Division-Specific Adjustments for Region 18

Additional 7/8U Adjustments

• Coin-toss, game start: Calling for captains and performing the coin toss is optional. To save time, allow visiting team to take first kick-off, and choose sides based on where the teams naturally warm up.
• Throw-ins: 7U uses pass-ins from the touchline instead of a throw-in. At 8U, throw-ins are required, but referees should be lenient with the form of the throw-in.
• Slide tackles: No slide tackles permitted for safety reasons. If a player slide tackles without contact, give a verbal warning. If there is contact, award an IFK to the opposing team.
• All kicks are indirect: This means no goal can be scored directly from the kickoff, goal kick, a restart following an infraction, or a pass-in (7U only). Also, there are no PKs; fouls in the penalty area should be moved to the point on the buildout line nearest the infraction.
• Goalkeeper safety: Referees should whistle early if a play might result in injury to a goal keeper. While Law 12.2 provides a rigorous definition of goalkeeper possession, referees should err on the side of safety.