The Retreating Line rule enables and encourages our young footballers to start to develop and enjoy a style of play in keeping with the world's best practices and New Zealand Football’s playing philosophy.

The implemented rule has been met with fantastic feedback from players, coaches, spectators, and parents alike. The Retreating Line helps create a game that is enjoyable to play, watch and coach.

The rule will create more opportunities for players to:

• Build attacking play from the back by playing out from the goalkeeper
• Recognise opportunities to play through the thirds
• Identify movements to receive and play between and behind opposition units
• Learn effective ways to press from the front
• Be educated in the offside rule and learn how to time forward runs

New Zealand Football and Capital Football are delighted to work with you in helping to drive forward the game, as well as help develop players for the modern game.

To learn more check out the video and flyer below with all the rules and regulations you need to know for the upcoming Junior season.