GAME RULES

1. KICKOFF: The ball must be kicked forward and complete one revolution to be in play. (Run the kickoff again if this is not accomplished.) Once the ball is properly kicked-off, the kicker may not kick the ball again until it has come in contact with another player. This is also true for corner kicks, direct kicks, and indirect kicks.
2. All games are played with running time. The only exception to this rule is for serious injury. Free substitution should be used for minor injuries and time will not stop.
3. Each game will have four quarters, 10 minutes running time each quarter, with 5 minutes between quarters.
4. All players MUST wear their colored team shirts in order to play in the game. In case of cold or inclement weather, the child should wear his team shirt over whatever protective clothing is worn. The only exception to this rule is for the goalkeeper, who must wear a different colored shirt from the rest of his team and the opposing team.
5. One Coach or Assistant Coach from each team is permitted on the field. They will act as referees for the game, as well as give instructions to the players. Referee’s should position themselves to the side of the action. Additional coaches and assistant coaches must remain off the field, and in their team areas. One other coach, assistant or parent, may be positioned off the field by the goal keeper to provide support to the goalkeeper and fullbacks. Although coaches are expected to provide instructions while on the field they are asked not to over-direct the players. Part of the learning process is for the players to figure out (on their own) where they should be, who to pass to, etc. The coaches are there primarily to referee, as well as provide corrective instruction and positioning assistance, as well as moral support. Too much instruction during the game can be distracting and confusing and therefore should be minimized.
6. Possession of the ball by the goalkeeper with one hand constitutes a stoppage of the attack, and a change of possession. Goalkeeper safety should always be a major concern in this league.
7. The goalkeeper should not be penalized for taking more than 4 steps upon gaining possession of the ball. If he takes more than 4 steps, he should be told to return to the starting point, instructed on the proper number of steps allowed, and then punt or throw the ball. The goalkeeper may only use hands inside the penalty box area or a handball is called.
8. GOAL KICKS: Goal kicks may be taken by any player on the field from the kicking team. Opposing players must be out of the penalty box when the kick is taken, and the ball must completely pass outside of the penalty box when the kick is taken, before either team can touch the ball. Goal kick opportunities should be provided to all players during the course of the season.
9. THROW-INS: Improper throw-ins should also not be penalized by a change of possession. The player should be instructed with the proper throw-in technique and then allowed to retake the throw-in.
10. OFF-SIDES: Off-sides are not called in this league. Players in off-side positions are instructed on the rule and taught to move to an on-side position. The coaches of repeat offenders should be informed so that the can provide the proper instruction.
11. PENALTY SHOTS: Penalty shots are not used in this league. Defensive fouls committed in the penalty box are dealt with by moving the ball out of the box to a location near where the infraction occurred and a free kick taken from outside the box. Defenders may be positioned 10 yards in front of the ball as normally done on free kicks.
12. INDIRECT KICKS: Indirect kicks are called for dangerous plays.
13. DIRECT KICKS: Direct kicks are awarded as a result of pushing, intentional tripping and handballs. In all cases the player should be instructed at the time of infraction to insure the youngster understand the rule. On all direct kicks opposing players are positioned 10 yards away from the ball and may use their fists (positioned close to their body) to protect themselves from the ball.
14. CORNER KICKS: All corner kicks should be taken and the players instructed on the rule. It is recognized that most Pee Wee players won’t be able to kick the ball a great distance in to the field from the corners. As part of learning the game, however, they should be instructed on the proper execution of this aspect of the game. Re-kicks are not allowed.
15. SPORTSMANSHIP: All players and coaches must end game with line-up for handshake/high-five.