FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We understand that you may have questions concerning youth sports, here are answers to some frequently asked questions
By Gabriel and Carissa Mbulo | 02/05/2025


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Frequently Asked Questions

Where do we play? 

Our Soccer ⚽, Flag Football 🏈 and Cheer programs take place on Saturdays The Chapel at Fishhawk located at 6026 Churchside Drive Lithia, FL 33547.

Where do I park and is there a Parking Fee?

Parking is free, but please remember to use the church parking lot and not park on the grass or clutter the neighborhood streets by double parking. 

Can I smoke on the premises?

NO. Absolutely NO SMOKING on the designated N Zone Sports home field. This includes the spectator viewing areas, by the trees, or anywhere close to the children and families we serve. While this an outdoor venue, during our Events, we reserve the right to ask anyone who wants to smoke to do it in the parking lot, AWAY from others, or in their own vehicle.

What does my child’s registration include?

Your child’s registration includes a certified N Zone Sports jersey, a Weekly Value Award, and an N Zone Sports Season Achievement Medal. 

Will my child receive a trophy?

For players ages 5 & up, our 8-week Season includes Consolation, Play-off, and Championship games at the Season Finale (last week of the season). Each age-bracket competes for 1st and 2nd place, where trophies are awarded.  *This does not include the N Zone Junior Program (ages 3-4). All N Zone Junior Participants receive a trophy.

What athletic gear do I need to provide?

Cleats 

Flag Football - Mouthpiece (sold at N Zone venue $3)

Soccer - Shin guards

*Why are flag football players required to have shorts without pockets?

Pulling flags is fun! Getting a finger caught in the pocket while doing so is NOT! This is an especially important safety rule our Officials monitor. If needed, pockets can be taped at the N Zone Sports tent. Come by and see us! 

What days/times are practices held?

Practices are typically held 30 minutes - 1 hour before games.  At the Season Meet n’ Greet event, your player’s Head Coach will coordinate with team parents on which day of the week works with everyone's schedule. Please keep in mind, practices are encouraged, but not mandatory for anyone. If there is a schedule conflict, please let us know in advance. 

How long is the Sports Season?

The season is 8 weeks long, which includes one Meet n’ Greet event, 6 weeks of games, and a Season Finale reserved for Consolation, Play-off, and Championship games. 

How long are games?

Games include two 20-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime. This does not include *overtimes or shoot-outs. An average game is about an hour long. The N Zone Junior Program (3&4 years of age) runs for approximately 35-50 minutes (this will be explained in more detail at our meet & greet morning) 

What time do games begins?

Schedules vary, but we host games exclusively on Saturdays usually beginning at 9am and running thru 1pm.

Does the N Zone Junior program have practices and games?

No. Our N Zone Junior program was created to introduce young children, ages 3 & 4, to the fundamentals of sports. This includes skill drills, lots of running, relays, and fun! Towards the middle/end of the season, once they learn the basics, scrimmages do take place under the direction of our Junior Program Director. Parents are encouraged to get involved and applaud these little tykes’ best efforts on the field! No need to keep score when everyone’s a WINNER!


Does your league have double-header games?

After open registration has concluded, we may sometimes end up with an uneven number of teams in one or more age brackets. In this case, double-headers are required to balance the standings, however, every attempt will be made to not have an uneven number of teams.

My child has never played sports before. Is N Zone Sports safe for beginners?

N Zone Sports is a perfect league for sports fans of all levels!  Our sports are non-contact and teams consist of players with mixed experience levels, from beginner to advanced. While understanding the importance of the competitive spirit, we recognize our ultimate priority lies in teaching fundamentals, teamwork, and sportsmanship

Does my child need to try-out to be on a team?

No. N Zone Sports is recreational sports with a healthy competitive atmosphere. Try-outs are never required. In fact, we encourage players of all experience levels to Get Out N’ Play! Every child will receive ample playing time.

Will games be cancelled due to rain?

Inclement weather will be watched closely and in the event heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected, games may be cancelled in advance. However, light rain does not guarantee a cancellation. Field conditions will always be checked for safety hazards due to rain. Cancellations may not be announced until 7am on the morning of scheduled games. We will be sure to stay in close communication with everyone. All coaches and customers will be directed to our website for these announcements. 

Will there be a make-up day if games are cancelled?

Our season includes a tentative Make-up/Rain Day in the event we have a cancellation. This takes place on the Saturday following the originally scheduled Season Finale.

How can I find out my child’s team schedule? 

Schedules will be posted online approximately one week before the first games. You can check schedules by logging into your N Zone Sports account. If you have children in different sports, both schedules will appear. 

How do I reset my Password on my N Zone Sports Account?

Go to our page at https://nzonesports.com/texmex , Click on the LOG IN button on the upper right-hand corner of the screen, then click on the “Reset My Password” link. Enter the email address you used to register with and click on √ DO IT. If you have forgotten your Username, email us at lascruces@nzonesports.com and we can provide you with it. We can also reset your password manually if needed. Let us know how we can help!

What are the age brackets for flag football and soccer?

Our age brackets are determined by a few different factors after the conclusion of Open Registration for any given season. These include total number of registrations, ages of participants, and registrations by sport. Age brackets are typically:

  • Flag Football:  5-7, 8-10, 11+
  • Soccer: 5-7, 8-10, 11+

AGE BRACKETS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON REGISTRATIONS

 

Where can I find the rulebooks?

Our rules can be found on our HAPPENING NOW page

It is so hot! Can I set up a canopy tent for shade?

Yes! We ask that parents do not set up canopies without staking them down or having weights attached to them. Potential winds can cause canopies to flip.  We recommend parents bring hats, umbrellas, sunscreen, and plenty of water! 

If my child forgets his mouthpiece or shin guards, can they still play?

We care about the safety of the players! Mouthpieces (flag football) and Shin Guards (soccer) are mandatory.  Officials will monitor this vital safety rule closely. Children will not be able play without them. Mouthpieces are sold at the main N Zone Sports tent on Saturdays.

Does my child/family have to participate in fundraising?

No, never. 

Do you offer a sibling discount?

Yes. Discounts vary depending on the number of siblings. Email us at fishhawk@nzonesports.com for more information.

Do you offer a military discount?

Yes! Please email us at  fishhawk@nzonesports.com and tell us which service we can Thank You for!

Do you have a lost and found?

Yes. Please stop by our tent on Saturday mornings for Lost and Found. Items not picked up by the end of the Season will be donated or discarded. 

How can I communicate with my child’s Coach?

N Zone Sports will provide you with your Head Coach’s and Assistant Coach’s (if applicable) contact numbers at the Meet n Greet event. During the event, you will be introduced to your child’s coach(es) and teammates. Head coaches will be sure to have your direct contact information and collect any important/vital information pertaining to your player. 

My child cannot attend the Meet n Greet event. How do I know who his/her coach is?

N Zone Sports will provide you with your Head Coach’s and Assistant Coach’s (if applicable) contact information. Please let us know if you are unable to attend or missed it for any reason. 

Can my child play on the same team as a friend?

We love to see kids playing the sport they love alongside their buddy, however, making new friends is super fun, too! Therefore, please submit your request on your registration form and we will do our best to accommodate. Please note, special requests are not guaranteed.

Can I request a specific coach?

Like our buddy request above, we love to see kids playing the sport they love under the direction of their favorite Coach, however, learning from a different coach this season is super fun, too! Therefore, please submit your request on your registration and we will do our best to accommodate. Please note, special requests are not guaranteed and all sales are final. If your child does not end up on a specific team, the sale is still final. 
 

I have children in different age groups/sports playing this season. How will I know I won’t miss any games?

Sibling athletes rock! We know some of our families include 2-3 children playing different sports, on different fields, and in different age brackets, but please know there is a small possibility games will run simultaneously.  We cannot guarantee your players will not be playing at the same time on different fields.