Wilshire Athletic Association – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Information
• What is Wilshire Athletic Association?
Wilshire Athletic Association is a nonprofit organization established in 1959 to provide inner-city youth with a safe and supportive place to join a team, develop skills, and play against other local teams. Our focus is on building character, teamwork, and community through youth sports.
• What sports and age groups do you offer?
We currently offer the following programs:
– Soccer: Ages 4–14 (Spring and Fall)
– Basketball: Ages 4–13 (Winter)
– Baseball: Ages 5–16 (Spring)
– Flag Football: Ages 4–14 (Fall)
• Where are practices and games held?
Practices and games are held in local parks, schools, and fields around the city, including Wilshire Park and other community facilities. Specific locations are provided once teams and schedules are finalized.
• Who do I contact for general questions?
You can reach us anytime via email at wilshireaa1@gmail.com, or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and announcements.
Registration & Fees
• How do I register my child?
Registration can be completed online through our website or at one of our in-person sign-up events.
• What’s included in the registration fee?
Fees cover uniforms, league insurance, equipment, facility rentals, and officiating. Details for each sport are listed during registration.
• Can I request a specific coach or teammate?
We do our best to honor requests, especially for younger divisions. However, balanced teams and fair play are our top priorities.
• What are the red raffle tickets?
Red raffle tickets are distributed during in-person signups. Each player can sell tickets for $1 each and keep all the money they earn from sales. At the end-of-season banquet, players can turn in their tickets for a chance to win one of three prizes: $25, $50, or $100.
Refunds & Cancellations
• What is your refund policy?
• 100% refund if requested before uniforms are ordered and before the season schedule is released.
• 50% refund if requested after uniforms are ordered but before the schedule is released. You’ll receive your child’s uniform, but they will be removed from the roster.
• 0% refund once uniforms have been ordered and the schedule has been released.
• How do I request a refund?
All refund requests must be made in writing via email to the league registrar or program director. Refunds are processed within 2–4 weeks.
• What happens if the season is canceled due to weather or unforeseen events?
Partial refunds or credits may be considered depending on the timing and extent of the cancellation.
Uniforms & Equipment
• What does my child need to provide?
• Soccer: Shin guards, practice socks, and cleats
• Baseball: Cleats, baseball pants, helmet (if possible), and optional personal bat
• Basketball: Indoor basketball sneakers
• Flag Football: Athletic sneakers
Uniforms for each sport are provided as part of registration and distributed before the season starts.
Practices & Games
• When does the season start?
• Soccer: Spring and Fall
• Flag Football: Fall
• Baseball: Spring
• Basketball: Winter
• How often will my child practice or play?
Teams typically practice once or twice per week and play one to two games per week, depending on age division and sport.
• What happens if a game is rained out?
Cancellations and rescheduled games will be communicated by your coach through GameChanger or email.
Coaches & Volunteers
• How can I volunteer or coach?
We’re always looking for coaches, team parents, and event helpers! You can sign up during registration or email us directly to get involved.
• Are background checks required for coaches?
Yes. All coaches and volunteers working with players must pass a background check to ensure a safe environment for our youth.
• Do you provide coaching resources?
Yes, coaches receive access to league materials, practice guides, and support throughout the season.
Player Development & Safety
• How are players placed on teams?
Players are grouped by age and skill level. Evaluations may be held for certain age groups to ensure fair and balanced teams.
• What are your safety policies?
We follow all youth sports safety protocols, including injury prevention, concussion awareness, and emergency response procedures.
• What is your policy on playing time?
We encourage equal playing time in developmental divisions to promote skill growth, confidence, and fun for every player.
Weather & Communication
• How will I know if practices or games are canceled?
Weather updates are shared through GameChanger, email, and social media at least one hour before the scheduled start time.
• What communication tools do you use?
Teams communicate primarily through GameChanger, which provides scheduling, messaging, score updates, and roster information in one place.
Sponsorships & Donations
• Can I or my business sponsor a team or field?
Yes! We offer multiple sponsorship levels, including team jerseys, field signage, and event sponsorships. Sponsorships help keep registration costs affordable for our families.
• Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. Wilshire Athletic Association is a registered nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax-deductIble.