Understanding the intricacies of soccer can elevate your appreciation of the game, and one such detail is the penalty arc. This semi-circular area, located at the top of the penalty box, plays a crucial role during penalty kicks.
The penalty arc ensures that all players, except the kicker and the goalkeeper, remain at least 10 yards away from the penalty spot until the ball is in play.
In youth soccer, the dimensions of the penalty arc vary depending on the age group, but its purpose remains consistent. For instance, in U9-U10 leagues, the apex of the arc is 8 yards from the penalty spot.