Mercy Rule
Youth & DevelopmentA rule in some youth leagues that ends the game early or allows the losing team to add an extra player if the score difference becomes too large.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
Club Soccer
Competitive soccer played outside of school programs, often requiring travel, tryouts, and fees. Known as 'Travel Soccer' in the US.
Patch Exchange
A tradition in tournaments where players swap team patches or pins with their opponents after the game.
ECNL (Elite Clubs National League)
A top-level youth soccer league in the United States, highly scouted by college coaches.
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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.