Spider Soccer
Item needed:
open
Min players:
10
Max players:
22
Required age:
8
Average cost:
$1
Game duration(Mins):
20 - 30
Lets Play Spider Soccer! Soccer, except everyone is crawling like spiders or crabs on their hands and feet. Players skitter across the field, using both hands and feet to propel themselves forward. They dribble the ball with quick, scuttling movements, and pass it with a flick of their wrists or a deft kick from an awkward angle. The goalkeepers crouch low, ready to pounce like predatory arachnids. Spectators cheer as goals are scored in this bizarre, yet fascinating version of the game.
Game Overview
Spider Soccer adds a unique twist to traditional soccer by having players crawl on their hands and feet, mimicking spiders or crabs. This game adds an extra layer of challenge and fun, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Number of Players
- Players: 10-22 (Two teams of 5-11 players each)
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 8 years old
Game Duration
- Standard Duration: Two halves of 15 minutes each, with a 5-minute break in between.
Required Items
- Soccer ball
- Two goals (portable or marked with cones)
- Cones to mark the boundaries
- Jerseys or bibs to differentiate teams
Game Setup
- Field: Set up a rectangular field with dimensions similar to a standard soccer field but adjusted for the available space and the age of the players. Mark the boundaries with cones.
- Goals: Place one goal at each end of the field.
- Teams: Divide players into two teams of equal size. Each team should wear jerseys or bibs of the same color.
Rules and Gameplay
Starting the Game
- Toss a coin to decide which team kicks off first.
- Place the ball at the center of the field. The team that wins the toss starts with the ball.
Player Movement
- Crawl on your hands and feet, mimicking spider or crab movements.
- Do not stand or walk upright during the game. Violations result in a free kick for the opposing team.
Ball Handling
- Kick or hit the ball with any part of the body except the hands and arms.
- Handball violations result in a free kick for the opposing team.
Scoring
- Score a goal when the ball completely crosses the goal line between the goalposts.
- Restart the game with a kickoff from the center by the team that conceded the goal after a goal is scored.
Fouls and Free Kicks
- Avoid physical contact such as pushing, tripping, or any rough play.
- Award free kicks for fouls. Ensure the opposing team stays at least 3 meters away from the ball during a free kick.
Goalkeeper
- Designate one player as the goalkeeper for each team.
- The goalkeeper must crawl and may use their hands to block shots within the designated goal area.
Out of Bounds
- If the ball goes out of bounds, the opposing team gets a throw-in from the spot where the ball left the field. Players must remain crawling during the throw-in.
End of Game
- The team with the most goals at the end of the two halves wins.
- In case of a tie, play extra time with two 5-minute halves. If still tied, decide the winner with a penalty shootout.
Safety and Tips
- Encourage players to wear gloves and knee pads to protect their hands and knees.
- Ensure the playing field is free of debris and hazards.
- Emphasize fun and fair play over competition.
Average Cost per Player
Costs can vary, but sharing basic items like a soccer ball, cones, and jerseys among players makes it a cost-effective game.