Two young soccer players battle for possession of the ball during a youth soccer game
Your child’s spot on the field is waiting.
For more than 55 years, MSI has run Recreation Soccer for Montgomery County players of all skill levels. We have a level of play for everyone, with no tryouts, no cuts, and guaranteed playing time every week!
What to Expect from Montgomery Recreation Soccer at MSI
As a community-rooted soccer club and organization serving Montgomery County since 1971, we run two recreational soccer seasons each year: fall and spring. Families can join for one season or stay in the program year-round.
Here is what to expect when you sign up for our Recreation program:
Two seasons, flexible commitment
Fall registration opens in May, and spring registration opens in late October. Please see the Registration Details page for current fees and deadlines.
Teams built around your community
Players register as individuals. MSI staff place each child on a team based on grade level and geographic area, so kids can play close to home. Each roster is built to reflect the full diversity of our community, welcoming boys and girls across all grade levels.
Practice and games designed for every age
Younger players start with smaller-sided soccer games built to maximize touches and build confidence. Formats scale up naturally as players grow, all the way to full 11v11 at the middle and high school levels. See the game format table below for more information.
Volunteer-led teams
Each team is led by a volunteer coach, most often a parent. MSI provides training, support, and resources to help every coach feel prepared. In 1st and 2nd grade, we play two games at once on parallel fields to maximize training time for our players.
| Grade | Format |
|---|---|
| 1st Grade | 4 vs.4 |
| 2nd Grade | 5 vs.5 |
| 3rd and 4th Grade | 7 vs.7 |
| 5th and 6th Grade | 9 vs.9 |
| 7th Grade to 12th Grade | 11 vs.11 |
Who Can Play
Our youth soccer league is open to any child in grades 1 through 12. Here is what every family can expect:
- No tryouts, no cuts
Teams are filled by MSI staff on a first-registered, first-served basis. Placement is based on availability, not skill level.
- Guaranteed playing time
Every player gets at least half a game of playing time each week, no exceptions.
- All experience levels welcome
It does not matter if your child has never kicked a ball or is coming in from another sport mid-season. There is a place for them here.
- Flexible commitment
Our Recreation soccer program has no year-round obligation. It fits easily alongside other sports and activities your child is already doing.
Need Help Covering the Cost?
We want every family in Montgomery County to have access to our recreational soccer teams, regardless of financial circumstances. As a club for life committed to making soccer accessible to all, MSI supports families who qualify for Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARMS) through Montgomery County Public Schools by providing assistance with registration fees.
To apply: Complete the application found in the registration form.
Explore Other Youth Soccer League Programs
As your child grows their soccer skills, MSI grows with them. We have a place for your player at every level.
For players who have built a foundation in Recreation and are ready for more structured training and competitive games.
Learn more Level 2: Classic LeagueFor experienced, committed players looking to compete at a regional level against clubs across the area
Learn more Level 3: TravelFrequently Asked Questions
Do I have to try out to join?
No. There are no tryouts for our Montgomery County Recreation Soccer. Players register as individuals and are assigned to a team by MSI staff. Skill level plays no role in whether your child gets a spot.
When does registration open?
Fall season registration opens in May. Spring season registration opens in late October. Registration is completed online through Playmetrics by credit card. Families who prefer to pay by cash or check are welcome to visit the MSI office in person. See the Registration Details page for current windows and fees.
Will my returning player go back to their same team?
Returning players who sign up by the returning player deadlines are given priority placement on the team they played on the previous season. This means Spring players get priority for Fall, not players who last suited up in a Fall season but sat out the Spring. After that date, spots are filled in the order registrations are received, for both returning and new players, as space allows. MSI notifies returning families before registration opens and sends reminders as the deadline approaches.
The returning player deadline has passed. Can my child still register?
Yes, if you missed the deadline you can still register. We encourage families to sign up as soon as possible, since team placements are filled in the order in which registrations are received.
How do I report a problem at a game?
All reports must be submitted in writing within 48 hours of the game. You can email msi@msisoccer.org. MSI reviews every report received and directs concerns to the appropriate members of our leadership team for follow-up.
Do I need special equipment for games?
Yes, here is what every player needs to know before game day:
- Shin guards are required at all games and must be worn under socks
- Soccer cleats are strongly encouraged; metal cleats are not permitted
- Players who wear glasses are encouraged to use plastic lenses
Other uniforms and appearance rules:
Uniforms must be worn as issued. Player names and non-MSI approved sponsor logos are not permitted on jerseys. All jewelry, including earrings, must be removed in accordance with FIFA rules. Hard hair clips and accessories are not allowed. Soft scrunchies are fine for tying back long hair.
Everything You Need, Right Here
Whether you are ready to register or still have questions, these pages have everything you need.
Registration details
Fees, deadlines, and step-by-step instructions for signing up, including the early return-to-team window.
Recreation FAQs
Answers to the most common questions from families about teams, schedules, and playing time.
Youth Game Leaders
Ages 12 through 14 and interested in leadership? Become a Youth Game Leader and build leadership experience supporting 1st grade games.
Financial Aid
FARMS-eligible families can apply for fee assistance during registration.
Teams fill up every season, so register early to secure your child's place on a team. Register Now.
