U5/U6 Game Format Project Application

Only clubs that are in good standing with their state association may qualify for this project.

The U5/U6 Game Format Project was created with the support of the US Soccer Federation's Innovate to Grow Grant. Our goal with this project is to support USYS member clubs with the resources they need to apply this new game model to their U5 and U6 recreation age groups. This project shifts these age groups to a model that focuses on smaller fields with games of 2v2 or 3v3. The smaller fields and fewer players lead to more touches on the ball, enhanced decision-making, increased scoring opportunities, and greater enjoyment.

Organizations selected for this project commit to implementing the game model for two seasons consisting of a minimum of six weeks each season. USYS is dedicated to learning from the organizations, parents, and coaches that are participating in this project. We ask that any group applying, agree to support the collection of feedback via online surveys to parents and coaches.

Each organization must select a Project Coordinator. The Project Coordinator will participate in a 45-minute virtual workshop that provides information on how to implement the U5/U6 Game Model and support their coaches.

Selected organizations will receive three sets of 4x6 goals, three sets of corner flags, and 30 subscriptions to USYS University (over $3000 value). All U5 and U6 coaches participating in the U5/U6 Game Format Project must complete the Welcome to Grassroots Coaching micro-course on USYS University. This is a 30 minute online module.

Only clubs that are in good standing with their state association may qualify for this project. The deadline for Fall Applications is July 10th. This is a rolling application process with organizations receiving acceptance to the program within 14 days of the submission of their application.

For questions, please contact Sari Rose srose@usyouthsoccer.org

Organization's Name *

Organization's Mailing Address *

Is your organization in good stand with your USYS state association? *

Yes

Contact's Name *

Contact's Phone Number *

Contact's Email Address *

For the next few questions please provide an estimated number.

How many youth soccer players participate across all levels of programming annually? *

How many players participate in your recreation program annually? *

How many players participate in the U5 and U6 age groups in total? *

How many coaches are there combined in the U5 and U6 age groups? *

How many total recreation coaches are in your organization? *

Please describe your reason for wanting to participate in this project. *

Please describe how you will implement this program at your organization. (Include information about whether you will use this model to replace your current model for all players at this age or if you will just test this model with certain locations.) *

What do you currently do to prepare your recreation coaches for a season of play? (Please list any coaching clinics or courses that you require) *

Can your organization commit to playing at least 6 weeks of soccer using the new U5/U6 game format? *

Is your organization willing to have all U5/U6 coaches participating in the project complete the Welcome to Grassroots Coaching course (30 mins online) provided for free on USYS University? *

Can your organization commit to supporting the research related to this project by helping USYS survey parents and coaches at the start and end of each season? *

Please provide the name and title of the person who will oversee this program at your organization. *

Please provide the email address for the program coordinator. *

Information on the Game Format Presentation:

https://www.usyouthsoccer.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/160/2024/06/Game-Format-PPT.pptx

For more information on this project, please contact Sari Rose srose@usyouthsoccer.org.