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Small-Sided Games, Rules, and Spectator Expectations

Today's countdown topic covers the Spokane Rapids small-sided program, game rules, and spectator expectations.

Small-Sided Program

As a US Club member organization, Spokane Rapids has adopted a modified set of the US Soccer Federation Player Development Initiatives (PDI's).  This includes modified rules in small-sided games for our U12 and younger divisions (9v9 and smaller).  We believe this is what is best for the players and their soccer development.  Playing with fewer players on the field means that players are more involved in play and provided with more opportunities for touches on the ball and overall player development.  Not only are there fewer players, but small-sided games also use smaller fields, goals and balls, shorter game times, and some different rules to optimize the game for younger players.

Rules of Play Summary

Age Field Size Center Circle Goal Box Goal Size Ball Size Total Players Keeper Game Length Play Time
U5 20 x 30 6 yds 6 yd line 4 x 6 3 4 N/A 4Q x 8 = 32 Min 50%
U6 20 x 30 6 yds 6 yd line 4 x 6 3 4 N/A 4Q x 8 = 32 Min 50%
U7 20 x 30 6 yds 6 yd Arc 4 x 6 3 4 N/A 4Q x 8 = 32 Min 50%
U8 30 x 40 8 yds 8 yd Arc 6 x 12 4 5 Yes 4Q x 10 = 40 Min 50%
U9 35 x 55 10 yds 12 yd box 6 x 18 4 7 Yes 2H x 25 = 50 Min 50%
U10 35 x 55 10 yds 12 yd box 6 x 18 4 7 Yes 2H x 25 = 50 Min 50%
U11 50 x 80 10 yds 16 yd box 7 x 21 4 9 Yes 2H x 30 = 60 Min 50%
U12 50 x 80 10 yds 16 yd box 7 x 21 4 9 Yes 2H x 30 = 60 Min 50%
U13/14 60 x 110 10 yds 18 yd box 8 x 24 5 11 Yes 2H x 30 = 60 Min 50%

More Information

Recreational Soccer Rules of Play

Fouls and Volunteer Referee Reference

Build Out Line

Spectator Expectations

The sidelines can be just as influential as the player's bench in the energy, enthusiasm, and outcome of a game. The Spokane Rapids has adopted a sideline etiquette policy for all spectators that encourages a positive, player-centered approach to each game. Please review the policy at the link below prior to the first games on Saturday. 

Sideline Etiquette Policy

Where do I sit?

  • If your child is playing in the 2014-2017 divisions, each team will take one side of the field.
  • If your child is playing in the 2006-2013 divisions, players and spectators are required to sit on opposing sides of the field.
  • At all ages, spectators may not be behind the goals or along the goal line.
  • Please sit at least 5 feet back from the sidelines to allow adequate room for referees to move up and down the field during the game.