Choose the sport and format
Start with the sport, then decide whether the league is redraft, keeper, dynasty, Best Ball, recurring short-format fantasy, or a pool-style competition. Not every sport supports every format.
Set the league size
Choose the number of teams or participants before setting roster size, draft length or schedule structure. A league should not be designed around more teams than the player pool can reasonably support.
Pick scoring and roster rules
Free leagues use the platform's standard scoring and roster settings. Commissioner plans unlock supported customization for entitled sports.
Choose the draft or selection method
Common formats include Snake, Linear and Auction drafts. Pool games may use picks rather than rosters.
Set deadlines and schedule
Confirm draft time, lineup locks, waiver processing, trade deadlines, playoff structure and any pool pick deadlines before the season starts.
Invite players
Use invitations, join links or supported league-recruiting tools. Players do not need an individual paid subscription simply to participate in a commissioner-paid league.
Review before activation
Check the rules, scoring, roster, schedule and participant count before activating the league. Changes after play begins should be deliberate and auditable.