Palo Alto AYSO: How to Set Up a Goal Net

Retrieve the net from the net box and unroll on the ground between the goal posts. Unfortunately it is sometimes very difficult to tell which is the front and which is the back. There may be a cord running the length of the net at the back top-corners, in which case the edge closest to that cord is the front and attaches to the crossbar. Another clue is a long tie-cord at the back top-corners. Otherwise the side panels usually provide a clue! If you get it wrong it will eventually be obvious, but only towards the end of the process.

All Palo Alto AYSO nets are inside nets and go inside the goal frame, not over it! Refer to the diagram below in the following step-by-step instructions.
 

  1. First, (using a step stool for full-sized goals) tie the net to the main crossbar of the goal. Do this working from one side only, otherwise you will likely have droopy part in the middle. Make sure the net is inside and below the rear struts. Another way to do this (with some goals) is to carefully tip the main crossbar down part way by lifting the rear pipe about three feet off the ground. Make sure the net corners meet the corners of the goal posts.


  2. The tie the front vertical edges of the net to the main vertical posts.


  3. Now tie the bottom edges of the net to the side and rear bar on the ground. It may be necessary to lift the rear bar. Make sure the net meets the bottom corner of the goals posts (if this is difficult it is a clue to having the net back to front).


  4. Lastly, use the ties at back vertical corners to tie the net to the curved rear struts. This will lift the net back up and give it a nice shape (and keep it from obstructing the goalkeeper).

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