Common Facts and Questions

How far might ORSA go to play against other travel teams?
Currently, we are in the PA West Travel grouping. ORSA's Travel could look like anywhere between Allegheny to Erie counties. The club has been known to travel to OH, Central PA, and more for tournaments. 


When is the season?
The fall season runs from August to November. The spring season runs from March to June. Typically, during the spring more teams are fielded. 



What equipment does my player need?
Each player will be required to bring shin guards, soccer cleats and water/beverage to each practice and game. It is recommended that each player have their own ball, but if this is not possible, ORSA will provide a ball at practices as needed. If your child does not have shin guards or soccer cleats, they will not be allowed to participate in a game or at practice. This rule is in place for the safety of your child, as well as others participating. Cleats and shin guards will be checked by the referees before the start of each game. Track and football cleats are not permitted to be used as soccer cleats. 
Ball Sizes
U13-19: Size 5 ball
U10-12: Size 4 ball
Anything under is a Size 3 ball.

Does weather affect whether we play?
Practices are scheduled by the coaches and therefore, are cancelled by the coaches. Please check all methods of communication before leaving for practice. We encourage the coaches to cancel practice with as much warning as possible. The only weather that will prevent us from playing is thunder and lightning. Snow and rain are not a reason to not play. 

Is fundraising mandatory?
Fundraising is not mandatory, but in order to keep our fees low, it is greatly appreciated. ORSA is a non profit organization and the only income we receive is from fundraising and donations. If you do not have the time or inclination to participate in fundraising, but would like to simply donate money to the organization, that would be gladly accepted as well. 

What are the fundraising monies spent on?
Funds that are raised by the organization are currently earmarked for training and retention of referees, field acquisition, tournament participation, and training camps. Depending on the amount fundraised, there may be an option to give a portion of the proceeds the player raised, back to the player to use for future registration costs. If this is done, a credit coupon will be made and distributed before the season starts. 

For any questions regarding birth years and which age group your player falls in, please see the PA West Birth Year Matrix: