LAWS OF THE GAME UNDER 8
The following modifications of the Laws of the Games are
recommended for U-8 Soccer Players.
Variations that are age appropriate are encouraged:
THE FIELD:
 | Dimensions The field of play shall be rectangular, it's length being not
more than 40 yards nor less than 30 yards and it's width not more than 20
yards nor less than 15 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the
width. |
| Markings: Distinctive lines necessary, touchlines, goal lines and halfway
line. |
GOALS: Maximum - 6 feet high by 12 feet wide, minimum size of hockey
goals, cones may be used.
THE BALL: Size 3.
NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
| Maximum number of players on the field at any one time - 4 - No
Goalkeeper. |
| Maximum number of players on a roster, substitutions and playing time: |
| it is possible to structure 4V4 so that all players play all of the games. |
| Teams and games may be co-ed. |
PLAYERS EQUIPMENT: Conform to FIFA with the following exceptions:
| Footwear: Tennis shoes or soft-cleated shoes. |
| Shin-guards - Mandatory. |
REFEREE:
| Parent/Coach is the next logical choice. > Referee trainees may be
used. |
| All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player. |
ASSISTANT REFEREES: Not necessary.
DURATION OF THE GAME: The game should be no longer than 40 minutes.
It may be divided by any number of periods as determined age appropriate by
local organizations.
START OF PLAY: If kick-off is used, conform to FIFA except that
players must be 6 yards from the center mark.
BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY: Conform to FIFA.
METHOD OF SCORING: Conform to FIFA.
OFF-SIDE: There shall be no off-sides.
FOULS AND MISCONDUCT: Conform to FIFA with the following exceptions:
| All fouls will result in an Indirect Free Kick with opponents 6 yards
away. |
| The referee must explain all infractions to the offending player. |
FREE KICKS: Conform to FIFA with the following exceptions:
| Shall be classified under one heading - Indirect. |
| A goal may not be scored until the ball has been played or touched by a
second player on either team. |
| No kicks shall be taken by the attacking team within the defending teams
goal box. |
THROW IN: Should be replaced by a kick in.
| Kick in should be considered as an indirect free kick with opponents 6
yards away. |
| If a throw in is used, a second attempt should be allowed on foul throw
ins with an explanation of the proper method. |
GOAL KICK: Conform to FIFA with the following exceptions:
|
Goal kick must be taken within 3 yards of the goal. |
|
Opponents must he 6 yards away from the ball. |
CORNER KICK: If used, conform to FIFA with the following exception -
opponents must be 6 yards away from the ball.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
| Opposing parent/coaches and players should shake hands after each game. |
| Do not record league standings. |
| Do not record final score. |
| Participation awards for ALL. |
| Parent/Coaches, non-playing players, parents and spectators should be
there to enjoy and encourage (not criticize or direct) the activities of the
youngsters. |
| No alcoholic beverages will he consumed or allowed near the playing field. |
| 
