Mini Soccer Rules
Retreat Rule
In the age divisions that play mini soccer
a special rule concerning goal kicks and goalkeeper possession is in effect.
- Goal Kick: On goal kicks the opposing team will retreat over the halfway
line and be unable to challenge for the ball until it crosses the halfway
line. (There is no restriction on the team taking the goal kick from
going into the opponent’s half). This will have a double effect: it allows
the goalkeeper to take a kick without pressure and it allows a sequence of
passes to occur.
- Goalie Possession: When the goalkeeper has possession of the ball in his/her
hands, the other team must retreat over the halfway line allowing the
goalkeeper to throw or drop kick the ball into play, starting a sequence
of passes before the ball crosses the halfway line. In order to keep the
game going, as long as the players are headed in the general direction of
the line and are not going to interfere with the play, the referee can
tell the goalkeeper to start play before all players are over the halfway
line. This will be at her/his discretion. Coaches are being asked to
cooperate in this matter.
Exception
The Under 10 age division is excluded from
the Mini Soccer Retreat Rule. The attacking team does NOT have to retreat on its
own half on a goal kick. However, they can NOT attack the ball that leaves the
penalty area until it is touched by a second defender.
Coaches
Coaches are allowed to be on the field in
mini soccer.
Offsite
THERE IS NO OFFSIDE RULE IN MINI SOCCER.