How to choose the right soccer tournament for your team

Is it the right age group and format?

Check the age group against your league’s age cut-off, and the format (5v5, 7v7, 9v9) against what your team plays every week. A different format on the day means different positions and field sizes. Search tournaments by age group to see what is on.

Is it the right level?

Some tournaments are festivals with no tables, some are open to every grassroots team, and some are invitation events for the strongest sides. Ask the organizer who usually enters. A first tournament should be one where your team wins some games and loses some.

How many games will you play?

Look for guaranteed games. A group stage with a plate competition keeps every team playing; a straight knockout can send you home after one match. The formats guide explains the difference.

Travel, timing and cost

• How far is it, and can parents get there for the first kickoff?
• Is it one day or two? An overnight stay changes the cost and the safeguarding arrangements.
• What does the entry fee include — medals for every player, qualified referees?
• What is the refund policy if you have to withdraw?

Signs of a well-run tournament

• It is approved or sanctioned by the soccer association, and the organizer can give you the reference.
• There are clear rules, a published timetable well before the day and a named contact.
• Teams that went last year come back.
• Results are published as the day goes on, in one place.