AYSO 8U Youth Soccer
The 8U program is specifically developed to introduce soccer to children in a fun and safe environment, while allowing them to continue to expand their skills. The program is setup to have a short practice once or twice a week at a local park or school, followed by a Saturday game. There is no post season at this age level.
| Season Length | The season runs from September until the middle of November. Spring season is March through May |
| Time Commitment | Practice approximately 60 minutes once or twice a week (depending on coach's schedule), followed by a Saturday game lasting approximately 40 minutes. |
| Equipment | Each player will be given a uniform which consists of a jersey, shorts, and socks. The player must provide soccer cleats, shin guards and a size 3 soccer ball. |
| Certification Required | All volunteers must be registered AYSO Volunteers, and all coaches must be Safe Haven Certified.
8U Coach Certification
Safe Haven Certification
CDC Concussion Awareness Certification
Background Investigation and Clearance
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| Game Format | The game is played on a small field in a 4 vs. 4 format with NO goalkeeper. The game is played with 2 20-minute halves. Substitutions are done at each quarter (10 minutes), and there is a short break after the second quarter. This level introduces referees who officiate games. This level is designed to allow maximum touches to the ball. |
| Team Formation | The teams are formed via a draft. The player ratings are provided to all coaches prior to the draft. There are no more than 7 players on a team. |
| Other | When the ball leaves the touchline it can be either thrown-in or kicked-in. At this level, the referee does not enforce offside nor hand out foul red and yellow cards. Other fouls are handled as learning experiences and are strictly indirect kicks. There are no goalies at this division level. |
| Contact | Division Coordinator: Contact information under the board member tab |
8U Division