start to establish team expectations and goals.
• July: The official season begins with mandatory practices and team training.  Practice occurs several days a week.
• August – October: Competitive season with multiple weekly matches and ongoing training.

Scheduling

At STL United, we strive to provide a competitive and enriching experience for all team levels through our carefully planned schedule. For the Varsity team, we aim to play approximately 20 games before the end-of-year tournament. Junior Varsity targets 15 to 18 games, offering a mix of competitive play and development, while the C-Team focuses on development with a target of 10 to 12 games.

We primarily schedule games against public and private schools that are Class 2 or lower, as well as other homeschool groups within the state. This approach allows us to support the broader homeschool community while ensuring a competitive environment across all team levels. Given that Class 2 or lower schools often do not have C-Teams, we carefully evaluate each potential opponent to find the best fit for our teams.

While we target these numbers of games, please understand that cancellations and unforeseen events can impact the total number of matches played. Scheduling requires strategic planning and can take 2 to 3 years to coordinate effectively with other schools. We aim to construct a balanced and challenging schedule that nurtures growth and showcases our teams’ capabilities.

Team Structure & Roster Management

Team Descriptions 

St. Louis United offers three distinct soccer teams, each serving a unique role within our program.

• C-Team*: This developmental team is primarily for 9th and 10th graders and focuses on learning formations, tactics, and fundamental skills.
• Junior Varsity: This is an intermediate-level team available to players of all grades who demonstrate a strong understanding of the game, athletic ability, and positional awareness.
• Varsity: The highest level of competition, reserved for players who have mastered multiple positions, maintain top physical conditioning and play selflessly as a team.

*If the roster size falls below the minimum level to sustain three teams, the JV and C teams will be merged, and if they exceed the maximum roster size, a practice team will be established.

Roster Management & Size

Rosters for each team are finalized by the coaches by the end of August, and team placement is determined solely by the coaching staff. However, players are encouraged to have ongoing one-on-one conversations with coaches to understand their placement and to work toward their development goals.

Roster sizes are determined by the coaching staff but are capped at 18 players per game (MSHSAA requirement). Player movement between teams may occur throughout the season based on individual progress and team needs. A player may only have one primary team while being a call-up to substitute for another.  All roster changes and call-ups are at the sole discretion of the coaching staff.

Playing Time & Realistic Expectations

STL United is committed to fostering the development of all players across our three team levels. Varsity is the most competitive level, and playing time is based primarily on performance, strategy, and team needs. Junior Varsity also maintains a competitive spirit, with playing time reflecting development and competition. For the C-Team, the focus is on development and growth, so more players can expect opportunities to participate in games. Coaches strive to balance individual growth with team success, and players are encouraged to engage in open dialogues with their coaches to set goals and understand what is needed to increase their contributions on the field.

Player Safety and Regulations

To ensure player safety and proper workload management, we comply with MSHSAA rules (Handbook 3.24.2); players competing in multiple games on the same day are limited to three halves per day and no more than 66 halves per season.  The three halves per day rule is suspended for tournament play.

Concussion Protocol (MSHSAA Guidelines)

What should I do if I think I have a concussion? 

• Tell your coaches and your parents. Never ignore a bump or blow to the head, even if you feel fine. Also, tell your coach right away if you think you have a concussion or if one of your teammates might have a concussion. 
• Get a medical check-up. A doctor or other health care professional can tell if you have a concussion and when it is OK to return to play. 
• Give yourself time to get better. If you have a concussion, your brain needs time to heal. While your brain is still healing, you are much more likely to have another concussion. 
• Repeat concussions can increase the time it takes for you to recover and may cause more damage to your brain. It is important to rest and not return to play until you get the OK from your health care professional that you are symptom-free.

Return to Play Procedures After a Concussion

1. Returning to activity and play is a medical decision. The athlete must meet all of the following criteria in order to progress to activity: Asymptomatic at rest and with exertion (including mental exertion in school) AND have clearance from their primary care provider or concussion specialist (athlete must be cleared for progression to activity by a physician other than an Emergency Room physician, if diagnosed with a concussion). 
2. Once the above criteria are met, the athlete will be progressed back to full activity following the step-wise process detailed below.
3. Progression is individualized and will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Factors that may affect the rate of progression include: previous history of concussion, duration and type of symptoms, age of the athlete, and sport/activity in which the athlete participates. An athlete with a prior history of concussion, one who has had an extended duration of symptoms, or one who is participating in a collision or contact sport may progress more slowly.
4. Stepwise progression as described below: Athletes should spend 1 to 2 days on each step.

Step 1: Light exercise. This step cannot begin until the athlete is no longer having concussion symptoms and is cleared by a physician for further activity. At this point the athlete may begin walking or riding an exercise bike.

Step 2: Running in the gym or on the field. No helmet or other equipment. 

Step 3: Non-contact training drills. Weight-training can begin. 

Step 4: Full contact practice or training. Step 5: Play in a game. Must be cleared by a physician before returning to play.

Player Eligibility

Player eligibility is determined by the MSHSAA Handbook (By-Law 3.5) and policies ratified by the STL United Homeschool Soccer Board.  Players and parents are to ensure they remain eligible throughout the season and inform the board if there are any potential conflicts. Questions regarding player eligibility should always be directed to the board.

Eligibility Criteria

• The player must be a homeschooled student: A student’s primary homeschool course of study can be supplemented by individual classes outside the home to pursue a homeschool diploma. These could include classes held at co-ops, learning centers, college dual-enrollment, or online as long as it is NOT certified as a public or private school by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
• Play exclusively for STL United during the season: Per the MSHSAA by-laws that apply to Affiliate Registered Schools (Section 6 of the MSHSAA Constitution), a player cannot play on another organized sports team during the official soccer season (late July – October).  Section 3.13.2 of the MSHSAA Handbook outlines the exceptions.  
• Be within their high school years: Players are eligible for four consecutive years of high school soccer, beginning with their freshman year.  Parents must declare their graduation year when joining the program.
• May not play for MSHSAA member school: While Senate Bill 63 allows homeschoolers to participate in activities for the public school in their district, it ties all activities to that school.  If you are participating in any activities in your local public school you may not play for a MSHSAA home school team.
• Meet age requirements: Players shall not have reached age 19 prior to July 1st of the current season.

Communication 

Player-Coach Communication

Players are encouraged to communicate directly with coaches regarding any questions or concerns, approaching them respectfully. If players have questions about tactics or playing time during a game, they should wait to discuss these matters after the game to ensure a constructive dialogue. Players are expected to be understanding that coaches may need time to prepare for an effective conversation and discuss at a later time. For any electronic communication (text, email, TeamSnap), at least one parent is required to be included in the message. The coaching staff will not respond to the message if a parent is not included.

Parent-Coach Communication

Parents are always welcome to communicate with coaches; however, it is essential that players take the initiative to speak with their coaches directly. If a parent requires a one-on-one meeting with a coach, it is important to schedule this in advance and ideally hold it after a practice session. Parents should refrain from asking for meetings before practice or on match days, as these times are often not conducive to effective discussions.

Parent/Player Board Communication

Parents are encouraged to reach out to the board with any questions, comments, or concerns.  The board can be reached by emailing board@stlunitedsoccer.org

Communication with Opposing Teams and Officials

At STL United, we believe in representing our values on and off the field, especially in our interactions with opposing teams, fans, and referees. Communication should always reflect Christlike behavior, which includes treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of the game’s outcome.

Humility in Victory and Defeat

We encourage all players, coaches, and parents to approach each game with a spirit of humility. Winning is celebrated, but it should be done graciously, acknowledging the efforts of the opposing team. In defeat, we should exhibit dignity and maturity, recognizing opportunities for growth and learning.

Respect for Referees

Respect for referees is essential in maintaining a positive game environment. Players should communicate with referees respectfully, accepting their decisions and understanding that they play a vital role in the game. Parents should never address referees directly; any communication regarding officiating should be left to the coaches.

Conflict Resolution

Our goal is to maintain a harmonious environment for all participants in our program, and we follow the Matthew 18 approach for resolving conflicts. To support thoughtful and effective resolutions, we encourage taking 24 hours before addressing any contentious issues. This waiting period allows for calm reflection and helps ensure a more productive dialogue.

The Matthew 18 Methodology 

We strive to maintain a harmonious environment for all participants in our program. In the event of a conflict, we encourage using the Matthew 18 approach to resolution:

• Address Directly: If a conflict arises, please address it directly with the person involved, whether a coach, player, or parent. Open, honest communication is often the first step toward a resolution.
• Involve a Third Party: If direct communication does not resolve the issue, involve a neutral third party to help mediate the situation. This could be another coach or a member of the board.
• Escalation: If the conflict persists, bring it to the board’s attention for further assistance and resolution.

By following these steps, we hope to resolve conflicts amicably and maintain a positive atmosphere for everyone involved.

STL United Events – Modeling Good Behavior 

Coaches, Parents, and Players are expected to uphold the Team Values of St. Louis United at all team events and functions, demonstrating Christlike character in their words and actions.

Respect Roles: At STL United, everyone—players, coaches, officials, and parents—plays a unique and vital role in fostering a positive environment. We encourage mutual respect for each role to ensure teamwork and fair play, modeling Christlike character in all interactions.

Communication: All members—players, coaches, officials, parents, and opposing teams—should prioritize encouragement, maintain a positive attitude, and show respect in all interactions. By fostering a spirit of support, sportsmanship, and Christlike character, we contribute to a thriving community centered around our faith and love for the game.

Players:

• Show respect and gratitude toward coaches, teammates, opponents, and officials.
• Maintain a positive attitude, regardless of circumstances.
• Display integrity by competing fairly and upholding the highest ethical standards.
• Demonstrate self-discipline and perseverance, both on and off the field.
• Foster teamwork by encouraging and supporting one another.
• Unsportsmanlike conduct, profanity, or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.

Coaches:

• Lead by example with Christlike behavior.
• Promote a Christ-honoring atmosphere at games.
• Maintain a positive attitude, regardless of circumstances.
• Provide structured training and mentorship.
• Enforce team policies fairly and consistently.

Parents & Fan:

• Promote a Christ-honoring atmosphere at games.
• Encourage all players positively.
• Show respect and gratitude toward coaches, players, opponents, and officials.
• Please do not coach from the sideline or argue with coaches or officials. 
• As a MSHSAA-sanctioned organization, smoking and alcohol are prohibited within 100 feet of any practice field, game venue or any StL United event.

Parents and fans must sit in designated areas at least 2 yards from the sideline and should not be on the same side as team benches.  When sitting on the sidewalk behind goals at BMAC you must be outside the 18-yard box, to not disturb the goalie.

Uniform & Equipment Requirements

Each player must purchase the official STL United “Home” and “Away” uniform kits from the designated Team Store, including jerseys and shorts. We highly encourage players to purchase the official socks as well.  STL United is subject to NFHS and MSHSAA uniform requirements, and game officials or coaches could deem players ineligible for a game. If you have specific questions, please ask the coaching staff.

Games

All STL United players are required to bring both home and away jerseys to all matches in case of a uniform conflict. You must wear the complete game uniform and soccer cleats, per MSHSAA rules, which supersede the uniform rules specified in the NFHS Soccer Rule Book.

Practice

You must wear the official practice jersey or a plain white shirt with black shorts. Soccer-specific cleats are required, and metal cleats (spikes) may not be used.

Shin Guards

While we understand that some players find shin guards uncomfortable, they are required for both games and practices. NFHS requires shin guards to be age and size-appropriate and may not be altered. 

Socks

Please note that all socks must adhere to the uniform guidelines imposed by MSHSAA and have no stripes or large emblems. “Sock sleeves” and grip socks may be worn in place of the Adidas team socks.  These shall be compliant with the uniform standards.  The sock sleeve must cover the shin guard, and the portion of the sleeve above the ankle must be the same solid color as the home or away uniform.  Under socks or grip socks may be worn, but should also be a solid color and only be exposed below the ankle.  The coaches and referees have the sole discretion to determine if this sock complies with the MSHSAA, NFHS, and team standards.

Cold Weather Gear

An undershirt or athletic tight may be worn during inclement weather, cooler temperatures, or based on player preference. Undershirts can be solid black, white, or blue to match the jersey worn as closely as possible and cannot have a hood or any other protruding material that could risk injury or obstruct the visibility of the uniform jersey.  Athletic tights can be black or white to match the uniform shorts. No graphics, stripes, or large logos should be visible on either. 

Attendance, Availability & Readiness 

Soccer is a team sport, and every player’s commitment is vital for the team’s success. It is essential for players to take attendance seriously, as each individual contributes to the team’s growth and development. Families are encouraged to avoid lengthy vacations during the season that could impact a player’s ability to participate in matches.

TeamSnap

The TeamSnap application is used for all scheduling and communication. We ask that all parents install this app on their phones and allow their players to install it on their mobile devices. Also, we encourage you to subscribe to the TeamSnap calendar so your personal calendars are up-to-date.  It is essential to keep the player and parent contact information updated within TeamSnap.

Matches

• Players are expected to attend all scheduled matches for their team.
• Updating availability in TeamSnap at least one week before each game is required.
• If players cannot attend a match, they must provide a reason in TeamSnap.
• Players should arrive 45 minutes before game time unless otherwise instructed by their coach or listed in TeamSnap.
• Players must be dressed in the assigned uniform and bring all other uniforms.
• Warm-ups begin 30 minutes before the match. Players should be ready with cleats and shin guards on and all jewelry removed.
• If a player could be late to a match, they should notify the coaches via TeamSnap.
• Failure to update availability and missing matches may impact starting positions and game time.

Practice

• Players are required to attend all practices unless an absence is recorded in TeamSnap in advance.
• Practices start promptly at the scheduled time, and players are expected to be present and prepared to begin when practice begins.
• Players should update their availability in TeamSnap well ahead of each event.
• Failure to update attendance and missing practices can also affect player development and team dynamics and is crucial for building team chemistry and mastering skills.
• Players arriving late may miss important warm-up exercises, which are essential for injury prevention and overall performance.

Transportation

We understand that some players may travel significant distances to participate and face transportation challenges. We encourage carpooling to events, and the coaching staff is happy to connect players who live nearby to facilitate this.

Team Captains 

Team captains foster leadership, teamwork, and a positive culture within the St. Louis United soccer program. They serve as a bridge between players and coaches, embodying the values of sportsmanship, commitment, and Christlike character.

Captains will be voted on by the players and approved by the coaching staff. They show extraordinary leadership and selflessness by lifting up teammates and leading by example through play, attitude, and faith on and off the field. Captains are expected to be on time to lead warm-ups and practice drills and are able to communicate positively with coaches, referees, and fellow teammates.

While important to team structure, no player should feel that they are not capable of being a leader. While skill is important, a team captain is recognized for their ability to inspire and uplift the team rather than just for their playing ability.

Lettering Criteria for St. Louis United

The following criteria represent the minimum standards for earning a letter in our soccer program. Achieving these standards does not guarantee a letter, as the final decision will be made by a unanimous vote of the coaching staff based on each player’s overall contribution, attitude, and commitment to the team.

• Participation: Players must participate in at least 75% of varsity game halves throughout the season and regularly attend practices and team events.
• Team Contribution: Playing effectively in games, assisting teammates, and positively impacting team performance.
• Commitment to Faith and Values: Players are expected to uphold the core Christian values of teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship, both on and off the field. This includes demonstrating integrity, humility, and compassion toward teammates, opponents, and officials.
• Attendance and Punctuality: Consistent attendance at practices, games, and team events, as well as punctuality, are required. 
• Adherence to Team Policies: Players must follow the team’s rules, guidelines, and code of conduct as outlined by the coaching staff. 
• Leadership and Discipleship: Players are encouraged to demonstrate leadership qualities, mentor younger teammates, and embody the spirit of Christian discipleship, fostering a supportive and encouraging team environment.

Coaching and Board Requirements

The STL United coaching staff undergo ongoing background checks and are vetted and approved by the STL United Board.  In addition, the coaches incorporate “two deep” coaching where there is a minimum of two coaches or an STL United Board member on the field at all times. Former STL United players, parents, and guest coaches do not count towards “two deep coaching”.

Statement of Christian Faith

As coaches/board members and leaders within St. Louis United Homeschool Soccer, we affirm the following beliefs, rooted in the Christian faith as expressed in the Apostles’ Creed:

1. We believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, who is sovereign over all creation and who calls us to live in obedience to His will.
2. We believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. On the third day, He rose again from the dead, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. Through Jesus, we have redemption and eternal life.
3. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who indwells and empowers all believers, guiding us in truth, equipping us for godly living, and uniting us as one body in Christ.
4. We believe in the holy universal Church, the fellowship of believers who are called to be Christ’s witnesses in the world, demonstrating His love and truth in all aspects of life, including sports and community.
5. We believe in the forgiveness of sins, through Jesus Christ, and the call to live a life of grace, humility, and repentance.
6. We believe in the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting, confident in the hope of eternity with God through faith in Jesus Christ.

Coaching Specific Requirements:

• Commitment to Christian Principles: 
  • Coaches must exemplify Christian character in all interactions with players, parents, and other coaches.
  • Be prepared to lead devotions or prayers before practices, games, and events.
  • Foster a team culture that reflects Christian values, including respect for opponents, humility in victory, and grace in defeat.
  • All coaches are required to sign a Statement of Christian Faith affirming their commitment to the core beliefs and values of the Christian Faith.
• Coaching License and Experience:
  • Possess a minimum of a U.S. Soccer Grassroots Coaching License or equivalent.
  • Previous experience coaching youth soccer is preferred, with an understanding of various development stages.
  • Participate in ongoing training and education, staying current on best practices in coaching and player development.
• Player Development Focus:
  • Prioritize individual skill development and tactical understanding of the game.
  • Encourage players to develop leadership skills, sportsmanship, and a strong work ethic.
  • Use positive reinforcement and constructive feedback to help players grow both athletically and personally.
• Commitment to Safety and Well-being:
  • Ensure that all players are treated with dignity and respect, creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
  • Complete a background check and comply with all child safety regulations.
  • All coaches must be CPR certified and complete SafeSport training and concussion protocol certification before the start of the season.
  • Be knowledgeable in first aid and injury prevention; all coaches are expected to handle emergencies calmly and appropriately, ensuring the safety of all players.
• Time Commitment:
  • Coaches are expected to attend all practices, games, and team meetings unless prior notice is given and a suitable substitute is arranged.
  • Preparation outside of practice times is necessary, including planning drills, tactics, and reviewing player performance.
• Collaboration and Teamwork:
  • Work in collaboration with other coaches and staff to ensure the smooth operation of the program.
  • Support the development of all teams within St. Louis United, promoting unity within the organization.
• Role Model for Players:
  • Be a mentor and role model for the athletes, demonstrating Christ-like behavior in both soccer and life.
  • Encourage a balanced lifestyle that includes academics, family, and faith, in addition to soccer.
• Upholding the Reputation of St. Louis United Homeschool Soccer:
  • Coaches must uphold and promote the values and reputation of St. Louis United Homeschool Soccer in all public and private settings.
  • Any conduct that compromises the mission of the organization or brings disrepute to the program will be addressed accordingly.
• Evaluation and Accountability:
  • All coaches will be evaluated periodically by the organization’s leadership to ensure adherence to these guidelines and alignment with the team’s mission.
  • Coaches must be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments for the betterment of the team and organization.