Description of the "Build out Line"

Build out lines for 10 and under and 9 and under games per US Soccer, beginning Fall 2016:

  • Build out lines should be equidistant between the penalty area line and halfway line.  Paint (solid or dashed mark) is preferred but disc cones can also be acceptable.
  • For the 7v7 game, the field will include build out lines to promote individual skills and facilitate game flow. 
  • The build out line is used to promote playing the ball out of the back in an un-pressured setting. 
  • When the goalkeeper has the ball, either during play or from a goal kick, the opposing team must move behind the build out line. 
  • Once the opposing team is behind the build out line, the goalkeeper can pass, throw or roll the ball to a teammate. 
  • Punting the ball is not allowed as this would defeat the purpose of the build out line and reduces the opportunity to play out of the back in an unpressured setting. 
  • After the ball is put into play, the opposing team can then cross the build out line and play can resume as normal.  
  • The build out line will also be used to denote where offside offenses can be called. Players cannot be penalized for an offside offense between the halfway line and the build out line. Players can be penalized for an offside offense between the build out line and goal line.

As a reminder, beginning Fall 2016, this age group will play 7v7 rather than 6v6.  Two, 25 minute halves.  6x18 goals (or 6.5 x 18.5 goals).  Approx 60x45 yard field.  The build out line will likely reduce some of the "kick and run" plays.