Soccer Rules for Parents — Throw-Ins Explained

You know that moment when the ball rolls out and suddenly every kid freezes — and all the parents start shouting, “Throw it in! No, the other way!” 

Yep. Throw-ins can be pure chaos for young players (and yes… even for parents who aren’t totally sure about soccer throw-in rules for parents yet).

So today, we’re breaking it down — simple, clear, Coach-Grandpa-style — so you know what to look for, and your kid can feel confident instead of confused.

What Is a Throw-In? (Soccer Throw-In Rules for Parents)

A throw-in happens when the ball crosses either sideline — not the goal line.

Who throws it in?

The team who didn’t touch it last.

From there, the player has to:

• Two feet on the ground

• Both hands on the ball

• Ball comes from behind the head and over

If any of those are off — the ref may let it slide (in rec)… or hand it to the other team.

Why Throw-Ins Matter at Young Ages

Coach Grandpa always says:

“Throw-ins aren't about perfection. They're about confidence and teamwork.”

Learning throw-ins teaches kids:

Direction awareness (which goal are we going to again?)

Communication ("I’m open!")

Quick decision-making

Parent Sideline Rule: Guide with Questions, Not Commands

Instead of: “THROW IT TO NUMBER 7!” or “YOU’RE FACING THE WRONG WAY!”

Try: “Who can you find?” or “Which goal are we going to?”

Kids don’t need instructions — they need reminders that they already know what to do.

Want to Practice Throw-Ins at Home?

You don’t need cones or goals — just a wall or a parent.

1. Stand behind a line (or sidewalk crack)

2. Ball behind head → throw forward

3. Catch → reset → repeat

Pro Tip from Coach Grandpa:

“Make it fun — count how many ‘good form’ throws they can get in a row!”