2026 Recreation Soccer Program

Spring 2026 registration will open in March 2026.

Who

Children with birth years 2018-2021 are eligible for this program in 2026. We will split players up by age (and gender if numbers allow). 

Location

Practices and matches will take place on the fields behind the Waseca Community Arena. 1501 2nd St NW, Waseca, MN 56093

2026 Practice Schedule

The season starts in May and ends in June.

Practices will occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00PM-7:00 PM and scrimmages take place on Saturdays from 9:00AM-10:00 AM. 

Equipment Required

Thanks to our generous sponsors all players will receive a team shirt (included with registration).

Each player must have shin guards, socks that completely cover the shin guards and athletic shoes. Football, baseball and softball shoes with toe cleats are not allowed.

Bring a water bottle! There are no drinking fountains at the field. 

Rules

8U Soccer Basic Rules (Typical for U.S. Youth Soccer)

1. Team Size:

• 4v4 
• No goalkeepers

2. Field Size:

• Much smaller than a full field — usually about 25–35 yards wide and 35–45 yards long.

3. Game Length:

• Two halves, usually 20 minutes each. (6U may reduce time)
• 5–10 minute halftime break.

4. Ball Size:

• Size 3 ball (smallest game ball).

5. Substitutions:

• Unlimited — players can sub in and out anytime during stoppages (throw-ins, goals, etc.).
• Focus is on everyone getting equal playing time.

6. No Offside:

• Offside is NOT called at 8U.
• Players can be anywhere on the field.

7. Throw-ins:

• If the ball goes out on the sideline, players throw it back in.
• Two hands over the head, feet on the ground — but coaches often allow re-dos for mistakes.

8. Goal Kicks and Corner Kicks:

• Goal kick if the attacking team kicks the ball out over the end line.
• Corner kick if the defending team kicks it out.

9. Fouls:

• Very basic — no pushing, tripping, hitting, or rough tackling.
• Free kicks awarded for fouls, but no yellow or red cards.

10. Focus on Fun:

• Referees (if there are any) keep it light and educational.
• Coaches and refs teach kids during the game.

Extra Notes:

• Do not keep score.
• Players are encouraged to try all positions (no specializing yet).
• Main focus: dribbling, passing, shooting, and having fun.
• No lines, no laps, no lectures. Keep it energetic and fun!