The Ultimate FC Galesburg Season Checklist for Parents

Ryan Wessling
Aug 15
3 min read

The start of a new soccer season is always an exciting time, but it can also be a flurry of forms, gear, and schedules. To help make your preparation as smooth as possible, we’ve created this one-stop checklist with everything you need to know before your player hits the pitch.

Let's get ready for a great season!

1. The "Before You Leave the House" Logistics

A little preparation off the field makes everything on the field run more smoothly. Let's get the administrative tasks squared away first.

Confirm Your Registration: Ensure you have received a confirmation email for your player's registration and that your season fees are paid. If you have any questions, please reach out to our club registrar.
Submit Your Paperwork: Every player needs a signed medical release form and liability waiver on file before they can participate in practice. You can download these forms on our website fcgalesburg.com and hand them to your team's coach at the first practice.
Check Your Uniform: Uniforms are ordered separately. Please ensure you have placed your order by the deadline. Jersey numbers are assigned by the club to avoid duplicates on a team and will be provided to you, please talk with your coach for a request.

2. Gearing Up: The Player's Equipment Bag

Having the right gear is essential for safety, development, and fun. Here’s what your player needs for every session.

Required for Every Practice & Game:

Properly Sized Soccer Ball: Writing your player's name and phone number on their ball is a great idea!
- U6-U8 Teams: Size 3
- U10-U12 Teams: Size 4
- U13+ Teams: Size 5
Shin Guards: These are mandatory for all practices and games. They must be worn under soccer socks.
Soccer Cleats: Cleats designed for soccer are required. Please note that baseball or football cleats that have a "toe cleat" at the very front are not permitted for safety. Gym shoes are acceptable.
Large Water Bottle: Hydration is key! Please send a full water bottle (labeled with your player's name) to every practice and game.

Game Day:

Full FCG Uniform: For games, players must wear their official FC Galesburg jersey, shorts, and socks. Bring both HOME and AWAY in the event a color change is needed.

Recommended Items:

A Durable Gear Bag: Keep everything in one place.
Weather-Appropriate Layers: Those chilly Illinois fall mornings can sneak up on you! A light jacket or a long-sleeve undershirt is great to have on hand.

3. Mark Your Calendars: Key Dates

At the beginning of each season, your coach will reach out and inform you of the practice and game schedule.

4. Staying Connected: Communication is Key

We want to make sure you always have the information you need. Here’s how communication will work this season.

Your Coach is Point #1: For all team-specific questions (practice times, game locations, attendance), your first point of contact is your head coach or team manager.
Team Communication: Most coaches will use a group text, email list, or an app like Gamechanger to send out urgent updates (like a last-minute field change).
Club-Wide News: For major announcements, look for updates right here on the blog, on our main website, fcgalesburg.com, and out Facebook.
Weather Cancellations: Our goal is to make a decision as early as possible. Cancellations will be announced on the FCG Facebook page and communicated by your coach.

5. The Parent's Playbook: How You Can Help

Our parents are a huge part of our club's success. Here are a few ways you can help make this season fantastic for everyone.

Arrive On Time: Getting your player to practices and games 5-10 minutes early allows them to get prepared without rushing and shows respect for the coaches' and other players' time.
Embrace the 24-Hour Rule: If you have a concern about a game or practice, we ask that you wait 24 hours before approaching a coach. This allows for a calmer, more productive conversation away from the heat of the moment.
Bring the Positive Energy: Your encouragement from the sideline means the world to our players. Let’s work together to create a positive and supportive environment for every kid on the field.
Volunteer: We are a non-profit organization that is facilitated by volunteers. We can always use more help. Head on over to our volunteer page and submit an application.