U12 Game Format & Rules

Game Format

Play is conducted 9 vs. 9, including a goalkeeper.
A size 4 ball is used.
Coaches, parents, and supporters are NOT permitted on the pitch during play.

Game Duration

Two 30‑minute periods
Halftime: 5–8 minutes

Substitutions

Substitutions may be made at the midline only.
The ball must be out of play, and players must check in with the referee before entering.

Unlimited substitutions may be made:

After a goal
At halftime
When a player is injured

Additional substitution rules:

The team in possession may substitute on:
- A throw‑in
- A goal kick
The team not in possession may substitute on a throw‑in or goal kick only if the team in possession is also substituting.
No substitutions are allowed on corner kicks.

Slide Tackles

Slide tackles are permitted, but will be evaluated critically.
- Slide tackles are strongly discouraged, and improper or dangerous execution will be penalized.

Offside

A player is offside if they are:

In the opponent’s half of the field, and
Ahead of the ball, and
Closer to the opponent’s goal than two defenders (one may be the goalkeeper), and
Actively involved in the play

Advantage

The referee may allow play to continue after a foul if:

The fouled team retains possession, and
Gains or maintains an attacking opportunity

Dangerous Play

A “dangerous play” is called when a player’s action puts any player—including themselves—at risk of injury.
The referee may stop play and award the appropriate restart.

Ball In & Out of Play

The ball is out of play only when it has completely crossed the boundary line.
A player may stand outside the field and still legally play the ball if the ball remains within the boundaries.

Handling

A handling offense occurs when, in the referee’s judgment:

A player deliberately uses their hand or arm to play, carry, strike, or control the ball, or
The action provides a clear advantage

The referee may consider:

Whether the hand moved toward the ball, or
The ball moved toward the hand

Note: The goalkeeper can commit a handling offense if outside the penalty area or in certain restricted situations.

Mercy Rule

To encourage sportsmanship:

If a team is trailing by 4 goals or more, the winning team must remove one player.
If the goal margin decreases below 4, the removed player may return.

Scoring & Reporting

The referee keeps the score.
The winning coach must report the score to the commissioner by the end of the day.

Sideline Setup

- Teams sit on separate halves of the same sideline
- Parents/supporters must stay on the opposite sideline
- Parents/supporters may NOT sit behind the goals

Season Information

This age group participates in a tournament during both the Fall and Spring seasons.
All players in both divisions must wear official GSA uniforms.