Printing the handbook will require approximately 25 sheets of paper
|
Yadkin Soccer Association Handbook
2010-2011
Based on FIFA Laws of the Game as amended by the US Soccer Association, North Carolina Youth Soccer and The
Yadkin Soccer Association.
Soccer is fun! We work to keep it that way by always being positive. Every practice and every match should always
end with each and every player leaving the field as a better player and a better person than when he/she walked on
the field.
Our goals are:
To promote sportsmanship among our children.
To provide our children with a positive introduction to organized athletics.
To develop stamina and determination.
To teach positive behavior and attitudes. Swearing and displays of temper are not allowed.
There are three divisions of youth soccer in North Carolina. The Recreation Division is designed for those who want
to have fun playing soccer on a local level. This division is open to all players. All players are required to receive
playing time.
For those players that want to travel and face better competition there is the Challenge Division. There are tryouts
and a selection of players in this division. All players are still required to play.
The third division is the Classic Division. It is for those who are competition oriented. Teams are selected based on
ability and play at a higher level. This league travels across the state to play other Classic Division teams. There
are no playing requirements in this division. Teams hire a professional skills coach to work with their players. Most
college scholarships are awarded to players in this division.
Parents and Spectators:
1. SOCCER SHOULD BE FUN! Be positive at all times.
2. No one shall be allowed behind the goal line, nor on the touchline closer than the Penalty Area (18yard line) to the
goal. They shall not disrupt the progress of the match in any manner.
3. The Referee may suspend, halt or abandon a match if necessary to handle the situation.
4. Parents shall have their child at all practices and matches at the times assigned by their coach. If they must be
absent the coach should be notified in advance.
5. Parents and spectators shall not harass or yell at the Officials, Players or Coaches. Cursing is not allowed! Any
parent or spectator may be asked to leave if they cannot control themselves.
6. If a coach, player or Referee makes a mistake (and we are only human) it is your responsibility to control yourself.
The youth playing the game look to you as examples for their behavior.
7. Parents should increase their knowledge of soccer by reading books, watching videotapes and attending Parent
Clinics.
8. You can help your child by practicing with him/her. Let this be one activity that your child can teach you! This will
help build their understanding of the game and their confidence.
Rainouts:
Matches will be played if at all possible, but field conditions can make postponements necessary. Teams will be
notified as soon as it becomes obvious that the matches cannot be played. However, since this is often a matter of
hours prior to the start of a match the following procedure will be used if weather conditions are uncertain:
If known, the Field Coordinator will notify teams by 8p.m. the night before a match.
If the weather is uncertain, teams will be advised that their matches may be postponed.
Unless specifically told not to play, teams should be on the field and ready at the set time. The match will be played
unless the Referee or Field Coordinator rules that the field is unplayable. Teams must not assume that just because
it is raining where they are that the match will be cancelled.
For the latest updates on rainouts call the YSA Weather Hotline at (336) 677-0123 and/or consult the website (www.
yadkinsoccer.com).
Rainout matches will be rescheduled by the Coordinating Committee.
Coaches will be notified as soon as possible as to the revised schedule of games. If possible, Saturday rainouts will
be modified and played on Sunday. All rescheduled games will be treated as if they were the regularly scheduled
games and coaches should plan to have their team available at the time of reschedule. Hardship cases will be
considered by the Coordinating Committee on a case-by-case basis. Coaches must notify the Field Coordinator as
soon as possible if they will not be able to make-up a rainout from Saturday on Sunday.
Lightning and severe weather:
Soccer is a safe sport and we want to keep it that way! Severe or dangerous weather constitutes an unsafe,
unplayable condition. The Referee has the authority to stop any unsafe match.
Coaches should stop practice for severe weather. If players or parents are concerned about the weather condition
talk with your coach and let him/her know you feel it is unsafe. He/she can consult with the Referee or
Assistant Referees at a stoppage of play if a match is in progress.
The Yadkin Soccer Association has established the following guidelines for severe weather. The guidelines should
apply to all practices as well as to matches. IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS exists, then play shall be
suspended:
1) The sound of thunder follows a lightning flash within 10 seconds.
2) Any cloud-to-ground lightning strike occurs within 2 miles of the field.
3) Thunder is heard from within a 2 mile radius of the field, regardless of the presence of lightning.
4) Any lightning that is visible within a 2 mile radius of the field.
The safety of all participants is the most important factor, regardless of any cost, inconvenience or advantage it may
cause.
What to do when lightning is near:
Most deaths occur when a person is in the open or under a tree. If caught in the open, crouch in the lowest spot
available. Move away from tall objects, goals, corner flags and bleachers. Seek shelter in a large building, or an
enclosed automobile. Do not go into small sheds. Get away from any open vehicles such as bicycles, convertibles
or motorcycles. Drop any metal objects you may be holding. Remove shoes with metal cleats. If you feel an electric
charge, hair stands on end or skin tingles, lightning may be about to strike you. Drop to the ground immediately. If
someone is struck by lightning, start mouth-to-mouth or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Before a Match:
Before each match the two coaches and/or team captains should meet with the Referee and Assistant Referees to
review the rules. Any
modifications should be noted at this time. In friendly, non-counting matches rule modifications can be made if both
coaches and the Referee agree prior to the start of the match.
Review the following rules:
1) Field of Play (Rule 1)
2) Number of Players (Rule 3)
3) Substitution rules (Rule 3)
4) Duration of match (Rule 7)
5) Tie breaking procedure (Rule 7)
6) Offsides (Rule11)
7) Fouls and Misconduct (Rule 12)
8) Team rosters, player passes and ages.
9) Inform the Referee of the team Captain.
10) Tell of any player on the bench who will not play at least half the match
and state the reason.
The home team should provide the match ball, subject to the Referee’s approval. The Referee will maintain
possession of the ball until the end of the match, at which time he/she will return it to the team that provided it.
Prior to the match, the players should be called to the midfield for
the Referee’s inspection of shoes, shin guards, mouth pieces and other equipment. The Referee’s decision on
equipment is final!
The Referee should introduce him/herself and the two (2) Assistant Referees, tell the players how he/she will call the
match and any modifications that have been made in the rules.
It is the responsibility of the winning head coach to make sure the match report is submitted to the hospitality tent.
Failure to submit the report within 4 hours after the match concludes could result in a no contest result for the match.
All matches shall be governed by the “FIFA Laws of the Game” as amended by the U.S. Youth Soccer Association
and the NC Youth Soccer Association, unless superseded by modifications suggested by the Rules and Regulations
Committee and adopted by the Board of Directors and members of the Yadkin Soccer Association.
The following are abbreviated laws of soccer. For a complete set of the laws of soccer refer to the current FIFA Laws
of the Game and NCYSA Handbook.
1. Sportsmanship and Fair Play:
The unwritten Law that should guide all decisions concerning the other laws.
2. The Field of Play:
There should be NO holes, rocks, or other items that would make play dangerous. A standard soccer field is 50 to
100 yards wide by 100 to 130 yards long divided as shown in the diagram at the center of this handbook.
The Goal size shall be 8 feet tall by 24 feet wide. Each goal shall be sufficiently anchored to the ground so there is
no possibility of the goal tipping over or falling down. FIFA and the Referee’s insurance will not allow a match to begin
until the goals are anchored securely.
Recommended Field Sizes by NCYSA:
Length Width
U-5/U-6 Min 20 - Max 30yds Min 15 – Max 25yds
U-7/U-8 Min 25 – Max 35yds Min 20 – Max 30yds
U-9/U-10 Min 45 – Max 60 yds Min 35 – Max 45yds
U-11/U12 Min 70 – Max 80 yds Min 45 – Max 55yds
U-13 and up Min 100 – Max 130 yds Min 50 – Max 80yds
Recommended Reduced Goal Sizes:
U5/U6 5 ft high x 10 ft wide
U7/U8 6 ft high x 12 ft wide
U9/U10 6 ft high x 18 ft wide
U11/U12 6 ft high x 18 ft wide
U13 an up 8 ft high x 24 ft wide
3. Ball Size:
Use the officially approved standard ball size for each Age Division. The Referee shall approve the ball and maintain
control of the ball until the end of the match. The Referee is responsible for making sure the ball is returned to the
team (usually the home team) that provided it.
Ball sizes:
U-5 thru U-8………………size “3”
U-9 thru U-12……..….….size “4”
U-13 up……………….…..size “5”
4. Number of Players:
Each team shall consist of eleven (11) players, one of whom MUST be the goalkeeper. The goalkeeper MUST wear a
uniform that is easily distinguishable from other players, both on his/her team and the opposing team and the Referee.
USYSA Amendments
Reduced Number of Players:
Age On Field Min. Req. Team Max.
U-5/U-6 3 2 8
U-7/U-8 5 4 10
U-9/U10 6 5 12
U-11/U-12 8 7 14
U13 and up 11 8 18
All Recreation level players MUST play at least half of the regulation time for each match, unless they are being held
out for disciplinary or injury reasons, or their parents request it. The Referee should be informed of any players that
will not play half the match prior to the beginning of the match.
A team may NOT have more than the maximum number of players allowed on a team.
The cut off date is August 1st of the current year for determining Age Division groupings.
A match will not be considered valid unless both teams have at least the minimum number of players listed earlier
(page 5). A player arriving late can be waved in (after warming up and having his/her equipment checked)
by the Referee.
Substitutions can be made at the following times:
1) End of 1st Quarter (when applicable).
2) End of 1st Half.
3) End of 3rd Quarter (when applicable).
4) On a goal kick.
5) After a goal has been scored and before the kickoff.
In case of an injury, only after play has been stopped by the Referee, the injured player has been taken off the field
and the substitution has been be waved on the field. The opposing team may substitute like number of players.
6) After a yellow card (caution) has been given. The player receiving the yellow card MAY be substituted. The
opposing team may sub like number of players.
7) On your team’s throw-ins.
8) No substitutions are allowed during a Corner Kick in USYSA competition.
Procedure for making substitutions:
1) Subs should enter and exit the field near or on the midfield line.
2) The player(s) must check in with the Referee and MAY NOT enter the field of play until the player he/she is
substituting for has left the field.
3) Subs must have the approval of the Referee before entering the field of play.
4) All goalkeepers MUST notify the Referee before making any changes. Failure to notify the Referee will result in two
(2) yellow cards; one for the previous goalkeeper and one for the replacement goalkeeper.
YSA Amendments to Law 4
If one team falls short of the maximum number of players on field, but has enough for the minimum number of players
on field, the opposing team shall be limited to a matching number of on field players during playing time for fairness.
If play is stopped for an injury, the injured player MUST leave the field and CAN NOT re-enter the match until the next
legal substitution opportunity.
There will be NO goalkeeper in the U-5/U-6 Age Divisions and for fair play no defender should be permanently
positioned in front of the goal mouth.
YSA Eligibility Requirements:
1) In order to participate, a player MUST submit a completed and signed registration and medical waiver form to a
YSA director. Submit a copy of Birth Certificate to their recreation club (or have one on file), a current 1”
photo and pay the registration fee before being allowed to practice with a team.
2) A player must be 3 years old on or before August 1 to play this year. A player younger than the standard age set
for a division may play up if both the coach and parent agree that he/she can play without being at a significant
disadvantage.
3) A team MUST submit completed and signed registration forms for all players, a team roster and pay all applicable
fees BEFORE the team will be allowed to participate in a match.
4) Double rostering must be approved by YSA and shall abide by NCYSA guidelines upon approval.
5) Any player that is rostered for an older age division is ineligible to play “down” on a younger age division even
though that player’s age may meet the state requirements for the younger age division.
6) A high school / middle school student may participate in the recreation division and must register in their home
district. The home district is the the district in which the player resides.
7) All players will first register with the district for the school he/she attends. A player who request to play for another
district must
first contact his/her district director and request to be released to another district.
GUEST PLAYERS:
A team may move up any YSA registered player(s) from their district that
are in a younger recreation age division, up to the number of “On Field” players plus 2. Thus giving a team 2
substitutions. NOTE: All players on the regular roster must receive equal or more playing time than the guest
players, except in the case of injury during game.
5. PLAYER EQUIPMENT:
Equipment consists of a shirt, shorts, socks, and shoes. Goalkeepers are required to wear colors distinguishable
from teammates, the opposing team and the Referee.
1) Shin guards are REQUIRED for ALL players and must be completely covered by their socks.
2) Players may NOT wear anything that might endanger other players or themselves; ex. jewelry, watches, hats, etc.
3) Shoes must conform to soccer regulations and generally any commercial soccer shoe is acceptable, EXCEPT no
spike on toe or no metal spikes.
4) The Referee’s decision on equipment is FINAL.
5) A player with a cast may play if the Referee deems it is adequately protected.
USYSA Amendments:
In the U5 thru U8 divisions, players should wear soft-cleated soccer shoes.
YSA Amendments
1) Goalkeepers MUST wear mouth protection.
2) Long pants and shirts may be worn under the standard uniform in cold weather. Soft gloves (no zippers, metal
clips, etc.) and caps may also be worn.
3) All players will lineup before the start of the match to have their equipment inspected by the Referee or Linesmen.
6. Referee:
One Referee is appointed for each match. The Referee is responsible for control of the match and the Referee’s
decisions are FINAL.
The Laws of the Game grant the Referee almost unlimited authority over the conduct of a match. No judgment
decision of the Referee may be appealed. Only misapplications of the Laws of the Game can be protested. The
Referee shall keep the time and score of each match.
The Referee may terminate (end) a match any time he/she feels it is unsafe to continue. Either due to field
conditions, unsuitable play, the teams, coaches and/or spectators are out of control. The results of the terminated
match will be decided by the Disciplinary and Appeals Committee (see back of handbook for protest procedures).
YSA Amendments:
1)If the scheduled Referee does not show and one cannot be found from the spectators that both coaches can agree
upon, then the coaches of each participating team will referee one half of the match.
2) In the U5/U6 Division the coaches will be the Referees. One coach will referee each half of the field.
3) In the U7 thru U10 Divisions the Referees will briefly explain the calls to the offending player. These divisions are
considered Instructional divisions.
4) Only USSF Certified Referees can issue Yellow Cards (cautions) or Red Cards (send-offs). However, any Referee
may terminate a match if the players’ safety is impaired. The NC Soccer Referees Association has instructed all of
their Referees to take out criminal assault warrant
against any individual who makes physical contact with a Referee or Assistant Referee in a hostile or abusive
manner. Abuse of a Referee is a serious matter and could result in individuals being banned from soccer for life!
7. Assistant Referee:
Two Assistant Referees assist the Referee by indicating offsides, when the ball is out of play, which team is entitled to
the corner kick, goal kick or throw-in.
The Referee calls the match and all fouls. The Assistant Referee(s) indicates when he/she sees a violation with a
wave of the flag. However, it is the Referee who makes the call and has the final decision.
One Referee and two (2) neutral Assistant Referees should call all soccer matches. If neutral Assistant Referees
are not available then club Assistant Referees should be used. Under NO circumstances should a two Referee
system be used. FIFA and the Referee’s insurance will not permit a two-man Referee system.
YSA Amendments
The U10 and up Divisions will use neutral, paid Assistant Referees.
If a neutral, paid Assistant Referee does not show up the Referee should recruit 1 or 2 club linesman as needed.
These club linesman have the same authority as the club Assistant Referee.
8. Duration of the Game:
There shall be two equal periods of 45 minutes unless otherwise agreed upon.
USYSA Amendments
Recommended Reduced Durations:
Age # of Periods Time (min) Total Minutes
U5/U6 4 8 32
U7/U8 4 10 40
U9/U10 2 25 50
U11/U12 2 30 60
U13/U14 2 35 70
U15/U16 2 40 80
U17 up 2 45 90
There will be no less than a four (4) minute break between quarters (where applicable).
The halftime break shall be no less than five (5) minutes, and no more than fifteen (15) minutes.
YSA Amendments
1) If a player is seriously hurt, the referee should stop the match immediately. The player must be replaced and must
remain out of the match until the next legal substitution opportunity. Play will be resumed with a “Drop Ball”.
2) In case of severe weather at the start of a match, the Referee may reduce the length of the match up to 50%. If a
match must be abandoned because of severe weather and at least half the match has been played, the result will be
considered official and the score at that time will stand as the final score.
3) If there is a tie at the end of regulation time during the preliminary rounds of soccer spectacular or regular season,
the match will end as a tie. A tie during the end of season tournament preliminary rounds will result in both teams
going directly to a penalty kick shootout with each team selecting 5 players to take shots from the mark against the
goalkeeper. If a tie exists after each team takes 5 shots from the mark, then each team will send players 1 at a time
until the tie is broken. A tie in the championship match of soccer spectacular or the end of season tournament will
result in the teams playing two (2) five minute overtime periods. If a tie still exists after the two (2) five minute overtime
periods, the teams will go directly to a penalty kick shootout as well. The point system for a tie in the preliminary
rounds of soccer spectacular and the regular season is as follows:
A Win 3 points
A Tie 2 points
A Loss 0 points
A Forfeit -1 points
If teams do not have an equal number of matches, then they will be designated as counting and non-counting
matches at the beginning of the season.
End of Season Standings:
End of season standings will determine seeds for the Fall Classic Soccer Tournament only. The Fall Classic winner
will be viewed by YSA as the recreation champion. Teams that are tied in the standings at the end of the season will
adhere to the following order to determine placement:
1) Head-to-Head Match(es)
2) Least number of goals allowed
3) Tie Breaker Game.
9. START OF PLAY:
A toss of the coin decides which team will kick-off. The visiting team captain will call the toss. The winner of the toss
automatically gets kick off. The other team decides which side they wish to defend.
Each team must stay on their own half of the field and the defending players must be at least ten (10) yards from the
ball until it is kicked forward and moves.
After a goal, the team scored upon shall kick-off in the same manner.
After halftime, the teams switch sides of the field and the team kicking off will be switched.
You can score a goal directly from a kick-off. The kicker may touch the ball only once before it has been touched by
another player.
YSA Amendments:
1)The match must start within ten (10) minutes of the scheduled time, unless delayed by a previous match. A team
not prepared to play within this time limit shall forfeit the match. If both teams fail to show up for a match, then both
teams shall be assessed a forfeit.
2) Scheduled match times will be strictly obeyed, with warm-up periods to occur off the field of play before the
scheduled match time. No warm-up period will be provided between scheduled match times.
3) To reschedule a match, the coach must contact the Field Coordinator a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours prior to
the regularly scheduled match. At that time it will be left up to the Coordinating Committee to work out the details and
contact the coaches. The rescheduled match will be treated as if it were a regularly scheduled match. All point
systems and rulings will apply.
10. BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY
The ball is out of play when:
1) It has wholly crossed the goal line or touchline, whether on the ground or in the air.
2) When the match has been stopped by the Referee.
There are NO time outs, unless the Referee stops play for an injury.
If the ATTACKING team kicks the ball over the goal line, the defensive team has a goal kick to put the ball back in play.
If the DEFENSIVE team kicks the ball over the goal line, the attacking team has a corner kick to put the ball back in
play.
The determining factor is the position of the ball, not the position of the player.
11. METHOD OF SCORING
A goal is scored when the whole of the ball has completely passed over the goal line, between the goal posts and
under the cross bar.
A Referee CANNOT award a goal unless the ball actually crosses the line. An interference call will not award a team a
goal.
12. OFFSIDE
A player will be penalized for offside if, in the opinion of the Referee, he/she receives the ball from a teammate or
interferes with play, while in the “Offside Position”. The player is in an “Offside Position” if he/she is nearer to his/her
opponent’s goal line than the ball, unless:
1) The player is on his own half of the field.
2) There are at least two (2) opposing players closer to the goal line than the player (including the goalkeeper).
A player shall not be penalized for offside by the Referee:
1) Merely because of his/her being in an “Offside Position” or
2) If he/she receives the ball directly from a goal kick: corner kick; throw in; or drop ball by the Referee.
Note for U7/U8 and U9/U10: No “Offside” calls will be made in these age groups. However, the referees will enforce
fair play according to the spirit of the games. Players will be penalized for violating the spirit of the game
when, in the judgment of the referee, they are judged to be involved in an "unsporting act" by being in an offsides
position with the intent to gain an advantage.
If a player is penalized for offsides, the Referee shall award an indirect free kick to the opposing team. The kick shall
be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. If the offside occurs inside the goal area (6 yards from the
goal line, marked by the smaller box) the ball shall be placed on the six (6) yard line closest to where the infringement
occurred.
USYSA Amendments
There will be NO offside called in the U5 thru U10 divisions.
13. FOULS AND MISCONDUCT
Direct Free Kicks:
A player who in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or involving disproportionate force for:
Kicking
Tripping
Jumping at
Charging Violently
Charging from Behind
Striking
Spitting at
Holding
Pushing
Intentionally handling the ball with his/her hands up to his/her shoulders.
(NOTE: Unintentional touches, which do not gain an advantage, are not called).
These infractions shall be penalized by a direct free kick and possibly a yellow or red card.
Any one of these ten offenses committed in the penalty area by a defender will result in the rewarding of a penalty
kick to the offensive team.
These rules apply to offenses committed against other players and the Officials.
If a defensive player unlawfully impedes an attacker with an obvious goal scoring opportunity he/she shall be given an
automatic red card and sent off the field.
USYSA Amendments
There will be NO direct kicks in the U5 through U8 divisions, or any penalty kicks. (When the goalkeeper has
possession of the ball, he/she MUST be left alone.) The determination of possession by the goalie is entirely up to the
Referee.
Indirect Free Kicks
A player committing less flagrant violations, such as:
Offsides
Dangerous Play
Obstruction
Unsporting Behavior (NO profanity is allowed)
Delay of match (i.e. Goalkeepers who take too much time to put the ball back in play.)
Illegal use of hands by the goalkeeper:
1) Double possession releases the ball after gaining possession and then handling it again. Bouncing the ball with
your hands is Ok).
2) Handling the ball from an intentional kick back or directly from a throw-in by one of his/her teammates
Yellow Cards
A yellow card is a warning (caution) for breaking the rules that will result in a player being sent off the field of play if
they occur again. A player receiving a yellow card may be substituted for at the time he/she receives the card.
The opposing team may also substitute like numbers.
Red Cards
A red card will be issued for major repeated violations of the Laws of Soccer. A player who is issued a red card is
being sent off the field of play, not to return during that match. He/She MUST leave the field and spectator area.
He/She may NOT be substituted for and his/her team MUST play a player short for the duration of the game.
Coaches, Parents and Spectators can also be Cautioned or Ejected, but they are not shown a card. If ejected, they
must leave the playing area before the match can be restarted. Coaches will be held responsible for the actions of
their Parents and spectators.
Anyone receiving a card or being ejected from the playing area must be reported to the Disciplinary and Appeals
Committee for action, which may include barring the offender from future matches.
Fouls may occur and be called by the Referee before, during, at halftime or after a match.
YSA Amendments
If any of these violations occur on the grounds of the Yadkin County Park (either before, during, or after a match),
Board of Directors may impose any penalty, including suspension for the remainder of the season, upon a
player, coach, spectator or entire team.
NOTE: In soccer, unlike other sports, not all fouls result in the stopping of play and a penalty being awarded. If the
team being fouled has the ball and the advantage, it would be unfair to stop play and give them a free kick for a foul.
The Referee will signal the foul and then give a “Play On” signal so the action continues. However, if the Referee
deems that a card should be issued to the offender he/she can issue that card at the next stoppage of play.
14. FREE KICK
There are two types of free kicks:
Direct: means that a goal can be scored directly against the offending team without having to touch any other players.
Indirect: means that a goal cannot be scored directly against the offending team. The ball must be touched by
another player, from either team, other than the kicker before it enters the goal for the goal to count.
The offending team MUST be at least ten (10) yards away from the ball until it is kicked. Failure to automatically give
the attacking team ten yards on a free kick is called encroachment and is punishable by a yellow card to all players
not in compliance.
15 PENALTY KICK
This is a direct free kick taken from the Penalty Mark, which is twelve (12) yards from the goal line, directly in front of
the goal. All players except the kicker and the opposing goalkeeper must stay outside the Penalty Area, behind the
ball, and at least ten (10) yards from the ball (hence the arc at the edge of the Penalty Area). The Penalty Kick is
only taken after the Referee restarts play by blowing the whistle. Kicks taken before the whistle is blown must be re-
taken. After the ball is kicked and moves forward it must then be touched by another player before the kicker
can re-touch the ball. If the ball bounces off the goal post without contacting the keeper, then the kicker is not
allowed to contact the ball, however any other player may contact the ball.
USYSA Amendments
No Penalty Kicks in the U5 thru U8 divisions.
16 THROW IN
When the ball has wholly crossed the touch line it is put back into play by a Throw In. The Throw In is taken from the
spot (within one yard, marked by the Referee and/or Assistant Referees) where it went out by a player from the
opposite team that last touched it. A player must throw the ball in directly over his/her head, with equal force from
both hands, with both feet on the ground. Any violation of this Law results in the awarding of the throw-in to the
opposing team. A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in. The ball must enter the field of play, or the throw-
in is retaken.
USYSA Amendments
If a player in the U5, U6, U7, or U8 division makes an error while attempting a Throw In, they are allowed another
chance. If they still make an error, the ball is given to the opposing team.
17. GOAL KICK
When the whole of the ball has crossed over the goal line after being last touched by a player from the attacking
team, it is put back in play by a kick from the Goal Area by the defending team.
It must be placed within the goal area usually on or near the corner of the six-yard line on the side of the goal that the
ball went over the goal line.
It must travel out of the Penalty Area before it is in play and can be touched by any other player.
The attacking team must remain outside of the penalty area, until the ball crosses a penalty area line. Defenders may
remain inside the penalty area.
The Goal kick may be taken by any player on the defending team.
18. CORNER KICK
When the whole of the ball has crossed over the goal line after being last touched by a player from the defending
team. It is put back in play by a kick from the attacking team. The ball is placed on the one (1) yard quarter arc on
the side of the field the ball went out.
19. COMMON SENSE
Apply all Laws with a little Common Sense.
2010 Little Rascals addendum and appendix (U6 and under).
Law 1 – The Field of Play
Dimensions: The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the
goal line.
Length: minimum 20 yards maximum 30 yards
Width: minimum 15 yards maximum 25 yards
Field Markings: Distinctive lines not more than (5) inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway
line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of four (4) yards is marked
around it.
The Goal Area: rectangular, 2 yards deep by 6 yards wide.
The Penalty Area: none.
Flagposts: none.
The Corner Arc: Conform to FIFA.
Goals: Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the
corners and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The recommended distance between the posts is eighteen (8)
feet and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is six (6) feet. Goals may be smaller in
dimension.
Law 2 – The Ball
Size three (3).
Law 3 – The Number of Players
A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than three players. There are NO goalkeepers.
Substitutions: At any stoppage of play and unlimited.
Playing time: Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.
Teams and matches may be coed.
NCYSA MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE IS 8
Law 4 – The Players’ Equipment
Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish
teams.
Law 5 – The Referee
None.
Law 6 – The Assistant Referees
None.
Law 7 – The Duration of the Match
The match shall be divided into four (4) equal, eight (8) minute quarters. There shall be a two (2) minute break
between quarters one and two and another two (2) minute break between quarters three and four. There shall
be a half-time interval of five (5) minutes.
Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play
Conform to FIFA, with the exception of the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least four (4) yards from
the ball until it is in play.
Law 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play
Conform to FIFA.
Law 10 – The Method of Scoring
Conform to FIFA.
Law 11 – Offside
None.
Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct
Conform to FIFA with the exception that all fouls shall result in a direct free kick. The referee/coach/parent must
explain ALL infringements to the offending player.
Law 13 – Free Kicks
Conform to FIFA with the exceptions that all kicks are direct and all opponents are at least four (4) yards from the ball
until it is in play.
Law 14 – The Penalty Kick
None.
Law 15 – The Kick-In
A kick-in is considered as a direct free kick with the opponents four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.
Law 16 – The Goal Kick
The goal kick shall be taken on the 3 yard line of the goal box. Opposing players must be four (4) yards away from
the ball until it is in play.
Law 17 – The Corner Kick
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents remain at least four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.
SPECIAL RULES FOR
Little Rascals
1. When the ball crosses the touch line resulting in a throw-in, each team shall have time to position their players.
2. Only one coach/parent per team is allowed on the field during play. Coaches shall meet prior to the match to briefly
review the rules.
US Youth Soccer Recommendations
* Opposing coaches, players and parents should shake hands after each match.
* Parent/coaches, non-participating players and spectators should be there to enjoy and encourage the activity of the
youngsters.
* No alcoholic beverages or tobacco products will be consumed or allowed near the playing area.
* Spectator and team benches should be on opposite sides of the field.
* No slide tackles to be allowed in this age group.
* Coaches of U5/U6 teams should attend the U6/U8 Youth Module coaching course.
US Youth Soccer Official Under 8 Playing Recommendations
NCYSA Includes Under 7 Within Under 8 Recommendations
US Youth Soccer recommended modifications to the FIFA Laws of the Game. FIFA Laws of the Game can be found at
www.ussoccer.com/referees.
US Youth Soccer Official Under 8 Small-Sided Playing Recommendations
Law 1 – The Field of Play
Dimensions: The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the
goal line.
Length: minimum 25 yards maximum 35 yards
Width: minimum 20 yards maximum 30 yards
Field Markings: Distinctive lines not more than (5) inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway
line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of four (4) yards is marked
around it.
The Goal Area: A goal area is defined at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to the
goal line three (3) yards from the inside each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of three
(3) yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line
is the goal area.
The Penalty Area: none.
Flagposts: none.
The Corner Arc: Conform to FIFA.
Goals: Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the
corners and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The recommended distance between the posts is eighteen
(18) feet and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is six (6) feet. Goals may be smaller in
dimension.
Law 2 – The Ball:
Size three (3).
Law 3 – The Number of Players:
YSA Amendment: A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than five players one of whom is the
goalkeeper. No one player is allowed to play more than 2 quarters per match as goalkeeper.
Substitutions: At any stoppage of play and unlimited. No substitutions are allowed during a Corner Kick in USYSA
competition.
Playing time: Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.
Teams and matches may be coed.
NCYSA: MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE IS 10
Law 4 – The Players’ Equipment:
Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish
teams.
YSA Amendments: YSA requires that all goalkeepers in recreation wear a mouth piece while the match is being
played.
Law 5 – The Referee:
An OFFICIAL (Game Manager or Coordinator or Parent or Coach or Grade 9 referee) may be used. All infringements
shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
YSA Amendments: If the scheduled Referee does not show and one cannot be found from the spectators that both
coaches can agree upon, then the coaches of each participating team will referee one half of the match.
Law 6 – The Assistant Referees:
None.
Law 7 – The Duration of the Match:
The match shall be divided into four (4) equal, ten (10) minute quarters. There shall be a two (2) minute break
between quarters one and two and another two (2) minute break between quarters three and four. There shall
be a half-time interval of five (5) minutes.
Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play:
Conform to FIFA, with the exception of the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least four (4) yards from
the ball until it is in play.
YSA Amendment: In U7/U8 you cannot score directly from the kick-off.
Law 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 10 – The Method of Scoring:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 11 – Offside:
None.
Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct:
Conform to FIFA.
YSA Amendment: All fouls shall result in an indirect free kick. The referee/coach/parent must explain ALL
infringements to the offending player. No cards are shown for misconduct unless severe.
Law 13 – Free Kicks:
Conform to FIFA.
YSA Amendment: all kicks are indirect and all opponents are at least four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.
Law 14 – The Penalty Kick:
None.
Law 15 – The Throw-In:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that an improperly performed throw-in can be retaken once.
Law 16 – The Goal Kick:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents must remain outside the goal area and at least four (4) yards from
the ball until it is in play.
Law 17 – The Corner Kick:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents remain at least four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.
US Youth Soccer Recommendations
* Opposing coaches, players and parents should shake hands after each match.
* Parent/coaches, non-participating players and spectators should be there to enjoy and encourage the activity of
the youngsters.
* No alcoholic beverages or tobacco products will be consumed or allowed near the playing area.
* Spectator and team benches should be on opposite sides of the field.
* No slide tackles to be allowed in this age group.
* Coaches of U7/U8 teams should attend the U6/U8 Youth Module coaching course.
US Youth Soccer Official Under 10 Small-Sided Playing
Recommendations
NCYSA Includes Under 9 Within Under 10 Recommendations
US Youth Soccer recommended modifications to the FIFA Laws of the Game. FIFA Laws of the Game can be found
at www.ussoccer.com/referees.
Law 1 – The Field of Play:
Dimensions: The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the
goal line.
Length: minimum 45 yards maximum 60 yards
Width: minimum 35 yards maximum 45 yards
Field Markings: Distinctive lines not more than (5) inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway
line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of eight (8) yards is marked
around it.
The Goal area: Conform to FIFA.
The Penalty Area: A penalty area is defined at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to
the goal line, ten (10) yards from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of
ten (10) yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the
goal line is the penalty area. Within each penalty area a penalty mark is made eight (8) yards from the midpoint
between the goalposts and equidistant to them. An arc of a circle with a radius of eight (8) yards from each penalty
mark is drawn outside the penalty area.
Flag posts: Conform to FIFA.
The Corner Arc: Conform to FIFA.
Goals: Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the
corner flag posts and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The maximum distance between the posts is eighteen
(18) feet and the maximum distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is six (6) feet.
Law 2 – The Ball:
Size four (4).
Law 3 – The Number of Players:
A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than six players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match
may not start if either team consists of fewer than five players.
NCYSA: MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE IS 12
Substitutions: Shall conform to USYSA regulations.
Playing time: Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time. Teams and matches may be coed.
Law 4 – The Players Equipment:
Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish
teams.
YSA Amendments: YSA requires that all goalkeepers in recreation wear a mouth piece while the match is being
played.
Law 5 – The Referee:
Registered referee, especially Grade 9 or parent/coach or assistant coach. All rule infringements shall be briefly
explained to the offending player. YSA Amendments: If the scheduled Referee does not show and one cannot be
found from the spectators that both coaches can agree upon,
Then the coaches of each participating team will referee one half of the match.
Law 6 – The Assistant Referee:
Not required. May use club linesmen/women if desired.
Law 7 – The Duration of the Match:
Conform to FIFA with the exception of the match being divided into two (2) equal halves of twenty-five (25) minutes
each. There shall be a half-time interval of five (5) minutes.
Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the
ball until it is in play.
Law 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 10 – The Method of Scoring:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 11 – Offside:
None.
Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team at the center spot on
the halfway line if a goalkeeper punts or drop-kicks the ball in the air from his/her penalty area into the opponents
penalty area.
Law 13 – Free Kicks:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents are at least eight (8) yards from the ball.
Law 14 – The Penalty Kick:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that the penalty mark is made eight (8) yards from the midpoint between the
goalposts and equidistant to them.
Law 15 – The Throw-In:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 16 – The Goal Kick:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 17 – The Corner Kick:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents remain at least eight (8) yards away from the ball until it is in play.
US Youth Soccer Recommendations
* Opposing coaches, players and parents should shake hands after each match.
* Parent/coaches, non-participating players and spectators should be there to enjoy and encourage the activity of the
youngsters.
* No alcoholic beverages or tobacco products will be consumed or allowed near the playing area.
* Spectator and team benches should be on opposite sides of the field.
* Coaches of U10 teams should attend the U10/U12 Youth Module coaching course.
US Youth Soccer Official Under 12 Small-Sided Playing
Recommendations
NCYSA Includes Under 11 Within Under 12 Recommendations
US Youth Soccer recommended modifications to the FIFA Laws of the Game. FIFA Laws of the Game can be found at
www.ussoccer.com/referees.
Law 1 – The Field of Play:
Dimensions: The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the
goal line.
Length: minimum 70 yards maximum 80 yards
Width: minimum 45 yards maximum 55 yards
Field Markings: Distinctive lines not more than (5) inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway
line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of eight (8) yards is marked
around it.
The Goal area: Conform to FIFA.
The Penalty Area: A penalty area is defined at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to
the goal line, fourteen (14) yards from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a
distance of fourteen (14) yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these
lines and the goal line is the penalty area. Within each penalty area a penalty mark is made ten (10) yards from the
midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them. An arc of a circle with a radius of eight (8) yards from each
penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area.
Flag posts: Conform to FIFA.
The Corner Arc: Conform to FIFA.
Goals: Conform to FIFA with exception that the maximum distance between the posts is eighteen (18) feet and the
maximum distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is six (6) feet.
Law 2 – The Ball:
Size four (4).
Law 3 – The Number of Players:
A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eight players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A
match may not start if either team consists of fewer than seven players.
NCYSA: MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE IS 14
Substitutions: Conform to FIFA.
Law 4 – The Players Equipment:
Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish
teams.
YSA Amendments: YSA requires that all goalkeepers in recreation wear a mouth piece while the match is being
played.
Law 5 – The Referee:
Registered referee.
YSA Amendments: If the scheduled Referee does not show and one cannot be found from the spectators that both
coaches can agree upon, then the coaches of each participating team will referee one half of the match
Law 6 – The Assistant Referee:
Use U.S.S.F. registered referees or club linesmen/women.
Law 7 – The Duration of the Match:
Conform to FIFA with the exception of the match being divided into two (2) halves of thirty (30) minutes each. There
shall be a half-time interval of five (5) minutes.
Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the
ball until it is in play.
Law 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 10 – The Method of Scoring:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 11 – Offside:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team at the center spot on
the halfway line if a goalkeeper punts or drop-kicks the ball in the air from his/her penalty area into the opponents
penalty area.
Law 13 – Free Kicks:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents are at least eight (8) yards from the ball.
Law 14 – The Penalty Kick:
Conform to FIFA with the exceptions that the penalty mark is at ten yards and that players other than the kicker and
defending goalkeeper are at least eight (8) yards from the penalty mark.
Law 15 – The Throw-In:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 16 – The Goal Kick:
Conform to FIFA.
Law 17 – The Corner Kick:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents remain at least eight (8) yards away from the ball until it is in play.
US Youth Soccer Recommendations
* Opposing coaches, players and parents should shake hands after each match.
* Parent/coaches, non-participating players and spectators should be there to enjoy and encourage the activity of the
youngsters.
* No alcoholic beverages or tobacco products will be consumed or allowed near the playing area.
* Spectator and team benches should be on opposite sides of the field.
* Coaches of U12 teams should attend the U10/U12 Youth Module coaching course.
COACHES:
1. SOCCER SHOULD BE FUN! Be positive at all times. Remember the purpose of discipline is to change negative
behavior into positive. The athlete must know exactly what to change.
2. Conduct yourself in an appropriate manner.
3. Encourage clean competition and good sportsmanship at all times.
4. Enforce the Laws of Soccer and the bylaws of the YCSBC.
5. Maintain control of team members regarding attendance, attention, effort, and compliance with the laws in a
constructive manner.
A. All rules should be relevant, fair and applied to everyone.
B. All athletes should be aware of the consequences beforehand.
C. To be effective any penalty must be imposed immediately.
6. Coaches are responsible for the actions of their players, parents and spectators.
7. Schedule practices and notify team members of the match and practice times and locations.
8. Coach your team to the best of your ability;
A. Young attention spans are limited. Change activities frequently to prevent boredom.
B. Each player needs a ball to get more touches in practice and to practice at home.
C. No one should ever stand around – all players should participate.
D. Small group action is best. 2 vs 2; 3 vs 3. Don’t talk too much. Young players would rather kick and run than
listen. They learn by doing, not by hearing.
9. Endeavor to adjust your team in the event of an uneven match. Routs are no fun for anyone.
10. A coach must allow each player present to play the required minimum time, unless they are being held out for
disciplinary or injury reasons. The Referee and opposing coach should be notified of this prior to the start of the
match.
11. Provide linesmen for the U8 matches. Also in higher-level matches when needed.
12. A coach MUST attend one of the yearly Rules Clinics held in order to be allowed to coach. Coaches should
increase their knowledge of soccer by reading books, watching videotapes and attending clinics. The North
Carolina Youth Soccer Association offers soccer clinics and awards a coaches license upon completion.
REFEREES:
1. The first rule for any Referee is the safety of the players. This overrides all other considerations.
2. The Referee shall enforce all the Laws of Soccer and his/her decisions are FINAL.
3. In the event a Referee is not present and another person, agreeable to both teams, cannot be found, then the
Coach of each team shall officiate half the match.
4. Determine and signal all fouls.
5. Sound the whistle after fouls, except when the team being fouled has an advantage.
6. Hold up a Yellow Card (caution) to indicate a player who is cautioned for a foul or unsportsman like conduct.
7. Hold up a Red Card (send off) to indicate a player who has been cautioned for persistent fouls or unsportsman like
conduct, or for a flagrant foul.
8. Coaches, Parents or Spectators who are cautioned or ejected for misconduct are not shown the Yellow or Red
Cards. The game is suspended and the Referee asks the offender to leave the playing area. If it is a Parent or
Spectator, the Coach is responsible for having that person removed. The game will not restart until the individual has
left the playing area. If the offender refuses to leave the match it will be abandoned. No Warning is required for a
Coach, Parent or Spectator to be ejected. The incident will be reported to the Disciplinary and Protest Committee for
action.
9. Keep track of the time and of the score of the match.
10. Only certified Referees can issue Yellow and Red Cards. However, any Referee may terminate a match that
he/she feels may endanger the players or him/herself.
11. All Referees MUST attend one of the yearly Rules Clinics in order to officiate.
PROTESTS AND APPEALS:
No Judgment Call Can be Appealed!
Only a technical flaw in the interpretation of the Laws may be appealed, and only if it has an effect on the outcome of
the match. YSA adheres to the Laws set forth by FIFA, modified by USYSA, NCYSA and YSA for youth soccer.
The following procedure must be followed:
The team Captain or Coach should notify the Referee immediately, before play has resumed, that there is a technical
flaw that should be considered. The Referee can reverse the decision at this point, if he/she is convinced
that the call was in error. Once play has resumed a Referee cannot reverse a decision. Only the coaches involved in
a match may file a protest. The coach must file a written protest giving complete details and names of individuals
involved and any impartial witnesses within twenty-four (24) hours of the match. This written protest should be filed
with the Chairman of the Protest and Appeals Committee (see front cover). A fee of $25.00 is charged for each
protest filed. The fee will be refunded to the protest party if the Committee rules in their favor; the YCBSC will deposit
the money into the general fund. Each school district must be represented by one named delegate and one named
alternate with one vote between them. These representatives must be named prior to the first game of each season.
The Disciplinary and Protest Committee which consist of each schools representative are responsible for being
available to meet each week during soccer season if necessary to discuss protests, appeals and disciplinary actions.
A written response will be sent to the coach within 72 hours of the Committee’s decision. If the parties
involved in the protest feel that they have a legitimate appeal to the committee’s decision, they may appeal to the
NCYSA Protest & Disciplinary Committee. The fee is $100.00. The NCYSA P&D Committee’s decision is FINAL. No
appeals can be made of their decision.
The Protest and Appeals meetings are closed to all persons expect those specifically named prior to the season. In
addition, the two schools involved will not have a vote in their protests. All tiebreakers will be decided by the
President of YSA. If the Disciplinary and Protest Committee finds that there was a technical flaw in the match that
could have
changed the outcome of the match, the entire match MUST be replayed.
A forfeit can be declared for:
1. Use of an ineligible player.
2. Terminated match for unsporting behavior.
Failure to meet these procedures will result in the appeal being denied.
DISCIPLINE:
All Cautions and Send-Offs of Players, Coaches, Parents and Spectators must be reported to the Disciplinary and
Appeals Committee for review. The exact penalty will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
As a general rule the penalties will be as follows:
Red Card (Send-Off) – First Offense – Suspension for the next regularly scheduled match or for first tournament
game.
Subsequent Red Cards Longer suspensions including the remainder of the season.
Striking the Referee, Assistant Referee or Officials – Banned from playing soccer or attending matches for one year
to life. Along with possible criminal charges being filed against the offender.
GLOSSARY OF SOCCER TERMS
Abandon – to stop a match and not restart it.
Advantage Rule – When a Referee allows play to continue instead of awarding a free kick after a foul because, in
his/her judgment, it is to the attacking team’s advantage.
Assistant Referee – Officials on the touchline who assist the Referee by signaling out of bounds, offsides and other
fouls as assigned by the Referee.
Back (pass, position) – toward the goal a team is defending.
Ball Watching – Literally, to stare at the ball while ignoring everything else that is going on. A common bad habit.
Blind Side – The area not seen by a player because of the direction he/she is facing.
Break away – To burst through the last line of defense and approach the goal, temporarily unopposed.
Booked – Cautioned. Name written in Referee’s book, given a yellow card.
Cautioned – Given (shown) a yellow card.
Center – To pass the ball from a wide position on the field onto the center area.
Challenge – To make an attempt to get possession of the ball.
Charging - Legally challenging for the ball by shoulder-to-shoulder contact between two opponents when the ball is
within playing distance. Any contact other than shoulder-to-shoulder is illegal. Gaining an advantage by pushing or
knocking the opponent off balance is illegal.
Clear – A throw or kick by the goalkeeper or a kick by the defender in an attempt to get the ball away from the goal
area.
Club Linesman - A linesman provided by one of the teams playing that is not a certified official. They may call out of
touch on the sidelines, but may not call offsides, fouls or out of bounds over the goal line.
Corner Kick - A kick from the corner of the field to put the ball back in play after a defender has knocked it out over
the goal line.
Create space - An action that results in opponents leaving a certain area of the field, thus leaving that area open.
Cross – A pass across the field.
Cut – To sharply move the ball sideways with the foot.
Defender – Primarily a defensive player who assists the goalkeeper in protecting the goal.
Defensive Third – The area (third) of the field closest to the goal being defended.
Direct Kick – A free kick for a major penalty, on which a goal can be scored without having to be touched by any other
player other than the kicker.
Dribble - A way of advancing the ball past defenders by a series of short taps with one or both feet.
Encroachment - To illegally move into an opponent’s space, especially during free kicks.
Endline – The end of field boundary line (see Goal Line).
Far Post – The side of the goal farthest from the ball.
F.I.F.A. – Federation Internationale de Football Association – the international governing body of soccer.
Forward – Primarily an attacking player whose responsibility is to create opportunities and score goals.
Free Kick – A kick to put the ball back in play after the offensive team has knocked it over the goal line.
Goal Kick – A kick to put the ball back in play after the offensive team has knocked it over the goal line.
Goal Line – The out of bounds line at the goal (see diagram).
Goal-side Position – On defense, to be in a position between the ball and the goal a player is defending.
Goalkeeper – The last line of defense. The only player who can use his/her hands within the field of play. He/She is
limited to using their hands only within the Penalty Area.
Guest Player – A player not on the team’s regular season roster, but who is added for a particular match or
tournament.
Halfback – Both an offensive and defensive player (see midfielder).
Guiding – Defender taking a position to guide an attacker to a certain area of the field.
Half-Volley – Kicking the ball just as it is rebounding off the ground.
Hand Ball – An illegal act of intentionally touching the ball with the hands or arms. This may not be called if it is
judged to be nintentional or if there is clear advantage to the attacking team.
Heads-Up – To play with your head up when you have the ball. A player with his/her head up can see the field and
the other players better and make wiser decisions about what action to take.
Heading – A method of scoring, passing and controlling the ball by making contact with the forehead.
Indirect Kick – A free kick awarded for a rules violation in which a goal cannot be scored unless touched by two
players (one of which is the kicker) before entering the goal.
Lob – A high, soft kick taken on the volley, lifting the ball over the heads of the opponents.
Match – The name given to a soccer game.
Marking – Guarding an opponent one-on-one.
Midfielder – Both an offensive and defensive player who is primarily responsible for passing the ball between the
defenders and forwards.
Near Post – The side of the goal closest to the ball.
Nutmeg – To play the ball between the legs of an opponent.
Obstruction – Preventing the opponent from going around a player by moving into his/her path.
Offsides – A foul that occurs when an offensive player either receives the ball or interferes with play while in an
offsides position.
Offsides Position – Being closer to the goal than two (2) defenders without having possession of the ball.
Open – To have space around you free of opponents.
Outside Agent – Interference by anyone or anything that is not supposed to be on the soccer field (i.e. a dog, child,
parent, etc.).
Overlap – The attacking play of a defender going down the field passed his/her own midfielder and/or forward.
Own Goal – To accidentally put the ball into your own goal, thus scoring a goal for your opponents.
Pace – The speed given the ball when it is passed.
Penalty Area- The area marked around the goal in which the goalkeeper may use his/her hands.
Penalty Kick – A direct, free kick taken for a major rules violation within the Penalty Area by a defending player.
Penalty Spot – The spot marked on the field for the taking of Penalty Kicks.
Penetrate – To advance the ball toward the opponent’s goal.
Pitch – The playing field.
Pressure – A defender closing the distance to an attacker with the ball to deny him/her space and reduce his/her
options.
Receiving - Stopping the ball with your chest, thighs or feet to gain control. Also known as “trapping”.
Red Card – A player being “sent off” of the field for serious or repeated fouls. This player may not play the
remainder of the game.
Save – The goalkeeper stopping a shot on goal by catching or deflecting the ball away from the goal.
Scoring – One (1) point is awarded when the ball wholly crosses over the goal line.
Screen – Retaining possession and protecting the ball by keeping your body between the ball and the defender.
Shin Guards – Plastic or foam pads worn inside the socks to protect the shins from kicks and blows.
Shoot-Out – A method of determining the winner if the match ends in a tie. Usually this method is used only in
tournaments.
Slide Tackle – Attempting to take the ball away from an opponent by sliding on the ground, feet first.
Stopper – A central midfielder who directs the defense.
Striker – A central forward position that directs the attack with a major responsibility of assisting or scoring goals.
Sudden Death – A method of determining a winner if a match ends in a tie. Time is added to the end of the regulation
time, the first to score within this period is the winner.
Support – To help. On offense by moving to a position that creates a safe passing lane. On defense by moving into
a position to back up the first defender moving toward the ball.
Sweeper – A defender who roams either in front or behind the defensive line to pick up stray passes.
Tackling – Attempting or taking the ball away from an opponent when both players are playing the ball with their feet.
Throw-In – The way to put the ball in play when it has crossed wholly over the touchline.
Trap – Controlling the ball passed close to the player by means of the feet, thighs or chest.
Touchline – Boundary lines on the sides of the field.
Volley – Kicking the ball while it is in flight.
Wall – The line of defensive players formed in front of the goal to protect it during a free kick.
Wall Pass – Similar to the “Give-and-Go” in basketball. Pass to a teammate and then move to a new position whose
major responsibility is to move the ball up field and to the center creating scoring opportunities.
Wing – An outside forward position whose major responsibility is to move the ball up field and to the center creating
scoring opportunities.
Yellow Card – A warning for a violation of the Laws of Soccer.
2010-2011 Officers
Jason St. John – President webmaster1@yadkinsoccer.com
Donna Miller -- Vice President vp@yadkinsoccer.com
Lawren Wells – Secretary
Michael Wilkins –Treasurer
David Trivette – Director of Select select@yadkinsoccer.com
Julia Welcome – Director of Recreation recreation@yadkinsoccer.com
Scott Taller – Assistant Director of Select
District Directors & Alternates
Boonville – Michael Wilkins
Courtney – Jami Myers
Torrey Tucker
East Bend – Ed Eldridge
Fall Creek – Mark Pendry
Forbush – Jamie Hutchens
West Yadkin – Jamie Stiles
Yadkinville – Shelly Snyder
Referee Assignor – Gary Duncan
Please visit www.yadkinsoccer.com
Webmaster: Jason St. John
Revised July 2010