BUILD-OUT LINES IN 9U–10U

• The build-out line (BOL) promotes playing the ball out of the back in a less pressured setting.
• The build-out lines are located halfway between the halfway line and the top of the penalty area.
• The build-out lines may be solid, dashed, or simply marked by cones (or flags) off the field
• The build-out line only impacts three situations:
1. Goalkeeper controls the ball with the hands
2. Goal kicks
3. Offside

Goalkeeper controls the ball with the hands:

▪ Opponents must retreat behind the build-out line.
The goalkeeper may not punt or drop-kick the ball: indirect free kick from location of the violation—note: goal area exception
▪ The goalkeeper may pass, throw, or roll the ball to any point on the field.
▪ Quick restart: The goalkeeper may release the ball before the opponents have completely retreated behind the build-out line. In doing so, the goalkeeper accepts the position of the opponents who may intercept the ball.
▪ Once the ball is released by the goalkeeper the opposing players may cross the build-out line.
▪ The 6-second limitation on goalkeeper possession should not start until all opponents have moved behind the build-out line. Referees should be flexible with this.

Goal kick:

▪ Opponents must retreat behind the build-out line.
▪ The ball may be kicked to any point on the field.
▪ Once the ball is in play (kicked and clearly moves), the opposing players may cross the build-out line.
▪ Quick restart: The goal kick may be taken before the opponents have completely retreated behind the build-out line. In doing so, the team accepts the position of the opponents, and they may intercept the pass. (Note: Law 16 restrictions on opposing players and the penalty area still apply)

**Violations of the build-out line: when opponent crosses early and interferes with play:**

▪ Use judgment and don’t interfere for trifling violations.
▪ Be vocally proactive. Referee may hold up play until all opponents retreat.
▪ Focus should be on education, not strict enforcement.
▪ Build-out line violation on goalkeeper possession: indirect free kick on BOL where violation occurred.
▪ Build-out line violation on a goal kick: retake the goal kick.
▪ Repeated violations of the build-out line should not be viewed as misconduct
▪ Region staff should address coaches who encourage/teach their players to disregard the build-out line