Parent guides › Game day
For parentsWhen can kids head the ball?
the rules by age
Parents ask this every season, and the answer depends on your child’s age group. Here are the rules, what they mean on game day and what to do if you have concerns.
No heading at U11 and younger. Limited at U12 and U13. Allowed from U14.
The rules by age
- U11 and younger: U.S. Soccer’s concussion initiative bans heading in games and training.
- U12 and U13: heading is limited in training to a small number of repetitions per week.
- U14 and older: heading is allowed, and taught.
What this looks like in a game
If a young player heads the ball deliberately in a game where it is not allowed, the referee will usually stop play and give the other team a free kick. Young children sometimes do it by instinct, and nobody is in trouble. A reminder is plenty. Leagues can vary, so check how yours handles it.
What it means for practice
At U11 and younger, heading should not be part of training at all. At U12 and U13 your child may do a little, under control. If you see something that does not match these rules, ask the coach about it politely. Volunteer coaches do not always know the details.
At U14 and older
Heading is part of the game from here, and it should be taught. Technique matters. If your child is starting to head the ball, it is fair to ask the coach how the team teaches it.
Use the right ball
Ball size goes up with age: size 3 through U8, size 4 at U9 to U12 and size 5 from U13. Using the right ball is good for technique at every age, and it is an easy thing to get right at home.
After a knock to the head
Take it seriously. Tell the coach, follow your league’s concussion rules and see a doctor. Do not let a child go back into a game because they say they feel fine. When in doubt, sit them out.
Questions parents ask
Does the heading rule apply in every league?
Rules can vary, so check with your league. Your coach or club can tell you what applies to your team.
Can my nine-year-old practice heading at home?
The rule at this age is no heading in games or training, so it makes sense to skip it at home too.
What if my child accidentally heads the ball?
Nothing to worry about. If the ball hits them hard, check they are OK and take any head knock seriously.
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