12U Guidelines:
NO HEADING, YES PUNTING
Field Dimensions:
Recommended field size: 210 feet x 135 feet.
Markings include a halfway line, center circle, corner arcs, goal area, penalty area, penalty mark, and penalty arc.
Goal Size:
Maximum recommended goal size: 7 feet x 21 feet.
Currently using standard 8 feet x 24 feet goals.
Ball Size:
Size 4 ball used for 12U games.
Coaching Approach:
Emphasize positive coaching; avoid yelling from the sideline.
Coaches not allowed on the field during games, except for refereeing if necessary.
Players:
- Maximum 12 players on roster with 9 per team on the field, including one goalkeeper.
- Goalkeeper plays no longer than half the game in goal and must play at least one quarter on the field.
- Substitutions allowed between quarters, halftime, and for injuries.
- Minimum of two quarters of playing time per game for each player; no player should play four quarters until all have played three.
Player Equipment:
As part of the registration fee, each player receives a full uniform (jersey, shorts, socks) which your coach will give to you prior to the start of the season.
In addition, you will need to supply the following items:
- Shin guards (mandatory for all practices and games)
- Size 3 soccer ball (highly recommended)
- Soccer shoes (These shoes may not have a toe cleat. Tennis shoes are ok.)
- Water bottle (great for those hot August days)
Game Duration:
Four 15-minute periods with a halftime break of 5-10 minutes.
Total game time: 1 hour 10 minutes.
FIFA Laws of the Game apply with the exception of no heading allowed and the offside rule in effect.
Start of Play:
- Kick-off in the center of the field to start each half and following each goal.
- Opposing team stands outside the center circle.
- Coin toss determines initial kickoff; teams swap sides at halftime.
Kickoff:
Taken from the center of the field with each team in their own half.
Goal Kicks/Punts:
Allowed to go over the halfway line.
Fouls & Misconduct:
- Opponents must be 10 feet from the ball on restart kicks.
- Referees aim to keep the game moving and free from unnecessary stoppages.
Referees:
- Must be certified regional referee or above.
- Assistant referees or club linesmen may assist if available.
Playoffs:
Playoff games start later in the season, mostly on weekends with possible midweek games if needed.