Build-Out Line Soccer

What Is The Build-Out Line In Youth Soccer?

The build-out line is a field marking used in youth small-sided soccer to encourage teams to play out from the back. It gives the goalkeeper and defenders space to restart play instead of facing immediate pressure.

In U.S. Soccer’s small-sided standards, the line is used in 7v7 and 9v9 contexts and also affects offside.

Where Is The Build-Out Line Placed?

U.S. Soccer’s guidance places the build-out line between the penalty area line and the halfway line. Many coach summaries describe it as roughly 14 yards from the goal on a 7v7 field, but the exact placement depends on the field layout.

If the line is not painted, some leagues use cones or temporary markings. Coaches should ask the referee how it will be enforced before kickoff.

Does The Build-Out Line Affect Offside?

Yes. In the U.S. Soccer small-sided standard, the build-out line becomes the offside line. Players cannot be penalized for offside between the halfway line and the build-out line, but they can be penalized between the build-out line and the goal line.

This is one of the biggest differences between small-sided youth soccer and full 11v11 soccer.

What Are The Goalkeeper Rules At The Build-Out Line?

When the goalkeeper has the ball or when a goal kick is taken, opponents retreat behind the build-out line until the ball is put into play.

The goalkeeper can pass, throw, or roll the ball to a teammate. The point is to create a first pass and teach controlled buildup.

Can The Goalkeeper Punt In Build-Out Line Soccer?

No. U.S. Soccer’s build-out line rules prohibit goalkeeper punts and drop kicks in the relevant small-sided formats. If the goalkeeper punts or drop-kicks the ball, the restart is usually an indirect free kick for the other team.

Coaches should train goalkeepers to distribute by rolling, throwing, or passing before match day.

Can Opponents Cross The Build-Out Line Before The Ball Is In Play?

Opponents should wait behind the build-out line until the ball is in play. Once the ball is put into play, they can cross and press.

Teach players to recognize the cue. For defenders, that means being ready to receive. For attackers, that means waiting, then pressing together.

Which Age Groups Use The Build-Out Line?

The build-out line is tied to U.S. Soccer’s small-sided development standards, especially 7v7 and 9v9. It is not part of standard adult 11v11 IFAB Laws.

Local leagues vary. Some enforce it strictly, some mark it loosely, and some do not use it. Confirm before the first game.