Number of Players
The maximum number of players is 7 per team (7 v 7). Six field players and one goalkeeper.
Field Dimensions
The field of play will be rectangular, with specific dimensions 50 yards in length x 30 yards in width with a midfield (half field) stripe. A goalkeeper’s area will be marked ten yards from each goal and extending from sideline to sideline
Goals
Maximum five (5) feet high and 10 feet wide, flags can be substituted if necessary, in extreme circumstances.
Ball
The official ball is a size 3.
Duration of Play
Matches will consist of 4 12-minute periods (quarters). A four-minute break will follow each period.
The Referee
There is no assigned referee for U8 play. Each team will provide ONE facilitator, per match. The facilitators are the only adults allowed on the field during play. The primary concerns of the facilitator are the safety and enjoyment of the players.
Kick-Offs, Corner Kicks, Goal Kicks, Throw-Ins
We use a kick off from the center circle to start the game, second half or any goal scored during the game.
Throw-ins for balls out of play over the touch lines.
Goal kicks for balls out over your end line off the opponent, corner kicks for balls out over your end line off your team.
Penalty Kicks
NONE
Misconduct
A player who blatantly tries to injure an opponent or who continually breaks the rules should be removed from the game. The player may be allowed to reenter the game after a cooling off period at the discretion of the coach and facilitator.
Safety Rule
If a player on either team is on the ground near the ball, play is to stop immediately allowing the player to get back to his feet. The game will restart with a pass from the team that was in possession when play was stopped.
Pass Back Rule
The pass rule is not in effect for U8 players and the goalkeeper is allowed to pick up the ball when last played by a teammate. When the ball is played to the goalkeeper and not picked up, the goalkeeper is considered a field player.
Sliding and slide tackling
No slide tackling is allowed at the U8 level, but players can legally slide to play the ball if there is no danger of injury to an opponent.