Match Ball
Gear & EquipmentA high-quality, FIFA-approved ball used in official games, distinct from cheaper, harder 'training balls'.
Related Terms in Gear & Equipment
Sock Tape
Adhesive tape (often colored to match the socks) wrapped around the ankle or shin guard to keep the guard in place.
Cleats
Footwear with protrusions on the sole to provide traction on grass or turf. Also called Boots.
Corner Flag
A flag on a post at least 5 feet high located in each of the four corners of the field to assist in judging boundaries.
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Latest Youth Soccer News and Articles
U.S. Soccer Federation and US Club Soccer Launch New Shared Services Partnership: What Parents Need to Know
January 14, 2026
Play Club Soccer Staff
The U.S. Soccer Federation has officially entered a new strategic relationship with US Club Soccer. This isn't just a press release; it is a move that could fundamentally change how the back-end of youth soccer operates.
The U.S. Girls Youth Soccer Pyramid: A Parent's Guide to League Tiers in 2025/2026
November 6, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A parent's guide to understanding the tiered leagues in U.S. girls' youth soccer, from ECNL to recreational leagues.
Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions: MLS Next Homegrown and MLS Next Academy Divisions Explained
August 2, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A clear breakdown of the different divisions within MLS NEXT, explaining the homegrown player rule and the academy structure.