Off-season
General TermsThe period of the year when no official competitions are taking place, used for rest and transfer activity.
Related Terms in General Terms
Squad
The entire group of players available to a club, including starters, substitutes, and reserves.
Playmaker
A creative player who controls the flow of the team's attacking play and creates chances for others.
Winner
The goal that gives a team the lead which they keep until the end of the match (e.g., 'He scored the winner in the 90th minute').
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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.