Frequently Asked Questions

Once you have registered your player(s), you agree to the PLAY AT YOUR OWN RISK liability terms & conditions.  

Are you a Hillsborough County Organization/League?

N Zone Sports Southshore is not a Hillsborough County league. We are a separate entity & independently owned.  N Zone Sports Southshore is in partnership with Hillsborough County to rent Southshore Sportsplex fields. Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (COUNTY) and its employees and agents from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, or causes of action including liabilities for personal injuries, death or damage to property arising out of the use of the Southshore Sportsplex by N Zone Sports, its members, employees, participants, agents or invitees. For any questions/concerns/comments, please address them to: southshore@nzonesports.com.

What days/times are practices held?

Practices are not prescheduled in our league. We repeat, Practices are NOT prescheduled in this league. They are currently scheduled on Tues, Wed, or Thurs, but the time slots are not confirmed until after registration has closed and rosters are finalized. If you do not have a flexible schedule, please call or email us BEFORE registering.

Turf can get HOT. 

The new Southshore Sportsplex provides state-of-the-art astroturf fields, but one of the downsides to turf, is the HEAT. The turf's temperature rises on hot days and can be uncomfortable. Please plan accordingly by bringing hats, umbrellas, tents, and plenty of water. (Tents/umbrellas CANNOT be staked down into the turf)

Does my child need special cleats to play on turf fields?

No. Special cleats are not required. This decision is yours to make. 

Are turf fields dangerous? 

We encourage anyone who has concerns about the safety of turf fields to conduct their own research and make any decision to play based on what is best for you and your family. 

How may officials are assigned to one game? 

All games are assigned 1-2 certified Officials, depending on the sport & age bracket.

My player had to miss the first few games. Is he/she eligible to play?

No, sorry, but NO-SHOW players are removed from rosters after week 2 unless we are notified in advance for approval. 

My child is also playing in another league, and we just found out the game times are conflicting. Can I get a refund or credit for their registration?

NO. We advertise up front that our game schedules & practices are not prescheduled. We ask that you please do not register if your child's participation will depend on our practice or game schedules. We guarantee that all our games are on Saturdays or Sundays. We begin as early as 8:15 am and do not host games passed 3:30pm. Practice days & times will be determined by participation at the close of registration. 

My child was injured and is unable to start and/or complete the season. Can I get a refund?

We do not issue refunds for an injury, however, with prior documentation from a Health Care Professional, we can issue a full or pro-rated credit for the following season, depending on how many weeks were missed of the regular season. 

Spectate at your own risk!

There is nothing more exciting that cheering on your favorite star player! There are designated sidelines for spectators where we ask that you keep at least a 6-8ft distance from the sidelines.  You are advised, our sports are fast-paced, and sidelines can be very dangerous, especially in the older brackets for each sport. Big kids with big momentum can knock over just about anyone. You are more than welcome to watch from a distance. Our guests in wheelchairs are prohibited from sidelines for their own safety. Be our guest, at your own risk! 

Where are games hosted?

Our games take place at the Southshore Sportsplex in Apollo Beach at 6110 Waterset Blvd.

Where do I park and is there a Parking Fee?

Parking is free, but please adhere to all parking rules. 

How can I sign up to Coach?

To submit a request, submit your form: Volunteer to be a Coach! - N Zone Sports Southshore

All volunteer coaches ages 18 and over must complete county requirements/certificates. Email us for more information. southshore@nzonesports.com.

How can my student sign-up for Volunteer Hours?

Please email southshore@nzonesports.com with the following information and an N Zone representative will contact you. We will need:

• Volunteer name, grade, and school
• Parent/Guardian contact information

Is there a concession stand/food at the complex?

Concessions are provided at the discretion of the county. Several food truck vendors visit on various weekends. There are tables and shade for guests to enjoy food and eat outside of the fenced area. 

Can I bring in a cooler? 

Yes, but the cooler MUST REMAIN alongside the fence. Drinks of ANY kind are not allowed on any game field turf. N Zone Sports will establish parent sidelines where coolers and drinks are allowed, and coach & player sidelines where teams can have drinks. BUT again, no one can have drinks on any turf game field. 

Can I smoke on the premises?

HECK NO. Absolutely NO SMOKING OR VAPING on Hillsborough County Fields or Premises. No exceptions. 

What about Alcohol? 

Seriously? No. Absolutely NO ALCOHOL on Hillsborough County Fields or Premises. No exceptions. 

Can I hire a Professional to take photos of or record my child at play?

Professional Photography and Videos are strictly prohibited WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT & AGREEMENT. Cameras ARE permitted for personal use ONLY. Any photos taken of N Zone Sports players, staff, or volunteers may not be used for advertising, promotions, or other purposes without the consent of N Zone Sports Owners. 

Can I use a drone to record games? 

Nope. Please call for questions.  

What does my child’s registration include?

Your child’s registration is a flat-rate fee and includes a certified N Zone Sports jersey, a Weekly Value Award, and trophies for Champs/Runners-Up. All Juniors receive trophies.  

Can I drop my child off and then pick up after practice or the game?

NO. Do NOT drop your player off at any practice or game and then leave the premises, not even if you live one street over. Not even for 5 minutes. Parents/guardians are responsible for being present during all practices and games. If for any reason the said responsible party isn't available to stay the duration of practices or games, please do not attend, OR take your player with you. There are no exceptions to this policy, and we have a ZERO TOLERANCE for it. The first time a child is left unsupervised, left after practice and waiting, left at games and wandering around, it will be the ONLY time. Should this happen, the parents will be informed that the player is no longer allowed to return and will NOT receive a REFUND. Seems harsh, but safety is our number one priority, and we take safety very seriously!

Will my child receive a trophy?

All N Zone Junior Participants (ages 3&4) receive a trophy at the conclusion of the Season. For players ages 5 & up, Champs & Runners-Up in each bracket and sport receive trophies. Only the Top 4 qualifiers in each bracket and sport advance to the Season Finals. 

What equipment or athletic gear do I need to provide?

Cleats, mouthpiece for football, athletic shorts, and shin guards for soccer. Mouthpieces are mandatory for flag football, but only recommended for soccer. Shin guards are mandatory for soccer. *Flag football shorts cannot have pockets. N Zone Sports provides each coach with a game ball. It is recommended that each Soccer player bring their own soccer ball for practices. Sizes are provided in our FAQ list. 

*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 size balls are used in this league?

Soccer: 

Juniors: Size 3 / 5-7: Size 4 / 8-10: Size 4 / 11-14: Size 5

Flag Football:

Juniors: Mini / 5-7: Pee Wee / 8 & up: Junior

Are pets allowed?

Pets are not allowed on the county field. Service animals are permitted with proper certification. 

Cowbells/Noisemakers on sidelines?

Sure, but please keep it classy. Thank you!

How long are seasons?

Most seasons are 8 weeks long, which includes one Meet n’ Greet event, 6 weeks of games, and a Season Finale reserved for Play-off and Championship games. This may vary depending on the season and rain-outs.

How long are games?

Games include two 20-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime. This does not include overtime or shoot-outs. An average game is about an hour long. The N Zone Junior Program (3&4 years of age) runs for approximately 45 minutes. For game rules, please see your coach or request a copy: southshore@nzonesports.com

What time do games begins?

Schedules vary, but we typically host Saturday morning games from 8:00am – 3pm. These times are subject to change. Schedules will be posted a week ahead of the Season Opener. Like our schedules, game times are subject to change and/or may be delayed depending on the prior games. We do NOT guarantee game times to begin exactly on time. 

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 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?

Sometimes! Scheduling is based on participation. After open registration has concluded, we may end up with an uneven number of teams in one or more age brackets. In this case, separate divisions and even double-headers are required to balance the standings. Please KEEP THIS IN MIND BEFORE REGISTERING.

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 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 a recreational league 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 playing time.

Will games be cancelled due to rain?

WE DO PLAY IN RAIN. (Junior division does not) 

Inclement weather will be watched closely, and in the event of thunderstorms, games may be cancelled in advance. However, rain does not warrant a cancellation. Cancellations may not be announced until 7am on the morning of scheduled games or games may be delayed for later in the day. We will be sure to stay in close communication with everyone. All coaches and customers will be directed to our website for these announcements.  In the event of lightning within a 15-mile radius, all games will be stopped immediately, and fields will be cleared of ALL persons. EVERY PLAYER must return to their vehicles for at least 30 minutes   Once, lightning is no longer a threat, families can return to the field.  Taking cover under trees & standing by vehicles is strictly prohibited for players for safety reasons. 

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

Most of our seasons include a tentative Make-up/Rain Day in the event of a cancellation, but it is not guaranteed. Typically, make-up days take place on the weekend following the originally scheduled Season Finale (unless that weekend is a Holiday weekend, then it is the weekend after that). Please see the current season's schedule for make-up day dates so that you can plan accordingly. 

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

Schedules will be posted online approximately one week before the season begins. You can check schedules by logging into your N Zone Sports account. If you have children in different sports, both schedules will appear. N Zone Junior does not have a posted schedule.

How do I reset my Username and/or Password on my N Zone Sports Account?

Go to our page at https://nzonesports.com/southshore , Click on the LOG IN button on the upper right-hand corner of the screen, then click on the “Reset My Password or Resend my Username". If you have any issues, please email us at southshore@nzonesports.com and we can help reset your credentials manually if needed. Let us know how we can help!

What are the age brackets for soccer/flag football?

Our age brackets are determined by participation each season.  Age brackets are typically, but not guaranteed:

• Soccer: 5-7, 8-10, 11-14
• Flag Football: 5-7, 8-10, 11-14

Bracket ages are subject to change.

Where can I find the rules for soccer/flag football?

Rules are posted on our "Happening Now" page.

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

Yes. There are designated areas available for spectator tents, but the space will be limited. Please see the current season's FIELD MAP, which will be sent in an email at the start of the season. All spectator tents and placement will be determined before the season and will be based on the discretion of the N Zone Sports South Shore League Owners/Operators. Feel free to bring chairs & handheld umbrellas. NOTHING CAN BE STAKED DOWN INTO THE TURF FIELDS. 

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

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 Saturday mornings for $3.00. Cash only. We do not sell shin guards. 

Does my child/family have to participate in fundraising?

No, never. 

Do you offer a sibling discount?

Yes. A 10% sibling discount is automatically applied to your invoice. Registrations must all be one invoice in order to receive the discount.

Do you offer a military discount?

Yes! Please email us at southsore@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. *DO NOT BRING VALUABLE OR HIGH-PRICED EQUIPMENT, ELECTRONICS, BIKES, GAMES, ETC. to the field, as we are not responsible in any way if it gets lost, broken, or stolen.

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 & 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?

Your player's Coach will reach out to you. N Zone Sports will also provide you with your Head Coach’s contact information, if needed. 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. 

Can I register my child for more than one sport in a season?

While we can appreciate the enthusiasm of your player, it is not recommended. Games are scheduled by age group and all sports games run simultaneously. For more information, please give us a call at 813-362-9281.

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 it is a great possibility games times may conflict. We cannot guarantee your players will not be playing at the same time on different fields.

NOTE: Changes to these FAQs, rules, or any other terms can and will be updated when and as needed by N Zone Sports Southshore League Owners as seen fit for the safety and/or integrity of the league.