Ballard Youth Soccer

The mission of the Ballard Youth Soccer Club is to “Provide a safe, positive atmosphere where girls and boys can learn the game of soccer”.

Coaches are responsible for compliance with SYSA Rules and Regulations.

SYSA RULES

In addition, coaches must know the FIFA Laws and the WSYSA Rules of Competition

FIFA

WYSA

Rules and Regulations

Age Guidelines:

What level of play is your child?
Players’ ages are figured as of July 31st. A child who turns 12 on July 31st is considered a 12-year-old for that fall season, while one who turns 12 on August 1 is considered an 11-year-old because she is still 11 on July 31st. Players are allowed to play on teams of older players (“playing up”) but not on teams of younger players. A U-9 (Under-9) team means that all the players were under 9 years old on July 31st of that year.

Use our age look up tool

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U5/U6 Micro League Rules and Guidelines

The mission of the Ballard Youth Soccer Club is to “Provide a safe, positive atmosphere where girls and boys can learn the game of soccer”. The Micro and Modified leagues are instructional, no score keeping or win-loss records are kept. The U-10 and upper leagues are more competitive, and are made up of various soccer Clubs associated with the SYSA.

Micro Soccer

U5/U6/U7 teams play “Micro” soccer. It involves short games on small fields with pop up goals (Pugg) for goals, 3-4 players to a side, and no goalie. This allows the youngest players to be able to run and get maximum touches on the ball, without concern for maintaining positions. U5 teams have a roster of 8 players. Micro teams play only other BYSC micro teams. Girls and boys may play on the same teams at the Micro level.

The emphasis in Micro soccer is to HAVE FUN, learn to play as a team, and learn very basic soccer skills. No score keeping or win-loss records are kept. We must recognize that Micro soccer will be most kids’ first experience with team sports. Our goal is to get as many young kids as possible to stay with soccer long enough to develop skills and confidence. Whatever we can do to reinforce effort – no matter how tentative – and to create an encouraging, “everybody wins” environment is important. Coaches must contain the urge to compete.

U5 Micro Soccer League – BYSC Guidelines:

A. We will be playing 3-a-side soccer with no goalkeeper.

B. Set up for each game. Bring your pop-up goals to your games. Fields are marked by cones, 15-20 yards wide by 25 yards long, with cones also marking the midfield point along the sidelines. There is field marking equipment to paint lines if there are volunteers. Please contact the Fields person under the “About Us” page to volunteer.

C. Referees are not provided by the club for Micro games. The home team is responsible to select a ref for the game. It can be a parent, older sibling or a coach. It can be from either team. The ref should be familiar with the micro rules.

D. Games are scheduled on Saturday mornings lasting 40 minutes. Recommended arrival is 15 minutes prior to start of game. Start times may be delayed 5 minutes to wait for late arriving players. Games are played in halves, lasting 20 minutes each. Half-time for all games is 25 minutes after the scheduled start, no matter when the game actually starts, and lasts 5 minutes. Games must end 10 minutes before the next scheduled games. The designated parent “referee” keeps the official time, though this can be delegated to a parent on the sidelines. Better the games end too early than too late.

E. Unlimited substitutions are allowed whenever the ball goes out of play, but with the acknowledgment of the referee. Just call out “Substitution” or “Ref, Substitutions” until you get the referee’s attention and approval. All players play at least half a game! Substitution patterns for equal time are difficult to accomplish. Make the effort to do your best.

F. During the game, coaches may not go on the field except out of concern for an injured player unless they are refereeing. All coaches and assistants must stay on the sidelines. Coaching during the game shall be kept to a minimum, though brief reminders are particularly necessary for kids who have never played positions before. If what you want to say can’t wait and can’t be condensed into a few words, you should pull the player off and explain your point on the sidelines. At this beginning level, the game will teach the kids, with a little guidance so just let them play. Negative criticism or anger toward a player is always inappropriate to kids of this age and will not be tolerated in this league. Coaches must control their team parents on this point.

G. If a game gets “out of balance”, and one team is dominating play, do one or more of the following to try and even up the teams: Adjust the size of the goal (use cones), making it a foot or two bigger for the troubled team, and a bit smaller for the leading team; require the stronger team to make more passes prior to shooting, add a player etc.

U5/U6 Game Rules:

1. All players must wear shin guards. Check to see that each players shoe laces are tied. Each player shall wear the club supplied team uniform or a very similar colored shirt.

2. The game begins with a kick-off from center field. The kicking team must start with all its players on its half of the field. The other team must start with all its players on its half of the field. All free kicks, including the kick-off, require the team without the ball to be 10 yards (5 big steps) back from the ball. Center field kick-offs are taken after a goal is scored, by the team who was scored against. Teams switch directions at half-time, and the team that did NOT kick-off at the start of the game, gets to kick-off to start the second half.

3. Throw-ins will be taken whenever the ball is played “out of touch” across the sidelines. The ball is out when the whole ball is past the whole “line”, it doesn’t matter where the players feet are. Throw-ins shall be taken by the team who did NOT put the ball out of touch. The player must throw the ball from behind their head, with two hands giving equal effort, and with both feet on the ground. Referees will be lenient on throw-ins during micro soccer, and an improper throw-in will result in a take over. Even if the second throw-in is improper, play will proceed unless the referee determines an unfair advantage has been attained. A goal can never be scored directly from a throw-in it must be touched by another player before entering the goal.

4. Goal kicks are taken when an attacking team kicks the ball past the end line, missing the goal. The goal kick is taken by the defending team, from a point within 3 yards from the goal. The ball is placed on the ground, like any other free kick. The kicking team’s players may be anywhere on the field during a goal kick, but the other team must return to their half. The team without the ball may not touch the ball until it has traveled the five yards, while the kicking team can touch the ball at any time after the goal kick

5. No corner kicks are taken in micro soccer! A goal kick is awarded regardless of which team kicks the ball past the end line.

6. There will be no “direct” free kicks in micro soccer. All kicks will be considered “indirect”. Therefore, a goal can never be scored from a free kick, including kick-offs and goal kicks. Defenders must be 5 yards back from the free kick.

7. There will be no “penalty” kicks in Micro soccer. A hand ball or other infraction occurring near the goal by the defending team will result in a free kick taken 8 yards in front of the goal. The free kick must be played by another player before a goal can be made. It is not important to call accidental hand balls in Micro soccer. Intentional hands should be called.

8. Dangerous play has not been a big problem in Micro soccer, but players knocking over other players will not be allowed. Rough players will be cautioned by the referee to play “easier”. If the rough play continues, a foul shall be called, and a free kick awarded. No slide tackles will be allowed in Micro soccer. Again, the referee will caution a player for the first offense, and a foul called thereafter, awarding a free kick. Also, when a player is down on the ground, attempting to play the ball they are making a dangerous play. Play shall be stopped immediately, prior to any contact if possible, and the other team awarded a free kick. The coach should substitute for any player who repeatedly makes dangerous plays and explain to the player that they may not play that rough, that they must use more finesse to move around players, that they will become better soccer players, and their victims will be more likely to stay with soccer longer.

9. Head balls are not allowed in Micro soccer. The ball doesn’t go in the air very often, and high kicks should be discouraged.

10. There will be no “offsides” in Micro soccer. However, any player who only stays around the opponent’s goal (cherry picking) will be warned by the referee and required to move back into the action.

11. A goal is scored when the whole ball goes over the whole goal line into the pop-up goal

12. In general, the games will not be over-officiated. We want the kids to play, to let the game of soccer be the teacher, and gradually providing exposure to the rules. We do not want to slow things down while we give the players an overnight course in the details of the game. As the season progresses, the basics should penetrate, and vast improvements achieved.

13. When the game is over, we expect a cheer for the other team. This is a fun post-game ritual for the kids and provides a chance to get any snacks ready. Coaches should teach good sportsmanship.

Practices

Practices are usually held once a week at a time and location selected by the coach. “Real” practice fields are not available to Micro teams, so any patch of grass with parking nearby is valuable. Practices should be kept to about an hour, for these 4-5 year olds, in the late afternoon. Try to avoid having the kids stand in lines during practice. If each player brings a ball, then there are many drills available where they can be doing something, and not getting bored standing in lines and making trouble.

End of year parties are often scheduled by teams, and some award certificates and trophies. Out of respect for other teams who may not give trophies or certificates, please do not present the awards at the field, in front of other teams. Good luck and be sure to have FUN!

U7 Micro League Rules and Guidelines

Micro Soccer

U7 teams play “Micro” soccer. It involves short games on small fields with pop up goals for goals, 4 players to a side, and no goalie. This allows the youngest players to be able to run and get maximum touches on the ball, without concern for maintaining positions. Teams have rosters of 6-8 players. Micro teams play only other BYSC micro teams. Girls and boys may play on the same teams at the Micro level.

U7 Micro Soccer League – BYSC Guidelines:

A. We will be playing 4-a-side soccer with no goalkeeper.

B. Set up for each game. Bring the pop-up goals to your games. Fields are marked by cones, 20 yards wide by 25-30 yards long, with cones also marking the midfield point along the sidelines. There is field marking equipment if there are volunteers. Please contact the Fields person under the “About Us” page to volunteer.

C. Games are scheduled on Saturday mornings lasting 50 minutes. All games should start at the same time, so half time will occur at the same time. Start times will be delayed 5 minutes to wait for late arriving players. Teams should arrive 15 minutes before kickoff for warm up. Games are played in halves, lasting 20 minutes each. Half-time for all games is 25 minutes after the scheduled start, no matter when the game actually starts, and lasts 5 minutes. Games must end 10 minutes before the next scheduled games. The designated parent “referee” keeps the official time, though this can be delegated to a parent on the sidelines. When one game’s referee blows their whistle for half time (or end of game), the other game’s referee should follow immediately. Better the games end too early than too late.

E. During the game, coaches may not go on the field except out of concern for an injured player unless they are refereeing. All coaches and assistants must stay on the sidelines. Coaching during the game shall be kept to a minimum, though brief reminders are particularly necessary for kids who have never played positions before. If what you want to say can’t wait and can’t be condensed into a few words, you should pull the player off and explain your point on the sidelines. At this beginning level, the game will teach the kids, with a little guidance so just let them play. Negative criticism or anger toward a player is always inappropriate to kids of this age and will not be tolerated in this league. Coaches must control their team parents on this point.

F. If a game gets “out of balance”, and one team is dominating play, do one or more of the following to try and even up the teams: Adjust the size of the goal (with cones), making it a foot or two bigger for the troubled team, and a bit smaller for the leading team; Adjust the players, moving them from one game to another; require the stronger team to make more passes prior to shooting, etc.

U7 Game Rules:

1. All players must wear shin guards. Check to see that each players shoe laces are tied. Each player shall wear the club supplied team T-shirt, or a very similar colored shirt.

2. The game begins with a kick-off from center field. The kicking team must start with all its players on its half of the field. The other team must start with all its players on its half of the field. All free kicks, including the kick-off, require the team without the ball to be 5 yards (5 big steps) back from the ball. Center field kick-offs are also taken after a goal is scored, by the team who was scored against. Teams switch directions at half-time, and the team that did NOT kick-off at the start of the game, gets to kick-off to start the second half.

5. Corner kicks are taken starting in U7! A corner kick is awarded to the opponent is a team plays the ball out of touch on their end line. Ball is placed on the corner nearest where the ball left the field. Defending team is 5 yards away from the ball.

7. There will be no “penalty” kicks in Micro soccer. A hand ball or other infraction occurring near the goal by the defending team will result in a indirect free kick taken 8 yards in front of the goal. The free kick must be played by another player before a goal can be made. It is not important to call accidental hand balls in Micro soccer. Intentional hands should be called.

9. Head balls are not allowed in Micro soccer.

10. There will be no “offsides” in Micro soccer. However, any player who only stays around the opponents goal (cherry picking) will be warned by the referee and required to move back into the action.

11. A goal is scored when the whole ball goes over the whole goal line into the pop-up goal

13. When the game is over, we expect a cheer for the other team and a post-game handshaking. This is a fun post-game ritual for the kids and provides a chance to get any snacks ready. Coaches must be careful to ensure the handshaking is not filled with “you lost”, “we beat you” words, or spitting on the hand, which can kill the joy of the game for many players. This kind of youthful thoughtlessness can be controlled simply by the coach reminding the players what to say and why, and by accompanying them through the line. Coaches should teach good sportsmanship.

Practices

Practices are usually held once a week at a time and location selected by the coach. “Real” practice fields are not available to Micro teams, so any patch of grass with parking nearby is valuable. Practices should be kept to about an hour, for these 6-7 year olds, in the late afternoon. Try to avoid having the kids stand in lines during practice. If each player brings a ball, then there are many drills available where they can be doing something, and not getting bored standing in lines and making trouble.

U-8 Modified League Rules and Guidelines

The Micro and Modified leagues are instructional, no score keeping or win-loss records are kept. All players should play at least 50% of the game.

Modified Soccer

U-8 and U-9 teams play “Modified” or “Mod” soccer, which involves quarter and half-size fields, and introduces goalkeepers. U-8 teams play 5-a-side, and will have rosters of a maximum of 9 players. Referees are introduced, though they are not much older than the players. Most games are refereed by the coach though. Girls and boys play on separate teams in separate leagues. Mod teams play other BYSC teams as well as teams from other close-by soccer clubs. The emphasis in “Mod” soccer continues to be to HAVE FUN and learn to play as a team, while also learning and improving basic soccer skills. Again, no score keeping or win-loss records are kept. More soccer rules are introduced, such as corner kicks and of course, the presence of goalkeepers. U-9 leagues introduce soccer tactics and an emphasis on passing and team defense. Our goal is to get as many young kids as possible to stay with soccer long enough to develop skills and confidence. Whatever we can do to reinforce effort – no matter how tentative – and to create an encouraging, “everybody wins” environment will be appreciated. Coaches must contain the urge to compete.

U-8 Modified Soccer League – BYSC Guidelines:

A. We will be playing 5-a-side soccer, 4 field players and a goalkeeper. Junior referees may be used for U-8 games. The young referees are “rookies” and need support and understanding from the coaches and parents. Since no scores are kept, be sure to help the referees with encouragement. Games are often played against teams from other soccer clubs.

B. Fields are marked by cones, 30 yards wide by 40 yards long, with cones also marking the midfield point along the sidelines. The penalty area shall be marked by disks and side cones 10 yards from the end lines. It extends across the whole field. The goals are marked by 4’x6′. The field side and end lines shall be lined if the parents are willing to volunteer use the field striping equipment available.

C. Games are scheduled in 1 hour blocks of time. Start times will be delayed 5 minutes to wait for late arriving players. Coaches must be very firm to the team parents about arriving early to warm up prior to games to prevent injury. Games are played in halves, lasting 20-25 minutes each depending on the actual start time. Half-time for all games is 25 minutes after the scheduled start, no matter when the game actually starts, and lasts 5 minutes. Games end 5 minutes before the next scheduled games. The designated “referee” keeps the official time, though this can be delegated to a parent on the sidelines.

D. Unlimited substitutions are allowed when ever the ball goes out of play, but with the acknowledgment of the referee. Just call out “Substitution” or “Ref, Substitutions” until you get the referee’s attention and approval. All players shall play the same amount of time! Substitution patterns for equal time are difficult to accomplish. Make the effort to try the best you can. Players should play only part of the game as Goalkeeper (it can get boring back there). No goalkeeper should play more than one-half at goal per game. Every player on the team should play goalkeeper at least twice during the season, to see what it is like. Since goalkeeper substitutions take a lot of time (to change jerseys and gloves), they should not be made more than one time per half of play. Request a “keeper change” to the referee, so the game can be stopped for the switch. Wait for the referee acknowledgment before sending on the substitute keeper.

E. During the game, coaches may not go on the field except out of concern for an injured player. All coaches and assistants must stay on the sidelines, near the center of the field, not within 10 yards of the end line. Be careful to advise on what to do, such as “put the ball on the ground for a goal kick”, or “good save, now you must throw it or kick it”, not putting pressure on the new keeper by orchestrating their actions, like “go out and get her”, “dive for it”, or “Go, go get it”. Coaching during the game shall be kept to a minimum. Brief reminders are particularly necessary for kids who are learning their positions. If what you want to say can’t wait and can’t be condensed into a few words, you should pull the player off and explain your point on the sidelines. At this beginning level, the game will teach the kids, with a little guidance so just let them play. Negative criticism or anger toward a player is always inappropriate to kids of this age and will not be tolerated in this league. Coaches must control their team parents on this point. Negative criticism or anger toward the referee is always inappropriate and will not be tolerated in this league. The referees, some as young as 11 years old, have just completed the refereeing course, and are having their first early experience in dealing with the complex responsibilities involved with refereeing. We need them to keep refereeing, and this is where they learn. Show them the proper level of respect, and deal with their errors with clarification at half time or after the game. Coaches must control their team parents and eliminate any derogatory and harassing comments toward the referee. Keep in mind that kids who chose to take the refereeing course are by and large conscientious and responsible people who are doing their best.

U-8 Game Rules:

Official Rules Link to Interleague U8_U9 Rules of Competition

Please read the linked rules above. It has the rules we will play by. Below are further helps with some of the rules and stuff. Interleague rules supersede the following information

1. All players must wear shin guards with sock covering the shin guards. Check to see that each players shoe laces are tied. Players must wear the same style uniform jersey as the rest of the team, except the goalkeeper, who must were colors significantly different from both teams.

2. The game begins with a kick-off from center field. The kicking team must start with all its players on its half of the field. The other team must start with all its players on its half of the field. All free kicks, including the kick-off, required the team without the ball to be 5 yards (5 big steps) back from the ball. Center field kick-offs are also taken after a goal is scored, by the team who was scored against. Teams switch directions at half-time, and the team that did NOT kick-off at the start of the game, gets to kick-off to start the second half.

3. Throw-ins will be taken when ever the ball is played “out of touch” across the sidelines. The ball is out when the whole ball is past the whole “line”, it doesn’t matter where the players feet are. Throw-ins shall be taken by the team who did NOT put the ball out of touch. The player must throw the ball from behind their head, with two hands giving equal effort, and with both feet on the ground. Referees will be lenient on throw-ins, and an improper throw-in will result in a take over. Even if the second throw-in is improper, play will proceed unless the referee determines an unfair advantage has been attained. A goal can never be scored directly from a throw-in.

4. Goal kicks are taken when an attacking team kicks the ball past the end line, missing the goal. The goal kick is taken by the defending team, from a point within 3 yards from either goal flag pole (typically 3 yards in front of either “post”). The ball is placed on the ground, like any other free kick. The kicking team’s players may be anywhere on the field during a goal kick, but the defending team must retreat to the build out line (mid-field) until the ball is kicked. Neither team may touch the ball until it has traveled out of the penalty area. An infraction will result in a take over goal kick.

5. Goalkeepers may use their hands anywhere inside the penalty area, extending 10 yards out from the end line, all the way across the field. It is legal for goal keepers to use there hands on balls kicked back to them by their teammates as well. A keeper who uses their hands outside the penalty area will be called for a foul, with the other team awarded a free kick from the spot of the foul. When a keeper has touched the ball, and has at least one hand on it, no player may come near the keeper. There is no reason for aggressive attacking play near the goalkeeper in U-8 soccer. The goal keeper may move anywhere inside the penalty box and either throw it or put it on the ground and kick it back into play. there are no goalie drop kicks. Opposing players should be behind the build out line when the goal keeper “distributes” the ball.

6. Corner kicks shall be awarded the attacking team when the defending team kicks the ball over their own end line. The corner kick must be taken 1 yard from the corner cone marker, and is considered an indirect free kick, requiring another player to touch the ball before a goal can be scored. Defenders must be 5 yards back from the corner kick.

7. There will be no “direct” free kicks in U-8 Mod soccer. All kicks will be considered “indirect”. Therefore, a goal can never be scored from a free kick, including kick-offs, corner kicks, and goal kicks. Defenders must be 5 yards back from the free kick.

8. There will be no “penalty” kicks in U-8 Mod soccer. A hand ball or other infraction occurring near the goal by the defending team will result in a free kick taken 10 yards in front of the goal, just outside the penalty area. The free kick must be played by another player before a goal can be made. The defenders must be 5 yards back from the free kick.

9. Dangerous play has not been a big problem in U-8 Mod soccer, but players knocking over other players will not be allowed. Rough players will be cautioned by the referee to play “easier”. If the rough play continues, a foul shall be called, and a free kick awarded. No slide tackles will be allowed in Mod soccer. Again, the referee will caution a player for the first offense, and a foul called thereafter, awarding a free kick. Also, when a player is down on the ground, attempting to play the ball they are making a dangerous play. Play shall be stopped immediately, prior to any contact if possible, and the other team awarded a free kick. The coach should substitute for any player who repeatedly makes dangerous plays and explain to the player that they may not play that rough, that they must use more finesse to move around players, that they will become better soccer players, and their victims will be more likely to stay with soccer longer.

10. Head balls are not allowed in U-8 Mod soccer. A deliberate heading of the ball will result in a free kick awarded to the other team. If a header occurs within the goal box, the ball will be moved out to the line. To avoid accidental headers, ‘punting’ of the ball by the goalie is not allowed. The ball must be thrown out of the box or set down and kicked.

11. “Offsides” when flagrant, will be called in U-8 soccer. Players who hang around the opponents goal (cherry picking) will be warned by the referee and required to move back into the action. At the referee’s discretion, offsides will be called, and the opposing team will be awarded a free kick from the point of the infraction.

12. A goal is scored when the whole ball goes over the whole goal line, between the flag poles. The ball must not be higher than the poles, in the judgment of the referee. If the shot hits the pole, a goal is allowed if the ball continues between the poles.

13. In general, the games will not be over-officiated. We want the kids to play, to let the game of soccer be the teacher, and gradually providing exposure to the rules. We do not want to slow things down while we give the players an overnight course in the details of the game. As the season progresses, the basics should penetrate, and vast improvements should be achieved.

14. When the game is over, we expect a cheer for the other team and a post-game handshaking. This is a fun post-game ritual for the kids and provides a chance to get any snacks ready. Coaches must be careful to ensure the handshaking is not filled with “you lost”, “we beat you” words, or spitting on the hands, which can kill the joy of the game for many players. This kind of youthful thoughtlessness can be controlled simply by the coach reminding the players what to say and why, and by accompanying them through
the line. There will be plenty of time for the jubilance and sorrow of competitive soccer, starting in U-10. Let’s not be over zealous now. Coaches should also shake hands with each other and the referee. Take this opportunity to congratulate them if they have done well, or provide positive feedback on errors you noticed. Players should be taught that all trash and gear is to be picked up by the team. Yes, even if it was there when the game started. We are always teaching good citizenship and stewardship to the players.

Practices are usually held once or twice a week at a time and location selected by the coach. “Real” practice fields are not available to Mod teams, so any patch of grass with parking nearby is valuable. Practices should be kept to about an hour. Try to avoid having the kids stand in lines during practice. If each player brings a ball, then there are many drills available where they can be doing something, and not getting bored standing in lines and making trouble. End of year parties are often scheduled by teams, and some award certificates and trophies. Out of respect for other teams who may not give trophies or certificates, please do not present the awards at the field, in front of other teams. Good luck and be sure to have FUN!

U-9 Modified League Rules and Guidelines

The mission of the Ballard Youth Soccer Club is to “Provide a safe, positive atmosphere where players can learn the game of soccer”. The Micro and Modified leagues are instructional, no score keeping or win-loss records are kept. The U-10 and upper leagues are more competitive, and are made up of various soccer Clubs associated with the SYSA. The goal of the small-sided games, and small roster size is to give beginning players more time on the field, with more touches on the ball. All players should play at least 50% of the game.
Modified Soccer

U-9 teams play “Modified” or “Mod” soccer, which involves half- or three-quarter-size fields, and introduces goalkeepers. U-9 teams play 7-a-side, one game only, with rosters of up tp a maximum of 12 players. Referees are introduced, though they are not much older than the players. Girls and boys play on separate teams in separate leagues. Mod teams play other BYSC teams as well as teams from other close-by soccer clubs. The emphasis in “Mod” soccer continues to be to HAVE FUN and learn to play as a team, and learn basic soccer skills. Again, no score keeping or win-loss records are kept. More soccer rules are introduced, such as corner kicks and of course, the presence of goalkeepers. U-9 leagues introduce soccer tactics and an emphasis on passing and team defense. Our goal is to get as many young kids as possible to stay with soccer long enough to develop skills and confidence. Whatever we can do to reinforce effort – no matter how tentative – and to create an encouraging, “everybody wins” environment will be appreciated. Coaches must contain the urge to compete.

U-9 Modified Soccer League – BYSC

Guidelines:

A. We will be playing 7-a-side soccer, 6 field players and a goalkeeper. Teams play one game a week. Each team must provide a parent to act as a referee, if a league referee is not available. The young referees are “rookies” and need support and understanding from the coaches and parents. Since no scores are kept, be sure to help the referees with encouragement. Games are often played against teams from other soccer clubs. Each team must bring a properly inflated #4 soccer ball, to be used as the game ball.

B. Fields are marked by cones, 30 yards wide by 50 yards long, with cones also marking the midfield point along the sidelines. The penalty area shall be marked by disks and lines 14 yards from the end lines. The goals are marked by “true” goal posts, with cross bar and nets, but smaller than regulation at 6 yards wide and 6 feet high.

C. Games are scheduled in 1 hour blocks of time. Start times will be delayed 5 minutes to wait for late arriving players. Coaches must be very firm to the team parents about arriving early to warm up prior to games to prevent injury. Games are played in halves, lasting 20-25 minutes each, depending on the actual start time. Half-time is 25 minutes after the scheduled start, no matter when the game actually starts, and lasts 5 minutes. Games end 5 minutes before the next hour or half hour. The designated “referee” keeps the official time, though this can be delegated to a parent on the sidelines.

D. Unlimited substitutions are allowed when ever the ball goes out of play, but with the acknowledgment of the referee. Just call out “Substitution” or “Ref, Substitutions” until you get the referee’s attention and approval. All players shall play the same amount of time! Substitution patterns for equal time are difficult to accomplish. Make the effort to try the best you can.
Players should play only part of the game as Goalkeeper (it can get boring back there). No goalkeeper should play more than one-half at goal per game. Every player on the team should play goalkeeper at least twice during the season, to see what it is like. Since goalkeeper substitutions take a lot of time (to change jerseys and gloves), they should not be made more than one time per half of play. Request a “keeper change” to the referee, so the game can be stopped for the switch. Wait for the referee acknowledgment before sending on the substitute keeper.

E. During the game, coaches may not go on the field except out of concern for an injured player. All coaches and assistants must stay on the sidelines, near the center of the field, not within 14 yards of the end line. No player, coach, or parent shall stand behind the end lines or near the goals, with this exception: during the first two games of the season, an assistant coach may stand to one side of the goal, a respectful distance from the end line, and advise the new goalkeeper on their role. Be careful to advise on what to do, such as “put the ball on the ground for a goal kick”, or “good save, now you must throw it or kick it”, not putting pressure on the new keeper by orchestrating their actions, like “go out and get her”, “dive for it”, or “Go, go get it”. Coaching during the game shall be kept to a minimum. Brief reminders are particularly necessary for kids who are still learning their positions. If what you want to say can’t wait and can’t be condensed into a few words, you should pull the player off and explain your point on the sidelines.

Negative criticism or anger toward a player or the referee is always inappropriate to kids of this age and will not be tolerated in this league. The referees, some as young as 11 years old, have just completed the referee course, and are having their first early experiences in dealing with the complex responsibilities involved with refereeing. We need them to keep refereeing, and this is where they learn. Show them the proper level of respect, and deal with their errors with clarification at half time or after the game. Coaches must control their team parents and eliminate any derogatory and harassing comments toward the referee. Keep in mind that kids who chose to take the refereeing course are by and large conscientious and responsible people who are doing their best.

Official Rules Link to Interleague U8_U9 Rules of Competition

Please read the linked rules above. It has the rules we will play by. Below are further helps with some of the rules and stuff. Interleague rules supersede the following information

U-9 Game Rules:

1. All players must wear shin guards with socks covering their shin guards. Check to see that each players shoe laces are tied. Players must wear the same style uniform jersey as the rest of the team, except the goalkeeper, who must were colors significantly different from both teams.

2. The game begins with a kick-off from center field. The kicking team must start with all its players on its half of the field. The other team must start with all its players on its half of the field. All free kicks, including the kick-off, required the team without the ball to be 8 yards (8 big steps) back from the ball. Center field kick-offs are also taken after a goal is scored, by the team who was scored against. Teams switch directions at half-time, and the team that did NOT kick-off at the start of the game, gets to kick-off to start the second half.

3. Throw-ins will be taken when ever the ball is played “out of touch” across the sidelines. The ball is out when the whole ball is past the whole “line”, it doesn’t matter where the players feet are. Throw-ins shall be taken by the team who did NOT put the ball out of touch. The player must throw the ball from behind their head, with two hands giving equal effort, and with both feet on the ground. Referees will be lenient on throw-ins, and an improper throw in will result in a take over. Even if the second throw-in is improper, play will proceed unless the referee determines an unfair advantage has been attained. A goal can never be scored directly from a throw-in.

4. Goal kicks are taken when an attacking team kicks the ball past the end line, missing the goal. The goal kick is taken by the defending team, from a point within 3 yards from either goal flag pole (typically 3 yards in front of either “post”). The ball is placed on the ground, like any other free kick. The kicking team’s players may be anywhere on the field during a goal kick, but the defending team must retreat to the mid-field line until the ball is kicked. Neither team may touch the ball until it has traveled out of the penalty area. An infraction will result in a take over goal kick.

5. Goalkeepers may use their hands anywhere inside the penalty area, extending 14 yards out from the end line. It is NOT legal for goalkeepers to use their hands on balls played back to them by their teammates. A keeper who uses their hands outside the penalty area will be called for a foul, with the other team awarded a free kick from the spot of the foul. When a keeper has touched the ball, and has at least one hand on it, no player may come near the keeper. There is no reason for aggressive attacking play near the goalkeeper in U-9 Mod soccer. The goal keeper may move anywhere inside the penalty box and either throw it or put it on the ground and kick it back into play. there are no goalie drop kicks. Opposing players should be behind the build out line when the goal keeper “distributes” the ball.

7. There will be no “direct” free kicks in U-9 Mod soccer. All kicks will be considered “indirect”. Therefore, a goal can never be scored from a free kick, including kick-offs, corner kicks, and goal kicks. Defenders must be 8 yards back from the free kick.

8. There will be no “penalty” kicks in U-9 Mod soccer. A hand ball or other infraction occurring near the goal by the defending team will result in a free kick taken just outside the penalty area. The free kick must be played by another player before a goal can be made. The defenders must be 8 yards back from the free kick.

9. Dangerous play has not been a big problem in U-9 Mod soccer, but players knocking over other players will not be allowed. Rough players will be cautioned by the referee to play “easier”. If the rough play continues, a foul shall be called, and a free kick awarded. No slide tackles will be allowed in Mod soccer. Again, the referee will caution a player for the first offense, and a foul called thereafter, awarding a free kick. Also, when a player is down on the ground, attempting to play the ball they are making a dangerous play. Play shall be stopped immediately, prior to any contact if possible, and the other team awarded a free kick. The ball doesn’t go in the air very often, but it can be dangerous for players to lift their feet high in the air. High kicking will be considered dangerous play, whether an opposing player is kicked or not. A foul will be called, and the other team awarded a free kick. The coach should substitute for any player who repeatedly makes dangerous plays and explain to the player that they may not play that rough.

12. A goal is scored when the whole ball goes over the whole goal line, between the goal posts and under the cross bar.

14. When the game is over, we expect a cheer for the other team and a post-game handshaking. This is a fun post-game ritual for the kids and provides a chance to get any snacks ready. Coaches must be careful to ensure the handshaking is not filled with “you lost”, “we beat you” words, or spitting on the hands, which can kill the joy of the game for many players. This kind of youthful thoughtlessness can be controlled simply by the coach reminding the players what to say and why, and by accompanying them through the line. There will be plenty of time for the jubilance and sorrow of competitive soccer, starting in U-10. Lets not be over zealous now. Coaches should also shake hands with each other and the referee. Take this opportunity to congratulate them if they have done well, or provide positive feedback on errors you noticed. Players should be taught that all trash and gear is to be picked up by the team. Yes, even if it was there when the game started. We are always teaching good citizenship and stewardship to the players.

Practices are usually held once or twice a week at a time and location selected by the coach. Practices should be kept to about an hour. Try to avoid having the kids stand in lines during practice. If each player brings a ball, then there are many drills available where they can be doing something, and not getting bored standing in lines and making trouble. End of year parties are often scheduled by teams, and some award certificates and trophies. Out of respect for other teams who may not give trophies or certificates, please do not present the awards at the field, in front of other teams. Good luck and be sure to have FUN!

U-10, U-11 League Rules and Guidelines

The mission of the Ballard Youth Soccer Club is to “Provide a safe, positive atmosphere where girls and boys can learn the game of soccer”. U-10 leagues are competitive in that scores are kept but league standings are not recorded. Games are recreational in that learning the game is paramount. The Official U10 Rules are maintained by SYSA on their website.

U10-U11 SYSA Rules

These are the Rules of Competition that Seattle Youth Soccer Association has approved for all
U10-12 age play in our fall Citywide League in fall, 2018.

If a rule is not specified, the standard rules from the SYSA Rules of Competition apply. All rules
are based on the FIFA Laws of the Game. Some key differences between standard Laws of the
Game and SYSA’s U10-U12 rules include:

• Deliberate heading of the ball is NOT allowed at U10 and U11. Heading the ball is not allowed in U10 and U11 games. Heading should not be practiced by U10 players. U11 players may do limited heading practice in training. Balls
intentionally headed during a game will be called as a foul, and an indirect free kick will
be awarded.

• The Offside Rule begins to be enforced at U10.

• Slide tackling is NOT allowed at U10. Slide tackling is allowed starting at U11 play. Players intentionally slide tackling at U10 will receive a foul and an indirect free kick will be awarded.

• Penalty kicks are NOT awarded at U10.

• Penalty kicks are awarded at U11 and older. Penalty Kicks Penalty kicks are not given at U10. Fouls within the box are treated as indirect free kicks.

• Scores and standings are NOT kept at U10. (However, coaches should keep track of
their team’s level of competition, in order to have a better recommendation for placement
the following year at U11 into Gold, Silver, or Bronze divisions.)

• The Build Out Line (BOL) rules are in effect at U10 and U11. The BOL is used to
promote playing the ball out of the back in an unpressured setting to learn how to “build
out” the attack. The USSF Player Development Initiative, which describes the Build Out
Line and other small sided guidelines in details, can be found at this link. The Build Out
Line is placed midway between the penalty area line and the halfway line.

• Goalkeepers are not allowed to punt the ball at U10 and U11 as part of the Build Out
Line rule.they can either throw, roll, or place the ball on the ground and pass it to a
teammate. Here is how Seattle referees have been instructed to handle the two Build
Out Line situations:

GOAL KICK

1. When the ball passes over the goal (end) line, last touched by a member of the attacking team, a goal kick is awarded.

2. All members of the opposing team must retreat behind the BOL.

3. On a goal kick, the ball is in play when it leaves the penalty area.

4. Once the ball is in play, opponents may cross the BOL.

GOALKEEPER POSSESSION
1. When the goalkeeper is in possession of the ball all opponents must retreat behind the BOL.

2. On goalkeeper possession, the ball is in play once the goalkeeper releases possession of the ball by passing with the foot, throwing, or rolling the ball to a teammate.

3. Once the ball is in play, opponents may cross the BOL. Goalkeepers should be instructed not to release the ball until opponents have retreated past the BOL. If they release the ball before the opponents are behind the BOL, the goalkeeper assumes the risk that an opponent may steal the ball. The referee shall not intervene.

The Offside Rule begins at U10. At U10 and U11, the offside rule will be in effect
at the Build Out Line, not the midfield line.