Belsouth 2023 Grading Session Schedule
Grading sessions will take place on Monday 6th, Tuesday 7th, Satrday 11th and Monday 13th February 2023.
For detailed information on the sessions, view our 2023 Belsouth Grading Session Schedule.
Who needs to grade?
Belsouth conducts grading sessions for all players interested in playing Division 1 or 2 in U10s to U18s in the winter season. The grading sessions, plus information from coaches provided at the end of the previous season (through Player Assessment Sheets), will inform the formation of teams for the current season.
Players who want to continue down the fun and fitness route by playing with friends in an ungraded team (Division 3) do not need to grade, but they still need to register with the club prior to grading dates so we can work out the number of teams we will have for each age group and division.
Players in the U7, U8 and U9 age groups for 2023 do not grade. Players in these age groups will be coordinated into teams according to the school and friendship groups nominated at the time of registration.
Why does Belsouth grade teams?
Grading is the only fair way of ensuring teams play with and against players of similar skills and ability. Grading ensures that your child’s involvement in the game, their contribution to the team, as well as their soccer skills are optimised. While children may not always be able to play with their best friends, experience has shown they quickly form friendships and bonds with their new team mates.
Important Points:
- Players must be registered with the Club before attending grading.
- Players are expected to attend every grading session for their age group. If you cannot attend a session, you must advise the club at least one day prior via belsouthfc.grading@gmail.com.
- Players to arrive 15 mins before session starts and check off attendance with the grading committee.
- Shin guards are mandatory for all players.
- Players should bring plenty of water, sunscreen and wear a hat.
- Players must listen to coach’s instructions.
- Parents: Please remain a respectful distance from the playing pitches to enable the coaching staff assess and allow your child to enjoy the sessions.
Additional information can be reviewed in the Belsouth grading policy 2020.
Frequently asked questions on Grading
Why is the club grading?
To allow players to join teams at a level appropriate to their ability and aspirations, to ensure they gain maximum enjoyment and development.
Is the selection process compulsory?
No. While Belsouth encourages all players to take part in the team grading process, it is not compulsory. However, if players cannot attend grading, and do not let the club know is advance, they will not be placed in a Division 1 or 2 team.
Do I need to register for the grading?
Yes. Registration enables the club to set-up the software used to complete the evaluation and selection process. Players who do not pre-register may experience delays in commencing their session and will miss the opportunity to be evaluated in all areas.
Who performs the grading of players within an age group?
The Belsouth Technical Director will coordinate, and Belsouth coaches will assist with conducting grading for each age group.
Do you grade for Team Positions?
Players are not usually graded into team positions. Rather they are graded into teams based on their overall performance at grading sessions. Information from the previous year’s coach assessment on each player’s ability and commitment (Player Assessment Sheet) are also taken into consideration by the grading committee.
What happens if my child misses a grading session?
Time, weather and resources permitting, grading sessions are generally run over a two-week period and they are compulsory. If your child has a problem attending a grading session, please contact the Grading Committee.
What is a Player Assessment Sheet?
At the end of each season coaches were asked to fill out Player Assessment Sheets. These sheets contain an assessment of skill and attitude of individual player throughout the season both at training and during matches.
When will I know what team my child is in?
All players will be invited to join a team via email in March.
What should I do if I have concerns with my child’s placement or the Club’s Grading Policy?
General issues, comments or enquiries regarding grading or the grading process should be directed to the committee via belsouthfc.grading@gmail.com.
Parents
Please remember that the purpose of the grading is not to get your child as high a grade as possible. But to have them graded into a level of competition that best suits their ability. This will enable your child to have a chance in contributing to the team, achieve some football skill development and receive enjoyment from participation.
