Division Descriptions
4U – Playground
4U Playground is a child development program focused on building fundamental motor skills, coordination, and social interaction—using soccer as the foundation. Sessions are 45 minutes to 1 hour each week on Tuesdays at Emmons Lake Elementary and are led by a trained coach who introduces fun, age-appropriate activities. A parent or guardian is required to participate one-on-one with their child on the field, creating a safe, supportive environment for early learning and play. Coach training for this division is completed online.
5U – Schoolyard
5U Schoolyard offers a pressure-free introduction to soccer through simple, fun games and activities. Players participate in one-hour sessions each week on Mondays at Emmons Lake Elementary, which include a short practice followed by a 3v3 or 6v6 game against another team. Coaches guide the session, and parents/guardians may be asked to work individually with their child during the practice portion. For the game, only coaches are on the field, helping kids begin to experience team play while continuing to build confidence and coordination. Coach training for this division is completed online.
6U
6U is all about fun, freedom, and introducing the game in a safe, playful environment. Players meet only on Saturdays at Emmons Lake Elementary, beginning with a 25–30 minute practice followed by a 4v4 game (no goalkeepers). Games consist of four 5-minute quarters with short breaks and halftime. Players are introduced to Offense, Defense, and Mid-Field. The emphasis is on exploration, movement, and falling in love with soccer through play. Coach training for this division is completed online.
8U
At 8U, kids continue to develop coordination and begin learning basic skills and teamwork. Teams have one weeknight practice (1 hour, scheduled by the coach), and games are played on Saturdays -- girls play at Kraft Meadows and boys play at Duncan Lake Middle School. Games are 4v4 with no goalkeepers and include four 10-minute quarters. This age group introduces structure while keeping the focus on fun and player engagement. Players will build on using positions: forward, mid field, defense and will do throw ins, goal kicks, corner kicks. Coach training for this division is completed online.
10U
10U players are ready for more complex play and team dynamics. They practice twice a week for 1 hour each (days and times set by the coach). Games are on Saturdays at Paris Ridge Elementary and played 7v7 with a goalkeeper. Offside rules are introduced. The game format is four 12.5-minute quarters. Referees manage the matches, and substitutions occur at breakpoints. Players build on using positions: Forward (left, center, right), Mid Field (left, center, right), Defense (left and right). Coaches are required to complete online training plus a half-day, in-person field session.
12U
At 12U, the game becomes more tactical and technically demanding. Teams practice twice weekly for 1 to 1.5 hours. The Saturday game day schedule will have a mix of home games at Cal-Plex and away games in other local regions. Games are 9v9 with goalkeepers, lasting 60 minutes with quarter and halftime breaks. Substitutions are made during these breaks. Referees officiate all games, and coaches focus on helping players refine skills and make smart in-game decisions. Coaches must complete online training as well as a full-day training, which includes classroom and on-field instruction.
14U
14U is a transition into full-sided soccer and more competitive play. Teams practice twice weekly for 1 to 1.5 hours. Games are 11v11 and played on Saturdays, with a mix of home games at Cal-Plex and away games in other local regions. Matches consist of two 35-minute halves. Officiating includes a center referee and two sideline judges, with a substitution monitor often needed. At this level, players are challenged to elevate their understanding of tactics, teamwork, and commitment to the sport. Coaches must complete online training as well as a full-day training, which includes classroom and on-field instruction.