Build-Out Line 7v7
The full 7v7 game with US build-out line rules, coached properly: the keeper always has an option, the defenders always get a first pass, and the press learns to wait.
Theme
Small Sided Game
Difficulty
Foundation
Duration
20 min
Players (min–rec–max)
10–14–14
Area
45 × 65 yards
Session phase
Ssg
Age groups
U9, U10, U11
Equipment
two goals, two keepers, cones, balls, pinnies
Objective
Use the build-out line rule as a teaching tool so both teams learn the two sides of it: building out from the keeper with confidence, and setting up a press that is patient behind the line.
Set-up
7v7 field with a goal at each end and a build-out line marked with flat cones a third of the way up from each goal line. Teams in a 2-3-1. Balls with both keepers.
How it runs
- Normal 7v7 game with two build-out rules: when the keeper has the ball in hand or on a goal kick, the opponents retreat behind the build-out line; and the keeper may not punt or drop-kick.
- The keeper must pass or roll to a teammate. Opponents may cross the line only once the ball is played.
- Coach freezes play when a team plays out cleanly through the line and asks what made it work.
- Score 1 point for a goal and 1 bonus point for a goal that started from the keeper's pass.
- Two halves of 8 minutes. Switch the keepers at halftime.
Coaching points
- Defenders: get wide and low the moment the keeper has the ball.
- Keeper: pass to the defender who is furthest from the pressure.
- Pressing team: hold the line, then go together when the ball is played.
- Midfield: show for the ball between the defenders and the presser.
Common mistakes
- Defenders stand in the middle of the box and the keeper's pass goes to nobody; a cone where each defender should stand fixes it in one practice.
- The pressing team waits so long they never press at all; the cue is the keeper's pass, and everyone goes on that cue.
- Coaches yell 'kick it!' the moment the ball reaches a defender; hold your nerve and let them play.
Progressions
- Keeper must play to a midfielder at least once every three restarts.
- Opponents may press as soon as the keeper releases the ball, no matter where it goes.
- Score 2 bonus points if the ball reaches the striker without leaving the ground.
Regressions
- Opponents must wait 3 seconds after the pass before crossing the line.
- Coach stands behind the goal and calls the pass for the keeper.
- Play 5v5 on a shorter field.
Constraints
- No punts or drop-kicks from the keeper.
- Opponents may not cross the build-out line until the keeper's pass is played.
Tags
7v7build-out-lineplaying-outyouthsmall-sided-game