Funino
Youth & DevelopmentA game model for very young players (often 3v3 with four goals) designed to improve game intelligence and maximize touches.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
Birth Year Registration
The system used by most federations (including US Soccer since 2016) where age groups are determined by the calendar year (Jan 1 - Dec 31) rather than the school year.
ECNL (Elite Clubs National League)
A top-level youth soccer league in the United States, highly scouted by college coaches.
Team Manager
Usually a volunteer parent who handles logistics, scheduling, hotel bookings, and paperwork for the team.
Featured Clubs
Latest Youth Soccer News and Articles
The U.S. Girls Youth Soccer Pyramid: A Parent's Guide to League Tiers in 2025/2026
November 6, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A parent's guide to understanding the tiered leagues in U.S. girls' youth soccer, from ECNL to recreational leagues.
Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions: MLS Next Homegrown and MLS Next Academy Divisions Explained
August 2, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A clear breakdown of the different divisions within MLS NEXT, explaining the homegrown player rule and the academy structure.
Youth Soccer Birth Year vs School Year Change Explained
August 1, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
The age group cut-off date is moving from a January 1st birth year to an August 1st school year system.