Modified Rules for U-8 Recreational teams

• Law 1.             Field of Play:

  Dimensions:             The field of Play must be rectangular.  The length of the touchline must be greater than the width of the goal line.

  Length:             Minimum 20 yards                   Maximum 30 yards
  Width:              Minimum 15 yards                   Maximum 25 yards

• Law 2.          The Ball: 

  Size Three (3).

• Law 3.          Number of Players:

  A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than six (6) players on the field at any given time including the goalkeeper.

• Law 4.          Substitutions:

  At any stoppage and unlimited.

• Law 5.          Playing Time:

  Each player shall play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time.  Teams and games may be coed.

• Law 6.          Player Equipment

  Conform to FIFA rules.  Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish teams.
  All players must wear the following:
                       Team Jersey
                       Shorts
                       Stockings
                       Shinguards
                       Cleats or other appropriate footwear.
  Jerseys and stockings will be supplied by DYS.  Shinguards MUST be worn by all players underneath the stockings

• Law 7.          Referee.  No referees. 

  A game official (League Official, Game Manager, Coordinator, Parent or Coach) may be used.  All infringements shall be briefly explained to the offending player.

• Law 8.          Assistant Referee:  None

• Law 9.          Duration of the Match. 

  The match shall be divided into four (4) equal, twelve (12) minute quarters.  There shall be a five (5) minute break between halves

• Law 10.         Method of scoring. 

  Conform to FIFA rules.

• Law 11.         Offside:  None

• Law 12.         Fouls and misconduct. 

  Conform to FIFA rules 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.  No cards shown for misconduct.

• Law 13.         Free kicks. 

  Conform to FIFA rules with the exceptions that all free kicks are indirect and that opponents are at least four (4) yards away from the ball until it is in play.

• Law 14.          Penalty kick: 

  None

• Law 15.         The Throw-In: 

  Conform to FIFA rules.  A goal cannot be scored from a throw-in.  Two-touch rule applies; a player cannot throw the ball and then kick it.

• Law 16.         The Goal Kick. 

  The Goal Kick should be taken within 2-3 yards of the goal line anywhere across the width of the field at the nearest point from where the ball was retrieved.  Opposing players must be at least four (4) yards away from the ball until it is in play.

• Law 17.         The Corner Kick. 

  Conform to FIFA rules with the exception that opponents remain at least four (4) yards away from the ball until it is in play.

Guidelines for Parents of U-8 players.

• 1.         Parents should set a good example for the children.  Verbal abuse of any kind towards   the coaches, players, spectators, referees or any club official will not be tolerated.  Cheer and support the team during games and practices and always display proper sportsmanship.

• 2.         If you have a complaint about any of the coaches, please use discretion.  Speak to the coach in a private location.  Do not yell at the coach or use abusive language.  Do not confront the coach before, during or after a game when there are other players and/or parents present. 

• 3.         If you are dissatisfied with the result of your conversation with the coach, please go through proper channels to resolve the issue.  The correct chain of command to follow is as follows:  1st, The coach.  2nd, The age group coordinator.  3rd, The league coordinator.  Finally, the club president.  Always exercise discretion when issuing a complaint.

• 4.            Remember that playing time is at the coaches’ discretion as outlined by the club.

• 5.            Remember that the coach is the coach.  Please encourage your child to participate in the game and practices and follow the coaches’ instructions.  Please do not undermine the coach.

• 6.         Please communicate with the coach regularly.  Respond to emails and return phone calls whenever required.  Remember that the coach is there for your benefit as well as your child’s.  Feel free to contact the coach on any issues related to the team or the club.

• 7.         Please sign the “Parent’s Pledge” form and acknowledge that you are aware of these rules and guidelines.  A copy of the “Parent’s Pledge” is available on the DYS website at www.donegalyouthsoccer.com.  If you do not have access to the Internet, please ask your coach to provide you with a hard copy of the form.

Guidelines for Coaches of U-8 players.

• 1.         Be punctual.  Please arrive at the field on time for each practice and game.

• 2.         Be familiar with basic First-Aid techniques 

• 3.         Be familiar with the rules and regulations of the game.

• 4.                Exercise restraint.  Remain calm and patient.

• 5.         Accept the referee's decisions.

• 6.         Try to attend some coaching training whenever possible.

• 7.         Stay in communication with parents.

• 8.                Practice good sportsmanship and encourage the players to do the same.

Guidelines for U-8 Players

• 1.         Be punctual.  Please arrive on time for each practice and game.  Being late wastes the coaches’ time and that of the other players.

• 2.         Respect the coach and follow his/her instructions.

• 3.                Respect the referee.

• 4.         It's a Team sport, respect your fellow players on your own team and other teams.

• 5.         Ask questions to your coach if you don't understand the referee’s or coach's ruling or instructions.

• 6.         HAVE FUN !!!!!

For a printable version of these Rules & Guidelines, click here.