The 7v7 Game is geared for player development. Referee Decisions may invoke the "Spirit of the game" when the development of the players supersedes trifling infractions.

The build-out line promotes playing the ball out of the back, while creating more opportunities and improvement of a player's understanding of the game in a less pressured setting.

When the goalkeeper has possession of the ball, either during live play or from a goal kick, opponents must retreat behind the build-out line before they can pressure the ball and the attacking team when the GK puts the ball into play the ball.

The build-out line will also serve as the designation for offside at 7v7 play.

Build-out Line

• On a goal kick, a defensive free kick inside the penalty area, or when the goalkeeper has possession of the ball with their hands, the opposing team must move behind the build-out line until the ball is put back into play.

• The goalkeeper can pass, throw, or roll the ball to put it back into play (punts and drop kicks are not allowed).

• On a goal kick, a defensive free kick inside the penalty area,  or when the goalkeeper has possession of the ball with their hands, the opposing team may cross the build-out line when:

  • The goalkeeper changes possession from their hand to play the ball with their feet, or

  • a second touch is made by another player on the goalkeeper’s team, or

  • the ball comes to a complete stop, or

  • the ball crosses the buildout line.