Soccer Rules for U-7 and U-8

                                  1.   Ball size #3

                                  2.   Number of players on the field: seven players, one of them a goalkeeper.

                                  3.   Maximum roster size: Ten players. Each player shall play at least 50% of the total playing time.

                                  4.   All players should have shin guards. Footwear can be tennis shoes or soft-cleated soccer shoes.

                                  5.   The home team is the first on the schedule. The home team has its choice of the side of the field from which to coach. In case both teams have uniforms of similar colors, the home team is responsible for resolving the problem. Practice bibs are acceptable.

                                  6.   Duration of the game: four twelve minute quarters, with two minute breaks between quarters, and a five minute break at halftime. After halftime, teams will switch sides.

                                  7.   No scores will be recorded. Participation awards for all players.

                                  8.   There will be no direct kicks; all free kicks will be indirect. No penalty kicks.

                                  9.   No slide tackling allowed.

                               10.   There is no offside.

                               11.   When the ball goes out of bounds, play will resume with a throw-in. If the first one is incorrectly taken, the referee must explain the infraction to the player and a second throw-in will be allowed. Opponents must be five yards away.

                               12.   Substitutions:

§         At a throw-in by the team in possession of the ball.

§         By either team before a goal kick, after a goal is scored, at halftime and when play is stopped for an injury.

§         A player may be substituted for when he is given a caution.

§         During the breaks at the end of the first quarter and at the end of the third quarter.

                               13.   On a kick-off, goal kick, or corner kick; a player may not touch the ball a second time until another player has played it.

                               14.   Coaches, parents, spectators and non-playing players should be behind the Coach’s Box line. No one should be within ten yards of the goal line. No coaching from behind goals.

                               15.   Coaches are not allowed on the field unless a player is injured. The referee will stop play and allow the coach to enter the field.

                               16.   No individual is allowed to run the length of the sideline except participants of the game.

                               17.   Coaches need to have a small first aid kit at games and practices.