Get Off The Sidelines

Sports are a great way for children to learn about teamwork, respect for authority and sportsmanship. Coaches and referees play a vital role in that.

We understand that for most participants and their families, the difference between a good and bad sports league experience is the coach. Success is not determined by wins and losses, but how the love of Christ is conveyed to each participant.

You can get involved in White River Sports as a:
  • Coach
  • Referee
  • Concession Volunteer
  • Set-up/Tear-Down Team Member
  • Scoring Assistant
  • Devotion Leader
  • Game Day Field Prep Team Member

Download the Coach/Referee Application

Download the Background Check Form

Coaching FAQ's

How much of a time commitment is this on a coach?

Typically, a season begins with two to four weeks of practice followed by eight weeks of games and practices. Practices are one night a week and one hour long. Each team will have one game a week with that game lasting one hour.

How will I monitor playing time for each of my players?

Using the substitution system you will learn in the training provided, coaches are free from monitoring playing time for each player. The system allows for equal playing time for each player. The substitution system provides every child the opportunity to be in the starting lineup at different times throughout the season, assures that no child sits the bench back-to-back segments (possessions for flag football), and allows every child to play at least half of the game.

What are the typical team sizes?
  • Basketball: Ideal team has 7-8 players with a maximum team size of 10. Recommended play is 5 v 5.
  • Soccer: Ideal team has 6-7 players with a maximum team size of 8. Recommended play is 4 v 4.
  • Flag Football: Ideal team has 9-10 players with a maximum team size of 12. Recommended play is 6 v 6.
  • Cheerleading: Maximum squad size of 10.
What resources will be provided to me?
  • Coach Playbooks
  • Weekly Devotions (included in playbook)
  • Substitution Forms

Referee FAQ's

What is expected of me as an referee?

Refereeing is a ministry position. A referee represents the highest level of authority on the field. In addition to knowing the rules that are unique to the game and the league, referees and are charged with being a teacher and a coach to help players better learn the game as it is played.

What can I expect from coaches?

For most participants and their families, the difference between a good and bad sports league experience is the coach. The role of the coach is to uphold the values of White River Sports. Their success is not determined by wins and losses, but how they convey the love of Christ to each participant. Coaches are to model the circle of affirmation. In the circle of affirmation, the coach avoids negative responses towards referees. This will encourage parents and players take the same approach.

What resources will be provided to me?
  • Referee Handbook - This handbook serves as the complete resource of refereeing information.
How many players are on the field or court at a time?
  • Basketball: Recommended play is 5 v 5.
  • Soccer: Recommended play is 4 v 4.
  • Flag Football: Recommended play is 6 v 6.
Do I call all penalties or fouls?

Yes. It is very important for players to improve their skills. By calling all penalties and fouls, players can learn the game correctly. The referee acts as an extension for the coach by explaining all penalties and violations to each player.

Coaching