Official Rules of Play (4v4)
This is where it all begins. Children are introduced to soccer in ways that promote fun while still learning beginning technical skills. Play is on a small field with a small ball. All games will be played at Clearwater Elementary School or Riverwood Park on Saturday mornings or Sunday afternoons.
General Rules:
The ball: Size 3
Number of Players: The maximum number of players on the field at any one time is four. The maximum number of players on the roster should not exceed 8 players. Teams are mixed gender. Coaches should make every effort to make sure each player plays at least one-half of the game.
Equipment: Athletic shoes or soft-cleated soccer shoes are recommended. Shin guards are required.
Player Positions: There are NO goalkeepers. The positions are two forwards and two defenders.
Referee: Rather than require a Certified Referee, team coaches will act as an official for games. Their job is to keep the playing environment fun, safe, and focused on the child. Duties are the same as a Referee: keep time, enforce the rules, and stop and restart play. When a play is stopped for a foul or other reason, the coach is advised to take the time to explain “why” to the players. This is most players' first experience with soccer and the best time to educate all on the Laws of The Game.
Duration of the Game: The game shall be divided into four equal, eight minute quarters. There shall be at least a 5 minute break at halftime.
Keeping Score: DO NOT keep score. The emphasis is on learning and having fun.
ALL RULES ARE GUIDELINES
NOT REASONS TO DISCOURAGE KIDS OR ENCOURAGE OVER-COACHING
Playing the Game:
The Start of Play: Two players from each team meet at the half (1/2) line and a player from the "offensive team", as determined by the coaches, begins play by kicking the ball to a teammate. The opponents must be three (3) yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.
Ball in and out of play: The ball must completely cross the line to be out of play.
Off-Side: There is no off-side in small-sided games.
Fouls and Misconduct: Coaches should protect all players by stopping play for pushing, tripping or unsportsmanlike conduct. Both coaches should be notified of any unsafe play. No ejections shall be issued to players except by the player's coach or an independent neutral referee.
Free Kicks: All free kicks will be indirect. Opponents must be three yards away.
Penalty Kicks: There are no penalty kicks in small-sided games.
Throw-In: A throw-in is awarded when the ball completely crosses the sideline. A throw-in is considered an indirect free kick with the opponents three yards away from the ball.
Goal Kick/Throw: If the team attempting to score a goal kicks the ball over the goal line outside the goal posts, the opposing team puts the ball back into play with a goal kick/throw. The goal kick/throw should be taken within 2-3 yards of the goal and opposing players must be 5-6 yards away.
Corner Kick: If the team defending the goal last touches the ball before it crosses the goal line, the attacking team puts it into play with an indirect kick. The opposing players must be 2-3 yards away.