U4-U6

• These age groups utilize the smallest of small-sided games (3v3) to encourage player participation and touches on the ball.
• Teams generally practice once a week, although U5 and U6 coaches may opt for a second practice
• Players will need a size 3 ball, shinguards, and cleats (Cleats are optional for U4)
• Practices and games are held at the Exchange Club Fields (near Crossgates)
• The focus of these age groups is entirely on having FUN and introducing kids to the love of the game.

U7-U8

• These age groups utilize a 4v4 format on slightly larger fields than U6.
• Referees are introduced at this age to begin formally teaching the “rules” of the game to the players
• Teams are formed utilizing a draft in an attempt to create a fair playing environment
• Players will need a size 3 ball, shinguards, and cleats.
• Practices and games are held at the Exchange Club Fields (near Crossgates)
• The focus at this age should still be primarily based around having fun, but also at providing a skills-based learning approach in a no-pressure environment

U10

• Games are played in a 6v6 format (including Goalkeepers)
• Additional referees (Assistant Referees) are utilized to begin introducing some of the higher-level rules of the game (such as offside)
• Teams are formed utilizing a draft
• Players will need a size 4 ball in addition to cleats and shinguards
• Practices and games are held at the Exchange Club Fields (near Crossgates)
• At this age, basic tactics and team strategy can be combined with continued focus on skill development

U12

• Games are played utilizing an 8v8 format (including Goalkeepers)
• Teams are formed utilizing a draft
• Players will need a size 4 ball in addition to cleats and shinguards
• Practices and games are held at Shiloh Park in Brandon
• At this age, tactics and team strategy are more advanced and should be combined with a continued focus on skill development

U14 and up

• Games are played in a full 11v11 format (including Goalkeepers)
• Teams are formed utilizing a draft
• Players will need a size 5 ball in addition to cleats and shinguards
• Practices and games are held at Shiloh Park in Brandon
• At this age, tactics, teamwork, and team strategy become very important and should be combined with a continued focus on skill development