F.C. STRIKE | COLLEGE STATION SOCCER CLUB

U14 CSSC Rules

As we gear up for the U14 season, it’s essential to understand the key CSSC specifications that will shape our team’s experiences on the pitch. Here is a summarized list of the comparison between the CSSC’s U14 Soccer Rules and FIFA’s Laws of the Game:

Comparison of CSSC’s U14 Soccer Rules with FIFA’s Laws of the Game

Soccer’s governing body, FIFA, has established standard Laws of the Game that oversee soccer matches worldwide. These 17 laws detail all elements of the game, from the field’s dimensions to how the game is conducted. For younger players on Team Strike in the College Station Soccer Club, these rules are adapted to suit their developmental needs. Here is a summarized list of the comparison between the CSSC’s U14 Soccer Rules and FIFA’s Laws of the Game:

  1. Field of Play: The field is adjusted to be 40-60 yards wide and 60-80 yards long for U14 games.
  2. The Ball: U14 games utilize a size 5 ball, consistent with FIFA’s rules.
  3. Number of Players & Roster Size: U14 matches are played 8v8, with rosters up to 12 players.
  4. Goal Size: U14 games use either 7ft x 21ft or 6ft x 18ft goal sizes.
  5. Player’s Equipment: Players are required to wear shin guards covered by socks. Uniform adjustments may be made if team colors are too similar.
  6. Match Officials: U14 games typically have only one referee.
  7. Match Duration: U14 matches consist of two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime break.
  8. Playing Time: Each player in U14 games is guaranteed to play at least half of each game, barring illness, injury, or disciplinary issues.
  9. Game Start and Restart: A kickoff is required at each half and after each goal.
  10. Ball In/Out of Play and Scoring: The U14 rules align with FIFA’s.
  11. Offside: The offside rule in U14 games is consistent with FIFA standards.
  12. Fouls and Misconduct: U14 games adhere to FIFA’s fouls and misconduct laws, with age-appropriate penalties.
  13. Free Kicks and Penalty Kicks: U14 games follow FIFA’s rules for free and penalty kicks.
  14. Throw-Ins, Goal Kicks, Corner Kicks: U14 games apply FIFA’s laws for these game actions.
  15. Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from being behind the goal line. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents.
  16. Substitutions: A team may substitute players at specific times, with referee’s approval.
  17. Penalty Kicks: Awarded for specific offenses inside the penalty area.
  18. Direct and Indirect Free Kicks: Awarded for severe offenses and all other fouls, respectively.
  19. Goal Kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area.
  20. Slide Tackling: Banned in CSSC play.
  21. Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats, and soccer socks.
  22. Practices: Prior to the first game, 4 practices are allowed. After the first game, two practices per week are allowed.
  23. CSSC Card Policy for Players and Coaches: Specific consequences for yellow and red cards apply for players and coaches.
  24. Appeals: Coaches may file an appeal if a red card is received.

These rules aim to make the game safer, more enjoyable, and developmentally suitable for U14 players, while keeping the spirit of the game consistent with FIFA’s intention.