Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about ECS Pub League?
You’ve come to the right place.
Where does the league play?
North Seattle. Most games will be held at Robert Eagle Staff Middle School, but some games and Pub League Offseason Practices will be held at other fields. Check our schedule page for details.
All games and practices are played on turf fields.
When does the league play?
We play on Sundays in the spring (roughly April through June) and in the fall (roughly between Labor Day and Thanksgiving).
Each team in our upper division (Premier) plays 2 games in the morning (~8:00 – 12:30), and each team in our beginner division (Classic) plays 2 games in the early afternoon (~1:00 – 3:30).
During the summer and winter offseasons we have Pub League Offseason Practices (PLOP) on Sunday mornings that are free and open for prospective players. Check our schedule page for details.
How much does it cost?
For the last few seasons fees have been $110 for a ten week season, including a Fun Week BBQ and playoffs. It also includes a sweet jersey custom designed by you and your teammatess. This is subject to change, but we are not anticipating any increases at this time.
There is a discount available for ECS members.
We are a nonprofit organization staffed entirely by volunteers, including our admins, coaches, and referees.
What equipment do I need?
The only required equipment is shinguards for safety.
Games are played on artificial turf, so any kind of athletic shoes will work; but either soccer shoes made for turf or “firm ground cleats” will give you more support, traction, and protection than running shoes or sneakers.
Players seem to be about 50/50 split on preferring turf shoes vs. firm ground cleats.
No metal studded cleats are allowed.
Who can play in the league?
ECS Pub League is an 21+ adult recreational league. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of our activities or operations.
We do, however, reserve the right to deny play for anyone who is deemed a poor fit for the league’s mission and the unique community we serve because of skill, experience, physicality, competitiveness, or similar reasons.
What if I’m out of shape?
One of us! One of us!
This is a radically inclusive recreational league that plays just for fun. We play 8v8 (+/- depending on numbers) on a half-size field, with two 25-minute halves. We have unlimited substitutions, with players subbing in and out every 5 to 10 minutes. You can totally do this.
What if I’ve never played soccer before?
Awesome! The Classic division was created just for you. It is beginner-friendly and focuses on fun and skill development over competition.
Everyone gets equal playing time, regardless of skill, fitness, or experience.
The idea is that a person who has never played soccer before should feel comfortable on the field and be able to contribute to the team. The pace of the game is slower, and coaches emphasize a teaching environment where players can develop basic skills.
Stats and standings are not tracked, and the awards are based on development and fun.
We wrote a guide especially for players new to the league and/or the game.
Warning: May be habit-forming.
What if I’m a more experienced player?
That all depends. If you have competed in any of the other soccer leagues around Seattle (RATS, GSSL, Arena Sports), or have college or club experience, this league is probably not for you. Our level of skill, physicality, and competitiveness is typically well below even the lowest divisions of other leagues.
Our Premier division is designed for players who are not quite beginners and who desire a slightly more competitive environment, but are typically not playing full field soccer elsewhere. It is a healthy environment of friendly competition, but there is still an emphasis on development, team play, and fun. Everyone gets equal playing time.
ECS Pub League is a part of ECS FC, the nonprofit soccer club established by Emerald City Supporters, a Sounders FC supporters group. ECS FC fields more competitive men’s, women’s, and coed teams in other leagues in the Seattle area. We encourage you to check it out if that sounds like more your speed or if we deem that to be a better fit.
If you’re not sure, send us a message and we’ll work with you to find the right fit.
Can I bring a friend?
We welcome new players to PLOP (Pub League Offseason Practices), or reach out and we can try to fit them in as a sub if the season is underway.
All players who wish to register for the league must first attend a PLOP and/or play as a sub to determine appropriate league fit.
We’ll do our best to put friends on the same team when we can, especially in their first season. Since we’re a small league that plays two games at a time on the same field, friends will definitely get to see one another regardless. Plus, you’re sure to make some new friends along the way!
How can I get involved?
Send us a message and tell us a little bit about your soccer experience and what you’re looking for. We’ll find a way to get you involved at the right level.
We have free PLOP (Pub League Offseason Practices) every Sunday during the summer and winter offseasons. If the season has already started we can try to work you in as a sub.
How do I sign up for the league?
A link will be posted when registration is open. In order to maintain competitive balance all new players must be approved by league management prior to registering. Reach out to join us at a (PLOP) Pub League Offseason Practice or as a substitute to ensure appropriate league fit.
Still have questions? Read and download our complete guide here.
Read and download our 48-page Pub League Unofficial Guide. It should tell you more than you ever wanted to know.