Distinction of Pre-K and K-Level:
For the most part, children in kindergarten are considered the K-Level and those not yet in kindergarten are considered Pre-K. There are some exceptions to this rule. The main difference between the levels is the K-Level plays 3v3 with a goalie and the Pre-K plays 4v4 without a goalie.
The following changes from normal soccer rules will be used:
- 20 minutes of drills/practice followed by a half hour of game.
- Play will be for 15 minutes clock time, and then a 5 minute half time, then play for another 15 minutes.
- We use a size 3 ball.
- No score will be kept and all children should play equal time.
- Only one coach on the field at a time and one may be behind the goalie.
- Start each half with a kick off from center line. Different teams kick off each half.
- After a goal, re-start with a kick off by the team that did not make the goal.
- If the ball goes over the sideline, allow a child to kick the ball in, as this keeps up the pace of the game and helps alleviate down time for the children.
- If the ball goes over either end line, coaches should roll the ball toward the middle of the field and play will continue.
- Coaches should not allow any of the following infractions or any behavior that may cause injury: pushing, kicking of another player, holding onto another jersey or catching the ball in the hands. Penalties will consist of the other team kicking the ball back into play. If a child consistently displays offensive and/or dangerous play, they will be removed from the game.
- The game ends with each team lining up at midfield and shaking hands to demonstrate good sportsmanship.
In addition – for K-Level only:
- The coach should rotate the goalie to encourage all the children to try this position.
- The goalie should wear a penny to demonstrate their position.
- The goalie will only be able to use his/her hands when inside the goalie box. If the goalie goes outside the goalie box, just remind him/her of the rules; but no penalty will be called for this. This is beginning goal keeping only.
- The goalie may either punt the ball or throw the ball after they field it. The opposing player must give the goalie minimum 3 yards clearance to release the ball.
Do not allow the children to hang on the goals!
Equipment (A team t-shirt will be provided):
- Shin guards must be worn at all times with socks covering the shin guards.
- Gym shoes or cleats
- No baseball hats, eyeglasses or barrettes/hair clips are allowed on the field.
Additional Information:
- Dress appropriately; we play in light rain and sometimes muddy conditions.
- Please contact the Ela hotline at (847) 726-6909 if there is questionable weather.
- The season consists of 8 games.
Questions or Comments:
Please contact Kelly Naughtrip, Coordinator of Ela Little Kickers by email or at (847) 550-0556
