The term "soccer box," also known as the penalty box or 18-yard box, refers to a specific area on a soccer (association football) pitch. It is formally called the penalty area.
Based on the provided reference, the penalty area, or 18-yard box, is an area of an association football pitch.
Dimensions and Location
The soccer box is a prominent rectangular area located in front of each goal on the pitch. Its dimensions and location are precisely defined by the Laws of the Game:
- It is rectangular in shape.
- It extends 18 yd (16 m) from each goalpost along the goal line.
- It extends 18 yd (16 m) out into the field of play, perpendicular to the goal line.
This creates a rectangular area that is 44 yards (40.2 metres) wide and 18 yards (16.5 metres) deep.
Other Names
The soccer box is commonly known by several names:
- Penalty Area (Formal Name)
- 18-yard Box (Refers to its dimensions)
- Penalty Box (Informal Name)
- The Box (Informal, as mentioned in the reference)
Here's a quick summary:
| Name | Formality | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penalty Area | Formal | Official term |
| 18-yard Box | Common | Highlights 18-yard dimension |
| Penalty Box | Informal | Common usage |
| The Box | Informal | Simple term, often used by players |
Significance of the Soccer Box
This area is crucial in soccer due to specific rules that apply within its boundaries. Understanding the box is fundamental for players, coaches, and fans alike.
- Penalty Kicks: If a defending player commits a foul that would normally result in a direct free kick inside their own penalty area, the attacking team is awarded a penalty kick. This is a direct shot on goal from the penalty mark (located 12 yards from the goal line within the box), with only the goalkeeper to beat.
- Goalkeeper Handling: The goalkeeper is permitted to handle the ball (use their hands or arms) only within their own penalty area. Outside this area, they are subject to the same rules as outfield players regarding ball handling.
- Goal Kicks: Goal kicks are taken from anywhere within the goal area, which is a smaller rectangular area inside the penalty box, centered on the goal.
Knowing the boundaries of the box is vital for players to make decisions, such as when to tackle or when the goalkeeper can pick up the ball. It's a focal point for both attacking and defending strategies.
