FIFA
- Laws of the Game
Rule
exceptions for each age group
U6
U8
U10
U12
U15
U18
Please also see
Parents Code of Conduct!
Referees are encouraged to explain the
infractions to the players. The players, coaches, and spectators may
not challenge the referee's rulings.
U-12 Exceptions
(revised Sept. 10, 2005)
Law 1: Field of play: Dimensions: Max
size 55 x 80, Min size 45 x 70. The center circle has a radius of 8
(eight) yards. The goal areas are 6 (six) yards from each goal post,
extended 6 (six) yards into the field of play. The penalty areas are
14 (fourteen) yards from each goal post, extended 14 (fourteen) yards
into the field of play. The penalty mark is 10 (ten) yards into the
field of play from the center of the goal line. The goal size is 6
feet by 18 feet. All other FIFA rules apply.
Law 2: The Ball: A size 4 ball is used. All other FIFA rules apply.
Law 3: The Number of Players: Matches are played 8 versus 8, including
the goalkeeper. Each player plays at least half the game unless for
disciplinary purposes or injury. The referee and opposing coach must
be notified, if any player doesn't play half the game. There are
unlimited free substitutions. If a player is substituted because of an
injury, the opposing coach may also substitute. All players are
encouraged to play goal keeper. All other FIFA rules apply.
Law 4: The Player's Equipment: All FIFA rules apply.
Law 5: The Referee: All FIFA rules apply. Coaches are required to
officiate their own games -when the referee is not present. Coaches,
as referees, must not be biased towards either team during the match.
Law 6: The Assistant Referees: There are no assistant referees.
Law 7: The Duration of the Match: There will be 2 (two) 30 (thirty)
minute halves and a 5 minute half-time break. There will be no extra
time. All other FIFA rules apply.
Law 8: The Start and Restart of Play:
All FIFA rules apply.
Law 9: The Ball In and Out of Play: All FIFA rules apply.
Law 10: The Method of Scoring: All FIFA rules apply.
Law 11: Offside: Offside will be called, but it must be obvious to
see. The referee does not have the aid of assistant referees. All
other FIFA rules apply.
Law 12: Fouls and Misconduct: All FIFA rules apply.
Law 13: Free Kicks: All FIFA rules apply. Opponents must be 8 (eight)
yards from the ball.
Law 14: The Penalty Kick: All FIFA rules apply. Opponents must be 8
(eight) yards from the ball.
Law 15: The Throw-In: All FIFA rules apply.
Law 16: The Goal Kick: All FIFA rules apply.
Law 17: The Corner Kick: All FIFA rules apply. Opponents must be 8
(eight) yards from the ball.
Technical Area: Coaches and players must stay in their technical area.
Spectators and teams must be on opposite sides of the field.