frequently asked questions...

How do the leagues work?

Teams sign up for a season, which typically lasts around 10 weeks. Games will be played weekly at the same venue for each league. We provide all the equipment, from match balls and bibs to FA qualified referees. All you need to do is turn up for your fixture each week. Fixtures, results, tables and stats are all available through the website.

How do we sign up for a league?

Teams can sign up online by completing the entry form online. Once a deposit has been paid, your team will be registered into the league. You can play for one season or stay longer, as many teams do - leagues run all year round, except for a short break around Christmas/ New Year.

How much does it cost?

There are no joining fees, affiliation fees or other hidden costs. You simply have to pay a deposit to join a league, which you get back at the end of the league, provided you turn up to all your fixtures. Match fees vary between venues but the average cost is around £7 or £8 per week per player.

How do we pay?

Match fees are payable weekly in cash. If fees are paid late, no goals or points will be allocated to that team and teams risk being removed from the league. Teams also have the option of paying for the league up front, or in installments. This can make it easier for captains to organise the team and is also useful if you are a group of work mates being sponsored by the company.

How long are the games?

This depends on the venue, but most games are between 36 and 50 minutes. You will play one long match per week rather than a couple of short games. This way, you won't be hanging around between games and you'll have a proper match each week.

What do we need to bring to matches?

We provide everything, from qualified refs to match balls. All you need is some appropriate footwear - astros or trainers, no studs (moulded studs can be worn on some 3G surfaces).

How long are the leagues?

Our leagues run in seasons of up to 14 weeks. You can join for just one season or longer. If you do decide to leave the league, we ask that you give at least 3 weeks notice and leave at the end of a season, to give us time to find a replacement team.

How do we know when we will be playing?

Fixtures will be posted on the website well in advance of the day of the match, so you can check them easily. Your weekly game will be at the same venue and on the same night each week.

Why does a deposit have to be paid?

Deposits are taken to ensure that once a team enters the league they fulfil every fixture. A no-show means a wasted journey and no football for the opposition, which is incredibly frustrating. If you don't turn up for a fixture, the match fee is deducted from the deposit and you lose the game 5-0. If you miss more than two games, you may lose your deposit and be removed from the league.

This system is in place to reduce absences to an absolute minimum and ensure the league runs smoothly.

What happens if the opposition doesn't turn up?

We will endeavour to arrange a friendly game with another team, with reduced match fees. You will also be awarded 3 points. If you don't get a game at all, no match fees will be payable.

Do you have pitches available for hire?

We use all pitches to run leagues, so unfortunately we are unable to offer pitches for hire.

Do 5aside.org run one-day tournaments?

We will be holding a couple of one-day tournaments in summer 2010. Please join the mailing list to receive the latest updates. We can also run bespoke events for companies, parties, stag do's etc...

Do you run ladies leagues?

At the moment we don't, but we are planning to set one up soon. Please join our mailing list to receive the latest information.