U-8 Guidelines (5v5, no goalie):
- No goalkeepers. Whether you call the last defender "goalie" or "full back", they just cannot handle the ball.
- Direct free kicks for all fouls. The guidelines state: "Goal area is the area in front of each goal, measuring 6 x 12 yards". Free kicks awarded to the attacking team inside the defending team’s goal area should be taken from the nearest point on the goal area line in front of the goal (don't call it "penalty kick"). For a free kick, you can keep defenders on the goal line inside the goal, even if the goal area measures less than 6 yards.
- No penalty kicks. Referees will work cooperatively with the coaches and eliminate the need for cautions and send-offs. Do not show yellow or red cards.

Coaching Help, U-8 Training Games,