Question Number: 28873

League Specific 10/20/2014

RE: Rec

Ronnie of Marion , Sc Us asks...

In our 8u, during 2nd quarter our 'bigger kids' have to be on defense line at the goal so that the little ones get a chance to play. We were told our 'big kids' could go up to mid field to block and kick. But if it came to them on the line at the goal and they have complete control over it they can run it all the way down field to try to make a goal. Is this so, bc no one seems to know the rules in our 8u league. Thanks for any help!!

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Ronnie
Way too complicated for Under 8. This is about FUN not about managing the game from an adult perspective. Anyway these are not rules that any referee can enforce but rather the best that can happen is that coaches manage the young players as best they can so that every player gets a chance to play.
If there are enough players available maybe teams could be organised on size and biological age rather than birthdates if it is such a big issue.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Ronnie,
At the u 8 level it behooves me to ask just how is a 7 year old able to process all of this ?? 5 kids on a 50 by 25 yard field? Just let the kids play with the ball. If you have some bigger guys or more aggressive players match them against the other team's bigger or aggressive guys! Match up the daisy pickers, just sort it out as a way of making the game fun for them. The laws are for 11 aside this age its all about freedom! You can introduce concepts like the triangle and forward and back, deep and wide as they progress but to arbitrarily stifle creative play is a disservice to them and the game! I believe the AYSO has a decent philosophy and approach as well as guidelines explaining the u little programs. I am unsure as to the quality or knowledgably of those refereeing the youth at this level but hopefully they work with the coaches to maximize fun and safety. I encourage you to join the Kids zone and accept the safe haven concepts
http://www.ayso.org/
Cheers