Helping kids understand the rules of soccer is just as essential as helping them learn how to dribble, kick and pass the soccer ball. Soccer rules can be complicated, but you can help kids understand them and become better players by keeping it simple and teaching the basic rules of the game.
No Hands
The illegal use of hands is one of the most basic rules of soccer, but one to which kids might have trouble adapting. It is illegal to use the hands or arms to control, bat down, or otherwise intentionally contact the ball. Unintentional contact by the hands or arms, such as the ball deflecting off a hand or arm, is not a violation if judged unintentional by the referee. The goalie is an exception to this rule in most cases. The goalie may use his hands to deflect shots or passes by the opposing team. However, the goalie may not use his hands to handle a pass from his own teammate; he must use his feet.
Out of Bounds
A ball kicked out of bounds is awarded to the team who did not touch the ball last. Players only have to wait for the sideline judge to point his flag or hand in the direction of which team is awarded the ball to throw the ball in. They do not have to wait for a line judge or referee to hand them the ball. The player must use both hands to throw the ball and have both feet on the ground when the ball is thrown.
Corner Kick
When the defending team kicks or deflects the ball out of bounds on the end line of the goal they are defending, the other team receives the ball at the corner closest to where the ball went out of bounds for a corner kick.
Foul
Players are not allowed to push, trip, kick or hold another player. Kids must learn proper body control in order to avoid fouling. Players are allowed some body contact, including bumping and jostling. It is up to the referee to determine if body contact warrants a foul. Fouls that are excessive may be penalized by a red card, which disqualifies a player, or a yellow card. Two yellow cards also equal disqualification.
Free Kick
If a player fouls or a team violates, the opposing team is awarded a free kick. Indirect free kicks must touch another player before going in the goal. A direct kick may go directly in the goal.
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