U8 - Games start at 10:15 AM
12 minute quarters
5 minute breaks
Coaches cannot physically position players
Coaches should remain on the sideline
The U5 thru U8 age groups use a size 3 ball
1. 5 v 5 Coed. (4 + Keeper v 4 + Keeper) If there are not enough players to play 5v5, coaches can make that determination before the game and play down to 4 v 4.
2. Minimum 50% playing time* [Refer to this article for substitution guidelines]
3. Keeper [Must change keeper at the half]
4. No offside
5. Handling is called
6. Throw ins - (if error one re-try) but not counted against team
7. No referees-coaches make the calls on the field
8. Only one coach on the field per team (other can coach from the sidelines)
9. Goal box
10. Goalies cannot punt past Midfield line. If they do, it is an indirect free kick for opposing team at the spot it crosses the Midfield line.
11. Teams should change sides at the halfway point
12. No slide tackles
13. When a goal kick is done all opposing team must move back to Midfield. (as soon as ball is played they can move forward)
14. Forfeit Rule- Can not start a match with less than 5 players
15. Age ups- No more than 2 age-ups. Cannot have more age-ups than the opponent has subs.
16. If you are down by 4 goals, you may add a player; If you are down 6 goals, you may add 1 more additional player.
- if no longer down by 6 goals, remove last added; If no longer down by 4 goals, teams go back to even strength.
17. RED CARD - 1st red card issued, out remainder of game and ½ next game. 2nd red card issued, out remainder of game and out next whole game.
18. No heading of the ball in games or practice per NCYSA recommendations.
**Please review our 50% Playing Time Guideline