Signature Goals, Inc.

Anchoring/Securing/Counterweighting Guidelines

A properly anchored/counterweighted movable soccer goal is much less likely to tip over. Remember to secure the goal to the ground (preferably at the rear of the goal), making sure the anchors are flush with the ground and clearly visible. It is IMPERATIVE that ALL movable soccer goals are always anchored properly. There are several different ways to secure your soccer goal. The number and type of anchors to be used will depend on a number of factors, such as soil type, soil moisture content, and total goal weight.

Anchor Types

* Auger style 

This style anchor is "helical" shaped and is screwed into the ground. A flange is positioned over the ground shoes (bar) and rear ground shoe (bar) to secure them to the ground. A minimum of two auger-style anchors (one on each side of the goal) are recommended. More may be required, depending on the manufacturers specifications, the weight of the goal, and soil conditions.

* Semipermanent

This anchor type is usually comprised of two or more functional components. The main support requires a permanently secured base that is buried underground. One type (3.2a) of semipermanent anchor connects the underground base to the soccer goal by means of 2 tethers. Another design (3.2b) utilizes a buried anchor tube with a threaded opening at ground level. The goal is positioned over the buried tube and the bolt is passed through the goal ground shoes (bar) and rear ground shoe (bar) and screwed into the threaded hole of the buried tube.

* Peg or Stake style (varying lengths) 

Typically two to four pegs or stakes are used per goal (more for heavier goals). The normal length of a peg or stake is approximately 10 inches (250mm). Care should be taken when installing pegs or stakes. Pegs or stakes should be driven into the ground with a sledge-hammer as far as possible and at an angle if possible, through available holes in the ground shoes (bar) and rear ground shoe (bar) to secure them to the ground. If the peg or stake is not flush with the ground, it should be clearly visible to persons playing near the soccer goal. Stakes with larger diameters or textured surfaces have greater holding capacity. 

* J-Hook Shaped Stake style 

This style is used when holes are not pre-drilled into the ground shoes (bars) or rear ground shoe (bar) of the goal. Similar to the peg or stake style, this anchor is hammered, at an angle if possible, directly into the earth. The curved (top) portion of this anchor fits over the goal member to secure it to the ground. Typically, two to four stakes of this type are recommended (per goal), depending on stake structure, manufacturers specifications, weight of goal, and soil conditions. Stakes with larger diameters or textured surfaces have greater holding capacity.

* Sandbags/Counterweights

Sandbags or other counterweights could be an effective alternative on hard surfaces, such as artificial turf, where the surface can not be penetrated by a conventional anchor (i.e., an indoor practice facility). The number of bags or weights needed will vary and must be adequate for the size and total weight of the goal being supported.

* Net Pegs

These tapered, metal stakes should be used to secure only the NET to the ground. Net pegs should NOT be used to anchor the movable soccer goal 6. Guidelines for Goal Storage or Securing When Goal is Not in Use The majority of the incidents investigated by CPSC did not occur during a soccer match. Most of the incidents occurred when the goals were unattended. Therefore, it is imperative that all goals are stored properly when not being used. When goals are not being used always:

a) Remove the net, 

b) Take appropriate steps to secure goals such as:

1) Place the goal frames face to face and secure them at each goalpost with a lock and chain,

2)Lock and chain to a suitable fixed structure such as a permanent fence,

3)Lock unused goals in a secure storage room after each use,

4)If applicable, fully disassemble the goals for seasonal storage, or

5) If applicable, fold the face of the goal down and lock it to its base.

7. Conclusions/Safety Tips

* Securely anchor or counterweight movable soccer goals at ALL times.

* Anchor or chain one goal to another, to itself in a folded down position, or to nearby fence posts, dugouts, or any other similar sturdy fixture when not in use. If this is not practical, store movable soccer goals in a place where children cannot have access to them.

* Remove nets when goals are not in use.

* Check for structural integrity and proper connecting hardware before every use. Replace damaged or missing parts or fasteners immediately.

* NEVER allow anyone to climb on the net or goal framework.

* Ensure safety/warning labels are clearly visible (placed under the crossbar and on the sides of the down-posts at eye level).

* Fully disassemble goals for seasonal storage.

* Always exercise extreme caution when moving goals and allow adequate manpower to move goals of varied sizes and weights. Movable soccer goals should only be moved by authorized and trained personnel.

* Always instruct players on the safe handling of and potential dangers associated with movable soccer goals.

* Movable soccer goals should only be used on LEVEL (flat) fields.