Intro
Soccer has been called "the simplest game" in the world.
Maybe that is why it is also the most popular sport, worldwide.
The rulebook is called "The Laws of the Game", and although it changes slightly from year to year,
the game rules regarding field, ball, and goals remain the same.
The Basics
There are seventeen basic rules in soccer:
The first defines the field, which must be rectangular. The field size will be age-appropriate
(smaller fields for younger players, larger fields for older players, upto international matches
which are played on approximately an 80 x 120 yard field).
The second defines the ball, which must be spherical. Again, the size will be age-appropriate.
The third states that a team will have no more than 11 players, one being the goalie.
Fourth, teams must have matching uniforms (except the goalie), and contrast with the opposing team.
Fifth, says there will be a referee to enforce the rules and keep time.
The sixth, says there will be two linesmen (assistant referees), who will work separate
sidelines, and provide the head referee with advice during the game. Generally, they have flags.
Law seven states that games will be 2 equal halves or periods.
Age appropriate times are set, but are no more than 45 minutes per half.
Starts, Stops, & Restarts are covered by law eight.
A coin-toss prior to the start of the game, will decide which team starts with the ball,
and which side of the field they start on. (in other words, which goal they will defend).
Briefly, a kickoff in the center of the field starts each half, and after each goal scored.
The referee must blow the whistle for play to begin on a kickoff.
When the ball has gone out of play (law nine covers when a ball completely crosses a boundary,
and is determined to be out), play is restarted by goalkick, cornerkick, or throw-in (see below).
When a temporary stoppage without a foul, for example an injury, play is resumed by a drop-ball.
Law ten defines how and when a goal is awarded.
Law eleven is the famous offside rule, possibly the most misunderstood part of the game.
The twelfth law defines the infractions, fouls, and misconduct that may result in a penalty kick.
Thirteen states that the player taking a free kick may not touch the ball a second time
after putting it into play, until the ball has been touched by another player. It also defines
other infringements that may occur on a free kick, such as encroachment.
The fourteenth defines penalty kick procedures, such as the goalkeeper must be ready, on his line,
facing the opponent kicking, and between the posts. Other players positions outside the penalty box
and clearly identifying the shooter, are also covered.
Law fifteen covers throw-ins.
Law sixteen covers goal-kicks.
And law seventeen covers corner-kicks.
So, seventeen basic rules, make soccer what it is, the most enjoyable and popular sport in the world!
- The Field
- The Ball
- The Teams
- The Uniforms
- The Referee
- The Linesmen
- The Time
- Starts, Stops, & Restarts
- Out of Bounds
- Scoring a Goal
- Offsides
- Fouls & Misconduct
- Free Kicks
- Penalty Kicks
- Throw-ins
- Goal-kicks
- Corner-kicks
Summary
The Laws of the Game are based on common sense, and while there is room for interpretation,
the responsibility lies with the players and coaches themselves to teach and enforce fairplay
and sportsmanship on the field. Unsportsman-like behaviour should never be tolerated by
anyone connected with the team, players, coaches, and parents as well.
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