Zero Tolerance Policy
Youth & DevelopmentA rule enforced by many youth leagues stating that any abuse of referees by coaches or spectators will result in immediate ejection.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
Team Manager
Usually a volunteer parent who handles logistics, scheduling, hotel bookings, and paperwork for the team.
Academy
A youth development program run by professional clubs to train young players with the aim of promoting them to the senior team.
Sideline Coaching
When parents shout instructions to their children during the game, often confusing the player and contradicting the actual coach.
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.