The Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL) convened clubs from across the league for a comprehensive pre-season meeting focused on the Fall 2024 campaign for U8–U19 Elite Travel and U9–U12 Girls City divisions. Led by League Director Dimitrie Draguca, Games Chairperson David Gordon, and Director of League Club Development Ron Restrepo, the session covered league standards, game-day procedures, registration requirements, and coaching compliance.

Season Structure & Scheduling

David Gordon opened the competitive calendar, confirming that the season will run from early September to mid-November for U8–U14, and late October to mid-December for U15–U19, with a balanced home/away schedule. “Our goal,” Gordon said, “is to ensure every match is played in an environment that is consistent, fair, and development-focused.”

Schedules will be centrally set, with home clubs responsible for adjusting fixtures when venue permits require changes. A self-scheduling seminar will guide teams through the process.

Standards of Play & Game-Day Excellence

Ron Restrepo reminded clubs that details matter: correct goal sizes, proper ball sizes, and the league’s Standards of Play Card are essential to delivering a top-tier match experience. “When every club follows the same standards,” Restrepo said, “we remove confusion and create the professional environment our players deserve.”

The league reinforced mandatory pregame communications—confirming match details at least two days prior—and precise game-day routines, including printed rosters with full player information.

Safety, Compliance & Insurance

Dimitrie Draguca highlighted the league’s commitment to player welfare, noting that AEDs are required on-site by New York State law. He also addressed player “play-up” rules: “These guidelines aren’t just policy—they protect our players’ safety and ensure insurance coverage. Every club must follow them exactly.”

Coaching requirements, as set by Eastern New York and US Youth Soccer, were reviewed in detail, including SafeSport, concussion training, background checks, and minimum licensing. Draguca stressed that coaches must use the same email address for all certifications to sync with GotSport.

Registration & Roster Management

The session included a live demonstration of team and player registration in GotSport, covering naming conventions, proof-of-birth uploads, headshot requirements, and roster approvals. Clubs were reminded that player documents must be submitted for league approval by noon Thursday for Monday processing.

Communication & Professional Standards

Throughout the meeting, the theme of clear, proactive communication was reinforced. “When we communicate effectively,” Restrepo said, “we solve problems before they happen.” Gordon echoed this, urging clubs to double-check schedules, confirm details with opponents, and escalate issues promptly.

Draguca closed with a reminder that CJSL’s reputation as New York City’s premier youth soccer league depends on the professionalism of its clubs: “Every detail—from your pregame email to the size of the goals—shapes the development experience for our players.”