Field
Dimensions: 50 yards long, 25 yards wide (max).
Markings: Distinctive lines recommended.
Halfway line the width of the ?eld, marked equidistant between the goal lines.
Center circle with an six-yard radius in the center of the field.
Corner arcs with a one-yard radius at each corner of the field.
Goal area in front of each goal measuring 6 x 12 yards.
Goals: Maximum six feet high and six yards wide.
Ball Size 3
Players
Number: Five per team on field; no goalkeepers.
Seven maximum on roster.
Substitutions: Between periods, at halftime and for injuries.
Playing time: Minimum of two periods per game and no player should play four periods until everyone has played three.
Teams: Separate girls and boys teams should be promoted at all levels of play.
Duration of Game
Four 10-minute periods. Halftime break of 5–10 minutes.
Players’ Equipment
Footwear: Soccer shoes, tennis shoes or similar type athletic shoes are recommended. The type and condition of cleated shoes must be inspected for safety before use.
Shinguards: MANDATORY for both practices and games, and must be covered entirely by socks.
Start of Play
The game should be started with a kick-off in the middle of the field.
The coaches determine which team starts the game with a coin flip and the opposing team starts the second half.
Opponents must be six yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.
Method of Scoring: See U-8 Coaching Manual.
Fouls & Misconduct
Direct free kicks for all fouls, with the opponents six yards away from the ball.
Free kicks awarded the attacking team inside the defending team’s goal area should be taken from the nearest point on the goal area line in front of the goal.
No penalty kicks. Referees will work cooperatively with the coaches and eliminate the need for cautions and send-offs. Do not show yellow or red cards.
U-8 Officials
AYSO certified U-8 Officials or higher are required for U-8 games. The U-8 Official should briefly explain any infringements to the player(s) and encourage proper play and sporting behavior. As with all games, every effort should be made to keep the game moving and free from stoppages for doubtful infractions. Let them play and enjoy.
Assistant Referees/Club Linesmen:
If available, qualified assistant referees who have completed Assistant Referee Certification may be used to assist the referee. This is an opportunity for new assistant referees to begin getting experience. If qualified assistant referees are not available, Club Linesmen (untrained volunteers who may be affiliated with one of the teams/clubs) may be recruited from the spectators to assist the referee with calling the ball in and out of play only. This is an opportunity for parents to get involved.
