Youth soccer registration is entering its final stage in Gridley as the Recreation Department begins forming teams for the upcoming season. Families on the waitlist have until July 31 to complete payment and secure their child's roster spot. Photo by Freepik, www.freepik.com.

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Families with children on the Gridley Recreation Department youth soccer waitlist have until Friday, July 31, to complete registration and payment as the department begins final preparations for the upcoming season.

Recreation Manager Jaime Luevano said the department has begun moving players from the waitlist to registered status, allowing families to finalize payment through their ActiveNet accounts.

"Once you submit payment, this officially registers your child, which will allow us to begin forming teams," Luevano said.

Luevano added that registration is lower than last season, but the department expects every registered player, those currently on the waitlist and a handful of late applicants to be placed on a team.

"With overall numbers down from last season and the number of coaches volunteering to coach, we feel confident that all players will be placed on a team," he said.

The department is also nearing completion of the coach screening process. Luevano said most volunteer coaches attended a recent Live Scan event, while the remaining coaches are in the process of completing the required background checks.

Staff members are now assembling rosters with an emphasis on creating evenly balanced teams to minimize bye weeks throughout the season.

"The goal is to have as many evenly numbered teams as possible to avoid having any team with a bye week," Luevano said.

He added that some divisions may have slightly larger rosters or compete in smaller-sided formats depending on final participation numbers. Recreation staff are also considering late registration requests to help fill teams and avoid leaving children out of the season.

"We appreciate your patience and understanding," Luevano said.

The department also announced that all games will remain at Sycamore Field this season. Officials had considered using Vierra Park for the youngest divisions but ultimately decided against the idea.

"Our parks are very important to the community and access to them is vital," Luevano said. "Therefore, all games will continue to be played at Sycamore this season until the Sports Complex is completed."

Families may complete registration payments online through https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofgridleyrec/home, by phone using a credit card or by bringing a check for the exact amount to the Recreation Department. Cash will not be accepted.

Luevano encouraged families with questions to contact the Recreation Department.

"The support you provide is essential to creating a positive and fun-filled atmosphere for 'Soccer Saturdays' here in Gridley," he said.