FAQ | Gorge Youth Soccer

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register my child for the soccer program?

You can register your player online via registration platform. Spring registration is closed. Information about Fall 2025 coming soon.

What are the age divisions for the program?

Columbia Gorge Youth Soccer oversees programming for players in 3rd through 8th grades. For younger age groups please connect with Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation.

What is the cost of registration, and what does it include?

We strive to keep registration fees as low as possible. We evaluate registration fees annually based on the cost of equipment, uniforms and operating expenses.

Are there any discounts available?

CGYS provides financial assistance on an as-needed basis. Please contact us for more information.

What is your refund Policy?

Registration refunds will be given in the event that a player chooses not to participate before the date of their first scheduled match.

What equipment does my child need?

Your player should have shin guards, cleats, and a water bottle.

Are uniforms provided, and if so, what is included?

Yes. Each player will receive a team jersey.

Can my Child "Play up"?

CGYS prioritizes player development by aligning players with their grade level. While most players compete with their grade level, exceptions may be made for players to “play up” for developmental reasons. “Playing Up” opportunities may include attending practices, guest playing or being officially rostered in an older age division. These opportunities are the exception, rather than the rule, and each case will be considered individually to determine if it is the best thing for all players involved.

Parents must contact their current coach to request consideration for playing up. The current player’s coach must concur with the player’s request for the player to be allowed to try out for playing up. These requests must then be provided to the board president in writing prior to the beginning of the season (first game). The President will review these requests with coaching staff.

Evaluation criteria include:

Technical Ability
Tactical Understanding
Physical Ability and Fitness Level
Cognitive, Psychological, Social and Emotional abilities
Parental understanding and commitment

Exceptions to the guidelines may occur, such as merging age groups due to insufficient players or accommodating new players who join after team formation. CGYS aims to balance players’ need for challenge with their ability to succeed and have fun.

What safety precautions are in place during practices and games?

CGYS safety policies and procedures - coming soon

What is the program's concussion policy?

A player who demonstrates signs of concussion as a result of an observed or suspected blow to the head or body must leave the field and may not return to play in that game unless an athletic trainer registered by the Oregon Board of Athletic Trainers or licensed medical professional determines that the player has not suffered a concussion.

A referee will accept the determination of a certified athletic trainer only if the trainer has identified himself or herself to the referee prior to the game and has shown the referee a current Athletic Trainer registration identification card.

If a coach returns a player without approved clearance, the referee will end the game.

Referees will include in their game report information about any player required to leave the field because of a suspected concussion. A player who has been removed from a Game by a referee because of a suspected concussion is ineligible to play until the League Director has received a copy of a medical release signed by a healthcare professional that authorizes an unrestricted return to competition.

What should I do if my child has a medical condition or allergy?

CGYS asks that parents understand their responsibility to inform coaches of any special medical conditions affecting their child.

How often are practices and games held?

Practices are held at the discretion of each team’s coach. Generally, teams can expect to have 1 to 2 practices weekly during a season at Hood River Valley School District locations such as Westside Elementary, Wy'East Middle School, Hood River Middle School, Parkdale Elementary, May Street Elementary or Mid Valley Elementary.

Each team plays approximately 6-7 games per season. Games are held weekly - you can find current schedules on the programming page.

What is the program's policy on canceled practices or games due to weather?

Games may be cancelled due to inclement weather, heat, and or air quality. CGYS will make every effort possible to communicate any practice cancellations by 2:00 pm and game cancellations as soon as possible on game day.

In the event that Hood River School District cancels schools and / or after school activities, CGYS games and practices will also be cancelled.

What is the program's policy on player conduct and sportsmanship?

Please refer to our Player Code of Conduct in the Parent Handbook

How are teams formed?

In the 3rd/4th grade divisions, CGYS will make every effort to group players with others from their neighborhood school. In the 5th–8th grade divisions, teams will be balanced based on player ability, coach feedback, and overall team needs. This means players from different Hood River County schools may be combined to create well-matched and competitive teams.

Can my child be placed on a team with a friend?

CGYS does not offer player requests however we will attempt to place players with other players from their neighborhood school.