Positions and Field Dimensions
International regulation matches are played on fields of about 115 yards; the breadth is usually around 75 yards. The goal is eight yards wide and eight feet high. One team is allowed ten player postions on the field plus one goal keeper. Substitutions are made at dead ball -- when the play is stopped. There are four essential positions in the game of soccer (although youth soccer doesn't necessarily assign positions): Forwards, Midfielders, Defenders, and the Goilie. The Forward's (1 to 3 team players) primary job is to score goals, so they must have a powerful kick to get the soccer ball past the goalie. Defenders (3 to 5 per team) or 'fullbacks' must be able to kick the ball longer distances. Finally, the Goalie or 'goal keeper' must prevent the ball from entering the soccer goal and is the only player allowed to grab the ball with his hands.
International regulation matches are played on fields of about 115 yards; the breadth is usually around 75 yards. The goal is eight yards wide and eight feet high. One team is allowed ten player postions on the field plus one goal keeper. Substitutions are made at dead ball -- when the play is stopped. There are four essential positions in the game of soccer (although youth soccer doesn't necessarily assign positions): Forwards, Midfielders, Defenders, and the Goilie. The Forward's (1 to 3 team players) primary job is to score goals, so they must have a powerful kick to get the soccer ball past the goalie. Defenders (3 to 5 per team) or 'fullbacks' must be able to kick the ball longer distances. Finally, the Goalie or 'goal keeper' must prevent the ball from entering the soccer goal and is the only player allowed to grab the ball with his hands.
