3rd-6th Grade Rules (7v7 / 9v9)
3rd/4th Grade · 7v7Quick Reference
| Format | 7v7 (includes goalie) |
|---|---|
| Ball Size | 4 or 5 |
| Field | 55-65 yards × 35-45 yards |
| Game | Two 25-minute halves |
| Halftime | 3 min |
| Referee | Yes |
| Shin Guards | Required |
Overview
Older age groups play on larger fields with goalies. The format depends on the age group:
| Age Group | Format | Leagues |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd/4th Grade | 7v7 (6 + goalie) | Sunday Coed, Sunday 3/5 Girls |
| 5th/6th Grade | 9v9 (8 + goalie) | Sunday Coed |
Games are two 25-minute halves with a 3-minute halftime.
A larger or smaller number of players can be used if agreed upon by both coaches and the referee. The referee has the deciding vote.
Players
- Shin guards are required — ask your coach if you need a pair
- Cleats are recommended but not required
- Substitutions are unlimited and can occur at any stoppage
Ball In and Out of Play
- Kick-offs, free kicks, goal kicks, and corner kicks are used to start or restart play
- Throw-ins are used when the ball goes out over the sideline
- In the first two weeks of the season, incorrect throw-ins are repeatable — coaches and referees should provide guidance
- Goal kicks and corner kicks should be taken in the general vicinity of the respective goal or corner if field lines are not apparent
Restarts
- Opponents must be at least 10 feet away from the ball on all restarts (except goal kicks)
- On goal kicks, the opposing team must return to their side of the field (behind the midfield line) — coaches and referees need to enforce this on every occasion
Heading
Players may not head the ball. Heading results in an indirect free kick for the opposing team. Coaches and referees need to enforce this on every occasion.
Important Rules
- No penalty kicks are mentioned in the standards
- No offside is mentioned in the standards
After the Game
- Teams and coaches must shake hands with the other players, coaches, and referees after the game
- The referee tracks the score and confirms the final result with each coach
- Final scores are reported to MTLsoccer@gmail.com by Sunday evening
Field Safety
- Fields are lined by the town; dimensions may vary slightly from the recommended 55-65 x 35-45 yards
- Corner flags are not required
- Goals must be anchored by sand bags (provided by the town)
- Referees and coaches are responsible for ensuring a safe playing field before kick-off
Coaches & Parents
Together, coaches and parents are expected to create and promote a fun and safe environment for the players.
Inappropriate conduct on or off the field will be addressed by MTL Trustees and board members. Issues must be reported to MTLsoccer@gmail.com.