Goal Kick
Rules & RegulationsA restart of play when the ball goes out of bounds over the goal line, last touched by an attacker.
Related Terms in Rules & Regulations
Offside
A rule stating a player is in an offside position if they are nearer to the opponent's goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent when the ball is played to them.
Advantage
A clause in the rules that allows the referee to let play continue after a foul if stopping play would benefit the team that committed the foul.
Drop Ball
A method of restarting play when the referee has stopped play for a reason other than a foul (e.g., injury).
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Latest Youth Soccer News and Articles
The U.S. Girls Youth Soccer Pyramid: A Parent's Guide to League Tiers in 2025/2026
November 6, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A parent's guide to understanding the tiered leagues in U.S. girls' youth soccer, from ECNL to recreational leagues.
Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions: MLS Next Homegrown and MLS Next Academy Divisions Explained
August 2, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A clear breakdown of the different divisions within MLS NEXT, explaining the homegrown player rule and the academy structure.
Youth Soccer Birth Year vs School Year Change Explained
August 1, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
The age group cut-off date is moving from a January 1st birth year to an August 1st school year system.