Official Rules of Play — U8 (4v4)
U8 small-sided soccer is all about maximizing touches on the ball and building comfort with the game in a fun, low-pressure setting. All games are played at Clearwater Elementary School or Riverwood Park on Saturday mornings or Sunday afternoons.
General Rules
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| Ball | Size 3 |
| Players on Field | 4 per team (Boys and Girls) |
| Roster Max | 8 players |
| Positions | 2 forwards, 2 defenders — no goalkeeper |
| Playing Time | Every player must play at least half the game |
| Equipment | Shin guards required; cleats or athletic shoes recommended |
| Score | Not kept — the emphasis is on learning and fun |
| Game Length | Four 12-minute quarters; 5-minute halftime minimum |
Referees
Certified referees are not required at this level. Team coaches serve as officials, with the shared goal of keeping play fun, safe, and focused on the kids. Coaches keep time, enforce the rules, and stop and restart play. When stopping for a foul, take a moment to explain why — every stoppage is a teaching opportunity.
All rules are guidelines — not reasons to discourage kids or encourage over-coaching.
Playing the Game
Kickoff — Two players from each team meet at the halfway line. A player from the offensive team (determined by coaches) starts play by kicking to a teammate. Opponents must be 3 yards from the center mark.
Ball In & Out of Play — The ball must completely cross the line to be out of play.
Offside — No offside in small-sided games.
Fouls & Misconduct — Stop play for pushing, tripping, or unsportsmanlike conduct. Both coaches should be notified of unsafe play. No player ejections except by the player's own coach or a neutral referee.
Free Kicks — All free kicks are indirect. Opponents must be 3 yards away.
Penalty Kicks — None in small-sided games.
Throw-Ins — Awarded when the ball fully crosses the sideline. Treated as an indirect free kick; opponents must be 3 yards away.
Goal Kick/Throw — If the attacking team sends the ball over the goal line outside the posts, the defending team restarts within 2–3 yards of the goal. Opposing players must be 5–6 yards away.
Corner Kick — If the defending team last touches the ball before it crosses the goal line, the attacking team restarts with an indirect kick from the corner. Opponents must be 2–3 yards away.