The 5U Program

Master Coach Instruction. Jamboree Soccer. No Set Teams. Short-Side Games at end of Instruction.

Field
Dimensions: Maximum 30 by 15 yards. Halfway line the width of the field, marked equidistant between the goal lines (optional). Goals: Maximum 6 feet by 4 feet, or portable goals as available. The Region shall provide fields as close to this ideal as practical, given space availability.

Duration of Game
20 minutes played in two halves of 10 minutes each with a short break at quarter to make substitutions and get a drink, with a half-time break of 5 minutes.

The Ball
Size three.

Number of Players
Maximum number of players on the field at any time: three, no goalkeeper. Maximum number of players on the team: four. Separate girls and boys teams will be formed.

Playing Time
A minimum of three quarters is required for each player. It is recommended no one plays four quarters until everyone has played three quarters.

Organization Each child will have a parent (or other adult) working with them on the field. A “master coach” will lead each session. The master coach will introduce and demonstrate each activity as well as organize and facilitate the games.

Session Schedule
10 minutes: Group warm-up and activities.
5 minutes: Water break.
20 minutes: Training activities and games.
10 minutes: Team organizing and water break.
20 minutes: 3v3 game.
During the game one parent from each team is selected to act as the game supervisor for the week.

Changes from FIFA play

Start of Play
No change from regular play except that opponents must be five yards from the center mark while kick-off is in progress.

Offside
No offside is called.

Fouls and Misconducts
If play must be stopped for any reason, begin with a free kick. Award the free kick to whichever team deserves it.

Free Kicks
All kicks are direct free kicks. The opposing team should be at least five yards from the ball.

Throw-In
Whether the throw-in is properly taken or not, let it go. Proper technique will be taught later.

Other Information

Region standings are not recorded.
Game scores are not kept.
Parents and players from both teams exchange handshakes before and/or after the game.

National Guidelines

AYSO National link