Equipment and Uniform Rules at the Midwest Youth Cup

Every Midwest Youth Cup player must wear shin guards and a matching numbered jersey. Ball size is 4 for U8 through U12 and 5 for U13 through U15. Metal cleats, jewelry, and hard casts are not permitted.

Key facts

• Shin guards are required for all players.
• Ball size: Size 4 for U8 to U12, Size 5 for U13 to U15.
• No metal cleats, no jewelry, no hard casts.
• Matching numbered jerseys, each player a different number.

Required player equipment

Shin guards are required for every player. Jewelry is not permitted, including tape over earrings, so players must remove all jewelry before the field. Metal cleats are not allowed, and hard casts may not be worn during a match. Choose molded or turf-appropriate footwear for the all-turf fields.

Ball size by age group

| Age group | Ball size | |---|---| | U8 to U12 | Size 4 | | U13 to U15 | Size 5 |

Home teams should bring a game ball in the correct size. Referees confirm the ball before kickoff.

Uniforms and numbers

Teams wear matching numbered jerseys, and every player must have a different number so officials can identify players clearly. The home team, listed first on the schedule, wears a light color and the away team wears a dark color. On a color conflict, the home team changes.

Why the surface matters

Every match is played on artificial turf. Turf-appropriate footwear protects players and the surface, which is one reason metal cleats are not allowed. Pack a spare pair of molded cleats or turf shoes for a three-game weekend.