For youth players, 7-10 years old, seeking an advanced development soccer model. Generally training will take place several times during the week with games on Saturdays. The characteristics of Youth Academies are a focus on pool rostering of players with flexible game day play.
Modified Rules
Our modified rules are designed to help young players learn and love the game. We use smaller fields and fewer players to ensure everyone gets more time on the ball. With shorter games and a buildout line, the focus is on fun, skill development, and keeping the action moving.
Academy Schedule
Game days are typically on Saturday mornings, and you can find a complete schedule at the link below.
We encourage you to check back regularly for updates, as field availability may occasionally require adjustments.
Field Maps
Just select the host club for your game, and you’ll find everything you need to navigate directly to the field. For your convenience, many of our field maps also include important details like parking information and field layouts.
Additional Information
Incident Report
This form may be used by any coach or spectator who feels an incident should be reported to East Central Officials. We love to hear good things that happen on the field as well.
Mercy Rule
Due to what we see as too many lop-sided games over the years, we are still offering a “mercy rule” option – also known as the “5-8” rule. This is exclusively for East Central Soccer Academy games and does not apply to tournament or any WYSA State League games or matches that involve teams from another district.
The Mercy rule, also known as the “5-8” rule is as follows:
If a team is behind by 5 or more goals, they may add an additional player onto the field. The additional player can remain on the field until the goal differential has been reduced to 4 goals. If there is an 8-goal deficit, the team that is behind may bring another player onto the field. That player may remain on the field until the goal differential has been reduced to 7 goals.
For example, at the U9-U10 age group level (normally 7v7):
- If Team A goes up by 5 goals, Team B may add a player making it 8v7.
- It Team A goes up by 8 goals, Team B may add another player making it 9v7.
- If Team B comes back to bring the goal differential to 7 goals, it must remove a player making it 8v7.
- It Team B comes back to bring the goal differential to 4 goals, it must remove a player making it 7v7.
Note: The team behind by 5 or more (or 8 or more) goals is not required to abide by the rule. It is only an option. Referees may want to remind coaches of this rule, especially at the beginning of the season.
Scores and Standings
Scores and standings are not maintained for Academy League games.