Question Number: 25461

League Specific 9/19/2011

RE: REC Under 6

Chris of Rancho Cucamonga, CA US asks...

I have been reffing for two years now and have never reffed a U6 game before (no goalie). But since I was the only ref available I just went with it.

My question is on the goal area (the semi circle) There of course is no goalie but what are the rules for the defenders? Do they just have to stay out of the semi circle. I noticed how one team just planted three players around the semi circle to deflect shots and stayed there the whole game. I encouraged them to move away from the goal but I'm not sure even if they are doing anything wrong.

Are there minimum spacing away from the semi circle?

Thanks

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

These questions would be addressed in the league local rule modifications. Everyone seems to have their own idea of how best to run U6, so there is no one way of doing it.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Chris
These questions can only be answered by the competition organisers and the local rules.
In U10 games and below it is about fun and the rules should reflect the fun element.
Just as an aside. While I applaud your desire to encourage the players to participate fully as a referee your only role is to deal with safety and the laws.
I have done many games where very young players have been coached to win rather than to have fun. I have had to bite my lip on occasions so as to not get involved in advice which some can take exception to. If players are doing nothing wrong then so be it.