U5

SEMINOLE YOUTH SOCCER

Rules for U-5 Division

Game Times/Length:  This Division is designed for children who are 5 years old or younger on September 1, 2023. Games will be played on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Games will be played in four 10 minute periods. There will be a two-minute break between periods one and two, and three and four. There will be a five-minute break between periods two and three. All games need to start on time, because you must leave the field by the start of the next game that is assigned to the field.

Number of Players:  There will be a maximum of 12 players on each team, unless the coach asks for an additional player. Eight players will be on the field at any given time. This means seven field players and one goalie. Substitutions can be made at any time during play during a dead ball situation.

League Rules of Play:

  1. No scores are kept at this age.
  2. Games will be played with a size 3 ball that is supplied by the home team.
  3. All players will receive an equal amount of playing time, regardless of participation in practice.
  4. All players should be allowed to explore every position that they wish to try.
  5. Two coaches from each team are allowed on the field during play. One coach from each team will also serve as the referee (only two whistles).
  6. The first team listed on the schedule will be the visiting team and will start the game with the ball. The kickoff occurs at the center of the field. Teams will alternate the kick-off each quarter. The non-kicking team must be 5 yards from the ball.
  7. No tripping, hitting, pushing, or kicking allowed and absolutely NO SLIDE TACLING.
  8. No using your hands unless you are the goalkeeper.
  9. Balls out of play:
    1. The ball must completely cross the line to be out of play.
    2. Ball out of play on the sideline will be put into play with a throw-in by the team that did not kick it out.
    3. Ball out of play on the endline will be put into play with:
      • a goal kick by the defensive team.
      • a corner kick by the offensive team.
  10. Fouls or handballs:  The other team will be allowed a free kick from the spot of the foul.
  11. No Heading will be practiced or used during games at this age group.
  12. Goalkeepers are allowed to use their hands to pick up the ball and throw it back down the field. He/she must also wear a different colored jersey than either team on the field.
  13. All spectators are to be at least one yard from the side of the field. Absolutely no spectators are allowed behind the end-line (goal) during the match.
  14. Goals are scored when the ball crosses the goal line between the post and under the crossbar completely.
  15. Practices are optional and do not determine playing time on Saturdays.
  16. Players must wear their Seminole Youth Soccer uniforms at all games. This includes matching socks and shorts.
  17. Shin guards are mandatory and must be worn at all practices and games. Socks must be worn over the shin guard. Soccer shoes are strongly recommended, but not required.
  18. Absolutely no jewelry or baseball caps are allowed to be worn during practices or games. A goalie may wear a soft hat to keep the sun out of his/her eyes.
  19. Everyone is required to have lots of fun.