LAW 1: The Field of Play

 

A.     For 11 v 11 Play, any field conforming to IFAB regulations may be used.

B.     For Grades 5 & 6 9v9 Play:

The ideal field size for 9v9 is 70 x 50 yards, with a 14 x 34-yard penalty area. These are not rigid requirements.

Clearly visible dots or dotted lines may be used to mark the penalty areas to avoid excessive lining and confusion on regulation fields.

Penalty kicks will be taken from a point 10 yards directly in front of the midpoint of the goal

Intermediate goals of 18 ft wide by 6 ft high are recommended, but again this is not a rigid requirement.

 

C.     For Grades 3 & 4 7v7 Play

The ideal field size for 7v7 is 60 x 40 yards. This is not a rigid requirement, as some organizations will, because of limited space, have to play their games across the width of regulation fields. An acceptable range for field size is 50 to 70 yards long and 30 to 45 yards wide.

Penalty kicks will be taken from a point 8 yards directly in front of the midpoint of the goal.

The penalty area should be 12 yards deep and extend 12 yards to the outside from each goalpost. A separate goal area may, but need not, be marked. Clearly visible dots or dotted lines may be used to mark the penalty areas to avoid excessive lining and confusion on regulation fields.

Downsized goals will be used which should be approximately 12 ft wide by 6 ft high.

 

D.    For Grade 912 7v7 Play

There are several field dimension options available for this competition:

Standard 9v9 field (see B)

Touchline to touchline on a full-size field

Penalty Area to Penalty Area on a full-size field

Other configurations may be approved by the Division Director.

E.     Use of indoor fields

BAYS regular season and postseason games may be played indoors provided that: (a) the field dimensions conform to the recommended dimensions set forth in these match rules; (b) the playing surface is synthetic turf; and (c) the playing surface is not enclosed by boards or other physical obstructions. For regular season games, the home team shall be responsible for any rental costs.

F.     Spectators and players sidelines

The referee shall have the authority to designate where each team’s coaches and substitutes shall be located and where spectators shall be located. A maximum of three team officials, each wearing a valid Mass Youth coach’s credential, may be on the team sideline at any game.