Soccer may appear easy to bystanders, but it’s a complex sport with specific rules for fair play. These rules vary based on the level of play—there are fewer rules for younger players and more for high school or college players. However, the basic rules are straightforward, and this guide has been created to help inform parents about them.
Basic Rules of Soccer
The basic rules of soccer are simple:
- No hands: Soccer doesn’t allow the use of hands to guide or direct the ball. However, players may use the upper part of their shoulder when receiving the ball. Goalkeepers are allowed to use their hands unless they’re passed the ball by their teammates or outside of the penalty box (also known as the penalty area), in which case they’re considered regular players under the laws of the game.
- Goal: The objective of the game is to score more goals than the opposing team, and for this to happen, the ball must completely cross the opponent’s goal line. The assistant referee closely observes the line.
- Out of play: The ball is out of bounds when it completely crosses the touchline (sideline) of the field. This also applies to the goal line. However, the ball is in play at all other times, including when it rebounds off goalposts, the referee, or corner flags.
- Throw-ins: When a team drives the ball out of play, the opposing team is given a throw-in, which allows them to get the ball and resume the game. However, the offensive team can’t score directly from a throw-in.
- Corner kicks and goal kicks: A corner kick is awarded when the ball crosses the goal line after being last touched by a defending player without a goal being scored. The attacking team takes the ball from the corner nearest to where the ball went out. The goal kick is awarded in a similar circumstance, but the ball has to be last touched by an attacking player. The defending team then returns the ball into the field of play from within their goal area, usually by a goalie.
- Game in play: As long as the ball is within the field of play, the game is in play. The only exception to this rule is when a referee signals an offside rule violation or an infraction caused by players.
- Fouls: The referees are there to enforce the rules and catch misconduct, thus maintaining a fair and safe game for everyone involved. Players aren’t allowed to kick, strike, push, hold, or jump on the opposing players. Fouls result in the opposing team being awarded a free kick, a good goal-scoring opportunity. Fouls usually include handball and violent conduct. Depending on severity, the referee might issue a yellow card or a red card, the latter of which ejects the player from the game.
- Penalty kicks: Penalty kicks are awarded for fouls inside the penalty box (penalty spot), usually resulting in a direct free kick at the opposing team’s goal. These are typically issued for handballs or serious foul play. Some infractions result in an indirect free kick.
Importance of Soccer Rules
All sports have rules, and when it comes to youth soccer, these rules are designed with the developmental needs of children in mind. They ensure that the game is fair, safe, and fun for all participants.
It’s important to note that these rules are often derived or adapted from the official rules implemented by the Federation Internationale de Football Association, abbreviated FIFA, which governs football, beach soccer, and futsal. By understanding these rules, both parents and coaches can better support the learning and physical development of younger players and their understanding and enjoyment of the game.
Why Choose Soccer Stars?
Soccer Stars offers a unique, age-specific curriculum that’s designed to improve your child’s soccer skills, physical fitness, and, most importantly, their understanding of the game, the concept of fair play, and sportsmanship.
