Where do I Find the Game Schedule?

The most up to date game schedules are always available on our website. Some coaches may also input the game schedules into your child's teamsnap calendar for viewing. 

What uniform does my child wear to the game?

• Teams listed as home: RED Jersey, BLACK Shorts, and RED Socks.
• Teams listed as away: NAVY Jersey, BLACK Shorts, and NAVY Socks.

What if I don’t have my uniform yet?

No problem. Do not stress. Just wear any shirt that is the correct color, and do your best with the shorts and socks, but if they don’t match it is okay. You will need taller socks though that will cover the shinguards.

Does my child have to wear soccer cleats? Shin guards?

Those are the preferred shoes, but a running shoe will be fine. We suggest not wearing a higher cut basketball shoe or a casual softer shoe. No open toe shoes or bare feet are allowed. Shin Guards are required.

How early should we arrive for our game?

10 minutes before your game starts is ideal. That way the coach can get everyone ready for the game.

What does my child need to bring to the game?

All players will need their ball, wear shin guards and proper shoes, wear the correct uniform/colors, bring water, and a small snack if needed. Water fountains and bathrooms are open as well.

Where do players and family members sit during the game?

• 4U-8U games: Players and coaches from both the Home and Away teams sit on one side of the field, while family members from both the Home and Away teams sit on the opposite side of the field.
• 10U-14U games: Players and coaches from both the Home and Away teams sit on one side of the field, while family members from both the Home and Away teams sit on the opposite side of the field.
• We ask that all family members sit a minimum of 6 feet away from the sidelines for the players safety during the games. No family members are allowed to sit or stand on the end lines or behind the goals.

Will there be concessions available?

Concessions will not be sold. Sometimes, we have a variety of vendors, providing options throughout the season. 

Can we bring our own food and drinks to the games?

Absolutely. Keep in mind though, the use of alcohol & tobacco are prohibited at the complex.

What if it is raining on game day? Do we still play?

Field conditions will be updated through Teamsnap prior to the start of the first scheduled game that day. All field decisions are made by the School and Lakeland Parks and Rec.

What if there is lightning or thunder during the game?

Following our inclement weather policy, if lightning is detected within 10 miles or thunder is heard, the game is stopped, and EVERYONE must immediately leave the field and seek shelter in their cars. A whistle will sound to alert everyone off the fields. Play may not resume until 30 minutes from the last detection of lightning. If lightning continues after 30 minutes, all games will be canceled that day. 

Should I yell at my kid from the sidelines when they make a mistake or tell them to work harder, run, or get to the ball?

No. In my 30 years of coaching, I have never seen this have a positive long-term effect on a child. This is an opportunity for them to have fun. Being yelled at is not fun.

Should I encourage my kid to have fun and cheer for them?

Absolutely! If your child sees you having fun while being supportive and cheering them on, they will enjoy the game even more and I promise they will play even better.

Do we have Referees?

• 4U/6U games do not have a referee. Instead, both teams’ coaches referee and manage the game. Both teams’ coaches should be on the field to help instruct and assist with the kids.
• 8U-15U games do have a referee. Coaches are not allowed on the field unless the referee asks for assistance. In the situation a referee is not available, both coaches will work together to referee the game.

Is it okay to yell at the referee when they make a bad call or miss something?

Absolutely not. We have a zero tolerance with regard to negative behavior or speech toward any player, parent, referee, or coach. All of our referees will be licensed, and most will be grassroots beginner referees. This is a great opportunity for them to gain experience, while learning how to manage a game in a supportive environment. They are going to make lots of mistakes, as we all do, but that is just part of the process. These younger referees need your support, especially if we want to see the game progress in the future.

I ask that if you have a game with a beginner referee, to imagine them as your son or daughter, how you would want them to be treated, and how it would make you feel if other parents were yelling or screaming at them during the game. Again, there will be zero tolerance for any negative behavior or speech towards a referee.

What is the Zero Tolerance Policy?

Lakeland Soccer maintains zero tolerance with regard to any negative behavior or speech toward any player, parent, referee, or coach during the game. This will be enforced, and will result in removal of the offending parties and/or suspension of the game. 

Tennessee Soccer Academy has a zero-tolerance for abuse in all youth soccer teams, programs, or activities. It is the responsibility of every coach, volunteer, and parent to participate in the effort to create a safe environment for all soccer participants.