News and Announcements

Update August 16th 2020

KPSA has extended registration for another 24 hours. If you have not completed check out, please log in to your admin sports account no later than tomorrow at noon and complete registration. For any questions on registration including refunds and the season please read the information below in its entirety.

The governor released new guidance today covering the playing of youth sports. It is linked here: phase-iii-

The guidance contains significant modifications to soccer that need to be understood and adjusted to.

The BAYS season start date was pushed out by one week until September 19.

The plan would be to still release a 10-week BAYS schedule, the first week (9/12) would be an automatic “rain-out” to be made up during the season. At our next BOD meeting they will discuss and vote on extending the make up window for the fall season so that teams have time to schedule this game.

Reasons behind the schedule change: Mass Youth Soccer specific guidance is scheduled to come out 8/14 and town clubs will have more time to be able to digest the new changes in the coming week Towns can then work with their Health Boards to determine any additional issues on a town-specific basis that might affect their ability to play in BAYS Towns would hopefully then have a higher degree of certainty in being able to participate in BAYS and thus their team entries will be more realistic

This puts our season start AFTER the 9/16 “start” of school, which feels better — MIAA also came out today with a decision to delay any “start” to their fall sports schedules until 9/16 as well.

Given the unprecedented circumstances, and since we do not have time for a formal vote on this matter, I am putting this out there so that clubs are aware. The majority of the Executive Committee and the Fall Scenario Planning committee members agree with this recommendation.

Update August 12th, 2020

Dear KPSA Families-

After a meeting with Boston Area Youth Soccer (BAYS) and Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (MYSA), King Philip Soccer (KPSA) is releasing all wait-listed players and asking that everyone complete check out NOT LATER than tomorrow at 5:00PM. Registration will officially close tomorrow at 5:00. Anyone that is not yet registered or wait-listed can log into their Admin Sports account and complete registration and payment prior to tomorrow at 5:00.

PLEASE NOTE, we are very much pressed for time and if your registration is not completed by the dead line you will not be able to participate in the fall session. NO EXCEPTIONS.

We will be opening the volunteer section at the same time so while you complete check out you will have the option to volunteer as a coach. Please select that option if you are interested in coaching. Please do not simply place it in the comments or you will not be considered. There will be guidelines pertaining to coaching forthcoming and will be relayed to all coaches at a later date.

There will be "return to play" guidelines set forth by MYSA and BAYS in the next few days. Once those guidelines are released they will be conveyed to all families.

Please note NO REFUNDS will be given under any circumstances should you decide at a later date you no longer want to play. KPSA is responsible to third party processing fees and to multiple organizations that are non refundable. We chose to issue refunds to all players in the spring and we were not refunded, accordingly absorbing those expenses. With that said, BAYS has committed to providing pro-rated refunds to all towns should the season be cut short. In that unfortunate circumstance we will pass those pro-rated refunds on to the families.

We are not asking families to purchase uniforms this season so that option will not be available upon completion of registration. Pinnies will be provided at the beginning of the season for each child.

Due to the current pandemic and all of the safety steps that organizations such as King Philip Soccer need to adhere to with the new strict commonwealths Guidelines and Requirement, we are postponing all tryouts currently. We will revisit our ability to entertain tryouts in the future and provide you an update of any changes. Thank you.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and willingness to be flexible with KPSA as we navigate these troubling times.

Please be safe. Update August 11th, 2020

KPSA is re opening registration for "last call" for any players grade 7/8 that would like to play soccer this fall.

Bays is looking to plan a 10 week season starting September 12th.

We do not have complete details as of yet so we are still going to have everyone follow the registration protocols set forth below, register without completing check out. This is the only option you will be given as registration is being opened under "wait list". This does not mean you are "wait listed" it is an administration tool in order for us to get everyone signed up without collecting fees until we know for sure there will be a season. Please do not email us and ask us why you are wait listed, this is normal.

We are asking that you also do not email us and ask us if you "did it right". You will receive a notice after you register. We will be emailing everyone registered on or around August 13th to complete payment. Payment must be made within 24 hours of the notice or you will be dropped. Unfortunately we are adhering to BAYS guidelines right now and are under tight time restraints.

We can not answer any of your questions yet pertaining to "return to play" guidelines. We will hopefully have an answer for you on our around August 13th.

Thank you for your patience and we look forward to seeing all of the kids out there again.

Update August 5, 2020

Dear KPSA Families-

The KPSA BOD is asking that parents please refrain from sending us individual emails with questions that we are un able to answer. At this time we are refraining from answering individual emails as we do not have any answers to questions other than what has already been conveyed. We want to see the kids out there playing as much as you do however, this is still out of our control. We ask that you take a moment to scroll down and read all of the "updates" provided in this thread. Here are a few more q&a that may assist with any lingering questions;

1- Q-When will the last call for registration take place? A- We do not know. That depends on if and when BAYS and MYSA clear us for a season. Q- How long will last call be open for and how how will I be notified? A- We will notify anyone who is in the KPSA data base, we will post it here on our web site, we will notify all of the tri towns registrars and Presidents. We will leave it open as long as as we can. Please check this site frequently if you are concerned about missing a message. Ask friends who have kids that are already registered to notify you should they receive an email.

2- Q- I did not see an area to volunteer to coach when I registered. A- Correct, In can effort to streamline this process given all of the uncertainty of the future, there is no area to volunteer or purchase uniforms. We will send further instructions for both should we be fortunate enough to have a season in the fall.

We are hopeful to send all good news sometime in the near future.

Best to all of the families and stay safe.

Update July 31 2020

KPSA registration is now closed. If you successfully registered by following the instructions below, topi received an email this morning. If you do not receive an email, that means you did not register. Do not panic! We will re open registration for "last call" at the same time we allow everyone who registered under the wait list guidelines to checkout. Please check here often as we will update you as we are updated.

Update July 22nd 2020

Due to the recent push back in a decision for fall sports KPA is extending the registration deadline period to July 31st. This means you must register BEFORE July 31st. Registration on July 31st will be considered late.

For information on how to proceed please read the notes below from the previous post on July 8th

Those hoping for an MIAA season come September can breathe a sigh of relief that while on hold, there still remains the possibility of fall athletics.

On Tuesday afternoon, the MIAA Board of Directors unanimously voted to adopt the MIAA COVID-19 Task Force’s recommendation to delay the start of all fall sports until Sept. 14, ensuring athletics do not begin until schools are back in session.

While the MIAA has announced a start date to the fall season, athletics still hinge on guidelines set to be released by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Those two agencies, in coordination with Gov. Charlie Baker’s office, will announce sometime in early August what fall sports — if any — can safely be played at the high school level. That report will follow transportation guidance for schools that DESE is set to release at the end of this week.

“Pushing the season back just makes the most sense across the board,” Cambridge Rindge & Latin Athletic Director and board member Tom Arria said. “It would not make sense to have plans for school, which we’re all trying to get back to, and then have to change them because of outcomes in athletics before those schools are set to open.” Update July 8 2020

Registration is now open. All families that wish to participate in Fall soccer may log in and register. We are asking that you follow all steps but do not check out. This will give us a good idea as to how many we have if the state decides to move forward with fall sports. Here is the most recent communication regarding fall sports. Registration will close on July 21st so please do not wait. Please understand we do not know what lies ahead or, if we will have a fall season. We are being guided by the State and MYSA. As soon as we have information we will update everyone.

MASSACHUSETTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS WORKPLACE SAFETY and REOPENING STANDARDS FOR BUSINESSES and OTHER ENTITIES PROVIDING YOUTH and ADULT AMATEUR SPORTS ACTIVITIES – Phase III, Step 1 July 6, 2020 INTRODUCTION In accordance with the authority granted to the Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) pursuant to COVID-19 Order No. 43 to issue Sector-Specific Rules to implement COVID-19 safety measures for organized youth and adult amateur sports activities, the following guidelines apply to Phase III, Step 1 of the Commonwealth’s reopening. Authorized Phase III, Step 1 activities may not begin until Phase III is initiated by Order of the Governor. This guidance will not govern fall K-12 and other youth sports activities. School and other youth sports activities guidance for the fall is currently under development and will be jointly issued by EEA and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. In Phase III, Step 1, businesses and other entities are permitted to operate youth and adult amateur sports and other recreational activities subject to the limitations set forth below. This document provides guidance for how to implement general workplace safety standards and other public health guidance (“COVID-19 measures”) in the context of outdoor recreational operations in Phase III of the Commonwealth’s reopening. Operators who fail to implement applicable COVID-19 measures may be sanctioned in accordance with COVID-19 Order No. 43. Operators are further reminded that in addition to implementing COVID-19 measures in Phase III, they must still comply with all federal, state and local laws. The public health data and guidance on which this document is based can and does change frequently. The most recent version of this document can be found on the Commonwealth’s website, http://www.mass.gov/ In addition to complying with the aforementioned limitations, operators must implement the following safety measures detailed below. How to Use This Document The guidelines in this document are designed to provide a safe environment for organized youth and adult athletic opportunities. Recognizing that in many instances the activity is organized by one entity and takes place at a facility operated by a second entity, this document categorizes guidance based on an entity’s role. Facility Operators should read and comply with the Guidelines for Facility Operators.

Activity Organizers should read and comply with Guidelines for Activity Organizers. Entities that organize activities in facilities for which they are responsible should comply with both sets of guidelines (Guidelines for Facility Operators and Guidelines for Activity Organizers). LIMITATIONS ON RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND FACILITIES DURING PHASE III, Step 1 Facility Operators and Activity Organizers must comply with the following limitations. For non- organized sports and recreation, individuals should follow these guidelines, where it applies to their activities. Organizers of athletic and recreational activity competitions or tournaments should follow the competition and tournament guidance herein. Outdoor and Indoor Sports and Athletic Facilities Organizations, businesses, schools and government entities that operate outdoor or indoor sports facilities, such as athletic fields, courts and other playing surfaces, pools, and sailing and boating facilities can open their premises and facilities for use by adults and youth in Phase III, Step 1 provided that the safety measures outlined herein are implemented by facility operators and activity organizers. Such athletic facilities subject to this guidance include: • Gymnastics Facilities • Indoor & Outdoor Pools • Indoor and Outdoor Athletic Fields and Courts • Ice Rinks • Tracks • Indoor Gymnasiums • Martial Arts & Dance Facilities • Indoor Racquet Courts • Indoor Batting Cage Facilities Fitness Centers and Health Clubs must follow the Sector Specific Workplace Safety Standards for Fitness Centers and Health Clubs to Address COVID-19. Pool Facilities (both indoor and outdoor) must ensure compliance with the Safety Standards for Public and Semi-Public Pools. Recreational camps or other programs that are subject to 105 CMR 430.000 must follow the requirements outlined in the Massachusetts Child and Youth Service Programs Reopen Approach: Minimum Requirements for Health and Safety. SPORTS & RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ALLOWED DURING PHASE III, STEP 1 The ability to participate in sports and recreation activities is determined by a combination of (1) risk of transmission of COVID-19 inherent in the sport or recreation activity itself and (2) level of risk associated with the “Type of Play”. In Phase III, Step 1, subject to the limitations and guidelines set forth below:

• Sports and activities included in the Lower Risk category can participate in Level 1, 2, 3, 4 type of play. • Sports and activities included in the Moderate Risk category can participate in Level 1, 2 and 3 type of play. • Sports and activities included in the Higher Risk category can participate in Level 1 type of play STANDARDS FOR SPORTS & RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN PHASE III, STEP 1 Risk Level: Sports and recreation activities are categorized as “Lower Risk,” “Moderate Risk,” and “Higher Risk.” Lower Risk sports and recreation activities are characterized by: • Sports or activities that can be done with social distancing • Sports or activities that can be done individually Examples: Batting cages, tennis, pickleball, swimming, catch, disc golf, golf, individual biking, surfing, horseback riding, individual sailing, fishing, hunting, motor sports, yoga & no contact exercise classes, gymnastics Moderate Risk sports and recreation activities are characterized by: • Sports or activities that involve intermittent contact, but with protective equipment or mitigating measures in place that may reduce the likelihood of respiratory particle transmission between participants (e.g., wearing masks, modifying play) Examples: Baseball, softball, crew/sailing (2-3 people in a boat), track and field, cross country, running clubs, team swimming, volleyball, dance class, fencing, field hockey, no-contact lacrosse Higher Risk sports and recreation activities are characterized by: • Sports that involve close, sustained contact between participants, lack of significant protective barriers, and high probability that respiratory particles will be transmitted between participants. Examples: Football, wrestling, soccer, rugby, basketball, lacrosse, ice-hockey, competitive cheer, martial arts, crew/sailing (more than 3 people in a boat), ultimate frisbee. Type of Play: The following types of play are defined by level from least to greatest risk. • Level 1: Individual or socially distanced group activities (no-contact workouts, aerobic conditioning, individual skill work, and drills) • Level 2: Competitive Practices (Intra-team/group games, contact drills and scrimmages)

• Level 3: Competitions (Inter-team games, meets, matches, races, etc.) • Level 4: Tournaments (Outdoor only) For the purposes of these guidelines, a “Competition” is defined as multiple participants or two teams competing against one another in a single contest. A competition includes, inter-team games, matches, shows, meets, and races. A “Tournament” is a formal contest that consists of multiple games between multiple persons or teams, that might include multiple stages, played in a condensed period of time, such as over the course of a single day or multiple days in a row. In Phase III, Step 1, only outdoor Tournaments are allowed for Lower Risk Sports. Competition and Tournament Organizers must adhere to the following: • Outdoor Competitions & Tournaments: No more than 25 players on any surface/playing areas for team/group sports. No more than 100 people including participants, players, coaches, volunteers, spectators in the aggregate in, on, or surrounding any surface/playing area or start/finish lines at any one time, provided that there is adequate space for all participants, players, coaches, volunteers and spectators to maintain at least six feet social distancing, recognizing that for some moderate risk sports intermittent contact may occur for players. Spectators must wear facial coverings and maintain six feet of social distance at all times. For competitions and tournaments in the water, the aforementioned limitation applies to any applicable activities on land. No spectators allowed for sports and activities played by individuals 18 years and older. • Indoor Competition Capacity: No more than 25 players on any surface/playing areas for team/group sports. No spectators allowed for indoor competitions for sports and activities played by individuals 18 years and older. If an indoor facility has a chaperone or spectator viewing area which allows for at least six feet social distancing between spectators and the presence of spectators plus players/coaches as well as staff does not cause the facility to exceed more than 40% of the maximum occupancy for the indoor facility, then 1 spectator per player under 18 years old are allowed to attend. Spectators must wear facial coverings and maintain six feet of social distance at all times. • For facilities with multiple fields, surfaces, courts, organizers should set Competition and Tournament schedules with a buffer to prevent the overlap of participants and to allow for disinfection of equipment and cleaning of commonly touched surfaces, if necessary. Games should end in a draw if time expires. IMPLEMENTING SAFETY MEASURES FOR YOUR OPERATION All business and other organizations in the Commonwealth must immediately adopt and maintain the following generally applicable COVID-19 safety rules.

Social Distancing • All persons, including employees, customers, and vendors should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside workplaces • Establish protocols to ensure that employees can practice adequate social distancing • Provide signage for safe social distancing • Require face coverings or masks for all employees and customers Hygiene Protocols • If available, provide hand-washing capabilities throughout the workplace • Ensure frequent hand washing by employees and adequate supplies to do so • Provide regular sanitization of high touch areas, such as workstations, equipment, screens, doorknobs, restrooms throughout work site Staffing and Operations • Provide training for employees regarding the social distancing and hygiene protocols • Employees who are displaying COVID-19-like symptoms do not report to work • Establish a plan for employees getting ill from COVID-19 at work, and a return-to- work plan Cleaning and Disinfecting • Establish and maintain cleaning protocols specific to the business • When an active employee is diagnosed with COVID-19, cleaning and disinfecting must be performed • Disinfection of all common surfaces must take place at intervals appropriate to said workplace The application of these measures for athletic activities for Phase III, Step 1 is detailed below: I. Social Distancing Facility Operator Guidance  Indoor and outdoor athletic facilities are open for youth and adult amateur sports activities and programs.  Indoor facilities must limit capacity to no more than 40% of the building’s maximum permitted occupancy and ensure adequate social distancing for all visitors and staff.  For team and group sports, no more than 25 players or participants can be on a single playing surface/area/court at any one time. The number of coaches and staff should be limited. Larger playing areas and surfaces, such as athletic fields, tracks, facilities that have multiple courts or playing areas, may be used by more than one group at one time, provided that adequate social distance and group separation can be maintained. To ensure group separation, groups must be spaced at least 20 feet apart while sharing a single playing surface, court or field.  For outdoor facilities: Spectators must maintain distance of at least 6 feet between spectators groups. Operators are encouraged to mark off spectator/chaperone viewing sites to allow for social distancing. Spectators should be encouraged to wear masks.  For indoor facilities: if an indoor facility has a chaperone or spectator viewing area which allows for at least six feet social distancing between spectators and the presence of spectators plus players/coaches as well as staff does not cause the facility to exceed more than 40% of the maximum occupancy for the indoor facility, then 1 spectator per player under 18 years old are

allowed. Spectators must wear facial coverings and maintain six feet of social distance at all times. Operators are encouraged to mark off spectator/chaperone viewing sites to allow for social distancing.  Locker rooms and changing areas may open in Phase III, Step 1, but should be limited to 50% capacity. Facility Operators should ensure that users can abide by capacity restrictions and social distancing standards and establish signage and visual guidelines. Signage should remind users to limit time spent in enclosed area.  Indoor showers should remain closed in Phase III, Step 1. Indoor and outdoor pool facilities must provide access showers to swimmers prior to swimming in compliance with 105 CMR 435. If outdoor showers are not available, facilities may meet this requirement by providing access to indoor showers. If outdoor showers are available, facilities should keep indoor showers closed.  Limit any nonessential visitors, spectators, staff, volunteers, and activities involving external groups or organizations as much as possible. While indoors, visitors, spectators, volunteers and staff must wear face coverings.  Where feasible, indoor facilities should institute one-way entrance and exits while adhering to established fire and building codes.  Indoor batting cage facilities shall ensure adequate social distancing between each cage, such as limiting use to every other cage.  Access to equipment storage and office space should be limited to employees only. First aid kits should be available at the playing area or court rather than in an office, where possible.  Facility organizers should ensure that individuals are not congregating in common areas or parking lots following practices or events. Activity Organizer Guidance  For team and group sports, no more than 25 players or participants can be on a single playing surface/area/court at any one time. The number of coaches and staff should be limited. Larger playing areas and surfaces, such as athletic fields, tracks, facilities that have multiple courts or playing areas, may be used by more than one group at one time, provided that adequate social distance and group separation can be maintained. To ensure group separation, groups must be spaced at least 20 feet apart while sharing a single playing surface, court or field.  Face coverings and social distancing of six feet is required when participants are not actively engaged in an activity (e.g., on bench, huddles, breaks, locker rooms, pre/post practice).  Dugouts, benches & bleachers are allowed to open only if they can be thoroughly cleaned before and after every use and six feet of distance can be maintained.  Activity Organizers are encouraged to consider adopting more stringent rules to accommodate athlete safety  Activity Organizers should require facial coverings to be worn while engaged in a moderate risk sport/activity where intermittent contact might occur and it is safe to do so (i.e., baseball/softball player while at bat/on base, volleyball)

 Activity Organizers should consider other mitigating measures to reduce the likelihood of respiratory particular transmission between participants for moderate risk sport/activities (i.e., having runners in every other lane)  Sportsmanship should continue in a touchless manner – no handshakes/slaps/fist bumps.  Coaches, staff, referees, umpires and other officials are required to wear facial coverings and maintain social distancing of 6 feet from players, coaches, spectators, and other persons at all times.  If social distancing is not possible in an athletic facility, chaperones/spectators may be asked to wait outside the facility until an activity is completed.  Activity organizers should ensure that individuals are not congregating in common areas or parking lots following practices or events. II. Hygiene Protocols Facility Operator Guidance  If any equipment is provided by the operator, operators must clean and disinfect shared equipment at the end of a practice session using a product from the list of disinfectants meeting EPA criteria for use against the novel coronavirus.  Indoor facilities must provide access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow sufficient break time for staff and participants to wash hands to frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative.  All facilities must supply employees with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes).  Operators must post visible signage throughout the site to remind employees and visitors of hygiene and safety protocols.  Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained. Customers and workers should bring their own water bottles or purchase from the business.  Any concessions or food service must follow the Safety Standards for Restaurants. Activity Organizer Guidance  Organizers must ensure that any shared personal equipment is disinfected before use by each individual using a product from the list of disinfectants meeting EPA criteria for use against Covid-19. Personal equipment includes all gear that is worn by players (e.g., gloves, helmets, masks, skates, footwear, pads, etc.).  Organizers should minimize sharing of other equipment, and clean and disinfect all shared equipment at the end of a practice session using a product from the list of disinfectants meeting EPA criteria for use against the novel coronavirus.

 No shared food or drink may be provided during any activities for participants or spectators except by concessions and food service providers following the Safety Standards for Restaurants.  Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained. Customers and workers should bring their own water bottles or purchase from the business.  Participants and spectators should only drink from their own containers. Organizers must provide individual, dedicated water bottles for children if they do not have their own.  Participants and coaches must achieve proper hand hygiene at the beginning and end of all activities, either through handwashing with soap and water or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  Organizers should encourage athletes to arrive dressed for practice and to leave immediately after practice. Locker room and changing room use should be minimized. III. Staffing and Operations Operator Guidance  Operators must ensure that hand sanitizer or hand washing stations are available in indoor facilities for use by players, staff and coaches.  All high touch surface areas must be cleaned at the end of each activity.  Operators should work with organizers to stagger activity start and end times or put in place other protocols to limit contact between all visitors as much as possible. This also allows for more time to clean the facility between users. Operators must have daily schedules prepared in advance.  Operators of indoor facilities shall establish traffic patterns (one-way flow, designated exits and entrances where possible), and limit capacity to maintain social distancing for the facility, including any restrooms and locker rooms. If social distancing cannot be maintained, spectators should be asked to wait outside.  Operators should log all persons (name and phone number or name and email address) who come in contact with facility to facilitate contact tracing, including staff, participants, and spectators.  Operators must post notice to employees, workers, and participants of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in government guidelines.  Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH.

Organizer Guidance  To participate or attend, organizers should ensure that participants, volunteers, coaches and spectators must show no signs or symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days. Current list of symptoms is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms- testing/symptoms.html  If any individual develops symptoms of COVID-19 during the activity, they should promptly inform organizers and must be removed from the activity and instructed to return home.  Organizers of activities are responsible for following all guidelines and creating a safe environment for participants.  Organizers must educate all participants and spectators on the applicable protocols for the relevant activity, protocols for entering/leaving the facility, and any other hygiene requirements.  Organizers in coordination with operators must ensure that hand sanitizer is available to all players. IV. Cleaning and Disinfecting Operator Guidance  Restrooms facilities shall be cleaned and disinfected in accordance with Centers for Disease Control guidance and best practices linked here: EEA COVID-19 Outdoor Recreation Facility Restroom Cleaning Best Practices  Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning.  Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, bathrooms).  In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current guidance. Organizer Guidance  Organizers should disinfect any shared equipment before and after every clinic, practice and game.  Organizers should assess the cleanliness and disinfection protocols being employed at the facility they are using for athletic activity. If cleanliness is low, or any other concerns arise organizer should immediately stop any ongoing athletic activity until such time as operator can show that conditions have been brought up to the standards outlined in this guidance.  Organizers should understand the cleaning and disinfection protocols employed at the facility they are using and should raise any issues to the operator or local board of health.

Updated June 12th

Dear KPSA Families- As we move into the summer, we are reminded that fall is not far off and we know that many of you are probably wondering what lies ahead. The KPSA BOD has been working hard in an attempt to try and come up with some stability for the fall season. As much as we would like to have “a solid plan”, uncertainty still lingers. We are doing our best with planning and anticipating a fall season. Outlined below is how KPSA plans to proceed as of now: KPSA will open registration on July 1st. We will ask that all participants choose “deferred billing” and pay only $10 towards registration. We will customize this option within Admin Sports and further instructions will be sent just prior to registration opening. We are proceeding with caution and in the unfortunate event that we are unable to proceed with a fall season, this registration process eliminates the need for refunds. It is important to note that the $10 fee is non-refundable. In the event that the fall season is green lighted, the non-refundable $10 will be applied to registration fees. As all towns are in a unique situation with fielding teams and placements, KPSA will hold some form of an evaluation for incoming seventh graders only. Eighth graders that played with us last fall will not be attending and will be placed based on past data. BAYS has asked that we encourage all involved to adopt the “BAYS mindset” as we navigate through these uncertain times. A brief outline of the mindset is as follows: Celebration of Soccer The Fall 2020 Season should be more about celebrating the kids playing the game, then results.

Go/No Go Overall For guidance about playing the fall season, BAYS will look to the same sources used to decide the spring season. The Fall season will not start unless all these sources agree that it is safe for children to play outdoor, inter-town sports this fall. • MassachusettsYouthSoccer • Statusofschools • CentersforDiseaseControl&Mass.DepartmentofHealth • Federalandstateauthorities • MIAA–controlshighschoolsports Season Length/Structure We decided to plan for a 10-game season structured as normal with tiered divisions and sections. This is all of the information we have as of now. As soon as we have more information to share you will be updated. We will touch base with everyone as we closer to the July 1st registration open date. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.

Updated May 8th

Dear KPSA Families-

We have had a few emails pertaining to the time frame on refunds. As mentioned below Admin Sports has agreed to process the refunds for KPSA on our behalf. They are not only processing our refunds but many other towns as well. Every town is doing something different with regards to refunds so they have allot of work on their hands. In addition we have had some very generous families donate their registration fees. That will delay the process slightly as it creates some manual work (removing families from the batch refund). We ask that you please remain patient during this time and trust in our organization and its board members that you will be refunded in full.

Thank you and be well.

Updated April 25

Dear KPSA Families-

We hope this email finds you and your families are safe and well.

We are sure all of you are aware or familiar with the current and ongoing situation with the coronavirus and how all school and sports activities are being cancelled. Accordingly, under the guidance of BAYS and Mass Youth Soccer KPSA will not have a spring soccer season. With that stated, we currently do not have any idea what the future holds for the upcoming fall season either.

BAYS has chosen to refund participating member towns 75% of all fees paid. (the info on that is in a direct email from BAYS below) For our organization, KPSA, this means they are retaining 25% of registration fees to cover their respective costs incurred. Admin Sports is not refunding any of their respective administration fees. We have investigated how other organizations are proceeding with regards to refunds and the “majority” are refunding 70%; with others doing some type of refund between 75-90%.

With what has transpired to date and the economic impact that is currently being felt by many, this afternoon the KPSA Board agreed and voted to return 100% of all fees paid by our families. This means we, as an organization, will absorb the fees and other costs incurred from BAYS and Admin Sports. The Board decided this is the right thing to do for members of our organization.

We will be having Admin Sports issue refunds accordingly to all families who have registered for the Spring season 2020. These refunds will include any uniforms or other expenses. While we would love to give everyone the option of “rolling over” their spring registration fees, without knowing what lies ahead we feel refunding the full amount is the best option for all at this time.

Admin Sports will begin processing the refunds within approximately 48-72 hours. As with all credit card transactions there will be a short delay before it will appear on your statements. We ask that you please be patient and rest assured that your refund will post.

KPSA is a non profit organization and is managed by volunteers. If there are any families choosing not to receive their registration fees back and would like for them to be donated to KPSA, please let us know as soon as possible and no later than Wednesday, April 29 at 5 pm.

We will continue to post updates on our website when we receive them.

We thank all of you for your trust,patience and understanding and we hope to see all of the kids out there playing soon.

Please stay safe and healthy, and wash your hands!

Respectfully Yours, KPSA Board

Updated April 22

There will be no Spring season. See below from BAYS. We ask that everyone please be patient while as an organization decide how best to proceed. We will be reaching out to everyone as soon as we have some answers from our governing organizations including Admin Sports. Thank you for your patience

Hello All Town Presidents, Treasurers, Registrars, Travel Directors, and Referee Assignors,

It is with great reluctance that I share this news. Based on Governor Charlie Baker’s decision to close Massachusetts schools through June, the Boston Area Youth Soccer League’s Board of Directors has decided to cancel its Spring 2020 schedule.

We have consistently maintained that if the schools were closed many parents would be uneasy about having their children participate in an inter-town travel soccer program. Functionally, many towns noted that if the schools were closed, they would not have access to the field space required to run their clubs.

This was a tough decision to make, but we believe that it is the right call to keep our children safe.

Team Refunds As we mentioned during the April 8 BAYS board meeting, the league will return roughly 75% of the spring team registration fees that we collected from towns to run the spring schedule, net of any previously outstanding balances due. We will process the checks as quickly as possible.

The money we retain will be used to pay for our technology contract, pay the salaries of our two part-time employees, start paying off the debt of $56,000 that was inadvertently deposited in our account, cover anticipated audit related costs, and other fees expenses required to support the league.

Friendlies BAYS has published the final placements created for the Spring 2020 season. You can find that information here: https://bays.org/bays/placement. We have published the placements because if the bans are lifted on large gatherings and all authorities have determined that it is safe to play soccer again, we want you to have a list of similarly ranked teams made into divisions and sections in case your town club wants to organize friendlies in the late spring or summer. Where assigned, coach contact information for all the teams is available on the Teams by Town pages.

Insurance Regarding insurance, any child who was registered with Mass Youth Soccer in the Fall 2019 season will be covered through August 31, 2020, if they are playing in town sanctioned and organized activities. Any child who wants to take part in tryouts or other activities for their town but is NOT registered with Mass Youth Soccer would not be covered. If towns already completed/paid for their spring player affiliation, the town can either apply to Mass Youth for a full refund for those players who will not be stepping on a field, or let the affiliation stand so that those players may be covered for any sanctioned tryout or organized summer activities that occur.

Other opportunities We have spoken with Mass Youth Soccer Executive Director Michael Borislow and he is committed to trying to find ways to get as many children on the soccer field as soon as it is safe. So, while BAYS may have canceled its spring schedule, there may be opportunities for our children to play later this spring or summer. We and Mass Youth Soccer will keep you informed.

Looking ahead to the fall There will certainly be challenges kicking off the fall season. For example, we don’t know when it will be safe to hold tryouts. Many families will have suffered financial hardship. Those families that can afford to pay registration fees, may be reluctant to do so until the last minute.

As a result of all these uncertainties, we are putting together a fall task force that will help our league and towns prepare for the fall season, if we have one. We are looking for volunteers from the towns to help with this task force. Please reach out to me directly if you want to be a part of this critical team that will help us chart a path forward through unfathomable waters.

Disappointment This is a difficult time and filled with lots of disappointment and regret. At BAYS, we are committed to putting as many children on the field as possible in a fun, safe, and competitive environment. I look forward to a time when it is safe for our children to play the sport that we love.

UPDATED APRIL 16, 2020

Update: Since Governor Baker has now closed the schools until May 4, it is obvious that the KPSA/BAYS season cannot start until May 9, at the earliest. The key takeaway here, is that things change rapidly and we must be flexible.

3/25/2020 - BAYS Season Update

Mass Youth and MIAA

On Sunday 3/22, the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (Mass Youth) sent an email that extended the ban on soccer activities through April 26. This means soccer activities (tryouts, practices, in-person meetings, etc.) cannot begin until April 27 at the earliest. The email also said soccer games may not begin until May 2. Recap of March 17 All-BAYS call

Based on what we currently know, the spring soccer season will now kick off on Saturday, May 2nd. BAYS will schedule the 10 season games with a start date of April 25, but this first game will be considered an automatic “rain-out” to be made up if possible, but without penalty of a forfeit. Games will now be scheduled on Memorial Day weekend, with the last scheduled game on June 27.

Additional news is that to allow for more game weeks in the regular schedule for all Grade 3-8 teams, BAYS will not participate in the MTOC for either the eligible Grade 6 or Grade 8 teams. BAYS HS Competitive 11v11 Teams will still participate in MTOC (if it happens) since their season is only seven games, which allows for enough time for BAYS Playoffs. HS teams will also start on May 2 (see Update above).

If there are additional start date delays, BAYS will reduce the length of the season as necessary. BAYS will provide towns with at least a two-week notice before the season starts. On the call, we decided that a five-week season is the shortest season we would play. This means that the latest season start date could be May 30 to allow for at least a five-game season. BAYS will decide by May 16 whether to cancel the season or play this five-game schedule.

For guidance about when to play the season, BAYS is looking to the sources listed below. The season will not start unless all these sources agree that it is safe for children to play outdoor sports this spring.

Massachusetts Youth Soccer Status of schools Centers for Disease Control & Mass. Department of Health Federal and state authorities MIAA – controls high school sports

At this Time KPSA is NOT issuing refunds. We are asking that everyone please be patient until we have a final decision on what lies ahead. The latest date that we will have a final decision is May 16th. Once we do we will then provide options to our spring participants.

We appreciate everyones patience and cooperation during this unfortunate time.

The KPSA BOD