In our experience, the keys to having a positive experience in a 5-a-side league begin with being organized and finding the right group of teammates. Here are some tips to help get you started.  

1. Plan ahead

Research to the start dates of upcoming leagues, which tend to run seasonally, and consider the days, times and level of play that best suits your team. At Sofive, for example, we offer Summer, Fall, Winter 1, Winter 2 and Spring leagues with Men’s Open, Over 30, Over 40, Women’s Open and Co-ed divisions. Once you’ve identified a good fit, give yourself enough time to invite friends to play and collect money for the league dues.  

2. Roster enough players

Generally speaking, a good size 5-a-side team is made-up of 8-to-9 players, which provides an appropriate balance of playing time for each player and depth in the event someone gets hurt or cannot make a game.

3. Add your games to a shared calendar

While most leagues send email reminders of game times, it’s a good idea to mark down your game times on a schedule so that everyone is on the same page.

4. Identify a team captain

This doesn’t have to be the best player; just someone who is on top of things and can rally the troops on a weekly basis.

5. Set-up a group text or email chain

Get the ball rolling each week with a roll call two days in advance of the game to see who is available to play and who isn’t.

6. Have fun

Remember that it’s just a game!