Page 03     Mission Statement

                Whatcom County Youth Soccer Association Board Members

                Club Phone Numbers

Page 04     At what age can my child play soccer?

Page 05     Registration

Page 12     Whatcom Soccer Commission

                Northwest Soccer Park Rules

Page 13     Whatcom Soccer Academy

RULES

Page 14     Field Dimensions

Page 16     The Ball

Page 17     Number of Players

Page 19     Equipment

Page 21     Duration of the match

Page 24     Offside

Page 29     Goal Kick

Page 30     Corner Kick

Page 32     Additional WCYSA Rules

Page 33     Cost Cutter Cup

Page 34     Glossary

Our mission is to create positive experiences with the game of soccer, leaving people with a life long appreciation for the game.

Vice President: vacant

Treasurer: Vacant

Secretary: Charlene Kintzele

WSC Rep: Chet Lackey

Referee Coordinator: Doug Webley

VP of Field Marshals: Robert Cunningham

VP of Development: Dan Steelquist

Club information line and Presidents: 384-6323 extension 1, then:

Blaine option 1         Scott Morgam

Eastside option 6     Graham Youtsey

Ferndale option 2     Craig Dammarell

Lakeside option 7     Rob Kintzele

Lynden                     Tim Stuart

Meridian option 3     Jeff Kochman

Mt Baker option 4     Lynette Chapman

Northside option 5     Steve Hinton

Southside option 8     Ashley Taubenheim

Northwest Soccer Park, 5238 Northwest Dr.,Bellingham WA 98226
Office Fax. 380-3918

As you spend time on the fields and around your soccer playing child and his or her friends, you’ll find yourself attracted to the sport for the same reasons youngsters are: It’s a free flowing, ever changing game, calling for constant problem solving by the players.

An informed fan is an appreciative fan and the more you know and appreciate the game, the easier it is to help your child become a better player. The following is basic soccer information, registration information, modified "LAWS" of the game and Northwest Soccer Park rules. This information is for parents, coaches, players and referees.

In soccer, two teams face each other trying to put the ball in the opponent’s net without using their hands or arms. The game is played on a level field, (similar to a football field), equally divided with goals at each end. The maximum number of players per team on the field at one time is 11. Each team is comprised of: Goalies, Defenders, Midfielders and Forwards. In standard play, the time is divided into two equal halves. Game time is kept solely by the referee. The "kick off" officially begins the game/and or each half. A coin toss decides who starts the game and who defends which goal. The ball must roll forward one full rotation to start the game. The action is continuous until a goal is scored, an infraction (foul) occurs, or the ball goes out of bounds. Play is reinstated with either a throw in, a goal kick, a free kick or a corner kick.

All players must develop offensive and defensive skills and every player has the potential to be a scorer. There is no such thing as a fixed space or position in soccer. Players may interchange positions according to the flow of the game.

Soccer requires very little special equipment; a ball, jersey, shorts, socks, running type shoes and shinguards (which are mandatory and must be covered entirely by socks.) Soccer shoes are optional, but recommended for older age groups.

Unlike all other sports, who have rules, soccer has "Laws". The referee manages the soccer match to ensure that the "Laws" are being adhered to. Sometimes there are infractions of those "Laws" and the referee will call a foul on the offending party. The referee retains the option of ignoring a foul. If, in his or her opinion, the team that was fouled would lose an advantage; a quick counterattack or a good shot on goal.

FIFA LAWS are the world wide official soccer rules. W.C.Y.S.A. has modified some rules to better meet the needs of the individual age groups. Please read the WCYSA MODIFIED "LAWS" OF SOCCER section for complete rules in specific age groups.

Whatcom County Youth Soccer is available for children ages 4 through 18.

Children ages 4 - 5 can join the one-with-one Program (Blaine Club only).

Children ages 5 - 18 can join the Recreational league. (8 clubs available)

Children ages 10 - 13 can try out for the Whatcom Development League.

Children ages 12 - 18 can try out for the Whatcom FC Rangers Select Club.

1. The Fall season generally starts the first weekend after Labor Day in September.

B) WDL generally runs for nine weeks including an end of season tournament.

c) The WFC Rangers Club season generally runs from Sept. - Dec.

Teams going to State will continue to play from Jan. - Mar.

Registration is considered complete when a registration form has been signed by a parent or legal guardian, a copy of participants birth certificate is on file (Note: the State will not accept Baptismal, Hospital or Religious birth certificates) and fees have been paid. Upon a completed registration, player is considered properly registered, insurance coverage is now in place and the player can practice and play only with the team they have been rostered to.

Players wishing to participate in the recreational league must register with the Club in their residential area. This is based on where you live and not what school you attend.

Blaine Club - players residing in the Blaine School area.

Ferndale Club - players residing in the Ferndale/Custer School area.

Meridian Club - players residing in the Meridian/Lynden/Everson School area.

Mt. Baker Club - players residing in the Mt. Baker/Nooksack School area.

Eastside Club - players residing in the Silverbeach and Roosevelt School area.

Lakeside Club - players residing in the Geneva and Carl Cozier School area.

Lynden Action Club-players residing in the Lynden school area.

Southside Club - players residing in the Happy Valley, Larabee and Lowell School area.

Under exceptional circumstances players may be permitted to play for a club outside of their area. A formal written request must be made to the WCYSA board.

For more information you can contact your club at 384-6323 extension 1.

HOW ARE RECREATIONAL TEAMS FORMED EACH YEAR?

Your Club Registrar (a volunteer) is responsible for forming teams. Registrars are authorized by the State of Washington Youth Soccer Association to form teams and they do so according to the Rules and Regulations of the State Association. Teams are formed by age groups, determined by the player’s birthdate. Date cut off is from August 1 to July 31 as follows: Under 6 – cannot be 6 prior to August 1 of seasonal year, etc. Note: Seasonal year runs from September 1, through August 31.

A player can be rostered to only one team at any given time. Players registered to one team and playing on another team are considered to be playing for two teams. Teams found to be playing illegal players will forfeit their games.

There are absolutely no guarantees of any player being on the same team each season. The registrar will form teams to the best of his/her ability. The coach cannot recruit players or promise a player that they will be on his/her team. (This would be considered a select team) The coach should always refer new players to the Club.

Club Registrars provide the WCYSA director of Development with a list of all the teams that will be playing each season. The scheduler, to the best of his ability balances competition whenever possible. Schedules are available one week before the season begins. Coaches receive schedules for the first few weeks of play. Based on the team’s early season results, the remainder of the season will be scheduled to provide your team with the fairest competition available.

The Whatcom Development League (WDL), established in 1997, offers boys and girls ages 10 - 13 (U11/U12 and U13/U14) the opportunity to compete with teams of the same caliber without having to travel throughout Washington State. The games will be played at Northwest Soccer Park and Skagit River Park in Burlington.

Players living in any area will try out in the Spring to be evaluated, and a selection process will take place. There will be 4 teams in each of the following age groups, BU11/12, GU11/12, BU13/14, GU13/14, from Whatcom County and 2 teams from Skagit County. A maximum of 15 players will be chosen for each team. These teams will play a 9 Fall season, ending with an in house tournament. The cost will be slightly higher then the Recreational league but less then the Whatcom FC Rangers.

Tryout announcements are generally made via KAFE 104.3 FM and in the Bellingham Herald. Notification will also be published in the Soccer Newsletter to all registered players as well as handed out during the Spring season to players in the qualifying age groups. In general tryouts are on two Saturdays in May.

The WDL tryout participants will be notified by mail no later then one week following the conclusion of the Spring recreational season. Included with this notice will be instructions on payment and birth certificate requirements. (Usually due by June 30). After July 15, players will be contacted by their coaches regarding practices etc. WDL starts practicing after August 1.

The WFC Rangers are the highly competitive, select soccer teams for WCYSA. Players living in any area who are interested in a much higher level of competition can try out to be on one of these select (traveling) teams.

At times there may be up to 3 teams in any one age group. The strongest team in any one age group will usually play in the Washington State Youth League (WSYL) in either Division 1, 2 or 3 depending on how they do in the League Placement Tournament (held the first two weekends in June). While the other two teams will usually play in the District League in either the Gold or Silver divisions. Teams may compete all over Washington State.

There is a much higher level of commitment required in the WFC Ranger program such as more practices, more games, more traveling and more costs. Ranger teams attend tournaments throughout the summer, as close as their home field at Northwest Soccer Park, or as some teams have done in the past, as far away as Europe.

The playing season for the Rangers is from September - December. This is often followed by the State Cup Tournament which runs from January - March.

Tryouts for the Rangers are usually held in March for two consecutive weekends. There is an evaluation of players and a selection process takes place. Team ages are from U13 through U19. Tryout announcements are published in the Soccer Newsletter to all registered players and announcements are also in the Bellingham Herald and on the radio (KAFE 104.3 FM).

In general players trying out for the WFC Rangers will find out if they have made a team immediately after the last weekends tryouts. They will be notified by their coach soon afterwards and informed on practice days, registration fees, uniform fees etc.

A player's insurance coverage is in effect once the registration process is completed and covers the player from the time they leave the house for a game or practice to the time they return home. Insurance coverage is secondary coverage with a deductible of $150.00 (subject to change) Insurance coverage is in effect for all WSYSA sanctioned games.

In the event that your child does get hurt in a practice or game, please contact the WCYSA soccer office - not the State office. We will provide you with the necessary paperwork to start the insurance process.

Children can get lost, hurt or damage property unless they are properly supervised. However, children have an uncanny way of "disappearing" during those few seconds their parent looked away. In the event that your child does get lost please contact a Field Marshal right away. Field Marshals will put in place their plan to help locate your child as quickly as possible.

Discuss and put in place a "what if I get lost" plan with your children, before you even get to the fields.

1. Register your child with the Club in your geographical area in a timely manner, providing the necessary, forms, birth certificates and fees.

2. Provide transportation to and from all practices and games ensuring that the player is prompt not only in arriving but also his departure from practices.

Whenever possible, stay and watch practices as well as games and lend the young players support in a positive manner. Do not point out mistakes, leave that up to the coach, but dwell on their accomplishments as well as their efforts.

                4. Be available to kick the ball around with your child when invited to do so.

                5. Make fun your first priority.

6. Avoid material rewards. Build an attitude of "the rewards lie in the fun of playing."

7. Allow your child to be a CHILD. Each child will have a different approach to soccer, allow them to enjoy the game "just for fun".

8. In competition someone always loses. Encourage sportsmanship and winning gracefully. If you lose do not allow your child to become negative.

10. Disagreements with the coach or officials do not belong on the public soccer field. Questions, input, and positive suggestions should be voiced to the coach and/or club in an adult atmosphere. (Children should not be present)

The overall purpose is to enjoy the game and the opportunity to be with your child.

                5. Know special needs of all players.

6. Do not leave children unattended after practice. Coaches should always make sure players are picked up by their parents, before leaving the premises.

                7. Communicate with parents regarding practices and game times.

                8. Supervise players, prohibiting unacceptable activities or behavior.

                9. Make safety a top priority!

                10. Make "FUN" your number one goal in recreational soccer.

                11. Never place the value of winning over the safety and welfare of players.

12. Instruct players to play within the written laws of the game and within the spirit of the game at all times.

13. Do not seek unfair advantage by teaching deliberate unsportsman like behavior.

                14. Coaches should never tolerate inappropriate behavior from players.

15. Demands on players’ time should never be so extensive as to interfere with academic goals or progress.

16. Coaches should never encourage players to violate WSYSA recruitment, eligibility or players rules and policies.

17. Coaches should direct players to seek proper medical attention for injuries and to follow the physician’s instructions regarding treatment and recovery.

19. Coaches are responsible for showing up to their game on time, ensuring that all their players are properly dressed and with all the equipment they need to play their game.

                20. You must have a clear cut idea of what you want to achieve as a coach.

Consider ideas like:

a. Winning vs. Losing

b. Teaching skills, even though you are likely to lose games to teams

that rely on playing physically. The skilled players will be better off in the long run.

c. Total development vs single position improvement.

d. Relation of parents and spectators to players, referees and opponents.

e. Playing soccer vs. "Kick and Run".

f. Development of all players on your team.

If you’re going to put some time into the development of young soccer players, you’re also going to have to put some time into developing yourself. You’ll have to gain insight into teaching methods, dealing with children, coaching developments, etc. The following are some suggestions:

                1. Attend coaching clinics whenever possible.

2. Wear proper gear. Bring extra clothes during practices, water bottle, ball etc.

3. Do your fair share. Help your team and your coach.

4. Display sportsmanship at all times. Learn from your mistakes and from others.

5. Play like a winner. A winner never quits and a quitter never wins.

6. Learn the rules of soccer. Soccer is easy to play when you know the rules.

7. When watching games be courteous. Do not interfere with the game.

8. Be an example to younger soccer players.

9. Encourage your teammates.

10. HAVE FUN! Oh, and did we mention HAVE FUN!

There are two types of referees in the WCYSA soccer program. The licensed referee (known as Registered referee) and the non-licensed referee (known as an Association referee).

Licensed referees have taken the USSF course and exam and wear patches according to their level of refereeing ability. Licensed officials will referee all games at Northwest Soccer Park.

Referees are invited as guests on the field to ensure player safety and that the players and coaches are abiding by the laws of the game.

1. The referee is an invited guest to help the game flow and ensure the safety of players.

2.The referee has to use a great deal of discretion in applying the laws of the game.

This is a not always an agreeable part of refereeing. Not everyone will agree with the referee's discretion, after all we all have our own opinions; however, the only opinion that counts during the game is that of the referee.

3. Abuse of the referees (physical or verbal) will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Please refrain from speaking to the referee. In the heat of the moment things get said that may not be said under normal conditions.

4. If you feel that a referee is in need of being assessed, please contact a Field Marshal who will locate the senior referee mentor. The senior referee can help answer your questions and evaluate the situation.

5. Referees are responsible for showing up to their game on time, properly dressed and with all the equipment they need to referee a game.

Field Marshals are volunteers who want to help keep Northwest Soccer Park a fun and safe place for children. Field Marshals are instructed on the rules of Northwest Soccer Park, field locations, general information and emergency procedures. The VP of Field Marshals organizes in advance a schedule for each game day.

Field Marshals, identified by their white and teal jackets with the words "Field Marshal" on the back have the authority to intervene where a problem or potential problem is occurring. They gently remind us of the Park rules and League rules. They help locate "lost parents" and "lost teams". In the event of an injury, a Field Marshal should be contacted, as they have two way radios and can get help in a fast and effective way. With the thousands of people that come out to the park on game day, Field Marshals really help keep things running smoothly.

Aproximatley halfway through the Fall and Spring seasons the Field Marshalls will set up a table on Saturday with the schedules for the second half of the season. Each coach needs to stop by the table and pick up their schedules.

Clubs will be assigned a specific day as their "Duty" day. The more volunteers for each game day, the less time any one person will be required to be at the fields. If you are interested in donating a few hours of your time please contact your club.

GETTING INVOLVED

WSC, the body that governs Northwest Soccer Park;develops, maintains and rents the fields for Youth and Adult play.

Treasurer: Clara Lackey

WSC Staff: Lance Calloway, Executive Director

Sabrina Carter, Office Manager

Greg Brisbon, Facilities Manager

Shinguards are mandatory and must be completely covered by socks.

All jewelry including taped earrings or dangerous equipment is prohibited during the game. No player shall play in a cast or splint - even if the cast or splint is covered.

Prior to the start of the season, head coaches are required to fill out, sign and return to WCYSA a Washington State Patrol Back Ground Clearance Form and a Washington State Youth Soccer Association Disclosure form. (Forms expire every 2 years)

BOYS & GIRLS ONE-WITH-ONE (U5)

Coaches stay on the sidelines organizing player rotation and encouraging their team. Players do take corner kicks, free kicks, goal kicks and throw ins. The goalie is encouraged to play outside of the goal zone area and play as a player (no hands). He can fall back into a goalie position and use his hands when necessary.

The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater then the length of the goal line.

Length: minimum 100 yards maximum 130 yards

Width: minimum 50 yards maximum 100 yards

The field of play is marked with lines. These lines belong to the areas of which they are boundaries. The two longer boundary lines are called touchlines. The two shorter lines are called goal lines. All goal lines are not more than 5 inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line. The Center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of 10 yards is marked around it.

A Goal area is defined at each end of the field as follows:

Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 6 yards form the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 6 yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the goal area.

A penalty area is defined at each end of the field as follows:

Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 18 yards from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 18 yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the penalty area. Within each penalty area a penalty mark is made 12 yards from the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them. An arc of a circle with a radius of 10 yards from each penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area.

A flagpost, not less than 5 ft high, with a non pointed top and a flag is placed at each corner. Flagposts may also be placed at each end of the halfway line, not less than one yard outside the touchline.

A quarter circle with a radius of 1 yard from each corner flagpost is drawn inside the field of play.

Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the corner flagposts and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The distance between the posts is 8 yards and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is 8 feet. Both goalposts and the cross bar have the same width and depth which do not exceed 5 inches. The goal lines are the same width as that of the goalposts and the crossbar. Nets may be attached to the goals and the ground behind the goal, provided that they are properly supported and do not interfere with the goalkeeper. The goalposts and crossbars must be white.

Goals must be anchored securely to the ground. Portable goals may only be used if they satisfy this requirement.

If the crossbar becomes displaced or broken, play is stopped until it has been repaired or replaced in position. If a repair is not possible, the match is abandoned. The use of a rope to replace the crossbar is not permitted. If the crossbar can be repaired, the match is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where the ball was located when play was stopped.

Decision 2

Goalposts and crossbars must be made of wood, metal or other approved material. Their shape may be square, rectangular, round or elliptical and they must not be dangerous to players.

No kind of commercial advertising, whether real or virtual, is permitted on the field of play and field equipment (including the goal nets and the areas they enclose) from the time the teams enter the field of play until they have left it at half time and from the time the teams reenter the field of play until the end of the match. In particular, no advertising material of nay kind may be displayed on goals, nets, flagposts or their flags. No extraneous equipment(cameras, microphones, etc.) may be attached to these items.

Decision 4

The reproduction, whether real or virtual, of representative logos or emblems of FIFA, confederations, national associations, leagues, clubs or other bodies, is forbidden on the field of play and field equipment(including the goal nets and the areas they enclose) during playing time, as described in decision 3.

Decision 5

A mark may be made off the field of play, 10 yards from the corner arc and at right angles to the goal lines to ensure that this distance is observed when a corner kick is being taken.

U13 & up     size 5

If the ball bursts or becomes defective during the course of the match, the match is stopped. The match is restarted by dropping the replacement ball at the place where the first ball became defective. If the ball bursts or becomes defective whilst not in play at a kick-off, goal kick, corner kick, free kick, penalty kick or throw in, the match is restarted accordingly. The ball may not be changed during the match without the authority of the referee.

In competition matches, only footballs which meets the minimum technical requirements stipulated in law 2 are permitted for use. In FIFA competition matches, and in competition matches organized under the auspices of the confederations, acceptance of a football for use is conditional upon the football bearing one of the following three designations: the official "FIFA APPROVED" logo, or the official "FIFA INSPECTED" logo, or the reference "INTERNATIONAL MATCHBALL STANDARD" Such a designation on a football indicates that it has been tested officially and found to be in compliance with specific technical requirements, different for each category and additional to the minimum specifications stipulated in law 2. The list of the additional requirements specific to each of the respective categories must be approved by the International FA Board. The institutes conducting the tests are subject to the approval of FIFA. National association competitions may require the use of balls bearing any one of these three designations. In all other matches the ball used must satisfy the requirements of Law 2.

* FIFA rules shall apply as per safety and condition of the ball.

In FIFA competition matches and in competition matches organized under the auspices of the confederations and national associations, no kind of commercial advertising on the ball is permitted, except for the emblem of the competition, the competition organizer and the authorized trademark of the manufacturer. The competition regulates may restrict the size and number of such markings.

A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eleven players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start if either team consists of fewer than seven players.

Up to a maximum of three substitutions may be used in any match played in an official competition organized under the auspices of FIFA, the confederations or the national associations. The rules of the competitions must state how many substitutes may be nominated, from three up to a maximum of seven.

In other matches, up to five substitutes may be used, provided that the teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum number and the referee is informed before the match. If the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before the start of the match, no more than three substitutes are allowed.

In all matches the names of the substitutes must be given to the referee prior to the start of the match. Substitutes not so named may not take part in the match.

To replace a player by a substitute, the following conditions must be observed: The referee is informed before any proposed substitution is made. A substitute only enters the field of play after the player being replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee. A substitute only enters the field of play at the halfway line and during a stoppage in the match. A substitution is completed when a substitute enters the field of play from that moment, he becomes a player and the player he has replaced ceases to be a player. A player who has been replaced takes no further part in the match. All substitutes are subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee, whether called upon to play or not.

Any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper, provided that: The referee is informed before the change is made. The change is made during a stoppage in the match.

If a substitute enters the field of play without the referee’s permission: Play is stopped. The substitute is cautioned, shown the yellow card and are required to leave the field of play. Play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place it was located when play was stopped. If a player changes places with the goalkeeper without the referee’s permission before the change is made: Play continues. The players concerned are cautioned and shown the yellow card when the ball is next out of play. For any other infringements of this law the players concerned are cautioned and shown the yellow card.

If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution: The match is restarted by an indirect free kick, to be taken by a player of the opposing team form the place where the ball was located when play was stopped.

A player who has been sent off before the kick off may be replaced only by one of the named substitutes. A named substitute who has been sent off, either before the kick off or after play has stared, may not be replaced.

* Players sent off for a red card offense shall not be replaced. Players shown a yellow card must leave the field of play.

Players shown a yellow card can be replaced and can re enter the field of play with referee permission.

Decisions of the International FA Board

Decision 1

Subject to the overriding conditions of law 3, the minimum number of players in a team is left to the discretion of national associations. The board is of the opinion, however, that a match should not continue if there are fewer than seven players in either team.

The coach may convey tactical instructions to the players during the match. He and the other officials must remain within the confines of the technical area, where such an area is provided, and they must behave in a responsible manner.

A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is dangerous to himself or another player (including any kind of jewelry).

The basic compulsory equipment of a player is:

For any infringement of this Law, play need not be stopped. The player at fault is instructed by the referee to leave the field of play to correct his equipment. The player leaves the field of play when the ball next ceases to be in play, unless he has already corrected his equipment. Any player required to leave the field of play to correct his equipment does not re enter without the referee’s permission. The referee checks that the player’s equipment is correct before allowing him to reenter the field of play. The player is only allowed to reenter the field of play when the ball is out of play. A player who has been required to leave the field of play because of an infringement of this Law and who enters (or reenters) the field of play without the referee’s permission is cautioned and shown the yellow card.

If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution: The match is restarted by an indirect free kick taken by a player of the opposing side, from the place where the ball was located when the referee stopped the match.

Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the game in connection with the match to which he has been appointed.

The Referee:

Enforces the Laws of the Game. Controls the match in cooperation with the assistant referees, and where applicable, with the fourth official. Ensures that the all meets the requirements of law. Ensures that the players’ equipment meets the requirements of law 4. Acts as timekeeper and keeps a record of the match. Stops, suspends or terminates the match, at his discretion, for any infringements of the laws. Stops, suspends or terminates the match because of outside interference of any kind. Stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he is removed from the field of play. Allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is, in his opinion, only slightly injured. Ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the field of play. The player may only return on receiving a signal from the referee, who must be satisfied that the bleeding has stopped. Allows play to continue when the team against which an offense has been committed will benefit from such an advantage and penalizes the original offender if the anticipated advantage does not ensure at that time. Punishes the more serious offense when a player commits more than one offense a the same time. Takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending off offenses. He is not obligated to take this action immediately but must do so when the ball next goes out of play. Takes action against team officials who fail to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and may at his discretion, expel them from the field of play and it’s immediate surroundings. Acts on the advice of assistant referees regarding incidents which he has not seen. Ensures that no unauthorized persons enter the field of play. Restarts the match after it has been stopped. Provides the appropriate authorities with a match report which includes information on any disciplinary action taken against players, and/or team officials and any other incidents which occurred before, during or after the match.

The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final. The referee may only change a decision on realizing that it is incorrect or, at his discretion, on the advice of an assistant referee, provided that he has not restarted play.

A referee(or where applicable, an assistant referee or fourth official) is not held liable for:

Any kind of injury suffered by a player, official or spectator. Any damage to property of any kind. Any other loss suffered by any individual, club, company, association or other body, which is due or which may be due to any decision which he may take under the terms of the Laws of the Game or in respect of the normal procedures required to hold, play and control a match. This may include a decision that he condition of the field of play or its surrounds or that the weather conditions are such as to allow or not to allow a match to take place. A decision to abandon a match for whatever reason. A decision as to the conditions of the fixtures or equipment used during a match including the goalposts, crossbar, flagpost and the ball.

A decision to stop or not to stop a match due to spectator interference or any problem in the spectator area. A decision to stop or not to stop play to allow an injured player to be removed from the field of p lay for treatment. A decision to request or insist that an injured player be removed from the field of play for treatment. A decision to allow or not to allow a player to wear certain apparel or equipment. A decision (in so far as this may be his responsibility) to allow or not to allow any persons (including team or stadium officials, security officers, photographers other media representatives) to be present in the vicinity of the field of play. Any other decisions which he may take in accordance with the laws of the game or in conformity with his duties under the terms of FIFA, confederation, national association or league rules or regulations under which the match is played.

Decision 2

In tournaments or competitions where a fourth official is appointed, his role and duties must be in accordance with the guidelines approved by the International FA Board.

Two assistant referees are appointed whose duties, subject to the decision of the referee, are to indicate:

When the whole of the ball has passed out of the field of play. Which side is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw in. When a player may be penalized for being gin an offside position. When a substitution is requested. When misconduct or any other incident has occurred out of the view of the referee.

The assistant referees also assists the referee to control the match in accordance with the Laws of the Game. In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee will relieve an assistant referee of his duties and make a report to the appropriate authorities.

The match lasts two equal periods of 45 minutes, unless otherwise mutually agreed between the referee and the two participating teams. Any agreement to alter the periods of play (for example to reduce each half to 40 minutes because of insufficient light) must be made before the start of play and must comply with competition rules.

Players are entitled to an interval at half-time. The half-time interval must not exceed 15 minutes. Competition rules must

state the duration of the half time interval. The duration of the half time interval may be altered only with the consent of the referee.

Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through:

Substitution(s), assessment of injury to players, removal of injured players from the field of play for treatment, wasting time or any other cause. The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee.

Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of periods of extra time.

Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods to be played. The conditions of Law 8 will apply.

An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide otherwise.

* The Director of Development will evaluate each individual situation to determine whether the match will be replayed.

A coin is tossed and the team who wins the toss decides which goal it will attack in the first half of the match. The other team takes the kick off to start the match. The team which wins the toss takes the kick off to start the second half of the match. In the second half of the match the teams change ends and attack the opposite goals.

A kick off is a way of starting or restarting play: At the start of the match. After a goal has been scored. At the start of the second half of the match. At the start of each period of extra time, where applicable. A goal may be scored directly from the kick off.

All players are in their own half of the field. The opponents of the team taking the kick off are at least 10 yards from the ball until it is in play. The ball is stationary on the center mark. The referee gives a signal. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward. The kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player. After a team scores a goal, the kick off is taken by the other team.

If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player: An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. For any other infringement of the kick off procedure, the kick off is retaken.

A dropped ball restarts the match after a temporary stoppage which becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any reason not mentioned elsewhere in the Laws of the Game.

Procedure -The referee drops the ball at the place where it was located when play was stopped. Play restarts when the ball touches the ground.

The ball is dropped again: If it is touched by a player before it makes contact with the ground. If the ball leaves the field of play after it makes contact with the ground, without a player touching it.

A free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own goal area is taken from any point within the goal area. An indirect free kick awarded to the attacking team in it’s opponents’ goal area is taken from the goal area line parallel to

the goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred. A dropped ball to restart the match after play has been temporarily stopped inside the goal area takes place on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was stopped.

Ball in Play - The ball is in play at all other times, including when: It rebounds from a goalpost, crossbar or corner flagpost and remains in the field of play. It rebounds from either the referee or an assistant referee when they are re on the field of play.

A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal.

The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals are scored, the match is drawn.

For matches ending in a draw, competition rules may state provisions involving extra time, or other procedures approved by the International FA Board to determine the winner of a match.

It is not an offense in itself to be in an offside position. A player is in an offside position if: He is nearer to his opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the second last opponent. A player is not in an offside position if: He is in his own half of the field of play or he is level with the second last opponent or he is level with the last two opponents.

A player in an offside position is only penalized if, at the moment the ball touches or is played by one of his team, he is, in the opinion of the referee, involved in active play by: Interfering with play or interfering with an opponent or gaining an advantage by being in that position.

There is no offside offense if a player receives the ball directly from: A goal kick or a throw in or a corner kick.

For any offside offense, the referee awards an indirect free kick to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred.

Fouls and misconduct are penalized as follows:

A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following six offenses in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force: Kicks or attempts to kick an opponent, trips or attempts to trip an opponent, jumps at an opponent, charges an opponent, strikes or attempts to strike an opponent, or pushes an opponent. A direct free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following four offenses: Tackles an opponent to gain possession of the ball, making contact with the opponent before touching the ball, holds an opponent, spits at an opponent, handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his own penalty area). A direct free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.

A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above ten offenses is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position the ball, provided it is in play.

An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee, commits any of the following three offenses: Plays in a dangerous manner, impedes the progress of an opponent, prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands. An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following five offenses: Takes more than four steps while controlling the ball with his hands, before releasing it form his possession, touches the ball again with his hands after it has been released from his possession and has not touched any player, touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kick to him by a team mate, touches the ball with his hands after it has received it directly from a throw in taken by a team mate or wastes time. The indirect Free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.

A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following seven offenses: Is guilty of unsporting behavior, shows dissent by word or action, persistently infringes the Laws of the Game, delays the restart of play, fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick or free kick, enters or reenters the field of play without the referee’s permission, deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission.

A player is sent off and shown the red card if he commits any of the following seven offenses: Is guilty of serious foul play, is guilty of violent conduct, spits at an opponent or any other person, denies an opponent a goal or an obvious goal scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area), denies an obvious goal scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the players’ goal by an offense punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick, uses offensive, insulting or abuse language, receive a second caution in the same match.

A penalty kick is awarded if, while the ball is in play, the goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, strikes or attempts to strike an opponent by throwing the ball at him.

A player who commits a cautionable or sending off offense, either on or off the file of play, whether directed towards an opponent, a team mate, the referee, and assistant referee or any other person, is disciplined according to the nature of the offense committed.

Decision 3

The goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the ball by touching it with any part of his hand or arms. Possession of the ball includes the goalkeeper deliberately parrying the ball, but does not include the circumstances where, in the opinion of the referee, the all rebounds accidentally from the goalkeeper, for example after he has made a save.

Decision 4

Subject to the terms of Law 12, a player may pass the ball to his own goalkeeper using, his head or chest or knee, etc. If, however, in the opinion of the referee, a player uses a deliberate trick while the e ball is in play in order to circumvent the Law, the player is guilty of unsporting behavior. He is cautioned, shown the yellow card and an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team from the place where the infringement occurred. A player using a deliberate trick to circumvent the Law while he is taking a free kick, is cautioned for unsporting behavior and show the yellow card. The free kick is retaken. In such circumstances, it is irrelevant whether the goalkeeper subsequently touches the ball with his hands or not. The offense is committed by the player in attempting to circumvent both the letter and the spirit of Law 12.

Free kicks are either direct or indirect. For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken and the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player.

If a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponent’s goal, a goal is awarded. If a direct free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team.

The referee indicates an indirect free kick by raising his arm above his head. He maintains his arm in that position until the kick has been taken and the ball has touched another player or goes out of play.

A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another player before it enters the goal. If an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponent’s goal, a goal kick is awarded. if an indirect free kick is kicked directly in the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team.

Direct or indirect free kick to the defending team:

All opponents are at least 10 yards from the ball. All opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play. The ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area. A free kick awarded in the goal area is taken from any point inside that area.

Indirect free kick to the attacking team:

All opponents are at least 10 yards from the ball until it is in play, unless they are on their own goal line between the goalposts. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves. An indirect free kick awarded inside the goal area is taken from that part of the goal area line, which runs parallel to the goal line, at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred.

All opponents are at least 10 yards from the ball until it is in play. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves. A free kick is taken from the place where the infringement occurred.

If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than the required distance, the kick is retaken. If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own penalty area, the ball is not kicked directly into play, the kick is retaken. Free kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper. If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player, a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. A penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area. Free kick taken by the goalkeeper. If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands), before it has touched another player: An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player, a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick is to be taken from the place the infringement occurred. An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred.

A penalty kick is awarded against a team which commits one of the ten offenses for which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty area and while the ball is in play. A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick. Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of periods of extra time.

The ball is placed on the penalty mark. The player taking the penalty Kick is properly identified. The defending goalkeeper remains on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts until the ball has been kicked. The players other than the kicker are located inside the field of play, outside the penalty area, behind the penalty mark at least 10 yards from the penalty mark. The referee, does not signal for a penalty kick to be taken until the players have taken up position in accordance with the law. Decides when a penalty kick has been completed.

Procedure The player taking the penalty, kicks the ball forward. He does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward. When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time has been extended at half time or full time to allow a penalty kick to be taken or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the goalposts and under the crossbar the ball touches either or both of the goalposts and or the crossbar, and or the goalkeeper.

If the referee give the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and, before the ball is in play, one of the following situation occurs: The player taking the penalty kick infringes the Laws of the Game: The referee allows the kick to proceed. If the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is not retaken. The goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game: The referee allows the kick to proceed. If the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken. A teammate of the player taking the kick enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 10 yards of the penalty mark: The referee allows the kick to proceed. If the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is not retaken. A teammate of the goalkeeper enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 10 yards of the penalty mark: The referee allows the kick to proceed. If the ball enters the goal, the goal is awarded. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken. A player of both the defending team and the attacking team infringe the Laws of the Game: The kick is retaken.

The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands)before it has touched another player: An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. The kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. The ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward: The kick is retaken. The ball rebounds into the field of play from the goalkeeper, the crossbar or the goalposts, and is then touched by an outside agent: The referee stops play. Play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where it touched the outside agent.

At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower faces the field of play, has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touchline, uses both hands, delivers the ball from behind and over his head. The thrower may not touch the all again until it t has touched another player. The ball is in play immediately it enters the field of play.

U12 & up FIFA rules shall apply.

Infringements/Sanctions

A corner kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the opposing team. A corner kick is awarded when the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the defending team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10.

* U6-U9 Opponents at least 5 yrds away.

Taking kicks from the penalty mark is a method of determining the winning team where competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn.

LAW 18

1. The first team listed on the schedule shall be considered home team and shall have choice of touchlines (sidelines).

2. The second team listed must take the opposite touch line (sideline) this includes all spectators.

3. During the Spring season, a team consisting of players who played on a Ranger team the preceding Fall season can only roster a maximum of 4 Ranger players or they must play up one age group.

COST CUTTER CUP

Glossary

Advantage Rule - Applied by the referee when, in his/her judgement, penalizing an infraction would give an advantage to the offending team. Play is continued, and no penalty is called.