Soccer Center Circle
Definition
The center circle is a lined component of the pitch that surrounds the center mark. It has a radius of 9.15 meters (10 yards) and is used during kickoffs. This center circle is cut in half by the midfield line, also known as the halfway line.
Kickoff
A kickoff is what puts the ball in play at the start of a match, second half, extra time, or after a goal has been scored. A kickoff features one team kicking the ball from a stationary position on the center mark. All players must be on their side of the field during a kickoff. Only players from the team kicking off may be inside the center circle during a kickoff; all opponents must be outside of the center circle.
A coin flip decides who kicks off in the first half. The team who doesn’t kickoff in the first half will kickoff in the second half. A team will also kickoff when they have been scored on.
Dimensions
The center circle in soccer has a radius of 10 yards (9.15 meters). It is bisected by the halfway line, which runs through the center of the field in between the touchlines. The halfway line is anywhere from 50 to 100 yards (45 to 90 meters) long, and is located between 50 and 65 yards (45 and 59 meters) away from each goal line.
FAQ
What is the center circle in soccer?
In soccer, the center circle is a component of the pitch used for kickoffs. It is located in the very middle of the field of play, and it has a radius of 9.15 meters (10 yards) surrounding the center mark. The center circle is cut into two halves by the midfield line, also known as the halfway line.
How is the center circle used in soccer strategy?
Outside of kickoffs, the center circle is not especially regarded in soccer strategy. This is because the center circle, like the midfield line, is not a mark between in and out of bounds. However, the center circle is sometimes specified in offensive and defensive formations because midfielders on either team may position themselves in relation to it.