Youth soccer organizations modify certain basic rules and requirements of the game to accommodate different age groups. For example, U8 players (those under 8 years old) will not be able to work with a full size ball or understand some of the specific rules.

This section explains these variations in the game based on age groups.

The Field of Play

The field of play is the area in which the ball is considered live or in bounds. There are two Sidelines and two Goal Lines (also called End Lines). The sidelines are the lines on the spectators’ side and the coaches’ side. The goal lines at each end of the field are where the nets are located. The field and it’s areas generally stay the same for all age groups (with some exceptions noted later on) but the field sizes will change.

Other important parts of the field are shown here:

The Ball

Different age groups use different size soccer balls as appropriate. All match balls should be inflated appropriately.

Duration of the Game

The segmentation (halves vs. Quarters) and duration of matches will vary based on age group as shown here.

Numbers of Players

Different age groups will play matches with different numbers of players per team as shown. Also, if the full number of players are not available at match time, teams can play down to the minimum specified in the table. For example, in a U12 match if one team has only 7 players available to start the match, the teams can play either 7v7 or 6v6 (to ensure at least one substitute) if both coaches agree.

Players Equipment

When playing matches, the players must follow the basic rules below for safety and proper match flow.

• All players must wear shin guards. This is a safety requirement with no exceptions

• Player’s cleats must not have metal studs, and must have no toe stud (i.e., baseball cleats are not allowed)

• Players must not wear JEWELRY OR HARD METAL OR PLASTIC ACCESSORIES

  • The only exception to this is for medical-related items such as a medical ID bracelet

• Players must wear a uniform jersey that matches the rest of the team

  • Exception: goalkeeper’s jersey must be a different color from the rest of the team