U8/U10 Rule Modifications

U8 rules modifications:

8 players on each team recommended to enable 3/4 playing time for all players on team. 7 v. 7 is OK if teams have less than 10 on roster and coaches desire
The key here is that players are having fun (everyone getting touches) and playing safely
Size 3 ball
20 minute half
No direct free kicks; everything is an IFK.
No penalties; take IFK from where the offense occurred (unless it's right next to the goal in which case pull ball back 15 feet from the goal).
No offside
No heading
No slide tackles
Retake incorrect throw-ins. If player blows the retake, ask another player from the same team to take it.
No need to keep score; give game lineup cards back to the coach.
Retake goal kicks that are touched before exiting the penalty area until it does. Ask the players to back off from the penalty area 2 GIANT steps if needed.

9 players on each team
Size 4 ball
25 minute half
Direct free kicks are okay!
We discourage calling penalties. Call it dangerous play and award an IFK where appropriate. But for severe fouls, say a clearly intentional trip/hold/push deep in the penalty area, call the penalty. Talk to the keeper. Let him know that it is okay if he misses; that it isn't his fault if a goal is scored; that he needs to just try his best and that is fine!
Call offside scrupulously
Heading is okay
No slide tackles
Retake incorrect throw-ins for the first 5 games of the season. If player blows the retake, ask another player from the same team to take it.
Retake goal kicks that are touched before exiting the penalty area until it does. Ask the players to back off from the penalty area 2 GIANT steps if needed.
Keep score; give game lineup cards back to the coach.