The Field
• Dimensions: 50 yards long, 25 yards wide (max).
• Markings: Distinctive lines recommended.
• Halfway line the width of the field, marked equidistant between the goal lines.
• Center circle with an six-yard radius in the center of the field.
• Corner arcs with a one-yard radius at each corner of the field.
• Goal area in front of each goal measuring 6 x 12 yards.

The Goals:
• Maximum six feet high and six yards wide.

The Ball:
A size 3 ball is used for U-8 games.

Players
• Number: 7 per team on field with goalkeepers [7 v 7].
• Substitutions: Between periods, at halftime and for injuries.
• Teams: Separate girls and boys teams should be promoted at all levels of play.

Duration of Game
Two 20 minute halves with a substitution break about halfway through the half and the clock never stops. The substitution breaks should be no more than 1-2 minutes.
Halftime break of 5 to 10 minutes.

The clock never stops except at half time, so the total time the game takes should be around 45 to 50 minutes. If your game is scheduled to start at 9:00am you should be getting off the field at 9:50am

Players Equipment
• Footwear: Soccer cleats are required for the safety of players. The type and condition of cleated shoes must be inspected for safety before use.
• Shinguards: MANDATORY for both practices and games, and must be covered entirely by socks.
• Uniforms of all players on the same team should match, keeper should not match either team.

Start of Play
• The game should be started with a kick-off in the middle of the field.
• The coaches determine which team starts the game with a coin flip and the opposing team starts the second half.
• Opponents must be six yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.

Method of Scoring:
See U-8 Coaching Manual.

Fouls & Misconduct
• Free kicks - opponents six yards away from the ball.
• Free kicks awarded the attacking team inside the defending team’s goal area should be taken from the nearest point on the goal area line in front of the goal.
• No penalty kicks. Referees will work cooperatively with the coaches and eliminate the need for cautions and send-offs. Do not show yellow or red cards.

U-8 Officials
AYSO certified U-8 Officials or higher are required for U-8 games. The U-8 Official should briefly explain any infringements to the player(s) and encourage proper play and sporting behavior. As with all games, every effort should be made to keep the game moving and free from stoppages for doubtful infractions. Let them play and enjoy.

Assistant Referees/Club Linesmen:
None are needed at this level