Frequently Asked Questions
My son/daughter is playing soccer for the first time. What do they need to wear?
The basic soccer uniform consists of five items:
- Shirt - For some programs, this will be provided. If it isn't or isn't worn for any reason, any T-shirt is fine (soccer-specific or not). If a sweatshirt or other warmer clothing is necessary due to weather, we ask that hoodies not be worn or the hood if tucked into the top.
- Shorts - Soccer-specific shorts are available in most stores that sell children's clothes and sports stores. If other shorts are worn they should not have buckles, zippers or anything else that might be dangerous to the player or another child. Long pants may be worn when appropriate for the weather.
- Socks - Soccer-specific socks are available from sports stores. If shorts are worn the socks must cover the shin guards.
- Shin Guards - These are available from sports stores or online retailers. They must be appropriate for the size of the child and be worn under the socks and covered completely by them.
- Shoes - Soccer cleats are strongly recommended but not required. These are available from sports stores or online retailers. Baseball and football cleats are not appropriate for soccer and must not be worn. Sneakers are fine if cleats are not worn.
What else should my son/daughter bring to practice?
Please ensure that your child has a water bottle. Sports drinks are permitted too but not necessary.
Some of our programs will provide a soccer ball. Please ask if you aren't sure. If one isn't provided, we may have a small number available for a nominal fee or they are available at sports stores and online retailers.
Players up to age 7 should use a size 3 ball. Players 8-12 should use a size 4 ball. Players 13 and up should use a size 5 ball.
If your child has medication such as an inhaler and is able to self-administer, please ensure that the coach is aware. If the child cannot self-administer a parent or other responsible adult will need to be present at all times during practices and games.
What seasons does soccer play?
The US Soccer "seasonal year" begins each August 1. This marks the official start of the Fall Season and travel teams may begin practice at this time. The league season (i.e. formal games) will start around Labor Day, though scrimmages can happen earlier than that. The league season ends by mid-November.
The in-house season will start in mid-August with practices for U10 teams. All other practices and all games (for divisions that have them) will start after Opening Day which is a Saturday at the end of August or beginning of September depending on where Labor Day falls. Younger age groups will likely end on the last weekend in October but older teams may continue into early November.
For the Spring Season, travel starts practices on or around April 1, weather permitting. In-house programs will start around mid-April, depending on the weather and the dates of schools' April vacation. All programs aim to complete by the end of school in early to mid-June but may go to the weekend after where necessary.
A Summer Season is held as a Conditioning League for HS-age players from early July until mid-August.