REC LEAGUE RULES AND AGE GROUPS

DC Soccer Club's Recreational Soccer league uses modified US Soccer rules to accommodate players at different stages of development, and are meant to enhance player development and enjoyment. These rules come from recommendations presented by the US Youth Soccer Association and are adapted by youth soccer clubs and leagues around the country. 


Specific Age Group Gameday Rules and Reminders

AGE Groups
Age Game Format Team Size Team Max Practices (mins per week) Game Length (mins x periods) Ball Size Referee Throw Ins Offside
Pre-K Plus 4 v 4 6 to 8 8 40 on gamedays 5 x 3 3 Coaches No; Continuous play No
Kinder 4 v 4 6 to 8 8 15 on gamedays 8 x 4 3 Coaches No; Continuous play No
1st 4 v 4 6 to 8 8 Encouraged 12 x 4 3 Coaches No; Continuous play No
2nd 5 v 5 8 to 10 10 Encouraged 12 x 4 3 Some, plus Coaches Liberal throw ins No
3rd 7 v 7 11 to 14 14 60 25 x 2 4 Yes Yes, 2 tries allowed Only if obvious
4th 7 v 7 11 to 14 14 60 25 x 2 4 Yes Yes, 2 tries allowed Yes, regular rules
5th 9 v 9 13 to 16 16 60 25 x 2 4 Yes Yes, regular rules Yes, regular rules
6th 9 v 9 16 to 18 18 60 30 x 2 * (if field time allows) 4 Yes Yes, regular rules Yes, regular rules
7th 9 v9 16 to 18 18 60 30 x 2 * (if field time allows) 5 Yes Yes, regular rules Yes, regular rules
8th 9 v 9 18 18+ 60 30 x 2 * (if field time allows) 5 Yes Yes, regular rules Yes, regular rules
HS (9-12) 11 v 11 22 22+ 60 35 x 2 5 Yes Yes, regular rules Yes, regular rules

NOTE: Heading is permitted starting in the sixth grade.