Frequently Asked Questions
What programs does OPSC offer?
We offer soccer for ages 2 to 19: Little Kickers (our youngest players), House league (recreational, Spring and Fall), Travel (competitive, in the BWNYJSL), and seasonal Camps, Clinics, and academies such as our Goalkeeping Academy and Skills Schools. House runs in the Spring and Fall. Travel is typically year-round, though it varies by team, talk to your coach. See the Programs menu for details on each.
How do I register?
Registration links for every program that is currently open are on our home page, look for the Register buttons near the top. Each button takes you straight to that program registration. You will also find a registration link on each program page.
How do I know which age group my child is in?
Players are grouped by birth year. Under the current US Soccer age directive, the age year runs August 1 to August 1. Check the Age Matrix (under the House menu) to see exactly where your child falls.
What is the difference between House and Travel?
House soccer is our recreational program, focused on fun and fundamental skill development for players of every level, offered in the Spring and Fall. Travel soccer is competitive: travel teams play in competitive leagues including the Buffalo and Western New York Junior Soccer League (BWNYJSL) and the Thruway League, and potentially others if they qualify. Travel teams also participate in tournaments throughout the year. Please contact your coach for more information on the specific leagues and tournaments your team will play in.
When do the seasons run?
House runs in the Spring and again in the Fall. Travel is typically year-round but varies by team, check with your coach. Programs like Little Kickers and our Skills Schools also run throughout the year in shorter sessions of roughly 8 to 12 weeks (for example, Winter 1, Winter 2). Camps run mainly in the summer. Specific dates are on each program page.
What does it cost?
Fees vary by program and are listed on each program page at registration. OPSC works to keep costs reasonable and reinvests in fields, equipment, referees, and coaching.
What equipment does my child need?
For most programs: cleats, shin guards, a size-appropriate ball, and a water bottle. Uniforms or jerseys are provided or available depending on the program, check the program page or ask your coach.
What happens in bad weather?
All of our programs are conducted rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, including thunder, lightning, torrential rain, and/or unplayable field conditions, we will notify all players and coaches via email. In most cases we try to make a final decision no later than one hour before the start of the game or practice, so please check your email before heading to the field. These conditions are not always easy to predict, so if severe weather arrives during a game or practice, we will evacuate the fields for 30 minutes. If conditions improve, we will resume play. If they do not, we will cancel for the evening. We do our best to reschedule, but in most cases we are unable to reschedule lost activity.
Is OPSC affiliated with any organizations?
Yes, OPSC is affiliated with BWNYJSL, NYSWYSA, and US Soccer.
How do I volunteer to coach, and is there a coaching benefit?
There are multiple benefits to being a coach at our club! We have a number of different opportunities to coach, and we have a very qualified staff to help prepare and train coaches at all levels. Many coaching positions are volunteer based, but some are paid. Our volunteer coaches at the house level are typically compensated with free registration for their child. For more information, please contact Dave Kreger at DaveKOPSC@gmail.com.
Who do I contact with a question?
First, check the program pages and this FAQ, most answers are there. For anything else, email Dave Kreger at davekopsc@gmail.com.