Rules of the game

No Hands

The first rule of the game is simple: No Hands! 

The way this rule is explained is that a player cannot purposely use their hands, in other words, handle the ball. If a ball were to hit a players hand (fingertip to shoulder), this is not considered a hand ball.

The referee must determine if the incident were accidental or purposeful.

Kick-offs, Corner Kicks & Goal Kicks

A kick-off signifies the start of a soccer game. It also signifies the start of each new quarter and a new play, after a team has scored.

The players take their given positions on their own half of the field and the ball is placed in the center of the field.

The play can begin only after the referee blows the whistle. Once the ball is tapped or kicked, it is considered "in play".

A corner kick or goal kick is taken when the ball leaves the field across a goal line. If the offensive team kicks it out, play is restarted with a goal kick. If the defensive team kicks it out, play is restarted with a corner kick.

The goal kick is taken from anywhere inside the “goalie box” by any player. The opposing team should be at least 4 yards from the ball.

The corner kick is taken from the corner nearest to where the ball left the field.

Throw-ins

A throw-in is taken when the ball crosses a sideline and leaves the field. The two basic soccer rules for a proper throw-in are that both feet must remain on the ground and the ball must be thrown with both hands over the head.

Two-Touch Rule

When putting a ball into play, the player cannot touch the ball twice in a row. Often times the player may not have moved the ball much distance and will attempt to take another kick on the ball. This is not allowed. Another variation of this rule is that a player cannot throw the ball in and then immediately kick it. It must be handled by other players first.

Fouls

The referee can call fouls on any players that commit any major infractions intentionally. These are kicking, tripping, or jumping at an opponent; violently charging, striking, holding, pushing, or spitting at an opponent; tackling an opponent that does not have the ball; or touching the ball with the hands. If a player commits any of these offenses inside his own penalty area, the opposing team is awarded a penalty kick.