LCGSA SOCCER - RECREATION DIVISION - Modified U-12 Soccer Laws
** Referees are encouraged to explain the infractions to the players.
*** The players, coaches, and spectators may not challenge the referee’s ruling.
**** Technical Area: Coaches must stay in their technical area.
***** Spectators and teams must be on opposite sides of the field.

Law 1: The Field of Play ~ Field Size (70-80yds x 45-55yds).  The goal size does not exceed 6ft x 18ft.  All other FIFA rules apply.

Law 2: The Ball ~ A size 4 ball is used.  All other FIFA rules apply.

Law 3: The Players ~ Matches are played 9 v 9, including the goalkeeper.  There are unlimited free substitutions on a teams’ possession for throw-in, any goal kick, or at half-time.  If a player is substituted because of injury or caution, the opposing coach may also substitute.  The coach must inform the referee before they re-substitute the injured player.  Cautioned player(s) can be substituted out.  One or more Goalkeepers may be used.  It is recommended that one player not have to play goalkeeper the entire game.  FIFA rules apply.  

Law 4: The Players’ Equipment ~ FIFA rules apply.  (No earrings period.)

Law 5: The Referee ~ Coaches are required to officiate their own games when the referee is not present.  Coaches, as referees must not be biased toward either team during the match.  All other FIFA rules apply.

Law 6: The Other Match Officials ~ Club Linesman are required to officiate their own games when the assistant referee is not present.  Club linesmen, as assistant referees must not be biased toward either team during the match.  All other FIFA rules apply.

Law 7: The Duration of the Match ~ There will be two 30-minute halves and a 5-minute halftime break.  There will be no extra time.  All other FIFA rules apply.

Laws 8 & 9: The Start and Restart of Play & The Ball In and Out of Play ~ All other FIFA rules apply.

Law 10: Determining the Outcome of a Match ~ All FIFA rules apply.

Law 11: Offside ~ Offside will be called but must be obvious for the referee crew to see.  All FIFA rules apply.

Law 12: Fouls and Misconduct ~ All other FIFA rules apply.  Please see special section below on deliberate heading.

Law 13: Free Kicks ~ All FIFA rules apply.

Laws 14 & 15: The Penalty Kick & The Throw-In ~ All FIFA rules apply.

Law 16: The Goal Kick ~ All FIFA rules apply.

Law 17: The Corner Kick ~ All other FIFA rules apply.

Special Considerations and Modifications to the Laws
Heading the Ball:  Players at this level shall not engage in deliberate heading, either in practices or in games.  Violations of this rule during games will result in an indirect free kick from the spot of the violation.  If the violation occurs within the goal area, the ball will be placed at the closest point on the goal box line.