Bear River Soccer
Understanding the Build-Out Line
The build-out line gives young players more time, space, and confidence to play the ball out of the back.
What is the Build-Out Line?
US Soccer requires the build-out line in the U10 age group (7v7 soccer). The build-out line divides the field into thirds, although not evenly spaced.
The build-out line is primarily used in two key situations:
- Goal kicks
- Offside decisions
Goal Kicks
On goal kicks, all defending players must retreat behind the build-out line until the ball is put into play.
In older age groups, defending players are only required to remain outside of the penalty area.
This rule gives the attacking team a little more time and space to begin building play out of the back instead of immediately facing pressure.
Offside
A player who is behind the last defender but still between the build-out line and the halfway line is not considered to be in an offside position.
In older age groups, players can be offside anywhere beyond the halfway line.
This rule creates additional space for the attacking team and encourages teams to play through the midfield instead of simply kicking the ball long.
Why does it matter?
Building out of the back is a key area of focus for Bear River Soccer.
Young players are still learning how to receive the ball, open their body, scan the field, make a pass, dribble into space, and support a teammate. Without enough time and space, many players simply panic and kick the ball forward.
The build-out line gives players a better chance to learn the game instead of just surviving it.
Yes, it feels a little weird
We understand the build-out line can feel like another obstacle to playing “regular soccer.” But youth soccer already uses development-based adjustments.
- Younger players use smaller balls.
- They play on smaller fields.
- They use smaller goals.
- They play with fewer players on the field.
- Game lengths are shorter.
The build-out line fits into that same idea. It is a constraint designed to help young players develop toward the full game over time.
What we want players to learn
Goalkeepers
Look for a teammate, roll or pass the ball, and start attacks with purpose.
Defenders
Get wide, receive the ball, and make the next pass instead of just clearing it.
Midfielders
Support the ball, create passing angles, and help connect the team.
Forwards
Learn when to press, when to hold shape, and how to defend as a team.