CSK FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

• GENERAL
• APPLICATION
• COMMUNICATION
• COLLEGES
• TEAMS
• PLAYERS
• REFEREES
• MEDICAL CARE

FAQ: GENERAL

What is the College Search Kickoff?

College Search Kickoff (CSK) is a nationally recognized invitational showcase for youth soccer players getting ready to enter their junior or senior year in high school. USA and Canadian U16, U17 and U18 club teams registered for the 2012-2013 seasonal year are eligible to apply. Geographic diversity will be considered. Once accepted, teams will be classified as CSK U19. This is a showcase. No teams can advance and no awards are given. Three (3) 90-minute games are guaranteed. Unlimited substitution is allowed to maximize college-scouting exposure for the players. Maximum roster size is 18 players with a limit of three 2013 high school graduates. CSK will be held Jul 25-26 (Girls) and Jul 27-28 (Boys), 2013 at Muscatine, IA.

Why should our team consider CSK?

Most USA recruiting showcases are East Coast, West Coast or Gulf Coast events and are a part of a traditional tournament. The CSK is a Midwest chance for players and colleges to meet in a “think different” environment and compete at a high-level on some of the best soccer fields in the world. Team coaches, managers and parents who want to access to Midwest college soccer programs will find abundant opportunity at CSK.

Who manages and sponsors CSK?

The Iowa Soccer Association (ISA) and CollegeInfo are co- sponsors of CSK. ISA is a non-profit affiliate of US Soccer for the State of Iowa. CollegeInfo is a career and college counseling service operated by Ramona and Kent Barber. Our all-volunteer CSK Staff averages over 20 years of experience with youth soccer programs. In addition, the City of Muscatine, IA maintains and provides the superb facilities of the Muscatine Soccer Complex and the Muscatine Soccer Club furnishes volunteer Field Marshalls for every CSK game.

Who do I contact if I still have questions about CSK?

Call Ramona or Kent Barber at 515-223-0987. Be sure to leave a message if no answer.

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FAQ: APPLICATION

What birth-year teams can apply to CSK?

USYSA U16, U17 and U18 club teams registered for the 2012-2013 seasonal year are eligible to apply. However, once accepted, teams will be referenced as CSK U19. Competitive level will determine bracketing. The majority of players on CSK 2013-eligible teams will be entering their junior or senior year in the fall of 2013. Each team is limited to three 2013 high school graduates. For girls, up to 12 teams composed mostly of players entering their junior year of high school in the fall will be accepted. For the remainder of the girls teams and all of the boys teams, priority will be given to teams composed mostly of players entering their senior year in the fall. For those seniors who are not already being actively recruited by a college, this could be one of their last and best chances to establish contact with college scouts. A large number of NCAA I Women's coaches have requested that we admit a limited group of the most highly competitive younger girls teams. Other college coaches overwhelmingly prefer to evaluate players who will be seniors.

Our U16 team wins against top older teams.
What are our chances of being invited?

Highly competitive younger teams have the best chance. The number that can be accepted is limited and varies from year to year. Only highly competitive younger teams that have a majority of players entering their junior year in September of 2013 should apply. Up to 12 girls teams composed mostly of players entering their junior year of high school in the fall will be accepted. With boys teams, it is impossible to know whether or not younger teams will be accepted until all applications have been evaluated.

Do you accept applications from tournament teams composed of players from multiple club teams?

No. CSK only accepts applications from competitive youth club teams that have a history of competing in state, regional and national competitions.

Not all of our players can attend for both days. Is it possible to get a game rescheduled or play three games in one day?

No. These are 90 minute, highly competitive games that are usually played during very hot weather. Therefore, CSK games are scheduled with an equal amount of time between games so that all players are competing with an equal opportunity for rest. For the safety of the players, our Certified Athletic Trainers want us to limit the number of games played/day to two (one AM + one PM).   Changing game times for any one team would create impossible scheduling problems with the other teams. The college coaches have specifically requested that we stick with our established and proven schedule.

How do we submit a CSK Application? Will our check be cashed?

You can download and complete the CSK13 Application after January 15, 2013. Complete and submit the application by mail with a check made payable to ISA for the entry fee (US Dollars). Each CSK Application MUST include Parts 1 and 2 plus a Part 3 Preliminary Roster and entry fee. PLEASE— NO FAX OR EMAIL. If teams are similar, postmark or on-line application date may be a considered. CSK entry-fee checks will be cashed. Your entry fee is refundable prior to June 1. After June 15, entry fees will be refunded to teams that are not invited. Entry fees will NOT be refunded to invited teams that withdraw after June 15. All refunds will be paid directly from ISA (allow two weeks). Any surplus funds are donated to the ISA. This is a non-profit activity.

How and when will our team be notified of the status of our CSK Application?

The CSK Application deadline is May 15. Results of State Cup (NYCC) and Memorial Day Tournaments may be used to finalize acceptance and bracketing. All CSK TEAM CONTACTS will be notified June 20-25. Packets with information for players and parents will be sent to invited teams on or soon after June 20.

What is the CSK Player Data form?

The CSK Player Data form is included with the CSK Application and should be completed for each player on your team before school closes in the spring. Keep the completed CSK Player Data forms filed until you receive your CSK invitation packet on or about June 20. Then, your CSK TEAM CONTACTS will use the information to complete your team’s CSK Team Roster. CSK officials compile these Rosters in a book that is given to all college coaches who attend CSK. Even if your team does not receive an invitation to the CSK, the information that you have collected can still be used to complete the CSK Team Roster Template. Then, your team will have a useful one-page roster for other events.

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FAQ: COMMUNICATION

How does CSK communicate with teams?

The CSK Application asks for complete contact information on two individuals — usually (but not always) the Team Manager and Coach. A WORKING EMAIL ADDRESS IS REQUIRED for BOTH. These are designated as the CSK TEAM CONTACTS. If designated individuals cannot fulfill their responsibilities, equally responsible and available replacement must be chosen and the CSK notified by email or phone ASAP.

What are the responsibilities of the CSK Team Contacts?

CSK TEAM CONTACTS are responsible for ALL communication with CSK officials regarding the application process as well as the timely distribution of CSK and college information to players and parents. They are also required to prepare and submit a CSK Team Roster NO LATER than July 15 and to register their team on-site at the Muscatine Soccer Complex.

Why is the distribution of CSK information to players and parents important?

TIMELY distribution of CSK and college information to players and parents gives families enough time to contact college coaches, send them game times and opponents and perhaps even schedule some campus visits prior to the CSK. This is the most important responsibility of the CSK TEAM CONTACTS. RECRUITING OPPORTUNITIES CAN BE LOST IF THE THEY DO NOT DISTRIBUTE CSK MATERIALS IN A TIMELY MANNER.

Why does the CSK College Coach RSVP information have to be distributed by the CSK Team Contacts of each invited team? Wouldn't it be easier just to post this information on the website?

Unlike most other tournaments and showcases, CSK provides addresses, phone numbers and many emails of college coaches with the material that we mail to each invited team.   EVERY coach that we list has indicated that he/she is planning to attend or seriously considering attending CSK. Most tournament sites list only the name of the college based on the prior year's attendance and give NO contact information whatsoever.

Finding out how to reach the coaches is one of the biggest challenges that players and their families face when trying to write to colleges.   Many of the coaches are away from their college addresses during the summer and the Coach RSVP information that teams are mailed is the most up-to-date information available for contacting them.   The vast majority of the coaches do NOT want their personal information on a public website.   They have been promised that their information will be sent ONLY to invited teams. So, we rely on the CSK TEAM CONTACTS for each team to make SURE that this information is COPIED and DISTRIBUTED to their team in a TIMELY manner. Hopefully, everyone involved can understand why these coaches do not want their private information plastered all over the Internet.

Do all invited CSK Teams have to submit a CSK Team Roster?

Yes. CSK Team Rosters will be distributed in a book to college coaches attending the College Search Kickoff. If your team is invited to CSK, your CSK TEAM CONTACTS will receive an email by June 20 or shortly thereafter that will include instructions on how to prepare a CSK Team Roster. A standard format is important for the accuracy, completeness and ease-of-use of this player reference. Data on your entire team is listed on a single page. Completing the CSK Player Data form for each player on your team before school dismisses in the spring will help your team meet the deadline. Players and parents should ask for a copy of this form from their CSK TEAM CONTACTS.

We have not received any CSK information from our team. What do we do?

Timely distribution of CSK and college information is the responsibility of your team coach or manager or another designated CSK TEAM CONTACT. CSK emails all materials to invited teams around June 20-25. This information includes a list of addresses for the college coaches who have returned a CSK RSVP indicating that they are planning to attend or seriously considering coming to CSK. It also includes CSK game schedules and times. Get in touch with your CSK TEAM CONTACTS immediately and make sure that all information, including the CSK College Coaches list is distributed to every member of your team. If you cannot get in touch with this individual, call Kent or Ramona Barber at (515) 223-0987.

In case of an emergency, how can we contact our team during the CSK?

The on-site CSK Emergency Phone number: (563) 264-0536. This number will be activated Jul 26-29, 2012.

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FAQ: COLLEGES

What colleges attend the CSK?

About 250 college soccer coaches attend each year. The coaches represent an excellent cross-section of programs from NCAA I, II and III plus NAIA, NJCAA and Independents. Most are from the Midwestern USA. It is also common for coaches from outside the Midwest to come to the CSK to evaluate players. Coaches from outside the Midwest often arrange for a scout to evaluate prospects. Players should contact colleges that interest them. The college soccer community has been very supportive of CSK and coaches will make an effort to evaluate players who are sincerely interested in their schools. Therefore, a better question might be “What colleges are your players going to invite to the CSK?”

Is there a list of CSK College Coaches? Can I get a copy?

The CSK Colleges RSVP list provides contact information on coaches who have indicated an interest in attending by returning their CSK RSVP or registering on the Internet. This list of college coaches is NOT a "list of college coaches that will be in attendance". These coaches may or may not attend. Most NCAA I coaches plus some others WILL NEVER RSVP because they do not want to deal with a massive amount of correspondence. You should know that about 30-40% of the colleges that do attend the showcase will not RSVP. The CSK College RSVP list will be posted on the Internet or emailed to your CSK TEAM CONTACT. CSK does not publish a post-event list of coaches who attend.

Should players write to colleges not on the CSK College Coach RSVP list?

Yes. The CSK College RSVP list provides information to help players contact coaches who have returned their CSK RSVP. However, experience has shown that most coaches are likely to attend CSK or send a scout if they are aware that quality players have a specific interest in their soccer programs.

Can we hand out our team information to college coaches at CSK?

Yes. We permit teams to hand out their team booklets or player profiles to the coaches watching their games. However, some college coaches find this distracting. So, although you will be allowed to hand out your materials, we ask that you do not talk to the coaches or distract them in any way. As another option, teams and individuals can also bring their extra handout materials to the CSK Team Registration desk. CSK Volunteers will make certain that this information is made available to the college coaches.

Are players and parents allowed to talk to college coaches at the CSK?

College coaches have specific rules about when and where they may have contact with high school players. Athletic Association rules or school policies may prohibit coaches from talking to players during the CSK. NCAA III, NAIA, Independents and NJCAA coaches have fewer restrictions. NCAA I and NCAA II coaches have more restrictions. Coaches may or may not choose to discuss college possibilities at the CSK. They will be very busy evaluating many players. We ask players and parents NOT to approach college coaches. They should let the coaches initiate any contact. Remember—when the time comes, coaches prefer to talk with PLAYERS rather than parents.

What is the CSK College Fair?

The CSK College Fair is a four-day activity held in a special tent where players and parents can get information on colleges and soccer programs represented at the CSK. Each coach is offered the opportunity to bring display and handout materials for the Fair. Some colleges even send admissions officers and set up their own displays. The CSK College Fair is about sharing information and stimulating student-athletes to think about academics and future careers.

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FAQ: TEAMS

Our team tryouts are held in the spring. How does this affect bracketing?

CSK management recognizes that team tryouts are often held during the spring and summer and that teams can experience some turnover in players. In the past, this has not been a significant problem for the most of the teams invited to CSK. However, it can be a concern when teams are bracketed. Significant changes in the rosters that will affect the competitive level of applicant teams are expected to be reported to CSK ASAP.

When and where is CSK Team check-in? Who is responsible for check-in?

CSK TEAM CONTACTS (see FAQ: COMMUNICATION) should register their team two hours before their first game at the fields.  The only exception is that Boys Group A teams must register NO LATER than 7:00 AM Saturday. Girls will play Jul 25-26 (registration begins Thursday at the fields at 12:00 noon). Boys will play Jul 27-28 (registration is at the fields anytime on Friday afternoon before 7:00 PM or two hours before their first game on Saturday morning unless the team is playing in group A). Your Goalkeeper is REQUIRED to report to the CSK Registration Desk with the game jerseys that he/she intends to wear NO LESS than 1 hour before your first game. Other players do NOT need to be present.

What materials are needed for CSK team check-in?

Materials required for check-in include a copy of each team’s Permit to Travel and Official Travel Roster from your State or Provincial Association, a signed and notarized Medical Release for each player plus a valid USYSA or Canadian Player Pass for each player. You should also bring an up-to-date copy of the CSK Team Roster (sorted by player number) if any roster changes have been made since the CSK Team Roster was submitted in July. ALL PLAYER NUMBERS MUST MATCH THE NUMBERS LISTED FOR EACH PLAYER ON THE CSK TEAM ROSTER. NO EXCEPTIONS.

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FAQ: PLAYERS

What players are eligible to participate in CSK?

The majority of players on CSK 2013-eligible teams should be entering their junior or senior year in high school during the fall of 2013 (See FAQ: GENERAL: “What is the College Search Kickoff?”). A limited number of younger players already rostered on applicant teams will be allowed to participate. With the exception of a few “Blue Chip” players who are identified early through the Olympic Development Program (ODP) and high-profile national events such as US Youth Soccer National Championship Series (USYSNCS), most college coaches are NOT interested in evaluating freshmen and sophomores. Priority will be given to teams that have a majority of players entering their senior year during September of 2013.

What is a pre-game CSK player verification? Why is it important?

In addition to the usual pre-game inspection by the referee crew, a verification of player numbers will be made by CSK officials to confirm that each individual player is in fact wearing a uniform with the number that matches their number listed on the CSK Team Roster. The reason for this should be obvious—it is impossible for a college coach to evaluate a player who is not accurately identified.

Can my son or daughter participate in CSK as a guest player?

CSK has a flexible guest-player policy. The only restriction (except for the required player card, travel papers and notarized permit to treat) is that teams cannot roster more than three 2013 graduates. However, there is no way to guarantee that your son or daughter will be able to find a spot as a guest player. Let us be clear that we are not able to "place" guest players. But, we WILL (after June 25) furnish potential guest players with a list of accepted teams and their contacts. It is up to the player who wants to guest to contact these teams by phone to investigate the possibilities. We would encourage you to pursue the possibility of participating as a guest with an invited team. Go to the APPLY page to sign up for guest player information.

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FAQ: REFEREES

What are the qualifications of CSK referees?

CSK referees are USSF Referees. They are almost all Grade 7 or higher. Most are certified State Referees or are upgrading to State level. Some are National referees and/or National Candidates. A few selected Grade 8 Referees may be invited by the referee committee based on their performance on the field at high-level USYSA tournaments as judged by top-level referee assessors throughout the Midwest. We do NOT use rookies for this showcase.

I am a qualified referee. Who do I contact to about participating in CSK?

Referees interested in being considered to work the CSK should contact Phillip Sinnwell, State Director of Referee Assessment and CSK Director of Officials at (515) 276-6356 or phsinnwell@aol.com. Applicants should send a list of qualifications, recent tournaments worked and professional references. Not all applicants can be accepted, even if they are highly qualified.

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FAQ: MEDICAL CARE

Why is a Medical Release required for each player?

The health and safety of players participating in CSK is very important. Many players are far from home without a parent or guardian present. In case of injury, a signed and notarized Medical Release is needed to authorize treatment and designate an adult responsible for making emergency decisions (NO EXCEPTIONS). It is the responsibility of the CSK TEAM CONTACTS to obtain a proper Medical Release for every player on their team. These MUST be made available to CSK officials at team check-in before the start of the first game.

What type of medical assistance is available to players at CSK?

CSK employs Certified Athletic Trainers (ATC) to consult with players, provide pre-game assistance and attend to injuries at the game site. These professionals specialize in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. All are First Aid and CPR Certified by the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. Altogether, our ACT offer more than 40 years of real-world experience with college, high school and semi-pro athletics as well as working with licensed physical therapists. Our ACT hold B.S. degrees in Sports Medicine (athletic training) from accredited national universities. Some also have M.S. degrees.

What medical facilities are available in Muscatine?

In the event of injury, first-class EMT care is provided by the city of Muscatine. Medical, dental, eye and other specialists are also available locally or at University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. A list of hospitals, clinics and medical specialists will be distributed to each team at check-in.

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