Format

There are many variations on the 4 v 4 game, but they all emphasize short, accurate passing, ball skills in tight quarters, lots of off the ball movement and quick transition, all key elements to success on the larger pitch. A 4 v 4 competition is a terrific way to team build at the beginning of a season.

This year's Soccer Blast will feature the traditional 4 v 4 game, with pug goals, no goalies, on field 30 yards wide and 40 yards long. Each game will be 25 minutes long, running time. See the Rules below.

The format for ALL DIVISIONS will be a non-results, round robin. Each team will be guaranteed three games. We will do our best to group each team's games in either the morning or the afternoon.

Rules

FIFA and US Youth Soccer Association rules of the game apply with the following modifications:

1. The Field of play will be approximately 30 yards wide and forty yards long. Pug goals will be used.
2. Four players per side.
3. No goalies. Pug goals will be protected by a no-entry, semi-circle.
4. If the ball enters the semi-circle and is touched by a defensive player, then a goal will be awarded. If an offensive player touches it inside the semi-circle, a goal kick is awarded.
5. Unlimited, rolling substitutions. Players exit and enter at midfield.
6. Game time will be 25 minutes, running time. Each team will be guaranteed three games.
7. Cones are considered "in."
8. NO offsides.
9. NO throw-ins. Kick-ins only. Goals may not be scored directly off a kick-in.
10. Direct kicks are unobstructed kicks at the goal, but must be taken no less than fifteen yards from the goal. If a direct kick foul occurs within 15 yards of the goal, then the referee will move the ball back until the kick is fifteen yards away from the goal.
11. A kickoff may move forward or backward. A goal may be scored off a kickoff.
12. The defense must allow a five yard cushion on all indirect kicks, corner kicks and kick-ins.
13. All ties stand. This is a non-results, round-robin event for all divisions.
14. Red cards result in automatic suspension for one game. The Tournament Director has the right to increase the penalty for severe fouls.
15. Each game will be officiated by one referee.
16. After a goal is scored, the other team starts play at the center of the field on the whistle.