Why Small-Sided Soccer?

AYSO recommends that all children under the age of 12 play short-sided (less than 11 players per team) soccer. As such, Region 213 follows AYSO National Guidelines with the following small-sided guidelines for the specified age divisions:

• Under-6 Guidelines
• Under-7 and Under-8 Guidelines
• Under-9 and Under-10 Guidelines
• Under-12 Guidelines

Goal Keeper Guidelines for U10 and U12

The Regional Guidelines are based on the AYSO Standard Regional Guidelines. The Regional Guidelines includes the following recommendation related to U10 and U12 goalkeepers. 

Every player shall be entitled to play at least half of every game. Moreover, it is the policy of the Region to encourage each coach to (i) play each player at least three quarters of every game, whenever possible, (ii) allow different players to start the first quarter of each game, (iii) have the goal keeper play at least one quarter on the field (for Core U10 and U12 divisions). No player shall play the entire game until all other available players have been given a chance to play at least three quarters of the game.

One-Sided Games

All coaches and officials should make every effort to make the games safe, fair, and fun for all players and spectators. In particular, in those rare cases where one team is substantially dominating the game, coaches should do all they can to minimize the chances of lopsided scores by adjusting the lineup accordingly and deploying other tactics to limit how many times players move to goal. This also will minimize escalated emotions during these matches. Few teams really like to win 10-0 and none like to lose 0-10. 

Slide Tackles in U7 and U8 Games

For player safety, no “slide tackles.” The Referee will stop play for any slide tackle, inform the player slide tackles are not permitted, and award a DFK to the opposing team.

Slide Tackles for U10 and up

Slide tackles should be discouraged as a part of the game. They are difficult to execute properly and they are often dangerous and lead to a high degree of injuries. The referee shall remain the sole judge in deciding which plays are fouls and whether or not a player merits a Caution (yellow card) or Send-off (red card) for misconduct.