official 5v5 soccer

rule highlights

(some main points of emphasis)

  • Touchline (Sideline) Restarts: In place of throw-ins will be kick-ins OR a dribble in with the ball placed stationary on the touchline. A player may not directly kick a ball into the goal from its stationary restart position. A player may also dribble the ball into play and after the ball makes a full rotation may then be kicked into the goal. Kick-ins will be treated as indirect kicks until dribbled.

  • Direct Restarts: A Corner Kick and Kickoff are Direct Kicks. The kick-off may go in any direction.

  • Goal Kick: Any time a Goal Kick is required, the goalkeeper will execute a Goal Clearance (ball must leave the Penalty Arc). The goalkeeper will start with the ball in their hands and may either (1) Throw or roll the ball, (2) Put the ball down and pass/kick, (3) put the ball down and dribble out of the Penalty Arc.

    Once the ball has been put down, the ball is effectively “live”, meaning defending players may enter the penalty arc. The goalkeeper must release the ball within four seconds. Failure to execute the Goal Clearance within 4 seconds will result in an Indirect kick at the top of the arc for the opposition. A goal may not be scored directly from a goal clearance. Once the ball is OUTSIDE the Penalty Arc, a goal may be scored from anywhere on the field. The ball may not be punted or drop-kicked. Infractions will result in an Indirect Kick at the top of the arc for the opposition.