Question Number: 21483

League Specific 6/6/2009

RE: rec Under 9

brian jensen of Jesup, iowa usa asks...

does U8 allow slide kicks? I called it legal as long as the player makes contact with the ball first and no contact with the opposing player. a coach said it was illegal at U8. I cannot find anywhere in my FIFA rule book that would support that. Thank you, great website

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

The LOTG list possible youth modifications in the very front of the book. There is no limit on whether or not any age can engage in slide tackling. In fact, you will find no reference to slide tackling anywhere in the Laws!

The local youth association has rules for their leagues. That is where you will find such modifications. If you accept those games, you agree to referee according to what they require, however ridiculous or unsupportable it may seem.

Having said that, there is nothing that keeps you from using common sense, as is demonstrated in your question. When a coach makes a comment like that, you agree. 'Yes, sir. I am aware of that rule.' Or, in your case, 'Thank you, sir. I will check it out.' No sense in arguing about it.

What is a slide kick? What, for that matter, is a slide tackle? I'll wager that term is not defined in their rules, and as such what it is, or more importantly, what it is not, depends on what you see and how you define it. The facts will be decided by you, it is your game to call.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Our local rec association does not allow slide tackling below U12; it defines it as dangerous play. But as Ref Maloney states, they do not define what is meant by a slide tackle. It certainly is not just 'playing on the ground', no matter how much some coaches or parents think it is! It is up to the referee to decide if the action is unsafe or not.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Most places I know of do not allow slide tackles at U8. Check with your association

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

A slide tackle like any tackle must be done as to NOT endanger the safety of an opponent. Usually wee ones lack the timing and skill to do this type of tackle with any true success. Often an association by-law addresses this and in fact disallows slide tackles much the same as senior levels where a harsh fall taken is a good chance of not being able to get back up. A slide tackle properly done with the knee bent back on the trail leg is a single foot in with a straight leg where the sole of the foot pushes the ball away from the feet of the opponent as the player slides along the ground. Those that think two foot, jumping in, sweeping the opponent, or straight on tackles that force the player to go through the opponent or over top are not realistic slide tackles. As a coach I generally dislike slide tackles as they put you on the ground out of play and the chances of conceding a foul are greatly enhanced. On the feet, hips to target, jockey, slide tackles are in my opinion a last desperate resort of a beaten defender.
Cheers