1st/2nd Grade Rules (4v4)
1st/2nd Grade · 4v4Quick Reference
| Format | 4v4 (no goalie) |
|---|---|
| Ball Size | 3 or 4 |
| Field | 25-35 yards × 15-25 yards |
| Goals | 4ft x 6ft |
| Game | Two 20-minute halves |
| Halftime | 3 min |
| Referee | Yes |
| Shin Guards | Required |
Overview
The 1st/2nd Grade program plays 4v4 with an appointed referee. Games consist of two 20-minute halves with a 3-minute halftime.
Players
- 4 players per side — no goalie
- Shin guards are required — provided by the coach
- Cleats are recommended but not required
- To limit kids sitting out, coaches may agree to play with a 5th player each
- Substitutions are unlimited and can occur at any time
Ball In and Out of Play
- Kick-offs, free kicks, goal kicks, and corner kicks are used to start or restart play
- Kick-ins and/or dribble-ins are also acceptable — no throw-ins
- Goal kicks and corner kicks should be taken in the general vicinity of the respective goal or corner
- All free kicks are indirect — the ball must be passed to another player before a shot on goal
Restarts After a Goal
- Opposing team starts with the ball at midfield
- Opponents must be at least 10 feet away from the ball on the restart
Goal Kicks
- Opposing team should line up on their side of the field (behind the midfield line) on all goal kicks
- Coaches and referees need to enforce this on every occasion
Important Rules
- No goalies — players who stand in front of their own goal should be encouraged to move. Coaches and referees should actively enforce this.
- No offside — but players who stand in front of the opposing goal should be encouraged to move. Coaches and referees should actively enforce this.
- No penalty kicks
- No heading — the ball should not be played with the head
Positions
At this age group, players should start to understand the general principles of positions. See the Formations page for recommended 4v4 lineups.
Players should not be rigidly restricted to positions, but we want them to start learning the difference between offensive and defensive roles.
Coaches & Parents
Together, coaches and parents are expected to create and promote a fun and safe environment for the players.
Issues with fields, parents, coaches, players, and/or referees must be reported to the trustees at MTLsoccer@gmail.com.