How to Make a Practice Jersey

Practice jerseys allow teams to practice both defensive and offensive plays. Teams divide into two groups and use practice jerseys to know who's in which group. This simulates real game play and allows offensive players and defensive players to practice simultaneously. Personalize jerseys with the number and name for each player or use only numbers to allow jerseys to be worn by any player during practice.

Instructions

    • 1
      Tank tops fit easily over clothing and offer a variety of colors and styles.

      Pick the style of shirt for practice jerseys. Tank tops are easy to put on and take off. They fit well over the player's clothing. They are lightweight and cool. T-shirts are an option for practice jerseys for cooler days and offer many of the same benefits as tank tops.

    • 2

      Pick colors for each practice team. All shirts should be identical for each team, with the exception of special positions such as goalie. Bright colors are easier for younger kids to notice and recognize. Similar colored shirts may become confusing. Contrasting colors allow team members to identify each other easily during practice.

    • 3

      Buy shirts large enough to slip over clothes quickly and easily. Include a section for parents to write the child's shirt size on the team or league sign-up form. This gives coaches an idea of which sizes to buy. Shirts should fit loosely over the child's clothes. Shirts should not get caught on anything or interfere with play.

    • 4
      Use different colors and numbers for jerseys so kids can identify their practice teams.

      Assign each practice jersey a number to distinguish players and positions. Iron-on choices are available in a variety of colors. Apply the numbers to the back of each shirt by following package instructions. Tank tops may need smaller-sized numbers to assure they fit. Fabric markers can also be used to draw numbers on the practice jerseys.