U12 soccer, also known as under 12 soccer, is typically played by children who are eleven or twelve years old. The rules for U12 soccer are more advanced than U6, U8, and U10 soccer, but still simplified to accommodate the young age and skill level of the players. Here are some common rules for U12 soccer:
- Field Size: The field size is typically around 50 yards wide and 80 yards long.
- Number of Players: Each team usually has nine to eleven players on the field at a time, including a goalkeeper.
- Ball Size: The ball size used in U12 soccer is usually a size 4 ball.
- Game Length: The game length is typically two 30-minute halves with a five-minute halftime break.
- Offside Rule: The offside rule is enforced in U12 soccer. Players must not be in an offside position when the ball is passed to them and be involved in active play.
- Kick-Off: The game starts with a kick-off at the center of the field. The opposing team must be at least 10 yards away from the ball during the kick-off.
- Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is generally allowed in U12 soccer, but players must do so safely and avoid endangering other players.
- Throw-Ins: When the ball goes out of bounds, it is returned to play with a throw-in. The opposing team must be at least five yards away from the player taking the throw-in.
- Goal Kicks: If the ball goes out of bounds over the goal line and was last touched by the attacking team, a goal kick is awarded to the defending team. The goal kick is taken from anywhere inside the penalty box.
- Corner Kicks: If the ball goes out of bounds over the goal line and was last touched by the defending team, a corner kick is awarded to the attacking team. The corner kick is taken from the corner of the field nearest to where the ball went out of bounds.
- Penalty Kicks: Penalty kicks are awarded for serious fouls committed inside the penalty box. The penalty kick is taken from the penalty spot, which is 12 yards away from the goal.
- Substitutions: Substitutions can be made at any time during the game, usually with the referee’s permission.
It’s worth noting that rules may vary between different U12 soccer leagues and organizations.
