U12 PROGRAM Overview
U12 Program General Information
Items needed by each player
- Soccer Ball: Size 4
- Soccer Cleats: Cleats specifically designed for soccer; Baseball & Football cleats are not allowed.
- Shin guards: Every player MUST wear shin-guards fully covered by their socks.
- Water: Every player should bring water for hydration during practices and games.
Teams & Rosters
- Typically, 3–4 teams for both boys and girls
- Maximum of 14 players per team (per GYSA Blind Draw rules)
League Format
- Season Games: Played on Saturdays, beginning the first week of November and continuing through the end of February
- Games are split Home and Away
- Away Games: Played at other clubs throughout Pinellas County
Practice Schedule
- Days/Times: Twice a week, 7:30–9:00 PM on Mondays & Wednesdays. Volunteer Coach could opt for a Tues-Thurs if the Volunteer requires it.
- If space allows, practice may run 6:00–7:30 PM
- Led By: U12 Team Facilitators/Coaches
- Start Date: Practices begin in October
Practice Format (90 Minutes)
- 60 minutes – Instruction
- 20-30 minutes – Mini Games/scrimmage to reinforce skills learned that night.
U12 Program Game Day Information
Game Format
- Season Length: 11 regular-season games, played on Saturdays
- Game Play: 9v9 (includes goalkeeper)
- Match Duration: Two 30-minute halves
- Rules: Regular offsides at this level
- Referees will be used
- Ball Size: #4
GYSA Tournament
- Follows the regular season
- 3 games total, played at other clubs in Pinellas County
- Typically, 2 games on Saturday and 1 game on Sunday
- Advancement to finals is determined by team results in 1st round of event
- Tournament Month: February
IMPORTANT DATES
- November 1st - First game date of season
- February 7th - Last game date of Regular Season
- February 21st and 22nd - GYSA Tournament 1st round
- February 28th–March 1st – GYSA Cup Finals (if qualified)
- Spring soccer starts in March 2026.
