| Players | 7v7, including goalkeeper |
|---|---|
| Ball | Size 4 |
| Duration | Two 25-minute halves |
| Build-out line | Used in the national baseline |
| Local rules | Confirm before kickoff |
Understand the build-out line
The published U.S. Soccer baseline uses a build-out line to support playing from the back in a less pressured situation. Teach players where the line is and why the restart gives the goalkeeper and teammates a chance to begin possession.
Before teaching the exact sequence, check your competition’s current directions for goalkeeper possession, goal kicks, opponent retreat, when opponents can advance, punting, and offside. Avoid borrowing a rule from a different league or a different season.
Give the goalkeeper passing options
Start with one practical picture: the goalkeeper has the ball, and teammates move where they can be seen. Two defenders standing on top of each other offer fewer options than players who create separate passing lanes.
Walk through the restart with willing players. Ask the receiver what they could see before the pass arrived. Then add a defender at the pressure level your group can manage, using the correct local restart rules.
Introduce the idea of support
A pass is the beginning of another decision. The player who passes can move again, and the receiver can look for an open teammate or space to carry the ball.
Use a brief 2v1 game to make the choices visible. If the defender blocks the pass, can the attacker carry into space? If the defender closes the ball, can the partner offer another angle?
- Ask players to look before receiving.
- Keep enough width to open a passing lane.
- Give the ball carrier more than one useful option.
- After losing possession, recover and help protect the goal.
Prepare a simple match-day plan
Bring a rotation plan and choose one learning mission. It might be offering a passing option or recovering together. Explain it briefly so children have room to make their own decisions.
At the next practice, use what you observed. If players repeatedly hide behind defenders, spend a few minutes exploring passing angles. If receiving is the problem, give them more time and space before adding pressure.
WORDS YOU CAN USE“Where could you move so your teammate can see you?”
Sources & further learning
Rule facts use the sources below. Activity suggestions and tactical examples are ToopTime’s introductory coaching guidance.
U.S. Soccer Player Development Initiatives: published small-sided baseline (2017)This material has not received independent coach or referee review. We are not affiliated with U.S. Soccer or IFAB.