Heading Rules for U12 & Under
This YMTC episode dives into the complexities of the no-heading rule in youth soccer, specifically for U12 and under players. The discussion highlights how different Rules of Competition (ROC) handle heading violations and the correct way to restart play based on intent and league guidelinesYMTC #11.
Scenario 1: Accidental Head Contact – What Is the Restart?
In a U8 game, the ball accidentally struck an opponent’s head and went out of bounds. The young referee restarted play with a throw-in, but was that correct?
Understanding the No-Heading Rule
Since 2017, the USSF Youth Heading Initiative states:
- No deliberate heading is allowed in U12 and younger games.
- If a player deliberately heads the ball, an indirect free kick (IFK) is awarded to the opponent at the spot of the offense.
- If the deliberate header occurs inside the goal area, the IFK is taken on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the closest point to where the infraction occurred.
For accidental head contact, the restart depends on league modifications:
- If the ROC requires stopping play for all head contact, the game is stopped for player safety, and play restarts with a dropped ball to the team that last had possession.
- If the ROC does not require stopping play, accidental contact is treated like any other deflection, and play continues unless there is an injury concern.
Scenario 2: Offside Violation & Interference with the Goalkeeper
In the same U8 game, an attacker in an offside position stood directly in front of the goalkeeper while a shot was taken and scored. The referee did not call offside.
This situation falls under Law 11 – Offside:
- A player in an offside position who obstructs the goalkeeper’s line of sight or movement must be penalized for interference, even if they do not touch the ball.
- The correct restart in this case would have been an indirect free kick (IFK) for the defending team at the location of the offside offense.
The Debate: What Is Considered “Deliberate” Heading?
Tony AQ argued that deciding if a header is deliberate or accidental is a judgment call. However, others pointed out that the decision is dictated by the ROC.
- Deliberate heading → Always results in an IFK for the opposing team.
- Accidental head contact → Depends on league-specific rules:
- Some leagues require stopping play and restarting with a dropped ball for safety.
- Others allow play to continue unless there is a safety concern.
Variability Across Leagues & ROC Differences
There is no universal age cutoff for heading restrictions across all youth leagues. The USYS Rule 305 generally applies to U10, but for U11 and U12, each league has its own interpretation:
- SAM Rec (U11) & MSI (ambiguous at U11) – Some leagues modify the rule and allow heading at this level.
- EDP Futures – Mostly silent on heading restrictions.
Best Practice: Always check the ROC before kickoff and confirm with coaches how heading rules are enforced in that specific competition.
Final Takeaway
Referees must understand how U12 and under heading rules vary by league. Accidental vs. deliberate heading calls require knowing the ROC and applying the correct restart accordingly. Additionally, offside interpretations—especially interfering with the goalkeeper—must be correctly enforced to maintain fairness in the game.
Ultimately, as UB pointed out, refereeing is not always black and white. Many decisions fall into gray areas, and referees must use sound judgment and knowledge of competition rules to make the best call for the game.
Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Frank