How many players are on the field?

All divisions play 6 vs. 6, including a goalkeeper. Coed teams must have at least two female players on the field at all times.

What equipment is required?

Players must wear:

• Flat-soled indoor shoes or turf shoes
• Matching team jerseys
• Shin guards covered by socks

Jewelry is not permitted during play.

How long are games?

• Most divisions: Two 25-minute halves with a running clock
• U8: Four 10-minute quarters

Games start at their scheduled time regardless of player readiness.

Are substitutions allowed?

Yes! Unlimited substitutions are allowed during the game. Players entering the field must wait until the exiting player has completely left the field and all substitutions must occur through the designated gates.

Can the goalkeeper punt the ball?

No. Punts, drop kicks, and volleys are not allowed. Goalkeepers may throw the ball or kick it only after it is completely settled on the ground.

Is slide tackling allowed?

No. Slide tackling is prohibited for field players. Goalkeepers may slide to make a save but may not slide tackle opponents.

Can players use the walls?

Players may use one hand on the wall for balance. Using both hands on the wall to gain an advantage is a foul. The ball may be played off of the wall.

Are bicycle kicks allowed?

No. Bicycle kicks and other overhead kicks are prohibited for player safety.

How are games restarted?

Indoor soccer uses several restart methods, including kick-offs, free kicks, goal kicks, corner kicks, and dropped balls. Opponents must stay at least 10 feet away during all restarts.

What happens when a foul occurs inside the penalty area?

Not every foul inside the penalty area results in a penalty kick.

• Fouls in the goal box and certain serious fouls result in a penalty kick.
• Many other fouls inside the penalty area restart with a direct free kick from the penalty spot.

What cards are used in indoor soccer?

Blue Card (2 minutes)

• Unsporting behavior
• Substitution violations
• Structure violations

Yellow Card (5 minutes)

• Reckless fouls
• Dissent
• Persistent infringement
• Deliberate handball

Red Card (Ejection)

• Violent conduct
• Fighting
• Abusive language
• Second yellow card

Teams must play short-handed during time penalties.

What happens if the ball hits the ceiling or overhead structures?

Deliberate contact with overhead structures results in a Blue Card and a 2-minute penalty. Deflections do not result in a violation.

Are spectators allowed on the field or track?

No. Players and coaches must remain in designated team areas, spectators must remain in the bleachers, and no items are allowed on the track around the arena.

Where can I get first aid assistance?

First aid supplies are available at the front desk or through the building supervisor. Players with blood on their uniform must leave the field before returning to play.

Who can I contact if I have questions about the rules?

Any situation not covered by the rules will be determined by the Bluffton YMCA Sports Director programs@blufftonymca.net

Referee decisions regarding gameplay and rule interpretation are final.