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.