Soccer Goalie Rules
As a goalkeeper (goalie or keeper) your role on the soccer team is important. Being the last line of defense it’s your job to stop the ball from going in!
The rules you have to follow are different from other players so it’s helpful to know what they are!
Not knowing these rules can put your team in jeopardy. Knowing these rules can help you excel in your position.
Here is a quick rundown of all the goalkeeping rules you must follow.
What is a List of Goalie Rules?
Here are the general rules for soccer goalies:
- You can use your hands inside their penalty area.
- You can play the ball outside your team’s penalty area but you’ll have to use your feet.
- Once you grab the ball, you have six seconds to get rid of it (kick or throw).
- You cannot use your hands IF the ball is kicked to you by your teammate.
- You cannot use your hands IF the ball is thrown into you by your teammate.
- You must stay on the goal line for a penalty kick (PK).
- You must wear a jersey that is distinguishable from your teammates.
- Once you put the ball back into play on the ground, you can’t pick it up again.
- There must be one goalie on the soccer pitch at all times.
- You cannot score with your hands or arms.
- You can score with your feet or head.
- If you have possession of the ball, an opposing player cannot touch it. If they do, this will result in a penalty or yellow card.
Memorize, understand and/or print these rules. It’s important to know the rules of the game so you can focus on competing to the best of your abilities.
Give It Up For the Goalkeepers 🎉
It’s no secret that being a goalkeeper is tough work.
As the last line of defense, you are often perceived as the hero after a clean sheet. Or, at fault for the goals scored by the opposing team.
This simply isn’t true.
Why? Because it’s a team sport. It’s the team that is letting up goals or preventing the goals from being scored.
Case in point, if the midfielders and strikers dominate possession then there are less scoring chances for the other team.
But, if they are constantly losing possession then the other team is most likely on the attack.
Let’s respect the goalkeeper position as it comes with its fair share of bumps and bruises. Today, we honor you – the goalie!
