The Laredo Heat SC youth academy is aiming to spread the joy of the sport with some of the city’s youngest athletes as it hosts a toddler soccer league open to the public beginning April 9 at Texas A&M International University.

No experience is necessary to participate in the league which features a 3v3 format for children ages 3 to 5. Teams may have a maximum of five players, and the cost to participate is $100 per team.

“We’re excited to welcome existing soccer players and newcomers alike,” Laredo Heat SC President Shashi Vaswani said. “This league will be a great way to bring together friends and to introduce new friends in a fun environment. We can’t wait to see how much fun they are all going to have out there, and hopefully they all develop a passion for the sport along the way.”

There are two divisions with a U5 category for children born in 2017 and a U4 category for children born in 2018 and 2019. Players may only play on one team per division.

Games feature two 10-minute halves and a two-minute halftime. They will be played on fields with a width of 25-30 yards and a length of 35-40 yards, and scores will not be taken.

Teams are responsible for providing size 3 balls, and players are recommended to wear shin guards. There are no goalkeepers in the 3v3 format, and slide tackling and heading are not permitted.

The league will be held from 9-11 a.m. every Saturday from April 9 through May 7.

Anyone interested in participating may call (323) 740-6998 for more information.