How Long Are Kids Soccer Games? The Age, Length and Duration

Soccer is the most popular sport in the world because of how interesting and captivating it is in bringing full entertainment to the world of sports. And the great chunk of its fans is youth between the ages of 15 to 50 years. However, these stats do not mean that people from the age of 50 and above are not soccer fanatics. We will have a look at how long are kids soccer games are.

This also means kids and teenagers love the game of soccer as a means of engaging themselves in fun activities. Here in this blog post, we have put down some of the must-knows about soccer how long are kids soccer games, and why kids need to engage in this most popular sport in the world.

What is Soccer?

Soccer is a game played by two teams of eleven players using a Roundball. Players kick the ball to each other and try to score goals by kicking the ball into a large net. It is usually engaged by 11 players, 10 outfields, and one goalkeeper. Outside the USA, this game is also referred to as football.

What is the Difference Between Soccer and Football?

The terms “soccer” and “football” are often used interchangeably, but their usage can vary depending on the region. In general, “soccer” and “football” refer to the same sport, which involves two teams of players using their feet to kick a ball and score goals. However, there are some regional differences in how these terms are understood.

Terminology: In most countries, the sport is commonly referred to as “football.” This includes countries like England, Brazil, Germany, Spain, and many others. The word “football” reflects the fact that the game is played primarily using the feet. In the United States, Canada, and some other countries, the term “soccer” is used to differentiate the sport from American football, Canadian football, or Australian rules football.
Rules and Governing Bodies: The basic rules of the game are generally the same across the world, with minor variations. However, different regions may have specific rules or variations in gameplay. The governing body for international football is the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), which oversees major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup. Regional variations also have their governing bodies, such as the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) in Europe and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Africa.
Playing Style: While the overall objective and rules of the game are the same, playing styles can differ between regions. Factors such as culture, coaching methods, and historical influences can contribute to variations in playing style. For example, South American teams are often known for their flair, skillful dribbling, and attacking style of play, while European teams may focus more on tactics, disciplined defense, and team organization.
Field Dimensions: The dimensions of the football pitch (field) can vary, although there are general guidelines. FIFA specifies a range of field dimensions, but the standard dimensions are around 100-110 meters in length and 64-75 meters in width.

In summary, while “soccer” and “football” are used to refer to the same sport, the choice of terminology can depend on regional conventions and the context in which it is being discussed.

The core aspects of the game, including the rules and objectives, remain consistent regardless of the term used.

Let’s get to know how long kids’ soccer games last

Soccer games are always divided into two equally long halves with a short halftime sandwiched between the halves. The exception is that some leagues prefer 4 equally long quarters for u-8 (under 8 years old) and younger.

The exact length of a youth soccer game, particularly for the youngest age groups is sometimes determined by the individual town or county league, but here are the recommended lengths of soccer games for kids, listed below.

U6 players have 20 minute soccer games.

U8 players have 40 minute soccer games.

U10 players have 50 minute soccer games.

U12 players have 60 minute soccer games.

U14 players have 70 minute soccer games.

U16 players have 80 minute soccer games.

U19 players have 90 minute soccer games.

As a parent, your time invested in your child’s soccer life involves a lot more than just actual game-playing time. One small, but important aspect of that is halftime. It’s a chance for the kids to have a physical and mental break from the game, as well as for the coach to give the team a few pointers concerning their tactics and efforts.

As the kids get older, with each step upward in an age group, each half of a soccer game only lengthens by 5 minutes. The overall time increases by 10 minutes and this difference means a significantly more amount of physical effort is put forth by the player.

It’s both more productive for skill development and a whole lot more fun to play soccer games where each child has their own and maximizes the number of “touches” on the ball.

As the youth players are still growing and developing, the younger they are, the less time they play.

Over the years, they slowly increase the length of the games, the number of players and the size of the pitch until 17, 18, and 19-year olds are playing 90-minute matches on a full-size pitch.

At the earliest age groups, teams usually get around 5 minutes break between the quarters or halves with this rising to 10 minutes and then 15 minutes for the older players.

Effects of Soccer Games on Kids

1. Make Friends

For kids, making friends is an important part of social development. Soccer teams provide not only the opportunity for kids to make friends, but also find a place where they can belong, build self-esteem and confidence, and create a safe space to talk about tough issues. Peer feedback and problem-solving empower the givers and the receivers.

2. Build Life Skills

Playing soccer helps kids build valuable life skills, such as hard work, decision-making, problem-solving, and communication. Through healthy competition, it also teaches the importance of teamwork and cooperation, balanced by good sportsmanship.

3. Be Active and Healthy

Soccer is a fun activity that helps kids stay active. With physical activity comes many health benefits like muscular development. Still, it’s also important for kids to learn motor skills like coordination and balance, which can help them not get hurt.

4. Promote Gender Equality

Gender equality is core to effective and sustainable development, and participating in sports like soccer can help break down gender stereotypes.

5. Experience the Joy of Childhood

When it comes down to it, soccer is a game! It’s an outlet for kids to play and have fun. It can also help encourage kids to enjoy their childhood and stay in school, instead of work or child marriage.

What is the Kids’ soccer game length?

The length of a kids soccer game varies depending on the age group of the players. For younger age groups, the games are typically shorter, while older age groups play longer games.

Here is a breakdown of the typical game lengths for different age groups:

Under 6 to Under 8: 20-30 minutes per half
Under 9 to Under 10: 25-30 minutes per half
Under 11 to Under 12: 30-35 minutes per half
Under 13 to Under 14: 35-40 minutes per half
Under 15 and older: 40-45 minutes per half

There are a few reasons why game lengths increase with age. First, as players get older, they develop greater endurance and skill, allowing them to engage in longer, more challenging matches. Second, longer games can help older players develop their tactical and strategic skills. Finally, longer games can be more enjoyable for older players, as they allow them to play more soccer and have more opportunities to score goals.

Youth Soccer Game Length

Youth soccer games are typically shorter than high school or adult soccer games. This is because younger players have less endurance and are more likely to get tired.

The length of a youth soccer game varies depending on the age group of the players and the league or tournament. However, most youth soccer games are two 20-30 minute halves, with a 5-10 minute halftime break.

Some youth soccer leagues may have different game lengths, especially for younger age groups. For example, some leagues may play four 10-minute quarters instead of two halves.

Soccer Game Length by Age Group

Here is a breakdown of the typical game lengths for different age groups:

Under 6 to Under 8: 20-30 minutes per half
Under 9 to Under 10: 25-30 minutes per half
Under 11 to Under 12: 30-35 minutes per half
Under 13 to Under 14: 35-40 minutes per half
Under 15 and older: 40-45 minutes per half

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The specific length of a soccer game may vary depending on the league, tournament, or referee.

If you are unsure of the length of a particular soccer game, it is always best to check with the league or tournament organizer.

Conclusion

There is no definite time recorded for all Kids. The Length/ amount of time allotted to Kids’ soccer games is different based on the age range of the kids involved.

Older kids have more time than younger kids on the Football Field.

I hope you were able to know how long are kids’ soccer games and the age level and their length.

FAQs

How long is a kids’ soccer game?

Here is a breakdown of the typical game lengths for different age groups:

Under 6 to Under 8: 20-30 minutes per half
Under 9 to Under 10: 25-30 minutes per half
Under 11 to Under 12: 30-35 minutes per half
Under 13 to Under 14: 35-40 minutes per half
Under 15 and older: 40-45 minutes per half

How long is halftime in a kids soccer game?

Halftime in a kids’ soccer game usually lasts for around 5-10 minutes. This gives players a chance to rest, rehydrate, and receive instructions from their coaches.

Are there any additional breaks during a kids’ soccer game?

In some cases, especially in hot weather or for younger age groups, there may be short water breaks during each half to ensure players stay hydrated.

Why do game durations increase with age?

As players get older, they develop greater endurance and skill, allowing them to engage in longer, more challenging matches.
It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The specific length of a kids’ soccer game may vary depending on the league, tournament, or referee.