FIFA Laws of the Game

 

As Modified By U.S. Youth Soccer & SYS

For Youth Play and Small Sided Games

 

 

 

For Youth Play and Small Sided Games

Law 1: Field of Play

 

Field size for U6-U12 players is reduced for small- sided play.

U14 –U19 play on regulation size fields.

Law 2: The Ball

 

U6 & U8 play with size 3 soccer balls.

U10 & U12 play with size 4 soccer balls.

U14-U19 play with size 5 soccer balls.

 

Law 3: Number of Players

 

U6-3v3 no goalkeepers, U8 & U10-6v6, U12-8v8, U14 and Up-11v11

Substitutions for U6 may be made at any time but should be made during a stoppage

in play.

U8-U12 are allowed unlimited substitutions by both teams at any stoppage in play.

U14-U19 are allowed unlimited substitutions but may only sub on kick-offs, goal

kicks, at the beginning of a half or on own throw-in.

All players will be given the opportunity to play 50 percent of the game.

 

Law 4: Player Equipment

 

Shin guards worn under the socks are mandatory.

Cleats are recommended but not required.

No baseball cleats with a “toe cleat” or metal spikes are allowed.

Absolutely no Jewelry is permitted during play.

Tape over earrings is not permitted even if the earrings are new and may not be

removed. If the jewelry may not be removed the player may not play.

 

Law 5 and Law 6: The Referee and Assistant Referee

 

U6 and U8 games are officiated by coaches or parents.

U10 games are officiated by a Center Referee only.

U12 and higher are officiated by a Center Referee and two Assistant Referees/Club

Linesmen.

 

Law 7: Duration of the Match

 

U6 play four 8-minute quarters with a 2-minute break between quarters and a 5-

minute half-time break after a 30-minute team practice session.

U8 & U10 play four 12-minute quarters with a 2-minute break between quarters and a

5-minute half-time break.

U12 play two 30-minute halves with a 10-minute half-time break.

U14 play two 35-minute halves with a 10-minute half-time break.

U16 play two 40-minute halves with a 10-minute half-time break.

U19 play two 45-minute halves with a 10-minute half-time break.