Welcome to NYCSoccer.com. We started as a scrappy crew playing pick-up under the Queensboro Bridge. We didn't have a rulebook back then because the group was small; we just played for the love of it and looked out for each other.
Today, the league is bigger, but the vibe should be the same. We're built on friendship and respect. Like Coach Gary Gaines said:
"Being perfect is about being able to look your friends in the eye and know that you didn't let them down."
To make sure we don't let each other down, we need everyone on the same page with three core principles:
Safety, Respect, and Community.
We all have to work tomorrow. Play hard, but keep it safe so we can all show up to our day jobs.
The Rule: Absolutely NO CLEATS on turf. No firm-ground (FG), no soft-ground (SG), no studs.
The Why: Cleats are for grass. On turf, they stick too well. That friction causes ACL tears and ankle injuries. Plus, they rip up the turf on the beautiful fields we play on, jeopardizing our ability to get permits at fields.
Approved Gear: Turf shoes (the ones with little rubber nubs), flats, or running sneakers.
Need examples? Check out these approved turf shoes by JOMA.
Shin Guards: We don't force you to wear them, but we highly recommend it. It's cheap insurance for your shins.
Jewelry: Take off the watches and big rings (low-profile wedding bands are permitted). If you can't take an earring out, tape it over.
No Slide Tackles: Don't do it. It's strictly forbidden. If you slide near another player, it's a foul and likely a yellow card.
Control Your Body: We have all different skill levels here. If you're charging the keeper or playing overly aggressive, the ref will shut it down.
Zero Tolerance for Fighting: We're adults. If you start a fight or throw a punch, you're out. Red card, ejected, and suspended.
Respect is the difference between a community and just a gym membership.
They Run the Game: We hire the best refs in NYC. Their call is final. Roll with it.
Captains Only: If there's an issue, the Captain talks to the ref. If you aren't wearing the armband, don't argue the call.
No "Chirping": Yelling at the ref gets you a yellow. Keep doing it, and you get a red.
Your Team: Show up on time. Lift people up when they make a mistake. Don't be the reason your team plays a player down.
Opponents: Help them up if they fall. Apologize if you foul them. Nice play? Tell them. We're all neighbors and colleagues here.
It's more than cardio. We're here to make connections.
Meet People: Learn your teammates' names. We play footie to make friends, not just sweat.
Give Back: When we do community events, jump in and volunteer. It's a great way to meet players from other divisions.
Feedback: Got an idea to help the neighborhood? Let us know.
Post-Game: If you head to a bar after the game, remember you're representing the league. Tip well, be polite, and be the customers they want to see come back.
By joining NYCSoccer.com, I agree to play safe, respect the game, and look my friends in the eye knowing I didn't let them down.
