⚽ 2026/27 Club Game Day Checklist
Coach Quick Reference
We do not leave corner flags installed because of liability concerns. As a general rule, it is a good idea for the home team to have a set of corner flags available for the game. It also makes things easier for the referee.
Occasionally, a visiting coach may claim that the absence of corner flags results in a forfeit. Having flags available helps avoid unnecessary issues before the game.
✅ Required
- Game Day Roster or digital access to the roster
- Garbage Bags — garbage MUST be picked up after the game
- Game Ball — HOME GAMES ONLY
- Ball Pump & Needle
Suggested
- Pinnies — for substitutes if you do not have alternate-color uniforms
- Whiteboard & Marker
- Instant Ice Pack
- Goalkeeper Jersey
- Goalkeeper Gloves
- Corner Flags for home games
❤️ Please Remember
You are responsible for:
- Yourself
- Your players
- Your spectators
Referees are entitled to terminate a game if they feel physically or verbally threatened by a coach or spectator.
If a game is terminated because of someone associated with your team, the game may count as a loss.
⏱️ Game Length & Ball Size
| Age Group | Game Length | Ball Size |
|---|---|---|
| U9–U10 | Two 25-minute halves | Size 4 |
| U11–U12 | Two 30-minute halves | Size 4 |
| U13–U14 | Two 35-minute halves | Size 5 |
| U15–U16 | Two 40-minute halves | Size 5 |
| U17 & Up | Two 45-minute halves | Size 5 |
□️ Weather & Rescheduling
Please try very hard NOT to reschedule games.
Soccer is played in ALL safe weather conditions.
If a field is closed because of weather, you will be contacted by phone or email.
To request a reschedule, go to the Coaches section of the website and complete the appropriate reschedule form.
□ When Can You Substitute?
All substitutions are subject to the referee's discretion and approval.
- Prior to your team's throw-in
- Prior to the other team's throw-in if the other team is also making a substitution
- Prior to a goal kick by either team
- After a goal by either team
- After an injury when the referee stops play
- At halftime
- On a caution, only the cautioned player may be substituted if desired
Substitutions are unlimited.
□ Method of Substitution
The referee must first be informed and acknowledge the substitution.
- The substitute stands at the halfway line.
- The substitute enters the field at the halfway line.
- The substituted player may exit the field anywhere.
- The substitute should not enter until the other player has left the field, unless directed otherwise by the referee.
⚽ Other Youth Rules
All Age Groups
- Goalkeeper must wear a different-color jersey.
- No heading for U9–U12.
- No referees? Please play the game if possible.
U9/U10 Special Rules
- No drop kicks
- Build Out Line is used
⚠️ Referee Zero-Tolerance Policy
Coaches and parents must treat referees appropriately.
Misconduct may result in a person being banned not only from one game, but potentially from all of their children's games.
❓ Help & Questions
Step 1 — Email
[email protected]
Please include:
- Team name
- Age group
- A clear description of the issue
- Any other relevant information
Step 2 — Text
If your email has not been answered within 48 hours, or the situation is an emergency:
□ League Resources
www.NUCSonline.com