Soccer-specific stadium

Soccer-specific stadium (SSS) is a term used mainly in the United States and Canada. It was coined by Lamar Hunt to refer to a sports stadium whose primary (but not only) purpose is to host soccer matches. An SSS may host other events such as other sporting events (e.g., Professional Lacrosse, high school football) or musical concerts but the design and purpose of an SSS is to be centered around soccer.

Related Topics:
United States - Canada - Lamar Hunt - Soccer - Lacrosse

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An SSS typically has amenities, dimensions and scale suitable for soccer in the United States, including a scoreboard, video screen, luxury suites and possibly even a roof. The field dimensions are within the range found optimal by FIFA — 100-130 yards (90-120m) long by 50-100 yards (45-90m) wide. Lastly, the seating capacity is generally small enough to provide an intimate setting, between 18,000 - 30,000 for a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise, or between 5,000 - ~12,000 for a franchise in the United Soccer Leagues (whose attendance is subject to more variation), as opposed to the gigantic football stadiums in which most MLS teams were compelled to play at the league's inception. In the PDL league fields can seat in range from 1,000-10,000.

Related Topics:
United States - FIFA - Major League Soccer - United Soccer Leagues - Football - PDL

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The term "football-specific stadium" is sometimes used in countries where the sport is known as football. This tends to have a slightly different meaning, usually referring to a stadium without an athletic track.

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