Small-Sided Games
Youth & DevelopmentGames played with fewer than 11 players (e.g., 4v4, 7v7, 9v9) on smaller fields to ensure young players get more touches on the ball.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
Grassroots
The foundation level of football; non-professional and amateur football, focusing on mass participation and community.
Discovery Player
A term used in elite leagues (like ECNL) for a player who is not a full-time member of the club but is brought in to play specific games.
Showcase
A tournament where the primary goal is not just winning, but playing in front of college scouts and recruiters.
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.