Our town soccer program offers a fun, inclusive, and educational environment for players of all skill levels. We proudly operate in accordance with Massachusetts Youth Soccer guidelines, ensuring a safe and positive experience focused on player development and sportsmanship. The program is powered by dedicated volunteer coaches who give their time and energy to help kids learn, grow, and love the game. Whether your child is just starting out or building on existing skills, we’re here to support their soccer journey every step of the way!
Kindergarten U5/U6
Building off of our Little Kicker's program, our Kindergarten program consists of 1 weekly practice session and 1 weekly game played on Saturday mornings.
Our Kindergarten Town Soccer games are designed to be fun, fast-paced, and focused on skill development! Games are played with two 20-minute halves and teams play 4v4 with no goalies. All players have equal playing time and will be substituted as such.This format gives all players plenty of touches on the ball, encouraging teamwork, learning, and enjoyment of the game. The emphasis is on playing fairly, having fun, and building a love for soccer at an early age!
1st Grade Soccer U7
Our 1st grade soccer program is designed to help young players build on the fundamentals of the game while having fun! Players will continue developing key skills like dribbling, passing, and teamwork through age-appropriate drills and small-sided games. This program encourages confidence, sportsmanship, and a love for soccer in a supportive, community-focused environment. All skill levels are welcome! There will be 1 practice a week with games on Saturday mornings 9-12pm rotating weekly.
In 1st Grade Town Soccer, games are played with two 20-minute halves in a 5v5 format, including goalies. The focus remains on skill development, teamwork, and fun! Coaches ensure that all players receive equal playing time, with regular substitutions throughout the game. This format helps players build confidence, experience different positions, and continue learning the fundamentals of soccer in a supportive environment.
2/3rd Grade (Combined) U8
Our 2/3rd grade soccer program offers players the chance to sharpen their skills and deepen their understanding of the game. With a focus on teamwork, strategy, and individual development, players participate in 2 regular practices and games that emphasize fair play and fun. Coaches work with players to build confidence in areas like passing, shooting, and positional play, preparing them for the next level of soccer—all in a supportive, community environment. All experience levels are welcome!
3rd Grades have to choice of remaining in the town program for another year or entering into the Travel Program.
Games are played 7v7 (including a goalie). If a team has fewer than 10 players, coaches may agree to play 6v6. Both teams must have the same number of players on the field. To ensure fair play, no player should sit for a double shift; if needed, teams should reallocate players to balance playtime. Coaches are encouraged to communicate and work together to keep all kids engaged and active.
Timing:
- Two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime.
- Teams switch sides at halftime.
Substitutions:
- On goal kicks and throw-ins (if the throwing team is subbing), with referee notification.
Other Key Rules:
- No punting/throwing over midfield by goalkeepers.
- Goal kicks: Opponents must return to their half before play resumes.
- Corner kicks: Awarded when defense sends the ball over its own end line.
- Throw-ins: Ref allows one retry if done incorrectly; second time, play continues.
- Indirect kicks only (no direct/penalty kicks).
- No offsides or slide tackling.
In-Town Team Formation
⚽ Balanced Teams Every Fall Season 🍂
Each fall, new teams are formed for our town soccer program to ensure a fresh and fun experience for all players. Coaches provide evaluations at the end of each Spring season, which are carefully reviewed by the Town Directors. Using this feedback, we work to create balanced teams that promote fair play, skill development, and competitive games. Our goal is to offer a positive and rewarding experience for every player, every season!
Uniforms/Equipment
Town soccer uniforms are distributed once a year in the fall season to kick off the new soccer year. In addition, all new players receive a soccer ball to help them practice and build their skills at home. This ensures everyone is equipped and ready to play from the very first game. Let’s gear up for a great season ahead!
Safe & Positive Sidelines
Dedham Youth Soccer is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive environment for all players, coaches, referees, and families. We ask all spectators to keep the sidelines encouraging and respectful—cheer for effort, teamwork, and good sportsmanship! Please refrain from coaching from the sidelines and always follow field safety rules. Together, we can foster a fun and welcoming atmosphere where every player can thrive and enjoy the game!
- Field Sideline Setup: Only coaches and players are allowed on the sideline between fields. All spectators must stay on the opposite side—no exceptions. Coaches are responsible for enforcing this rule, and referees may stop the game if needed.
- Referees:
- Any concerns about a referee should be directed to the Referee Director (on-site) or your Division Director.
- Referees will be paid at the end of the game by the Referee Director.
