Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Registration

When does registration open?
Registration typically opens in the spring and closes in early summer. Team placement begins shortly after registration closes.

Can I register after the deadline?
Late registrations may be accepted only if roster space is available.

Can my child request to play with a friend?
We do our best to honor requests for our youngest divisions when possible, but we cannot guarantee placement.

What grades can participate?
WYFH offers programs for Grades 1–8.

parent/player agreement

Where can I find the Parent/Player Agreement?

The Parent/Player Agreement can be found on pages 19-20 of the Parent Guide which is also linked on the WYFH Homepage.

How do I return the signed Parent/Player Agreement?

You can download and print the last two pages of the 2026 Parent Guide. Or download, edit and and email the last two pages directly to your athlete’s coach. Please sign and return the Parent/Player Agreement by (or before) the first practice of the season.

Equipment & Uniforms

What equipment does my player need?

Required:

  • Field hockey stick

  • Shin guards

  • Mouthguard

  • Athletic shoes or turf shoes

  • Water bottle

Goalie equipment is provided by WYFH.

How do uniforms work?
Players purchase the official WYFH uniform package. WYFH provides the red game socks.

Where can I purchase equipment?
Equipment can be purchased at several online retail locations as well as in person at stores like Dick's Sporting Goods, and Play It Again Sports. Stores include: Longstreth, CranBarry, etc.

Please visit our Equipment & Apparel Page for more info.

Practices & Games

When are practices?
Practice schedules are posted before the season and can also be found in TeamSnap.

When are games?
Games are generally played on Sundays.

Where are practices and games?
Please see Parent Handbook or visit TeamSnap for fields and directions

When should we arrive?
Players should arrive 15 minutes before games and 10 minutes before practices unless otherwise instructed.

TeamSnap

How do I know if my player is attending?
Please update your player's availability in TeamSnap as soon as possible.

Where do I find schedules?
Schedules, cancellations, and team communication are all available in TeamSnap.

Rain Policy

How are weather cancellations handled?

WYFH monitors weather and field conditions throughout the day.

Practices may be canceled due to:

  • Lightning

  • Unsafe field conditions

  • Heavy rain

  • Field closures

Game cancellations are determined by Baystate Youth Field Hockey or the host town.

Families will be notified through TeamSnap as soon as a decision is made.

Attendance

What if my child will miss a practice or game?

Please notify your coach through TeamSnap as soon as possible.

Playing Time

Will everyone play?

Grades 1–4 focus on learning, skill development, and participation.

As players advance, coaches begin balancing player development with competitiveness. Playing time may vary based on attendance, effort, attitude, and commitment.

Goalies

How are goalies selected?

Players are encouraged to try goalie throughout the season. Younger divisions often rotate interested players, while older teams may have dedicated goalkeepers.

Coaching

Who coaches the teams?

Our teams are coached by CORI-approved volunteers who complete required training and background checks.

Can I volunteer?

Absolutely! We're always looking for coaches, assistant coaches, team parents, and volunteers.

Parent Expectations

Can parents coach from the sidelines?

We ask parents to cheer positively and allow coaches to coach.

What is expected of families?

We ask families to:

  • Demonstrate good sportsmanship.

  • Respect coaches, officials, and opponents.

  • Arrive on time.

  • Pick players up promptly after practices and games.

  • Help keep our fields clean.

Safety

What happens if my child gets injured?

Coaches will notify parents immediately. Emergency information should always be kept current in TeamSnap.

Scholarships

Is financial assistance available?

Yes. Confidential financial assistance may be available. Please contact the Board for more information.

Sponsorships

How can my business support WYFH?

Visit our Sponsorship page or email supportWYFH@gmail.com.

Contact

Who do I contact with questions?

  • Team-specific questions → Your Coach

  • Registration questions → WYFH Board

  • Sponsorships → supportWYFH@gmail.com