Is my child allowed to head the ball?
Rule- USA
- US Youth Soccer
- US Soccer small-sided standards
- Under 8
- Under 10
- Recreational and club
- 2026-27 season
- Parents
No. Deliberate heading isn't allowed in 4v4 (U6-U8) or 7v7 (U9-U10) games under US Soccer's small-sided standards.
- If a player deliberately heads the ball, the other team gets an indirect free kick from the spot. If it happens inside the goal area, the kick is taken from the goal area line nearest the spot.
- US Soccer also recommends that players U11 and younger don't practice heading either. Coaches may teach the technique in isolation with lightweight balls (foam, balloons), away from any opponents.
- Heading is still not allowed in U11 games. It's allowed at U12, although state associations and leagues may limit or ban it there too.
Added 21 Oct 2026