Rules for U7/U8 Games

Build Out Line (On goal kicks and goal keeper possession):

• The defending team must drop behind the restriction/build out line.
   
• The defending team players may cross the restriction/build out line after the attacker has received the ball (after the attacker’s first touch).
  • From goalkeeper possession, the goalkeeper may throw or roll the ball; build out line enforced until the teammate has received the ball (after the attacker’s first touch). 
  • If the Goalie places the ball on the ground it will be considered a “Live” ball and the defending team may cross the restriction/build out line.   
  • The attacking team may restart play immediately, even before the defending team has dropped behind the restriction/build out line. If the goalie plays fast, the defending team may go after the ball, but not until the goalkeeper's teammate takes their first touch.
  • If the goalie throws the ball and the ball passes the build out line, the defending team may go after the ball regardless of whether or not the attacking team has touched the ball.

All Restarts are Indirect: 

• That includes Free Kicks, Kickoffs, Goal Kicks, Drop Balls and Corner Kicks.
   
• All restarts must be passed to a teammate. The ball must move at least a foot. Tapping the ball does not count. 
   
• On all free kicks, kickoffs and drop balls the ball must be passed to the side or backwards. 
   
• Any goal scored by a direct freekick will not count, regardless if a defender or goalie touches the ball.  

Goalies: 

• Goalie may use hands within the penalty area 
   
• Goalie is treated as any other field player if the ball is placed on the ground 
  • A Goalie can safely place the ball on the ground during a Goal kick only
     
• NO PUNTING - Goalie to distribute the ball by rolling or throwing it.
   
• No Pass-Back 
  • Goalie is not allowed to use hands if the ball is intentionally passed to goalie by a teammate with teammate’s feet.

 
MISC:

• Offsides is not strictly enforced (but opponent not allowed to “camp out” by goal or goalie)
   
• No headers 
   
• ​​​​​​​No slide tackling
   
• Coaches must stay in their own "technical area". Coaches are not allowed to go into the opposing team's side of the field and they are NOT allowed near the goalie.