5U / 6U Guidelines – Preschool & Kindergarten

A. THE FIELD

• Dimensions: Maximum 30 yards long and 15 yards wide (30 yds x 15 yds).
• Markings: Distinctive lines not required. Field can be marked using 10 flat pro-cones and four regular cones.
• Goals: Maximum 4 feet high and 6 feet wide (4′ x 6′).

B. THE BALL

Size three (3)

C. NUMBER OF PLAYERS

• Maximum number of players on the field at any time: three (3); no goalkeepers.
• Maximum number of players on roster: five (5).
• Substitutions: Between periods and at halftime.
• Playing time: Minimum of 50% of the total playing time for each player and 75% when possible. No one should play four periods until everyone has played three.

D. PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT

• Footwear: Tennis shoes or soft-cleated soccer shoes
• Shin guards: MANDATORY for both practices and games
• Uniform:  As issued by the region – NO names or alterations

E. REFEREE

The referee could be either a:

• registered referee.
• youth referee.
• coach  (each team coach or assistant should referee one half).

Referees should emphasize:

• fun
• fairness
• safety
• learning

NOTE: Referees should briefly explain any infringements to the player(s) and help players with instructions. All referees must be registered AYSO volunteers.

F. DURATION OF GAME

• 30 MINUTES TOTAL, 2 X 15-MINUTE HALVES (with a one minute break about midway through each for substitutions) (this game length is different from what’s printed in the Coaches Manual).
• Halftime break of five to ten minutes.

G. THE START OF PLAY

The game should be started with a free kick in the middle of the field. The coaches should determine which team starts the game and the opposing team should start the second half. The referee will ensure that opponents are at least five (5) yards from the spot of the free kick.

H. BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY

• When the whole ball passes over the touch line, either on the ground or in the air, it should be thrown in by a player of the opposite team from where the ball crossed the line.
• When the whole ball passes over the goal line (not into the goal), it should be kicked into play by a player of the opposing team from where the ball crossed the line.

I. METHOD OF SCORING

No change from regular play. Score not kept.

J. FOULS & MISCONDUCT

• Direct free kick for all fouls, with the opponents five yards away
• Referee should explain ALL infractions

Additional AYSO/Region Rules:

• Region standings are not recorded.
• Game scores are not recorded.
• Parents, coaches, and players from both teams exchange handshakes before and/or after each game.
• All players receive participation awards.
• No individual should be allowed to run the length of the field except participants of the game.
• Parents and coaches should encourage players, but not coach or instruct during game time.
• Spectators are not allowed behind either goal or within three (3) yards outside the touchline.