One of the reasons our fields are in such good shape in Sunnyvale
is that a few years ago the city removed all the permanent goals
and switched to portables. This keeps many of the adult leagues
from overusing our fields. The disadvantage to this is that we
need to setup our goals before we start the games each Saturday
(and Sunday for U16/U19).
Goals are very easy to setup and it can be done by just a couple
people in about 15 minutes once you understand the process.
The goals are stored in a cylindrical tube located on the edge of
the field attached to one of the fences surrounding the field. The
tubes are locked and you will need to visit the net host, a family
located near the field, to get the corner flag that has the key).
The following pictures explain how we construct our goals. You can
get a more detailed view of each picture by clicking on it.
The goal consists of 7 long sections, 2 short unions and 4 elbows.
The top bar is formed by using 3 long sections and the 2 short unions.
The complete length of the top is 24 feet for a full size goal.
If you are building a U8 goal we only use 2 long sections and a single
short union.
The "L" shaped elbows are used to connect the uprights
and the support legs.
There are a couple ways to attach the net to the top bar of the goal. The
traditional way is by using ropes to tie it on. The problem with this is that
it is easy to have gaps if the ties are not close enough together. We have
found it to work better if you thread the net onto the top bar as shown.
If you want to be professional you could thread the two uprights as well but
this is overkill. Tying the sides with the ropes is sufficient.
Once you have the net threaded and tied you attach the two support legs with
two more elbows.
You will find it easier to attach the net to the uprights while the goal is still down.
This is definitely the case if you are altitude challenged.
With the goal assembled you just lift it into position. It is easier to move the goal
around when it is on the ground so located the goal close to it's final distination prior
to lifting it.
Once you have it standing someone will have to support the goal while the others
stake the support legs.
The "L" shaped stakes should be driven as far out on the support as
possible to take advantage of leverage.
It is easiest if you just tuck the net under the support bars as shown.
And within minutes you have a completed goal and are ready to watch your children
become stars.
