Rules & Modifications

To start the first and second halves and following each goal, play is started or restarted with a kick-off in the middle of the field. A coin toss determines which team kicks off to start the game — the other team kicks off to start the second half. Following a goal, the team scored upon kicks off.

The kick-off is taken from the center of the field with each team in their own half and the team not kicking off at least 5 yards from the ball. Do not insist the opponent always be 5 yards from the ball — this is just a guide to give the kicker room. Remember, let them play and do not interfere for technicalities.

The ball is out of play when it completely crosses the touchline (side line) or goal line (end line), either on the ground or in the air. The team that didn't touch it last gets a kick-in.

The coach in 6U games will determine when one of these restarts is necessary and should then interfere as little as possible. It's their game — let them play. The coach can work on technique later.

A goal is awarded when the ball completely crosses the goal line into the goal. Goals should be enthusiastically celebrated by everyone — but in 6U games they are not recorded to determine who wins. Everyone wins in 6U games.

Deliberate fouling should be rare in 6U games. Kicking, tripping, handling the ball, and dangerous play may occur. There should be few, if any, additional reasons to stop play.

If a player is "not playing well with others" or if play must be stopped for any other reason — injury, substitution, confusion, or to watch a passing train, butterfly, or frog — refocus the players and begin again with a free kick or kick-in as appropriate. Award the restart to whichever team deserves it, but do not make it a lengthy ceremony. Exercise common sense, stand back and let them play.

Play may have to be stopped occasionally to "sort things out." A player may pick the ball up and start running with it, or perhaps there is a pile of kids on the ground kicking at both the ball and each other. Stop play, correct the situation, then restart with a free kick for a deserving player.

All free kicks in 6U games are indirect free kicks. Opponents must be at least 5 yards from the ball or on the goal line between the goal posts.

Throw-ins are replaced with kick-ins (pass-ins) at 6U. Opponents should be 5 yards from the ball.

A hand ball infraction occurs when a player handles the ball. The "hand" includes the entire arm up to the top of the shoulder.

Instinctive, self-protective reactions are not penalized at this young age. Accidental contact — ball striking hand or arm with no intent by the player — is not an offense and should not be penalized.

Consistent with US Soccer mandates, heading is banned for all 6U players in both practices and matches.

An indirect free kick will be awarded to the opposing team if a player deliberately touches the ball with their head during a match. The indirect free kick is taken from the place where the player headed the ball.

To start the first and second halves and following each goal, play is started or restarted with a kick-off in the center of the field. A coin toss determines which team kicks off to start the game — the other team kicks off to start the second half. Following a goal, the team scored upon kicks off.

The kick-off is taken from the center of the field with each team in their own half and the team not kicking off at least 5 yards from the ball. Do not insist the opponent always be 5 yards from the ball — this is just a guide to give the kicker room. Remember, let them play and do not interfere for technicalities.

The ball is out of play when it completely crosses the touchline (side line) or goal line (end line), either on the ground or in the air.

Substitutions are made approximately midway through each half, at halftime, and for injuries. All players, unless injured, are required to play at least half of every game.

Footwear: Soccer shoes are recommended or similar athletic shoes. The type and condition of cleated shoes must be inspected for safety before use.

Shinguards: Mandatory for both practices and games, and must be covered entirely by socks.

Jerseys: Rolled or tied up sleeves are permitted, provided the referee approves it is done in a safe manner.

A goal is awarded when the ball completely crosses the goal line into the goal.

The opposing team must be at least 5 yards from the ball when free kicks are taken.

The most likely fouls in 8U games: kicking, tripping, pushing, holding, handling the ball, and dangerous play (the most frequent call). Officials must remember there is no need to stop play for technical violations that do not interrupt the flow of the game. It's a player's game — keep the fun going and let them play.

Misconduct should be rare in 8U games. There is no need for the public cautioning and sending off of young players. Officials should work cooperatively with the coach when an 8U player may need a "time out."

All free kicks in 8U games are indirect free kicks. Opponents must be at least 5 yards from the ball or on the goal line between the goal posts.

No offside in 8U games.

Standard throw-ins are used at 8U to restart play. Opponents should be 5 yards from the ball.

A goal kick is awarded to the defending team when the attacking team is last to touch the ball before it crosses the goal line without scoring. The goal kick may be taken from the general vicinity of the goal. The opposing team must be at least 5 yards from the ball.

A corner kick is awarded to the attacking team when the defending team is last to touch the ball before it crosses the goal line without scoring. The opposing team must be at least 5 yards from the ball.

A hand ball infraction occurs when a player handles the ball. The "hand" includes the entire arm up to the top of the shoulder.

Instinctive, self-protective reactions are not penalized at this young age. Accidental contact — ball striking hand or arm with no intent by the player — is not an offense and should not be penalized.

Consistent with US Soccer mandates, heading is banned for all 8U players in both practices and matches.

An indirect free kick will be awarded to the opposing team if a player deliberately touches the ball with their head during a match. The indirect free kick is taken from the place where the player headed the ball.