12U Coach Information 

Practice (Training Session): Twice per week

Warm-Up & Stretch: 10 minutes 

Introducing a Technique: 15 minutes 

Skill-Based Training Game: 20 minutes. Activities and games that utilize the skill being taught are the  most effective ways for players to improve their skills. Attempt to utilize at least two different activities  or games. 

The Field: The field size for 12U games is 80 yards long, 55 yards wide (max). 

The Markings: (don’t worry we do this for you!). 

• Halfway line – the width of the field, marked equidistant between the goal lines.
• Center circle – with an eight-yard radius in the center of the field.
• Corner arcs – with a one-yard radius at each corner of the field.
• Goal area – in front of each goal measuring 5 x 12 yards.
• Penalty area – in front of each goal measuring 14 x 36 yards.
• Penalty mark – ten yards from the goal line.
• Penalty arc – extending in an eight-yard radius from the penalty mark.

Goals: Maximum six and a half feet high and eighteen feet wide. 

Ball: Size 4 

Players: 9 per team; one of which is a goalkeeper. 12 maximum on roster.  Substitutions are between periods, at halftime and for injuries.  Playing time is a minimum of two periods per game and no player should play four periods until everyone has played three.   No players are allowed to head the ball.

Player Equipment: Shoes and shin guards, covered by the socks at all practice and game activities. Soccer shoes, tennis shoes, or similar type athletic shoes are recommended. The type and condition of  cleated shoes must be inspected for safety before use. 

Duration of Game: Four 15-minute periods. Halftime break of 5 -10 minutes.

Coach Techniques: 

∙ Dribbling 

∙ Inside of the foot-ball control 

∙ Sole of the foot-ball control 

∙ Top of the thigh-ball control 

∙ Instep Kick 

∙ Inside of the foot-push pass 

∙ Throw-In 

∙ Tackling – Front Block (NOT slide  tackling) 

∙ Goal Keeping 

Knowledge: 

∙ What is in and out of play

∙ Corner kick 

∙ Goal kick 

∙ Penalty kick 

∙ Don’t kick or trip others ∙ Don’t hold or push others ∙ No handling of the ball 

Objectives of the Game 

Principles of Play 

12U Online Training Course, Safe Haven and Concussion Training: http://www.aysou.org 

Start of Play: A kick-off in the middle of the field.

Fouls & Misconduct: Opponents must be eight yards from the ball on restart kicks. Referees will work  cooperatively with the coaches and eliminate the need for yellow and red cards. 

Referee: AYSO certified Regional Referees or higher are required for 12U and older games. The referee  should briefly explain any infringements to the player(s) and encourage proper play and sporting behavior. As  with all games, every effort should be made to keep the game moving and free from stoppages for doubtful  infractions. Let them play and enjoy the game!