It's that time of year again….SILENT SATURDAY. This Saturday, April 2nd, we are asking you and all spectators at your games to join us in our Silent Saturday rules below. It is essential to have maximum participation. This is a Section-wide day to eliminate shouting from the sidelines by coaches and spectators (all of Orange County is participating!). Even if you play outside of Tustin, this applies to you!

Silent Saturday - April 2, 2022

The vision of AYSO is to provide world class soccer programs that enrich children’s lives. Silent Saturday is intended to allow children to have fun and play, regardless of the mistakes made along the way. Soccer is a sport that requires real-time decision making, and too often, players are not allowed to make their own choices due to instruction from the sidelines.

What is it?  Silent Saturday is a day where parents and coaches do not talk to, yell instructions, or even vocally cheer for players on the field during the game. The purpose of Silent Saturday is to allow players to learn and enjoy the game for themselves and with their teammates. This is a day where kids get to make their own decisions, right or wrong, and develop as players without the input of coaches/adults. Silent Saturday also gives parents and coaches an opportunity to reflect on the joy of the game and watch the players make the game THEIRS, rather than focus on performance or results.

Here are a few of the reasons we have a Silent Saturday:

• Give players a chance to build their skills and instincts without fear their mistakes will be reprimanded from the sidelines.
• Develop leadership skills among players with a unique opportunity to be the only voices on the field.
• Encourage teamwork as the players rely upon one another and communicate with each other.
• Remind coaches, parents, and players that PRACTICE is the time for instruction; games are the showcases for learning and fun. The game is where you can show what you can do!

Can spectators cheer at all? OF COURSE! We simply ask you cheer in a non-verbal manner. Clapping is encouraged! Use your imagination to think of “silent” ways to encourage your player and show your support for your team!

What do we ask? Coaches and parents should observe Silent Saturday as best they can. Coaches should try not to coach or instruct the players during the flow of play. Coaches may talk to the players regarding substitutions or positioning and may speak quietly to their players on the bench.

Years of feedback have told us that Silent Saturday is one of the best days for the players.  Thank you for helping make Silent Saturday a success!