This is a MANDATORY rule (Law 16) in Mini Soccer age groups (U7 - U10) and is to be taught to your teams and followed.

The change in rule was discussed as part of the review of junior and youth football by the FA a couple of years ago.
It is written in a way which allows the option of a quick release from the keeper to begin a counter attack OR using the retreat line to allow players with less confidence to receive the ball and play from the back with a little more time before coming under pressure, HOPEFULLY moving away from just a long kick out from the keeper!

It is important that as coaches you discuss how to manage this change during games. As with any new rule, it will take a little time for the children to get used to it.

Click on the link above to see an FA presentation on why the rule has been implemented and how coaches can teach their teams to use it properly.

Retreat Line Rule Presentation - Download / Open