SJN Football Team Formation Guidelines

At SJN Football, we follow the team formation guidelines set forth by the Suffolk PAL (Police Athletic League), which are designed with the safety, development, and success of all players in mind.
As players grow and develop within our program, we begin placing them on teams based on ability and skill level rather than friendships or coaching preferences. This ensures that each child is placed in an environment that is both challenging and safe—for themselves and for their teammates.
Here’s how the process works:
    •    Ages 5/6: At this introductory level, our primary goal is to help young players develop a love for the game. For that reason, we do our best to keep friends together and create a fun, encouraging environment.

    •    7U (First PAL Year): If registration numbers allow, we split into two evenly matched teams to give all players a balanced experience in their first year of PAL play.

    •    8U and Older: From this point forward, teams are formed strictly based on ability and skill set. PAL places teams in different divisions based on overall team ability. To keep our players safe and competitive, we must place players accordingly. We understand this can be a tough adjustment for some families, but these decisions are made with player safety and long-term development in mind.

This structured approach is a direct requirement of the Suffolk PAL. To participate in the league, SJN Football must adhere to these formation guidelines, which are primarily designed for the safety and appropriate development of every child involved. Placing players in the correct division based on ability is not just our policy, but a league-wide mandate to ensure that all games are safe and competitive for everyone on the field. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us follow these essential safety protocols set by the Police Athletic League.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly.

Mike Neri

SJN President