NJSA’s recreational program consists of Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Spring registration is open between February and March with the first games and practices taking place during the first week of April and concludes in June. We play a 8-week season.
Fall registration is open in July and August with our first games and practices taking place during the beginning of September and concludes in November. We play a 8-week season.
Winter season will be between January and March (7- to 8-week season) — registration details coming soon.
Who can play? How old does my child have to be?
Children between grades Pre K to 8th grade are eligible to play. Children will be placed onto one of four leagues based on grade.
NSJA’s recreational teams are determined by the following groups:
World Cup and MLS (Pre-K to 1st Grade)
These age groups are composed of teams formed in a random manner, yet balanced by ability to provide an equal and fun level of competitive play. Participants practice one or two nights per week and receive equal playing time during their 3 v 3 games against other teams within same age group. Games are played on Saturdays.
Italian (2nd and 3rd Grade)
This age group is composed of teams formed in a random manner, yet balanced by ability to provide an equal and fun level of competitive play. Participants practice one or two nights per week and receive equal playing time during their 4 v 4 games against other teams within same age group. Games are played on Saturdays.
Rec Plus (4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th Grade)
Our 4th to 8th graders will participate in the South West District’s Rec Plus league. Players practice two nights per week and receive equal playing time during their games. There are two division (4th to 6th Grade) play 8v8 and 7th and 8th Graders compete with 11 players on the field. Games are against other towns from Fairfield County and are typically held on Saturday afternoon’s.
How much does it cost?
There are different fees for our programs. Please refer to the season page for more details regarding the fee structure for each division.
What type of training will my child receive?
Every player that plays for NJSA will receive training by certified and licensed trainers. NJSA has a training curriculum that each trainer and coach will follow. Players starting at the age of 4 years old will see the benefit of this type of training. We strongly believe each player that attends the training sessions weekly will see their growth as player each season.
How do I pay?
All registrations are done online and you can play via credit card or mail in check.
When are practices?
Practices are set by the club a few weeks prior to the beginning of the season. We offer twice week training for all rec players.
When does the season start? When does it end?
The Fall season traditionally starts the first Saturday after Labor Day weekend and the Spring season starts the first Saturday of April. We play a 8 week schedule so we look to wrap up the Fall by the middle of November and the Spring in the middle of June.
When will I know which team my child is on?
Once you register, you will receive confirmation that your information was processed and added into our online system. From there we target a week to 10 days prior to opening day that you coach will be assigned to a team.
When will the schedule be out?
Before we can create schedules and assign teams, we need to know how many children are playing in each league. Thus, we can’t create the schedule until registration is closed. Typically it takes about 1-2 weeks after registration closes before the schedule is created. Typically, we are able to create our schedule a week before opening day.
How many games are there? When are the games?
We schedule each team to play ten games (weather permitting). Each game will be scheduled for Saturday morning or early afternoon There are no weeknight games.
How long do the games last?
For the World Cup, MLS and Italian Divisions – games will be played within the allotted time (that will be part of the Rec League Schedule) in the allotted one hour time frame. Rec Plus games last for 70 to 90 mins.
What is the game cancellation policy?
All notifications for practices and games will be sent out via email or updated on our website.
What equipment do I need? What should I bring?
Each player is responsible to wear the NJSA rec uniform and shin guards. Cleats are suggested but not mandatory. Size 3 Ball for MLS, World Cup and Italian. Size 4 Ball for Rec Plus 4th to 6th Grade divisions and Size 5 Ball for Rec Plus 7th and 8th Grade division.
Where can I find information about being a referee?
Please visit our website for information if you are interested in becoming a referee. NJSA conducts a training course once a year for interested players that are looking to become a referee.
Who can coach? Do I need previous experience?
For our recreational league, we are always looking for coaches. There is no better way to spend time with your children than coaching them in rec soccer. We offer mentorship programs wear one of our trained staff will be able to assist you if you have any questions.
Can my child play up?
Divisions are created by grade. We strongly encourage your child to stay in the division they belong in. If you feel that your child would like to play up, he/she would need to be accessed. Please email our NJSA Rec registrar with your request: norwalkjuniorsoccer@gmail.com.
How can I help?
Please email norwalkjuniorsoccer@gmail.com or during the on-line registration process click on ‘coach’.
