The 8U program is specifically developed to introduce soccer to children in a fun and safe environment, while allowing them to continue to expand their skills. The program is setup to have a short practice once or twice a week at a local park or school, followed by a Saturday game. There is no post season at this age level.
| Season Length | The season runs from September until the middle of November. |
| Time Commitment | Practice approximately 60 minutes once or twice a week (depending on coach's schedule), followed by a Saturday game lasting approximately 55 minutes. |
| Equipment | Each player will be given a uniform which consists of a jersey, shorts, and socks. The player must provide soccer cleats, shin guards and a size 3 soccer ball. |
| Certification Required | All volunteers must be registered AYSO Volunteers, and all coaches must be Safe Haven Certified.
Coach - 8U Coach Cert, Safe Haven Cert, and CDC Concussion Awareness Cert
Referee - Basic Referee Cert, Safe Haven Cert, and CDC Concussion Awareness Cert |
| Game Format | The game is played on a small field in a 4 vs. 4 formats with NO goalkeeper. The game is played with four 10 minute quarters. Substitutions are done at each quarter, and there is a short break after the second quarter. This level introduces referees who officiate games. This level is designed to allow maximum touches to the ball. |
| Team Formation | The teams are formed via a draft. The player ratings are provided to all coaches prior to the draft. There are no more than 9 players on a team. |
| Other | When the ball leaves the touchline it can be either thrown-in or kicked-in. At this level, the referee does not enforce offside nor hand out foul red and yellow cards. Other fouls are handled as learning experiences and are strictly indirect kicks. |