1. The Number of Players (3)
Online Training Script:
Welcome to U.S. Soccer’s online training for the Grade 9 Referee Course.
Training for this course is specific to preparing officials for the small sided and recreational youth game.
This presentation focuses on Law 3 – The Number of Players.
U.S. Soccer Federation Referee Program
Grade 9 Referee Course
Small Sided and Recreational Youth Training

2. Players Laws of the Game Maximum 11 Minimum 7 Must have a goalkeeper
Small Sided Games
Local Rules of Competition
CHECK BEFORE THE GAME!
Online Training Script:
The number of players allowed during small sided and recreation youth games will depend on the local rules of competition.
For example, under 6 leagues may play with only 3 players and no goalkeeper, while under ten leagues may play with 5 field players and a goalkeeper.
If goalkeepers are used, they must have on a different color jersey from the rest of their teammates.
The number of players allowed can vary significantly so it is important for officials to make sure they know the local rules of competition before play begins.
Classroom Instructor Talking Points:

3. These aren’t the same thing: Players Substitutes Substituted Player
Online Training Script:
The number of players allowed during small sided and recreation youth games will depend on the local rules of competition.
For example, under 6 leagues may play with only 3 players and no goalkeeper, while under ten leagues may play with 5 field players and a goalkeeper.
If goalkeepers are used, they must have on a different color jersey from the rest of their teammates.
The number of players allowed can vary significantly so it is important for officials to make sure they know the local rules of competition before play begins.
Classroom Instructor Talking Points:
Explain what each of these designations indicate. Don’t spend a lot of time on substituted players – just tell them what it means and that they will see it in materials. But it’s not something that is generally an issue at the levels we do.

4. Substitution – When? Laws of the Game Any stoppage of play
“Local” Games
Subject to rules of competition
Often applied rule:
Your own throw in
Any goal kick
After a goal
Start of 2nd half/overtime
Injury stoppage
Online Training Script:
Officials need to make sure that they understand when and how substitutions will be handled in the game.
Small sided and recreational youth games will often allow unlimited substitution.
The local rules of competition will outline how many and when substitutions are allowed so officials will need to know these rules
Classroom Instructor Talking Points:

5. Review Question
The number of players allowed during small sided and recreational youth games will depend on what?
Laws of the Game
Local rules of competition
Online Training Script:
Classroom Instructor Talking Points: