Travel Program

Travel Soccer

Competitive travel teams for dedicated players in grades 3–8 from Gardner and surrounding communities.

Compete at the Next Level

The Chair City Soccer Travel Program offers competitive soccer for players who are ready to take their game further. Our travel teams compete in the Nashoba Valley Soccer League, giving players the opportunity to develop their skills, while representing their community with pride.

Competitive Play

Teams compete in the Nashoba Valley Soccer League throughout the season.

Player Development

Structured training sessions focused on technical skills, tactical awareness, and team play.

Qualified Coaches

All travel coaches complete background checks, SafeSport training, and MYSA coach education requirements.

Community Pride

Represent Gardner and the surrounding communities on the field every season.

Who Can Play

Eligibility & Age Groups

Travel teams are formed for boys and girls in grades 3 through 8. Players are placed on age-appropriate teams based on tryouts held each season.

Grades 3–4

Introduction to competitive play with an emphasis on skill development and teamwork.

Grades 5–6

Increased tactical focus and league competition within the Nashoba Valley.

Grades 7–8

Advanced competitive play preparing players for high school soccer.

Seasons

Spring & Fall Seasons

Fall Season

Runs September through November.

Registration typically opens on May 1.

Spring Season

Runs April through June.

Registration typically opens on Nov 1.

Tryouts

Tryouts are held prior to each season.

All players are encouraged to attend regardless of experience.

Travel Requirements

Teams travel within the Nashoba Valley region for away games.

Typical away game travel time is between 15-50 minutes.

Requirements

What's Required

Player Registration

All players must register through AdminSports and be current on fees before participating.

MYSA Registration

Players must be registered with the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association each season.

Code of Conduct

All players, coaches, and parents must adhere to the MYSA Code of Conduct at all times.

Commitment

Travel soccer requires a strong commitment to practices, games, and team activities throughout the season.

Game Rules

Rules by Age Group

All play follows FIFA Laws of the Game with NVYSL modifications by age group. Universal rules apply to all divisions.

Universal Rules — All Age Groups

Rules of Play: Current FIFA International Laws of the Game govern play with exceptions as noted by NVYSL.

Uniforms: Players must wear uniquely numbered shirts. No jewelry permitted. Hard casts or splints are not allowed. Shin guards & cleats are required.

Substitutions: Substitutions are unlimited and may take place at any stoppage of play with permission from the Referee.

Spectator Location: Spectators must remain on the opposite touchline from teams. No spectators behind goal areas. All must stay at least 3 feet behind the touchline.

Rehydration Stops: In high heat and humidity, the referee may stop play once per half to allow participants to rehydrate.

Grades 3/4 — 7v7

Format: 7v7

Ball: Size 4

Duration: Two 30-minute halves

Players: 7 players (max roster: 12)

No Heading — Grades 3/4 heading is prohibited in all matches and practices.

•Opposing players must be 8 yards from the ball on kickoffs, corner kicks, and free kicks.
•After a goalkeeper distributes the ball, it must touch a player or the field before entering the opposing penalty area.
•Goal kicks are taken from anywhere in the penalty area; opposing players must stand behind the halfway line.
•Offside is only enforced in Div 1; it does not apply in other Grade 3/4 matches.

Grades 5/6 — 9v9

Format: 9v9