METHUEN YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION U9 AND U10 INTOWN LAWS OF THE GAME

1. No abusive language is to be used at anytime towards the referee, by coaches, players, or spectators.

§ If a coach or player uses abusive language, stop play and give them a verbal warning.

§ If the abusive language continues ask the coach or player to leave the game and the field of play. If they refuse to leave the field then abandon the game.

§ If a parent uses abusive language, stop the game and notify the coach. If this continues and the coach does not stop the parent abandon the field. Do not talk to the parents!

§ Call the Referee Director immediately upon this type of occurrence.

2. No Slide Tackling. If a player slide tackles stop the game (restart with an indirect kick).

§ First slide is a verbal warning to player and coach.

§ Second slide is a verbal warning to player and coach.

§ Third slide the player is out for the rest of the period.

§ Fourth slide the player is out for the remainder of that game.

3. If a player constantly or consistently fouls, stop the game (restart with an indirect kick):

§ First foul is a verbal warning to player and coach.

§ Second foul is a verbal warning to player and coach.

§ Third foul the player is out for the rest of the period.

§ Fourth foul the player is out for the remainder of that game.

4. ALL KICKS ARE INDIRECT! NO DIRECT KICKS!

5. There will be OFFSIDES starting at the 14-yard line down to the goal line.

6. Allow two opportunities for throw-ins.

7. Allow one opportunity for corner kicks.

8. The games should be 6v6 which includes the keeper.

9. No goal kick, goalkeeper throw, or goalkeeper punt can travel past the half line (midfield) in the air. If this happens, then an indirect kick is awarded to the opposing team nearest the spot where the ball crossed the half way line.

10. Any foul that occurs inside the 14-yard line, award an indirect kick on the 14-yard line closest to where the foul occurred. Remind the opposing team that they can set up a wall.

11. No penalty kicks shall be awarded.

12. If a player is injured, stop play immediately. Injury stoppage of play, results in a drop ball. Do not touch the player call the coach out immediately. Remember: Safety first is very important.

13. Games are 2 – 25 minute halves.  

14. Any goal kick or free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own 14-yard line must clear the 14-yard line before ANY player can touch the ball. If any player touches the ball inside the 14-yard line the kick is retaken.

15. Substitutions:

§ At the 5 minute mark as called by the referee.

§ No substitutions on the fly.