Question 1

How do PitchSide Pickup games work?

Accepted Answer

PitchSide organizes structured pickup games across Northwest Chicago. When you book a slot, your spot is 100% guaranteed. Teams are either selected by players when signing up or assigned on matchday by the PitchSide Host. Pickup games are self-officiated and focused on clean, competitive fun—there are NO referees for pickup games.

Question 2

How do PitchSide Tournaments and Leagues work?

Accepted Answer

PitchSide hosts competitive Tournaments and Leagues (both structured and rolling formats) that feature certified referees, group/knockout stages, live scorekeeping, and official standings. Captains can register full teams, or individual players can sign up as Free Agents to be placed on a roster.

Question 3

What is the slide tackling and physical contact policy?

Accepted Answer

For all Pickup games, SLIDE TACKLING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED to ensure player safety and keep matches injury-free. For Leagues and Tournaments, whether slide tackling is included or excluded is based on the host or organizing body's decision and will be clearly outlined in the event rules.

Question 4

How long are events and how do match rotations work?

Accepted Answer

Pickup events run for a total time of 60 to 120 minutes. Individual pickup game lengths on the field typically run anywhere from 6 to 12 minutes depending on the event, rotating squads based on time or goals. For Tournaments and Leagues, match duration, halves, and playoff structures are set by the host or organization running the event.

Question 5

What footwear and cleats are allowed?

Accepted Answer

Allowed footwear depends on the specific facility and surface (indoor turf, outdoor turf, or hard courts) and will always be reflected in the game/event description. Turf shoes (TF) and molded rubber studs (AG/FG) are common for turf fields, while flat indoor shoes are required for court surfaces. Metal spikes are never allowed across any facility.

Question 6

Do I need to bring my own ball or colored jerseys/bibs?

Accepted Answer

Official PitchSide-specific pickup events provide colored team bibs and match balls. Non-PitchSide hosted events may not, which will be reflected in the event description. For Leagues and Tournaments, jersey guidelines and bib provision are determined by the host or organization running the event.

Question 7

What happens if a match is cancelled due to weather or rain?

Accepted Answer

If an outdoor match is cancelled due to severe weather, lightning, or facility closure, you will receive an immediate notification via email and push alert. 100% of your registration fee is automatically refunded back to your payment card or issued as instant Matchday Wallet Credits.

Question 8

Can I cancel my spot if I can no longer make it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can cancel your booking directly from your Player Hub up to 12 hours before kickoff for a full refund/credit. Cancellations made inside the 12-hour window are non-refundable to ensure full squads for other participants, though you may transfer your spot to a teammate.

Question 9

How are payments processed and is my card information secure?

Accepted Answer

All payments are handled securely through Stripe, the world-class payment processor certified to PCI Service Provider Level 1 (the highest standard). PitchSide never stores your raw card number. We accept all major credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Question 10

How do Match Credits work?

Accepted Answer

Match Credits are stored securely in your PitchSide Wallet and never expire. If you have a credit balance, it will automatically apply at checkout to discount or fully cover your match registration fee.

Question 11

What is a "Free Agent" and how does the draft work?

Accepted Answer

If you register for a tournament or league without a pre-formed squad, you join as a Free Agent. Free agents are either drafted into existing teams needing roster spots or grouped together into a dedicated competitive squad before roster lock.

Question 12

How do matchday check-ins work when I arrive at the facility?

Accepted Answer

When you arrive at the pitch, find your PitchSide Host at the sidelines. Show your digital Match Pass QR code in the app or give your name. The host checks you in, gives you your squad bib, and activates your live player status.

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