6v6 Indoor Soccer – What You Need to Know
Indoor soccer is booming, and the 6v6 format is perfect for fast‑paying fun. Whether you’re playing in a community centre or a club league, you’ll find the game easy to pick up but hard to master. Below you’ll get the basics – from the rule‑book to the right shoes – so you can jump in without a hitch.
Rules and Gameplay
A 6v6 match uses a smaller pitch than the outdoor game – usually about 30 m by 15 m – and the walls are in play. Each team fields five outfield players and a goalkeeper, and unlimited rolling substitutions keep the tempo high. The ball is slightly smaller and has less bounce, making control a must.
Games usually last two 20‑minute halves with a short halftime. If you’re in a tournament, you might see a 15‑minute “golden goal” period for a tie‑breaker. Off‑side isn’t enforced, which opens up space for quick counters. Fouls are called like outdoor soccer, but because the surface is hard, referees often give a free‑kick instead of a penalty for minor contact.
Key tactical points: keep the ball low, use the walls for passing angles, and press as a unit. Since the court is tight, a quick one‑two pass can open up a shooting lane. Goalkeepers stay active – they can rush out to challenge attackers and even act as a fifth defender.
Gear and Safety Tips
The right shoes make a huge difference. Indoor‑specific soles are flat and have tiny rubber nubs for grip; avoid cleats, they’ll just damage the floor. Some players prefer a lightweight indoor soccer boot that still offers ankle support.
Choose a size 4 or size 5 indoor ball; it’s designed to stay low and roll evenly. If you like a bit of bounce, a size 5 futsal ball works, too. Wear shin guards – even on a padded surface the impact can be nasty.
Stay hydrated and stretch before you start. The quick stops and starts can strain hamstrings, so a few dynamic warm‑up moves (leg swings, hip circles) reduce the risk. If you’re new, start with short sessions and build up the intensity.
Finally, look for a league or a pick‑up group that respects the sport’s spirit. Good communication on the court, especially when using the walls, keeps the game fluid and fun for everyone.
Ready to give 6v6 indoor soccer a try? Grab a pair of indoor shoes, a proper ball, and join a local match. You’ll see why this fast‑paced version is a favorite for players of all ages.

- Jul, 23 2023
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- Finnegan Callaghan
Is a roster of 12 too many for a 6v6 indoor soccer team?
In my recent exploration of indoor soccer team dynamics, I've been pondering if having a roster of 12 players for a 6v6 match is too excessive. Some might argue that it provides a greater pool of skills and allows for regular rotation of tired players. However, others may feel that it could disrupt the team’s chemistry and limit the playtime, thus hindering individual performance. It also presents a challenge for the coach to manage playing time fairly. So, it's a delicate balance and really depends on the team's dynamics and the coach’s strategy.
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