SOCAL Spring League – Orange County

Key schedule links, league information, and parent guidance for the 2026 SOCAL Spring League season.

Learn More About Select Soccer

Start Here. Grow Here. Go Anywhere.

These short videos help families understand what Select Soccer is, what to expect, and how it fits into the LNYSA player pathway.

• Some clubs are still finalizing home field details, so a few missing games may be added in the coming days.
• Game day information will be sent to teams before each weekend kickoff.
• That game day communication will include pre-game and post-game requirements.
• Referee fees are the same as Fall and can be found on the SOCAL website.

For full details, please review the official handbook:

SOCAL Competition Matrix Made Simple

A parent-friendly overview of how game formats, field sizes, rules, and playing time change as players move through the age groups.

Why This Matters

As players get older, the game gradually becomes larger, faster, and more tactical. Field sizes increase, team sizes grow, game times get longer, and rules move closer to the full adult game.

This progression is designed to support player development at each age and stage.

Quick Snapshot by Age Group

What Parents Should Know

Game Length by Age

• U7–U12: 60 minutes total
• U13–U14: 70 minutes total
• U15–U16: 80 minutes total
• U17–U19: 90 minutes total

Why the Game Changes

Each stage is designed to match player development.

• Younger players need more touches, smaller spaces, and simpler decisions.
• Middle age groups begin learning team shape, spacing, and positional play.
• Older players prepare for the full game, including larger fields, longer matches, and more advanced tactics.

LNYSA Parent Tip

Don’t compare age groups too early. A U8 game and a U14 game should look very different — that means development is working.

Questions?

If you would like help understanding your player’s age group, game format, or best program fit, please contact LNYSA and we’ll be happy to help.

Select Soccer

The bridge between Recreational and Club soccer — for players who want a higher level of play without the full Club commitment.

What is Select Soccer?

Many recreational soccer families eventually face the same question: should we stay in Rec, or is it time to make the jump to Club?

Select Soccer was created for players who want something in between. It offers a more advanced level of play than traditional recreational soccer, while still keeping many of the family-friendly benefits of a Rec-style schedule and a lower overall cost than Club.

LNYSA Select builds on the best parts of advanced recreational play: localized competition, strong player development, lower cost, and access to quality US Soccer grassroots-trained and licensed coaches.

Who is Select Best For?

Select is a great fit for players who are ready for a more competitive environment, want stronger training and games, and are looking for a natural next step after Recreational soccer — but are not yet ready for the full year-round Club experience.

Player Evaluations & Team Formation

Select teams are formed after a player evaluation process. Players typically attend at least 1–2 evaluation sessions, and teams are then selected based on what coaches and league staff observe.

Evaluations are generally held in the January through March time period, with team selection typically completed in April or May.

Parents can learn more or register for player evaluations here:

How the Select League Works

Select leagues are localized playing circuits made up of eligible recreational and competitive leagues coming together to create a higher level of competition.

Teams are created through a player selection process after evaluations. Each league publishes its own rules and guidelines for player and coach selection, while a Select Director coordinates the playing circuit and supports the overall program.

At LNYSA, player development remains the top priority.

Expected Costs

Select Soccer costs more than recreational soccer, but it is still designed to be far more affordable than Club. A typical Fall Select season is approximately $500 per player, depending on the team.

Approximate total cost: around $500 per player, depending on uniform needs and optional team activities.

When Costs Are Typically Due

• Player Registration: typically due after evaluations, selection, and placement
• Uniforms: usually ordered in June
• Referee Fees: typically due in September
• Optional Team Costs: tournaments, spirit wear, training equipment, or extra training may be added at the team’s discretion

Season Timeline

• January–March: Player evaluations by age group
• April–May: Team selection finalized
• Mid-July: Practices begin
• Early September: Matches begin
• Mid-December: Fall season typically concludes

The Spring session is not mandatory for Select players, but it is strongly encouraged.

Age Group Structure

Unlike Rec, Select teams are generally formed in single birth-year age groups such as B2014/G2014, 2013, 2012, and so on. Players are not permitted to “play down,” and any request to “play up” must first be approved by the Select Director.

Game Format by Age

Players are expected to play at least 50% of each match, with free substitution allowed.

How Players Are Selected

Players are selected through a structured evaluation process that is open to all interested players. Coaches and league officials observe each player over multiple sessions before teams are formed.

Players are typically evaluated based on:

• Technique and ball-handling ability
• Maturity and readiness for a team environment
• Attitude and sportsmanship

How Select Coaches Are Chosen

Anyone interested in coaching a Select team must meet LNYSA standards and complete the required screening, licensing, and training process.

• Submit an application to the LNYSA Select Division Director
• Hold the required US Soccer Grassroots license
• Be SafeSport approved
• Complete Concussion and Cardiac Arrest training
• Complete Live Scan and US Club background checks
• Complete Mandated Reporter training

Final coach selection is made by a committee made up of LNYSA Coach Administration and league officials. Coaches are reviewed for soccer knowledge, teaching ability, youth development mindset, and reputation within the community.

To apply to coach in the Select program, please submit your information here: Select Coach Interest Form.

Parent Sideline Expectations

Parents are asked to follow the established Game Day behavioral code and help support a positive, player-centered environment on the sideline.

Want to Learn More About Select?

Contact the LNYSA Select Director or register for upcoming player evaluations to see if Select Soccer is the right next step for your player.

2026 Select Player Evaluation Information

Ready to take the next step? LNYSA Select Soccer is for motivated players who want a more competitive environment, stronger development, and a committed team experience.

Registration required • Please attend all listed evaluation days

Why Choose LNYSA Select?

• Professional Coaching: Develop skills with experienced coaches
• Competitive Play: Play in a more challenging environment
• Team Camaraderie: Build friendships and team chemistry
• Focused Development: Receive training that helps players grow faster and play with more confidence

Who Can Join?

Select Soccer is a great fit for players who are ready to step up, work hard, improve their skills, and compete at a higher level—while still keeping the game fun. If your player is motivated, coachable, and excited about the next level, Select may be the right next step.

2026 Select Player Tryouts Schedule

Please attend the evaluation session listed for your player’s age group. Use the age information below to confirm the correct placement.

For players with above-average skill and experience, there may be opportunities to play up into an older age group when appropriate.

👉 After tryout registration, please check the email used during registration for additional details and updates.

Evaluation Location

What to Bring

• Soccer cleats and shin guards
• Plenty of water
• Comfortable, layered athletic clothing (it may be cold)

Get ready to showcase your skills—we look forward to seeing you on the field.

Interested in Club Tryouts Too?

If your player may be interested in Club soccer, you can also review Laguna United FC tryout information below.

Ready to Register for Select Tryouts?

Sign up today and make sure your player is registered for the correct evaluation session.

LNYSA Age Group Chart

Use the chart below to quickly find the correct age group for your player.

A Quick Guide for Parents

If you are unsure which division your child belongs in, this chart is the best place to start. Age groups are based on player birth year and help families understand where their player fits within the LNYSA pathway.

Age Group Reference Chart

Helpful Note

If you still have questions about the correct placement for your player, please reach out to LNYSA before registering. We are happy to help guide you to the right program and age group.

Need Help Choosing the Right Program?

Contact us and we’ll help you find the best fit for your player based on age, experience, and program options.

Select Soccer FAQs

Answers to the most common parent questions about LNYSA Select Soccer.

Quick Overview

Select Soccer is designed for families looking for a level of play between Recreational and Club soccer. It offers a more competitive environment, stronger development opportunities, and a family-friendlier commitment than full Club soccer.

1. What is Select Soccer, and how is it different from Recreational or Club soccer?

Select Soccer is the middle step between Recreational and Club soccer. It gives players a higher level of play, more competitive games, and stronger coaching than traditional Rec, while still keeping costs and scheduling more manageable than Club soccer.

2. What does Select Soccer usually cost?

A typical Fall Select season is approximately $500 per player. This usually includes the Select registration fee, uniform costs, referee fees, and in some cases additional team costs such as tournaments or extra training.

3. When do families pay the Select registration fee?

The Select registration fee is typically due after evaluations, team selection, and player placement. This fee helps cover league team registration, extended training time, field use, field lights, and sessions with Laguna United Club coaches and goalkeeper training.

4. What do uniforms cost, and when are they ordered?

Uniform costs are usually around $160 to $190. All Select players typically place uniform orders in June. New players usually need a full kit, while returning players may only need to replace certain items.

5. Are there any extra costs beyond registration, uniforms, and referee fees?

Sometimes. Some teams choose to add optional expenses such as tournaments, spirit wear, outerwear, training equipment, or additional professional training. These costs vary by team and are generally decided by the team’s parents and coaches.

6. How long is the Select season?

Evaluations are typically held from January through March. Team selection usually happens in April or May. Practices generally start in mid-July, matches begin in early September, and the Fall season usually ends in mid-December. A Spring season may also be offered, and while it is not always required, it is strongly encouraged.

7. How are age groups set for Select teams?

Select teams are usually formed by single birth year, such as 2014, 2013, 2012, and so on. Players are not allowed to play down. Requests to play up into an older age group must be approved by the Select Director.

8. What game formats are used at different ages?

The game format changes by age group:

• 2019–2016: 7v7, maximum roster of 12, ball size 4
• 2015–2014: 9v9, maximum roster of 16, ball size 4
• 2013–2007: 11v11, maximum roster of 18, ball size 5

Free substitution is allowed, and each player is expected to play at least 50% of every match.

9. How are players selected?

Players go through a structured evaluation process that includes open sessions and coach observations. Coaches and league staff review player technique, ball skills, maturity, attitude, sportsmanship, and readiness to play in a competitive team environment. Final rosters are approved by LNYSA Coach Administration.

10. How are Select coaches selected?

Coaches must meet LNYSA requirements, including coaching licenses, safety training, background checks, and approval by the Select leadership team. Coaches are reviewed not just for soccer knowledge, but also for their ability to teach, communicate well with players, and create a positive development environment.

11. How can someone apply to coach a Select team?

Anyone interested in coaching a Select team should apply through LNYSA and meet the required standards, including the appropriate US Soccer Grassroots coaching license, safety certifications, and background clearances. Final coach approval is made by LNYSA leadership.

12. How can I get more information?

For more information about Select Soccer, player evaluations, or coaching opportunities, please contact the LNYSA Select Director.

Still Have Questions About Select?

Reach out to the Select Director and we’ll help you decide whether Select Soccer is the right next step for your player.

Ordering Player Kits

Everything parents need to know about ordering Select player kits through the LNYSA Capelli Sport store.

Capelli Sport Partnership

LNYSA is proud to partner with Capelli Sport as the league’s official and exclusive uniform, apparel, and equipment provider. This partnership supports LNYSA’s continued effort to improve the overall player and family experience.

Quick Start for Parents

Before ordering, make sure you know your player’s team, jersey number, and correct size. Once an order is placed, changes may not be possible.

Sizing & Fit Help

LNYSA typically hosts a Uniform Fit Night for families who want to try on jersey and short sizes before ordering.

If you cannot attend a Fit Night, you can review the sizing chart online: Capelli Kit Size Chart

For Fit Night dates, please contact the Select Director.

Parent Instructions: How to Order Your Player Kit

Ordering is usually easiest from a laptop or desktop computer.

1. Review the Capelli Kit Size Chart.
2. If you want to see sizes in person, attend a Fit Night.
3. Before you visit the store, confirm your player’s jersey number with your coach.
4. Check that the player name and jersey number listed in the store are correct before placing the order.
5. Go to the Capelli Uniform Store.
6. Select the required field player kit, choose your team and player, verify all information, and then choose sizes to complete your order.

Important Ordering Window

Select Soccer player kits must usually be ordered through the LNYSA online store between June 1 and July 1.

Orders placed by July 1 are expected to arrive in early August. Orders placed after July 1 may not arrive by August due to production and shipping timelines.

Shipping Information

Player kits are shipped directly to parents.

A shipping confirmation email with tracking details will be sent to the email address used for the order.

Select Player Kit Images

Need to Change an Order?

Once an order is placed and moves into pre-production, changes may no longer be possible.

If you have an urgent change, email [email protected] right away and include your order number, the requested changes, and the best way to reach you. Please allow 2–3 days for a response.

Coach Instructions: If a Team or Player Is Missing from the Store

If your team or players are not listed on the uniform ordering site, coaches should complete the following steps:

1. Ensure all players are registered in Sports Connect.
2. Complete the uniform roster Excel sheet using the provided template with unique jersey numbers.
3. Name the file with your team name and email it to [email protected], including the team name, gender, and birth year.

Ready to Order Your Player Kit?

Double-check your player’s jersey number and sizing, then head to the official Capelli store to place your order.

How to Order Your Select Uniform

Follow these simple steps to make sure you select the correct uniform package for your player.

Order the Correct Select Uniform

When ordering your player’s Select uniform, please make sure you choose the following in the store:

1. FIELD PLAYER MANDATORY KIT
2. Your Team
3. Your Player

Important Before You Checkout

Please confirm that the player name and jersey number shown in the store are correct before placing your order. If anything looks wrong, email [email protected] and clearly describe the issue.

What the Ordering Screen Looks Like

Optional Select Gear

If you would like to order the optional LNYSA CS II Select Team Backpack, go to the FIELD PLAYER OPTIONAL PLAYER TRAINING tab in the store.

Need Help with Your Order?

If you have questions about player names, jersey numbers, or optional gear, contact the Select team before placing your order.

Game Day Behavior Guidelines

Helping create a positive, respectful, and safe game-day environment for every player, coach, referee, and family.

Why These Guidelines Matter

Parents are asked to follow the Game Day Behavior Guidelines during seasonal games to help prevent issues during the season.

These expectations are in place to support the safety of everyone on the field and to promote a healthy, respectful, and player-first culture across LNYSA.

Our Goal on Game Day

We want every match to be a positive experience where players can learn, compete, and enjoy the game in a supportive environment. Parent behavior plays a big role in shaping that experience.

Game Day Guidelines Reference

Please Help Us Keep Soccer Positive

Thank you for helping LNYSA create a fun, respectful, and safe environment for all players and families throughout the season.