Games of Texas Soccer Tournament Rules
GAMES OF TEXAS SOCCER TOURNAMENT RULES
Games of Texas
The Game of Texas is an annual athletic event governed by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation, a non-profit organization representing municipal park and recreation departments and related organizations from throughout the state. You Are Invited to Attend the Opening Ceremonies on August 1, 2014 at Blue Bell Park at Texas A&M University from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more information go to: http://www.taaf.com/index.php?module=cms&page=35
Fields and Amenities
We will be using the new synthetic fields (Soldier and Sailor) along with Patriot Field at Veteran’s Park. No Gatorade or Gum is allowed on the new fields of Soldier and Sailor. Please only water on these two fields. All other fields and parking lots Gatorade allowed. On-Site Concession Stand will be available. Ice chests and chairs are permitted.
Check In
Each team must check in at the Tournament Headquarters Area in front of the Soldier Synthetic field at Veteran’s Park at least thirty (30) minutes prior to their first scheduled game.
Tournament Rules 6 points for a win
3 points for a tie
0 points for a loss
1 point for each goal up to 3 goals
1 point for a shut out
10 Point Maximum per game
Games of Texas
The Game of Texas is an annual athletic event governed by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation, a non-profit organization representing municipal park and recreation departments and related organizations from throughout the state. You Are Invited to Attend the Opening Ceremonies on August 1, 2014 at Blue Bell Park at Texas A&M University from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more information go to: http://www.taaf.com/index.php?module=cms&page=35
Fields and Amenities
We will be using the new synthetic fields (Soldier and Sailor) along with Patriot Field at Veteran’s Park. No Gatorade or Gum is allowed on the new fields of Soldier and Sailor. Please only water on these two fields. All other fields and parking lots Gatorade allowed. On-Site Concession Stand will be available. Ice chests and chairs are permitted.
Check In
Each team must check in at the Tournament Headquarters Area in front of the Soldier Synthetic field at Veteran’s Park at least thirty (30) minutes prior to their first scheduled game.
Tournament Rules 6 points for a win
3 points for a tie
0 points for a loss
1 point for each goal up to 3 goals
1 point for a shut out
10 Point Maximum per game
- The winning team, or both teams in event of a tie, must return game scorecards to the scorer’s table located at Tournament Headquarters Area in front of the fields. Each coach must sign the game card immediately after the match. Inspect the games cards carefully, because one they are signed they cannot be disputed. Results will be updated on the chart throughout the day.
- If there is a tie in determining the finalists, the tiebreakers will be as follows:
First Head to Head Results
Second Least goals allowed (maximum of 3 per game)
Third Most goals scored (maximum of 3 per game)
Fourth Coin Flip-Ugh! - Forfeits will be scored 1-0 victory equaling 8 points.
- If the championship and\or consolation game is tied at the end of the game, there will be one full 5-minute overtime period, if still tied a second 5-minute overtime period. If the two overtime periods do not result in a winner, then teams will proceed to penalty kicks.
- Awards: Games of Texas Medals will be awarded to each 1st place player and coach, 2nd place player and Coach and 3rd place player and coach in each group.
- No Protests: All referee decisions are final. No protests allowed. Tournament Director will have final jurisdiction over all matters related to the Tournament.
- In the case of inclement weather, if a game is over half-way and a referee calls a game due to lightning or other unsafe conditions, then the game score at that time will stand. If the game is not yet at the half-way point, the tournament director will make the decision regarding whether the game can be made up.
- Misconduct. All players, coaches and spectators are expected to show good sportsmanship at all times. Failure to do so could lead to the disqualification of the team from the tournament. Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their team and supports. Coaches, players or spectators who are involved in fighting, physical or verbal abuse to a referee, other coach, player or spectator, may be cause for themselves and/or their team to be ejected from the tournament and/or forfeiture of awards due to them.
- Cards. A player or coach receiving a red card is prohibited from participating in the rest of that game and the next game. A second red card to the same individual results in that individual being expelled from the tournament.
- Alcohol and Tobacco. No alcohol may be brought to the tournament field sites. Unless otherwise designated, the park is non-smoking. Smoking is permitted only in the parking lot area.
- Dogs. No dogs will be allowed at the tournament field sites.
Tournament Coordinator
Billy Hart, President
Brazos Valley Youth Soccer Association
979.571.6658
Group
A (U10 Division Rules)
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 4.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Parents will be requested to sit on the opposite side of the field from the teams. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons.
Substitutions: A team may substitute players (if the referee approves) at the following times: 1) after any goal, 2) at halftime, 3) during any injury stoppage, 4) prior to any goal kick, 5) prior to your throw-in, or 6) prior to opponent throw-in if that team substitutes. Substitutes are not allowed on free kicks, corner kicks, or penalty kicks. (Remember: There is not a stoppage of play on free kicks and throw-ins; allowing substitution interrupts play).
Offside: If a ball is passed to a player by a team member and the receiving player does not have two opponents (one being the Goalie) between him/her and the goal line at the time the pass begins, offside will be called by referee. If the ball is not passed to an offside player, there is no offside. There is no offside on goal kicks, throw-ins or corner kicks.
Penalty kicks: (from 12 yards directly in front of the goal): A penalty kick will be awarded for the following offenses inside the penalty area (big box): 1) a field player deliberately uses hands to prevent a goal, 2) serious tripping or tackling, 3) severe pushing. All other fouls will be awarded direct free kicks. The referee will tell each coach that a penalty kick is being awarded and allow reasonable time for the players to position themselves.
Direct free kick: (ball may be kicked directly into goal): Direct free kicks from the spot of the foul will be awarded for only the most severe offenses. These include hard tackling or tripping, severe pushing and intentional handballs. The referee will loudly announce that a direct kick is being awarded to reinforce the meaning of the hand signal.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is not required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot).
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: Players will have both feet on the ground on or behind the touchline (sideline). The ball is thrown from behind and over the head. The thrower may not touch the ball until it has touched another player. The referee will enforce these rules by awarding the ball to the opposing team if there is a violation.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 4.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Parents will be requested to sit on the opposite side of the field from the teams. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons.
Substitutions: A team may substitute players (if the referee approves) at the following times: 1) after any goal, 2) at halftime, 3) during any injury stoppage, 4) prior to any goal kick, 5) prior to your throw-in, or 6) prior to opponent throw-in if that team substitutes. Substitutes are not allowed on free kicks, corner kicks, or penalty kicks. (Remember: There is not a stoppage of play on free kicks and throw-ins; allowing substitution interrupts play).
Offside: If a ball is passed to a player by a team member and the receiving player does not have two opponents (one being the Goalie) between him/her and the goal line at the time the pass begins, offside will be called by referee. If the ball is not passed to an offside player, there is no offside. There is no offside on goal kicks, throw-ins or corner kicks.
Penalty kicks: (from 12 yards directly in front of the goal): A penalty kick will be awarded for the following offenses inside the penalty area (big box): 1) a field player deliberately uses hands to prevent a goal, 2) serious tripping or tackling, 3) severe pushing. All other fouls will be awarded direct free kicks. The referee will tell each coach that a penalty kick is being awarded and allow reasonable time for the players to position themselves.
Direct free kick: (ball may be kicked directly into goal): Direct free kicks from the spot of the foul will be awarded for only the most severe offenses. These include hard tackling or tripping, severe pushing and intentional handballs. The referee will loudly announce that a direct kick is being awarded to reinforce the meaning of the hand signal.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is not required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot).
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: Players will have both feet on the ground on or behind the touchline (sideline). The ball is thrown from behind and over the head. The thrower may not touch the ball until it has touched another player. The referee will enforce these rules by awarding the ball to the opposing team if there is a violation.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Group
B (U12 Division Rules)
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 4.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Parents will be requested to sit on the opposite side of the field from the teams. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons
Substitutions: A team may substitute players (if the referee approves) at the following times: 1) after any goal, 2) at halftime, 3) during any injury stoppage, 4) prior to any goal kick, 5) prior to your throw-in, or 6) prior to opponent throw-in if that team substitutes. Substitutes are not allowed on free kicks, corner kicks, or penalty kicks. (Remember: There is not a stoppage of play on free kicks and throw-ins; allowing substitution interrupts play).
Offside: If a ball is passed to a player by a team member and the receiving player does not have two opponents (one being the Goalie) between him/her and the goal line at the time the pass begins, offside will be called by referee. If the ball is not passed to an offside player, there is no offside. There is no offside on goal kicks, throw-ins or corner kicks.
Penalty kicks: (from 12 yards directly in front of the goal): A penalty kick will be awarded for the following offenses inside the penalty area (big box): 1) a field player deliberately uses hands to prevent a goal, 2) serious tripping or tackling, 3) severe pushing. All other fouls will be awarded direct free kicks. The referee will tell each coach that a penalty kick is being awarded and allow reasonable time for the players to position themselves.
Direct free kick: (ball may be kicked directly into goal): Direct free kicks from the spot of the foul will be awarded for only the most severe offenses. These include hard tackling or tripping, severe pushing and intentional handballs. The referee will loudly announce that a direct kick is being awarded to reinforce the meaning of the hand signal.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is not required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot).
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: Players will have both feet on the ground on or behind the touchline (sideline). The ball is thrown from behind and over the head. The thrower may not touch the ball until it has touched another player. The referee will enforce these rules by awarding the ball to the opposing team if there is a violation.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 4.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Parents will be requested to sit on the opposite side of the field from the teams. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons
Substitutions: A team may substitute players (if the referee approves) at the following times: 1) after any goal, 2) at halftime, 3) during any injury stoppage, 4) prior to any goal kick, 5) prior to your throw-in, or 6) prior to opponent throw-in if that team substitutes. Substitutes are not allowed on free kicks, corner kicks, or penalty kicks. (Remember: There is not a stoppage of play on free kicks and throw-ins; allowing substitution interrupts play).
Offside: If a ball is passed to a player by a team member and the receiving player does not have two opponents (one being the Goalie) between him/her and the goal line at the time the pass begins, offside will be called by referee. If the ball is not passed to an offside player, there is no offside. There is no offside on goal kicks, throw-ins or corner kicks.
Penalty kicks: (from 12 yards directly in front of the goal): A penalty kick will be awarded for the following offenses inside the penalty area (big box): 1) a field player deliberately uses hands to prevent a goal, 2) serious tripping or tackling, 3) severe pushing. All other fouls will be awarded direct free kicks. The referee will tell each coach that a penalty kick is being awarded and allow reasonable time for the players to position themselves.
Direct free kick: (ball may be kicked directly into goal): Direct free kicks from the spot of the foul will be awarded for only the most severe offenses. These include hard tackling or tripping, severe pushing and intentional handballs. The referee will loudly announce that a direct kick is being awarded to reinforce the meaning of the hand signal.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is not required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot).
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: Players will have both feet on the ground on or behind the touchline (sideline). The ball is thrown from behind and over the head. The thrower may not touch the ball until it has touched another player. The referee will enforce these rules by awarding the ball to the opposing team if there is a violation.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Group
C and D (U13-14 Division Rules)
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 5.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Parents will sit on the opposite side of the field from the teams. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Substitutions: A team may substitute players (if the referee approves) at the following times: 1) after any goal, 2) at halftime, 3) during any injury stoppage, 4) prior to any goal kick, 5) prior to your throw-in, or 6) prior to opponent throw-in if that team substitutes. Substitutes are not allowed on free kicks, corner kicks, or penalty kicks. (Remember: There is not a stoppage of play on free kicks and throw-ins; allowing substitution interrupts play).
Offside: If a ball is passed to a player by a team member and the receiving player does not have two opponents (one being the Goalie) between he/she and the goal line at the time the pass begins, offside will be called by referee. If the ball is not passed to an offside player, there is no offside. There is no offside on goal kicks, throw-ins or corner kicks.
Penalty kicks: (from 12 yards directly in front of the goal): A penalty kick will be awarded for the following offenses inside the penalty area (big box): 1) a field player deliberately uses hands to prevent a goal, 2) serious tripping or tackling, 3) severe pushing. All other fouls will be awarded direct free kicks. The referee will tell each coach that a penalty kick is being awarded and allow reasonable time for the players to position themselves.
Direct free kick: (ball may be kicked directly into goal): Direct free kicks from the spot of the foul will be awarded for only the most severe offenses. These include hard tackling or tripping, severe pushing and intentional handballs. The referee will loudly announce that a direct kick is being awarded to reinforce the meaning of the hand signal.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is not required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot).
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: Players will have both feet on the ground on or behind the touchline (sideline). The ball is thrown from behind and over the head. The thrower may not touch the ball until it has touched another player. The referee will enforce these rules by awarding the ball to the opposing team if there is a violation.
Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is NOT allowed by any player, including the goalkeeper, when within playing distance of another player and will be sanctioned with an automatic yellow card. Slide Tackles from behind will be sanctioned with an automatic red card. All violations will result in an indirect kick awarded for dangerous play unless committed within the penalty box and denying an imminent goal scoring opportunity. Players must stay upright, on their feet, and under control. Fouls will be called and cards administered even if there is no contact. Players are allowed to slide to stop/intercept a ball when the player is not within playing distance of another player. Playing distance is considered to be three yards or closer.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the Shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 5.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Parents will sit on the opposite side of the field from the teams. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Substitutions: A team may substitute players (if the referee approves) at the following times: 1) after any goal, 2) at halftime, 3) during any injury stoppage, 4) prior to any goal kick, 5) prior to your throw-in, or 6) prior to opponent throw-in if that team substitutes. Substitutes are not allowed on free kicks, corner kicks, or penalty kicks. (Remember: There is not a stoppage of play on free kicks and throw-ins; allowing substitution interrupts play).
Offside: If a ball is passed to a player by a team member and the receiving player does not have two opponents (one being the Goalie) between he/she and the goal line at the time the pass begins, offside will be called by referee. If the ball is not passed to an offside player, there is no offside. There is no offside on goal kicks, throw-ins or corner kicks.
Penalty kicks: (from 12 yards directly in front of the goal): A penalty kick will be awarded for the following offenses inside the penalty area (big box): 1) a field player deliberately uses hands to prevent a goal, 2) serious tripping or tackling, 3) severe pushing. All other fouls will be awarded direct free kicks. The referee will tell each coach that a penalty kick is being awarded and allow reasonable time for the players to position themselves.
Direct free kick: (ball may be kicked directly into goal): Direct free kicks from the spot of the foul will be awarded for only the most severe offenses. These include hard tackling or tripping, severe pushing and intentional handballs. The referee will loudly announce that a direct kick is being awarded to reinforce the meaning of the hand signal.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is not required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot).
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: Players will have both feet on the ground on or behind the touchline (sideline). The ball is thrown from behind and over the head. The thrower may not touch the ball until it has touched another player. The referee will enforce these rules by awarding the ball to the opposing team if there is a violation.
Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is NOT allowed by any player, including the goalkeeper, when within playing distance of another player and will be sanctioned with an automatic yellow card. Slide Tackles from behind will be sanctioned with an automatic red card. All violations will result in an indirect kick awarded for dangerous play unless committed within the penalty box and denying an imminent goal scoring opportunity. Players must stay upright, on their feet, and under control. Fouls will be called and cards administered even if there is no contact. Players are allowed to slide to stop/intercept a ball when the player is not within playing distance of another player. Playing distance is considered to be three yards or closer.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the Shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Group
E (U16-18 Division Rules)
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 5.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Substitutions: Substitutions are made "on-the-fly" and may occur at any time without referee permission. Players must enter and exit at midfield. Substituting players must touch hands with the exiting players as they exit the field, then they can enter the field. Failure to follow these guidelines is to be construed as seeking an unfair advantage. The entering player will be issued a yellow card for unsporting behavior.
Offside: No offside rule in this division.
Penalty kicks: Fouls committed by the defensive team in the penalty box may result in a direct penalty kick. PK’s are awarded if, in the referee’s opinion, an imminent scoring opportunity was nullified by the infraction. Otherwise, the kick will be indirect from the spot of the foul. (see below) If the foul occurs in the goal box which does not deny an imminent scoring opportunity, the ball will be placed on the goal box line parallel to the goal line at a spot closest to the point where the foul occurred. PK’s are taken from a spot seven yards from the goal line and equidistant from the goal posts. There is no run-up to the ball. The kicker’s plant foot must be placed before the kick and remain stationary. The goalkeeper must begin by standing on the goal line and may move only laterally before the kick is taken. The rest of the players must be outside the boundaries of the penalty box and behind the ball until the kick is taken.
Direct free kick: There are no direct free kicks. See above for penalty kicks.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is no required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot). In all free kick situations, defending players must stand at least five yards away from the ball. If the free kick is positioned on the goal area (box) line, players must be at least five yards away from the ball and may stand on the goal line and between the goal posts. Any action designed to hinder a restart occurring within five yards of the free kick may be sanctioned without verbal warning by a yellow card for encroachment even if the team taking the kick does not request the distance.
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: There are no throw-ins. The ball shall be kicked into play from the sideline instead of thrown in.
Physical Contact: All contact shall be kept to the absolute minimum. Incidental contact may be called by the referee. Hard body contact is not allowed. Hand checking is not allowed. What would be considered a fair charge (shoulder to shoulder) in D1 and D2 is not allowed in D3 and D4. The player initiating contact will be called for the foul. Contact with the goalkeeper is prohibited within the penalty and goal boxes.
Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is NOT allowed by any player, including the goalkeeper, when within playing distance of another player and will be sanctioned with an automatic yellow card. Slide tackles from behind will be sanctioned with an automatic red card. All violations will result in an indirect kick awarded for dangerous play unless committed within the penalty box and denying an imminent goal scoring opportunity. Players must stay upright, on their feet, and under control. Fouls will be called and cards administered even if there is no contact. Players are allowed to slide to stop/intercept a ball when the player is not within playing distance of another player. Playing distance is considered to be three yards or closer.
Goalie Punts: The goalkeeper is not allowed to punt the ball. Violation of this rule is sanctioned by an indirect free kick to the opposing team at the point of infraction. Bouncing the ball and then kicking it (also called a drop kick) is considered trickery and may result in a yellow card for unsporting behavior. Letting the ball bounce then dribbling the ball out of the penalty box is legal. Releasing the ball to the ground, letting it come to rest, and then kicking it is legal. Releasing the ball to the ground, dribbling it within the penalty box, and then kicking it is legal.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).
Players: 8 players from each team including goalkeeper
Roster size: Up to 13 players.
Ball size: Number 5.
Time: 25-minute halves and 10-minute halftime.
Playing Time: Each player will play at least half of each game unless unable to due to illness, injury or disciplinary reasons.
Spectators: Coaches and parents are prohibited from the area behind the goal line. Teams will be positioned on one side of the field and the parents/spectators will be on the other side. Coaches are responsible for the sportsmanship of the team’s parents. No one should ever yell disparaging remarks at the opposing team or referees at any time.
Substitutions: Substitutions are made "on-the-fly" and may occur at any time without referee permission. Players must enter and exit at midfield. Substituting players must touch hands with the exiting players as they exit the field, then they can enter the field. Failure to follow these guidelines is to be construed as seeking an unfair advantage. The entering player will be issued a yellow card for unsporting behavior.
Offside: No offside rule in this division.
Penalty kicks: Fouls committed by the defensive team in the penalty box may result in a direct penalty kick. PK’s are awarded if, in the referee’s opinion, an imminent scoring opportunity was nullified by the infraction. Otherwise, the kick will be indirect from the spot of the foul. (see below) If the foul occurs in the goal box which does not deny an imminent scoring opportunity, the ball will be placed on the goal box line parallel to the goal line at a spot closest to the point where the foul occurred. PK’s are taken from a spot seven yards from the goal line and equidistant from the goal posts. There is no run-up to the ball. The kicker’s plant foot must be placed before the kick and remain stationary. The goalkeeper must begin by standing on the goal line and may move only laterally before the kick is taken. The rest of the players must be outside the boundaries of the penalty box and behind the ball until the kick is taken.
Direct free kick: There are no direct free kicks. See above for penalty kicks.
Indirect free kick: (ball must touch another player before entering the goal): All other fouls will be penalized with an indirect free kick. (Remember: A stoppage of play is no required on free kicks; the ball may be kicked as soon as it is placed on the spot). In all free kick situations, defending players must stand at least five yards away from the ball. If the free kick is positioned on the goal area (box) line, players must be at least five yards away from the ball and may stand on the goal line and between the goal posts. Any action designed to hinder a restart occurring within five yards of the free kick may be sanctioned without verbal warning by a yellow card for encroachment even if the team taking the kick does not request the distance.
Goal kicks: The ball will be kicked from any point within the goal area (small box) and is not in play until the ball is outside the penalty area (big box). Opponents will remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
Throw-ins: There are no throw-ins. The ball shall be kicked into play from the sideline instead of thrown in.
Physical Contact: All contact shall be kept to the absolute minimum. Incidental contact may be called by the referee. Hard body contact is not allowed. Hand checking is not allowed. What would be considered a fair charge (shoulder to shoulder) in D1 and D2 is not allowed in D3 and D4. The player initiating contact will be called for the foul. Contact with the goalkeeper is prohibited within the penalty and goal boxes.
Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is NOT allowed by any player, including the goalkeeper, when within playing distance of another player and will be sanctioned with an automatic yellow card. Slide tackles from behind will be sanctioned with an automatic red card. All violations will result in an indirect kick awarded for dangerous play unless committed within the penalty box and denying an imminent goal scoring opportunity. Players must stay upright, on their feet, and under control. Fouls will be called and cards administered even if there is no contact. Players are allowed to slide to stop/intercept a ball when the player is not within playing distance of another player. Playing distance is considered to be three yards or closer.
Goalie Punts: The goalkeeper is not allowed to punt the ball. Violation of this rule is sanctioned by an indirect free kick to the opposing team at the point of infraction. Bouncing the ball and then kicking it (also called a drop kick) is considered trickery and may result in a yellow card for unsporting behavior. Letting the ball bounce then dribbling the ball out of the penalty box is legal. Releasing the ball to the ground, letting it come to rest, and then kicking it is legal. Releasing the ball to the ground, dribbling it within the penalty box, and then kicking it is legal.
Uniforms/Equipment: All players must wear shin guards, soccer cleats and soccer socks to all games. Shirt must be worn tucked in. Socks must be worn over the shin guards. No cleats on toes of shoes (like baseball shoes).