League Philosophy
At Garland Soccer Association, our goal is to provide a fun, supportive, and development-focused environment for all players.
We believe that every child deserves an equal opportunity to participate, develop their skills, and enjoy the game of soccer, regardless of experience level or ability. Our program is designed to foster a positive, encouraging atmosphere where players can learn, grow, and build confidence.
We focus on fairness, balance, and opportunity. Playing time is distributed equitably to ensure that all players have meaningful participation during games.
We ask all players, parents, and coaches to work together to create a respectful, positive environment on and off the field. Good sportsmanship, encouragement, and respect for others are expected at all times.
Before You Reach out
Before reaching out to the league office, we ask that you take a moment to review the following:
- Review your email inbox, including your spam or junk folder, for any recent communications from the league or your coach
- Contact your coach directly for any team-specific questions, such as practice times, game schedules, or team updates
Taking these steps first helps ensure that you receive the quickest possible answer to your question.
Player Registration & Account
How do I register my child for the season?
To register your child, visit garlandsoccer.org/registration and log in to your GotSport account. It is very important that you use the same email address you used to start the registration process. Using a different email may result in duplicate accounts or incomplete registrations.
I started registration but did not finish. What should I do?
You can return to your GotSport account at any time using the same email address you used to start registration. Your progress will be saved, and you will be able to continue from where you left off.
If you have played or coached for GSA in the past but don’t remember your User ID and/or password, please contact the GSA office by email to Office@garland-soccer.net.Do not create a New User ID. If your information is in our system, we will provide it for you.
Why can’t I complete registration?
Registration is not considered complete until payment has been successfully submitted. If you are unable to move forward, please log into your GotSport account and ensure that all required fields are completed and that payment has been processed.
How are teams formed?
Returning players are placed first, followed by new players in the order in which they complete registration. Placement is first-come, first-served and is also based on which teams have available roster spots at the time of registration. Every effort is made to ensure teams are as balanced as possible.
Can my child be placed with a friend or specific coach?
Requests may be submitted during registration; however, they are not guaranteed due to the placement process and team needs.
Can competitive (club) players participate in recreational soccer?
No. Competitive players are not allowed to participate in recreational soccer unless they have been officially released from their competitive team.
👉 Download Competitive Release Form
A completed and approved release form must be submitted before the player can be eligible to participate.
Important guidelines include:
- Only one transfer is allowed per soccer year
- No releases are permitted after April 1
- Processing typically takes 1–2 business days
**These rules are established and enforced by the North Texas Soccer Association.**
When and where are practices held?
Practice schedules, locations, and times are determined by each coach and will be communicated once teams are formed.
How often do teams practice?
Most teams practice one to two times per week, depending on the coach and age group.
How much playing time will my child receive?
Each player will receive at least 50% of playing time based on the amount of time they are present at the game. If a player arrives late, their playing time will be calculated based on the remaining portion of the game.
Does attending practice affect playing time?
No. Practice attendance does not affect playing time. Players will still receive their minimum playing time regardless of practice attendance. However, attending practice is strongly encouraged to support skill development and team participation.
What equipment is required?
Players are required to have shin guards, soccer cleats, and a water bottle for all games and practices.
Are uniforms included?
Uniforms are handled through your coach, including sizing and payment details.
Can players wear jewelry during games?
No. Jewelry is not permitted during games for safety reasons.
Are refunds available?
Registration fees may be refunded minus a $15 processing fee. No refunds will be issued after the first game has been played. If a player is not placed on a team, a full refund will be issued.
What if my child decides not to continue after the season starts?
Please notify your coach and the league as soon as possible so rosters can be updated accordingly.
Who should I contact with questions?
For team-related questions, contact your coach first. For registration or general league questions, please contact the league office at office@garland-soccer.net.
Are team snacks allowed?
Yes. Snacks are optional and are typically organized by the team or coach. Please be mindful of allergies when providing snacks.
Coach FAQs
How do I become a coach?
Coaches must register through the Home tab on the Garland Soccer Association website and complete all required steps in GotSport. This includes any necessary certifications, training, and documentation required by the league.
Are coaches volunteers?
Yes. All coaches within the Garland Soccer Association are volunteers who donate their time to support players and the league.
Do coaches need SafeSport training and a background check every season?
No. SafeSport training and background checks are required once per calendar year. Coaches must ensure these requirements are up to date before participating.
How do coaches request a game reschedule?
Coaches must follow the official rescheduling process and submit the required form.
What steps must be completed to reschedule a game?
The following steps are required:
- The requesting coach must contact the opposing team’s coach and obtain approval.
If the opposing coach does not agree, the game will not be rescheduled. - The requesting coach must contact the Age Group Director to request approval and provide the reason for the reschedule.
- The completed reschedule form must be submitted at least one week prior to the originally scheduled game.
- The completed form must be emailed to office@garland-soccer.net along with proof of payment.
- Once the request has been reviewed and approved, both coaches will receive confirmation, and the schedule will be updated accordingly.
Are there any restrictions on rescheduling?
Yes.
- Reschedule requests cannot include specific demands for dates or times
- All requests are subject to approval and field availability
- Requests that do not meet the requirements may be denied
Can coaches request or recruit players for their team?
No. Coaches are not allowed to recruit or “poach” players under any circumstances.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Guaranteeing placement on their team
- Asking parents or players to request a specific team
- Encouraging groups of players to register together to form a team
All player placement is handled strictly in accordance with league policy, including registration order and team needs. These rules are in place to ensure fairness and maintain balanced teams across the league.
How long are games?
Typically game legnth varies by division:
- U4-U8 - Four 10min quarters and 5min halftime
- U9-U10 - Two 25min halves and 5min halftime
- U11-U12 - Two 30min halves and 5min halftime
- U13-U14 - Two 35min halves and 5min halftime
- U15 + - Two 40min halves and 10min halftime
What size soccer ball is used?
U4-U8: Size 3
U9-U12: Size 4
U13+ : Size 5
International Players
What if my child does not have a U.S. birth certificate or passport?
Players who do not have a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport are required to complete international clearance paperwork before they can participate.
Is additional paperwork required for younger players?
Yes. Players age 10 and under must complete a P10 (Minors Clearance) form as part of the international clearance process.
What documents are required?
Required documentation may include proof of age and identity, such as:
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Permanent resident card
- Visa or other government-issued identification
How long does the process take?
Processing times vary depending on the documentation and governing body review. It is strongly recommended that all paperwork be submitted as early as possible to avoid delays.
**These rules are established and enforced by the North Texas Soccer Association.**
Financial Assistance (Grants)
Do you offer financial assistance or grants?
Yes. Garland Soccer Association offers financial assistance to families who may need help covering registration fees. This assistance is intended to ensure that all children have the opportunity to participate regardless of financial circumstances.
How do I apply for financial assistance?
To apply, you must complete the official grant application and submit all required supporting documentation.
The application requires documentation such as proof of income, residency, and other household financial information. All required documents must be submitted along with the application for it to be considered.
Is financial assistance guaranteed?
No. Financial assistance is not guaranteed. Grants are limited and are awarded based on eligibility, financial need, and available funding.
When should I apply?
Applications should be submitted as early as possible. Grant applications are reviewed at the beginning of each season and may close as early as the second week of season kickoff.