⚽ What Is the Buildout Line?

The buildout line is a line placed between the penalty area and midfield (typically 7v7).

□ It creates a buffer zone to help teams safely play the ball out from the back instead of just kicking it long.

⏱️ When Is It Used?

The buildout line is used during these moments:

  • Goal kicks
  • When the goalkeeper has possession with their hands

□ In both cases:

  • The opposing team must move behind the buildout line
  • They must wait until the ball is put back into play

□ What Happens Step-by-Step?

  1. Goalkeeper gets the ball
  2. Opponents retreat behind the buildout line
  3. Goalkeeper passes or throws the ball (no punting in most leagues)
  4. Once a teammate touches the ball:
    • The opposing team can cross the line and apply pressure

□ Why Use the Buildout Line?

The buildout line exists to develop better soccer players, not just win games.

Key Benefits:

  • Encourages playing out of the back
  • Improves decision-making under less pressure
  • Builds confidence on the ball
  • Promotes possession-based soccer
  • Reduces “kick-and-chase” play

□ It gives young players time and space to think.

⚔️ How to Use It (Attacking Team)

Key Ideas:

  • Spread out wide (use the whole field)
  • Create passing angles for the goalkeeper
  • Stay calm under pressure

Simple Buildout Shape:

  • Center backs split wide
  • One player checks to the ball (middle option)
  • Outside players stay wide and high

What to Teach Players:

  • “Show for the ball”
  • “Open your body to the field”
  • “First touch away from pressure”

□️ How to Use It (Defending Team)

While Waiting:

  • Get organized behind the line
  • Mark players loosely and prepare to press

Once Ball Is Played:

  • Step together as a team
  • Press quickly but under control
  • Cut off easy passing options

What to Teach Players:

  • “Go when the ball moves”
  • “Angle your run to force mistakes”

□ Goal: Win the ball in the opponent’s half.

□ Simple Way to Explain to Kids

  • “The other team has to back up and give us space.”
  • “We use that space to pass, not kick it away.”
  • “When we don’t have the ball, we wait… then go fast!”
In the diagram below, note that sometimes our fields do not always have the penalty box, the smaller box in front of the goal.

​Here is one of our games with a great referee helping the goalkeeper know what to do and how to do it.

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