If you are a parent or a young player interested in joining a youth soccer team, you may be wondering how long a typical youth soccer game lasts.
A youth soccer game’s duration varies based on age groups, generally ranging from 40 minutes (two 20-minute halves) for younger children to 90 minutes (two 45-minute halves) for older youth leagues.
Parents should expect to stay for around 1 to 2 hours at a youth soccer game, accounting for the game duration as well as pre-game warm-ups and post-game discussions.
Below we look in more detail at the duration of youth soccer games, including different age groups and variations of the game.
The Duration of Youth Soccer Games
The length of a youth soccer game can vary depending on several factors, including the age group, the level of play, and the specific rules followed by the league or organization.
Let’s take a closer look at the duration of youth soccer games for different age groups:
Under 6 and Under 8
For the youngest players, typically those aged 6 and under, the duration of a soccer game is often shorter to accommodate their attention span and physical capabilities.
In most cases, games for this age group last around 20-30 minutes per half, with a short break in between.
Under 10 and Under 12
As players get older, the duration of the game increases.
For under 10 and under 12 age groups, games usually consist of two halves lasting 25-30 minutes each, with a short break in between.
The total duration of the game, including halftime, is typically around 50-60 minutes.
Under 14 and Above
For older youth players, such as under 14 and above, the duration of the game further increases.
Games at this level often consist of two halves lasting 35-40 minutes each, with a halftime break.
The total duration of the game, including halftime, is usually around 70-80 minutes.
Factors Affecting Game Duration
While the above durations provide a general guideline, it’s important to note that the actual length of a youth soccer game can vary based on several factors:
League or Organization Rules
Each league or organization may have its own specific rules regarding game duration.
It is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules of the league or organization your child is participating in to know the exact duration of the games.
Level of Play
The level of play can also influence the duration of a youth soccer game.
Higher-level competitions may have longer game durations to allow for more competitive play and strategic decisions.
Weather Conditions
In some cases, extreme weather conditions such as excessive heat or lightning may lead to game delays or cancellations.
It is important to prioritize the safety of the players and follow any guidelines provided by the league or organization in such situations.
Case Study: Youth Soccer Game Duration in the United States
To provide a real-world example, let’s take a look at the duration of youth soccer games in the United States.
The United States Youth Soccer Association (USYS) is one of the largest youth soccer organizations in the country, and their guidelines can give us insights into game durations.
According to the USYS guidelines, for players aged 6 and under, games should be played in four 8-minute quarters, with a short break between each quarter.
For players aged 8 and under, games should consist of two 25-minute halves, with a 5-10 minute halftime break.
As players get older, the duration of the game increases gradually.
It’s important to note that these guidelines may vary slightly depending on the specific league or organization within the United States.
Therefore, it is always recommended to check with the league or organization your child is participating in for the most accurate information.
Q&A – How Long Is a Youth Soccer Game?
1. How long does a youth soccer game last for players aged 10 and under?
For players aged 10 and under, a youth soccer game typically lasts around 50-60 minutes, including halftime.
2. Are there any variations in game duration for different regions?
Yes, game durations can vary based on the rules and regulations set by different leagues or organizations in each region.
It is important to check with your local league for specific information.
3. Can a youth soccer game go into overtime?
In most cases, youth soccer games do not go into overtime.
However, in certain tournaments or higher-level competitions, overtime periods may be added to determine a winner in case of a tie.
4. How long is halftime in a youth soccer game?
The halftime break in a youth soccer game is typically around 5-10 minutes.
It provides an opportunity for players to rest, hydrate, and receive any necessary instructions from their coach.
5. Can the duration of a youth soccer game be shortened due to weather conditions?
Yes, in cases of extreme weather conditions, such as excessive heat or lightning, the duration of a youth soccer game may be shortened or the game may be postponed or canceled altogether.
Safety should always be the top priority in such situations.
6. Are there any specific rules regarding game duration for tournaments?
Tournaments may have their own specific rules regarding game duration.
It is important to review the tournament guidelines or rules provided by the organizers for accurate information.
7. How long are youth soccer games in professional leagues?
In professional soccer leagues, the duration of the game is typically 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a halftime break of 15 minutes.
8. Can the duration of a youth soccer game be extended due to injury time?
In most youth soccer games, injury time is not added to the overall duration of the game.
However, the referee may add a few extra minutes to compensate for any significant stoppages during the game.
9. Are there any specific rules regarding game duration for indoor youth soccer?
Indoor youth soccer games may have different durations compared to outdoor games.
The specific rules and regulations for indoor soccer should be provided by the league or organization hosting the games.
10. How long are youth soccer games in international competitions?
In international youth soccer competitions, such as the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the duration of the game is typically 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a halftime break of 15 minutes.
Summary
The duration of a youth soccer game can vary depending on the age group, level of play, and specific rules followed by the league or organization.
For younger players, games are generally shorter, while older players participate in longer games.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines of the league or organization your child is participating in to know the exact duration of the games.
Safety and enjoyment should always be the top priorities in youth soccer, regardless of the game duration.
