How Big Is a Soccer Field?

Finding out how big is a soccer field is one of the most fascinating things you’ll ever learn. It will soon become clear why these dimensions are distinct dimensions after reading this article.

How Big Is a Soccer Field

Soccer fields are 100-130 yards long and 50-100 yards wide. They can also be referred to as pitches or rinks. In meters, a soccer field is roughly 91-120 meters by 45-90 meters.

This is a guide on the size and dimensions of soccer fields. It will answer all your questions about them, so please read on.

A History of Soccer Field Dimensions

The first soccer matches were on fields that varied greatly in size and shape. As the sport became more organized and competitive, so did the standard for dimensions and markings.

However, there is no universal system of measuring and marking a field. This can lead to confusion when comparing match results at different levels. For example, the size of an official international field is 120 yards by 90 yards (110m x 82m).

Many U.S. high school and college soccer fields actually measure 110 yards by 70 yards (100m x 64m). This is because they are trying to mimic the speed of play in international matches, even if it results in wider, harder-to-manage fields.

Soccer Field Dimensions by Age Group

The Laws of the Game state international soccer dimensions are 120 yards long x 90 yards wide (110m x 82m), which can be a reference point when marking your field.

However, this does not account for other factors like age and skill level, which may require you to make your field broader or longer.

1. Youth Soccer Dimensions

There are no official rules for marking out a youth soccer field. However, organizations recommend using the same 110-yard x 70-yard (100m x 64m) dimensions common in U.S. colleges and high schools.

The goal areas should be 13 yards by 16 yards (12m x 14.5m), with the penalty mark at the midpoint of each goal line.

2. Adult Soccer Dimensions

At higher levels like college and professional, fields are usually 120-130 yards long (110-120m) and 75-80 yards wide (68-73m) to mimic the dimensions in international play.

The goal area should measure 40-44 yards (36-40m) long by 20-24 yards (18-22m) wide, with the penalty mark at the midpoint of each goal line. Penalty kicks are from the corner of the penalty area closest to where the foul occurred.

Markings On a Soccer Field

Here’s a list of things you should know about soccer fields.

1. Penalty Area

The Penalty area is the 18-yard box or semicircle directly in front of the goal. It extends 4 yards from each side of the goal and 16 yards from the top of each goal post. The penalty mark is at the center of each penalty area arc.

2. Halfway Line

The halfway line divides both halves of the field. It is 6 yards from the center of each goal line. The halfway line is part of each team’s defensive half.

3. Corner Arc

A corner arc is drawn in front of each penalty area. The inside edge must be 8 ft from the goal line, while the outside edge is 12 ft away. On-field players are not allowed to touch, let alone enter, the arc. These markings are for corner kicks.

4. Penalty Kick Mark

It is a spot on the field where players take penalties. It’s 8 yards away from the center of the goal line, 4 yards away from either side of it.

All other players must be at least ten yds (9.15 m) back from the penalty mark at all times.

5. The Goal Area

An area bounded by two lines starting six yards (5.49m) from each goalpost. The area extends by 18.3 yards (16m) from the inner side of each goal post and connects them.

Soccer in the U.S.

Soccer in the U.S. is quite popular. There are major soccer tournaments, such as the FIFA World Cup, held throughout the country. Soccer is also played widely by children and adults alike, even though it isn’t as popular as hockey or American football.

Types of Body Contact Prohibited in Soccer

Any contact is not permitted inside the penalty area, allowed outside this area if the ball is stationary. This includes;

• Holding an opponent by hugging or holding them around their body
• Pulling or grabbing onto any part of an opponent’s body
• Holding the ball against your chest with two hands to stop play
• Knocking the ball out of an opponent’s hands or arms
• Kicking, tripping, or striking an opponent with any part of your leg below the knee

What is FIFA?

FIFA is the international governing body of soccer founded in Paris on May 21, 1904. There are currently 209 different national federations that makeup FIFA; this number has grown rapidly since its original founding.

The income for FIFA comes from the interest generated by the World Cup prize money and sponsorship agreements with big-name companies.

FIFA Field Dimensions

The dimensions of a soccer field for international games sanctioned by FIFA are 105 m (115 yds) long and 68 m (74 yds) wide. The longer boundary lines are touchlines, while the shorter boundaries intersecting them are goal lines.

Within each of these lines, there are two halves. The half nearer to each team.

Related Questions

Are All Soccer Fields the Same Size?

No, they can range anywhere from 50 yards (45.72 m) to 100 yards (91.44 m). Most soccer fields are about 100 yds (91.44 m) long and 60 yds (55.56 m) wide.

What Is a Turf?

Turf is a type of ground that can be used to play soccer on. There are different types of turf, such as grass, artificial turf, and carpet.

How Many People Are on a Soccer Team?

Usually, ten field players and one goalkeeper play in each game. This is the standard/norm often seen at all levels of soccer competitions worldwide. 

Conclusion

The size of a soccer field will depend on where and who is playing.  Furthermore, the number of people on a soccer team varies with different leagues.