Foreword
We have adopted these rules to help the flow of the game and to create an atmosphere where the game of outdoor soccer in South Baltimore can be enjoyed by Players and Fans alike. These rules are set forth by the Board of Directors of the SBYSL and are enforced by the referees appointed by the board for each game. Among other things, the Rules’ intent is to promote the adoption of standards for outdoor soccer, which will further promote its identity, growth and, above all, fun for those of all skill levels and ages. We ask all players, coaches, spectators, referees, and Board Members to keep in mind that this league is a volunteer run league and everyone is here for the kids and the promotion of the League as a whole. This being said, we would like everyone to play hard, play fair and above all, HAVE FUN!
SBYSL's Outdoor soccer games follow the FIFA laws of the game that are published on the US Soccer website: https://www.ussoccer.com/referees/laws-of-the-game
The following modifications have been adopted
See Official Field Diagram for standard dimensions for the field, goals and markings.
The ball is Size 3 (U5, U6), Size 4 (U7, U8 ,U10) or Size 5 (U14,U18 ).
Ball Change: The ball may not be changed except by the Referee.
The game ball is delivered to the Referee prior to each game. At the end of each Half, the ball is maintained by the Referee. Upon the game’s conclusion, the Referee returns the game ball to the person or team which supplied them.
Teams
U5 - Max 5 Players (no keeper)
U6 - Max 6 Players (no keeper)
U7 - 7 Players (6 field with 1 keeper)
U8 - 7 Players (6 field with 1 keeper)
U10 - 7 Players (6 field with 1 keeper) U14 - 11 Players (10 field with 1 keeper) Minimum 7 players U18 - 11 Players (10 field with 1 keeper) Minimum 7 players
NO COACHES ALLOWED ON THE FIELD WITHOUT REFEREE PERMISSION STARTING AT U7 AGE GROUP
No players or spectators on field during halftime. Post game: Players and spectators must yield to the oncoming teams. If time allows, oncoming teams can use the field for a few minutes prior to kick off for warm-ups.
No coaches are allowed behind the goal. Coaches must coach from the sidelines.
ALL COACHES MUST TRY TO GIVE ALL PLAYERS EQUAL PLAYING TIME
Substitution procedure
To replace a player with a substitute, the following must be observed:
• the referee must be informed before any substitution is made
• the player being substituted receives the referee’s permission to leave the field of play, unless already off the field
• if a player who is to be replaced refuses to leave, play continues
The substitute only enters:
• during a stoppage in play
• at the halfway line
• after the player being replaced has left
• after receiving a signal from the referee
The substitution is completed when a substitute enters the field of play; from that moment, the replaced player becomes a substituted player and the substitute becomes a player and can take any restart. All substituted players and substitutes are subject to the referee’s authority
whether they play or not.
Changing the goalkeeper
Any of the players may change places with the goalkeeper if:
• the referee is informed before the change is made
• the change is made during a stoppage in play
Team captain
The team captain has no special status or privileges but has a degree of responsibility for the behavior of the team.
1. Safety
A player must not use equipment or wear anything that is dangerous. All items of jewelry (necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, leather bands, rubber bands, etc.) are forbidden and must be removed. Using tape to cover jewelry is not permitted. The players must be inspected before the start of the match and substitutes before they enter the field of play. If a player is wearing or using unauthorized/dangerous equipment or jewelry the referee must order the player to:
• remove the item
• leave the field of play at the next stoppage if the player is unable or unwilling to comply
A player who refuses to comply or wears the item again must be cautioned.
2. Compulsory equipment
The compulsory equipment of a player comprises the following separate items:
• shirt with sleeves
• socks – tape or any material applied or worn externally must be the same color as that part of the sock it is applied to or covers
• shinguards – these must be made of a suitable material to provide reasonable protection and covered by the socks
• footwear
A player whose footwear or shinguard is lost accidentally must replace it as soon as possible and no later than when the ball next goes out of play; if before doing so the player plays the ball and/or scores a goal, the goal is awarded.
3. Colors
• The two teams must wear colors that distinguish them from each other and the match officials
• Each goalkeeper must wear colors that are distinguishable from the other players and the match officials
• If the two goalkeepers’ shirts are the same color and neither has another shirt, the referee allows the match to be played.
4. Other equipment
Non-dangerous protective equipment, for example headgear, facemasks and knee and arm protectors made of soft, lightweight padded material is permitted as are goalkeepers’ caps and sports spectacles.
(Note: the league highly recommends that players with braces use a mouth guard. Players who require glasses should try to use sport googles, contacts, or a restraint. Both of these items are recommendations and will not prevent a player from participating.)
1. The authority of the referee
Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match.
2. Decisions of the referee
Decisions will be made to the best of the referee`s ability according to the Laws of the Game and the ‘spirit of the game’ and will be based on the opinion of the referee who has the discretion to take appropriate action within the framework of the Laws of the Game.
The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play, including whether or not a goal is scored and the result of the match, are final.
The decisions of the referee, and all other match officials, must always be respected.
The referee may not change a decision on realizing that it is incorrect or on the advice of another match official if play has restarted or the referee has signaled the end of the first or second half (including extra time) and left the field of play or terminated the match.
3. Powers and duties
The referee:
• enforces the Laws of the Game
• controls the match in cooperation with the other match officials
• acts as timekeeper, keeps a record of the match and provides the appropriate authorities with a match report, including information on disciplinary action and any other incidents that occurred before, during or after the match
• supervises and/or indicates the restart of play
Advantage
• allows play to continue when an offence occurs and the non-offending team will benefit from the advantage and penalizes the offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time or within a few seconds
Disciplinary action
• punishes the more serious offence, in terms of sanction, restart, physical severity and tactical impact, when more than one offence occurs at the same time
• takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending-off offences
• has the authority to take disciplinary action from entering the field of play for the pre-match inspection until leaving the field of play after the match ends (including kicks from the penalty mark). If, before entering the field of play at the start of the match, a player commits a sending-off offence, the referee has the authority to prevent the player taking part in the match (see Law 3.6); the referee will report any other misconduct
• has the power to show yellow or red cards and, where competition rules permit, temporarily dismiss a player, from entering the field of play at the start of the match until after the match has ended, including during the half-time interval, extra time and kicks from the penalty mark
• takes action against team officials who fail to act in a responsible manner and may expel them from the field of play and its immediate surrounds
• acts on the advice of other match officials regarding incidents that the referee has not seen
Injuries
• allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is only slightly injured
• stops play if a player is seriously injured and ensures that the player is removed from the field of play.
An injured player may not be treated on the field of play and may only re-enter after play has restarted; if the ball is in play, re-entry must be from the touchline but if the ball is out of play, it may be from any boundary line. Exceptions to the requirement to leave the field of play are only when:
•a goalkeeper is injured
•a goalkeeper and an outfield player have collided and need attention
•players from the same team have collided and need attention
•a severe injury has occurred
•a player is injured as the result of a physical offence for which the opponent is cautioned or sent off (e.g. reckless or serious foul challenge), if the assessment/treatment is completed quickly
•ensures that any player bleeding leaves the field of play. The player may only re-enter on receiving a signal from the referee, who must be satisfied that the bleeding has stopped and there is no blood on the equipment
•if the referee has decided to caution or send off a player who is injured and has to leave the field of play for treatment, the card must be shown before the player leaves
• if play has not been stopped for another reason, or if an injury suffered by a player is not the result of an offence, play is restarted with a dropped ball
Outside interference
• stops, suspends or abandons the match for any offences or because of outside interference e.g. if:
•the floodlights are inadequate
•an object thrown by a spectator hits a match official, a player or team official, the referee may allow the match to continue, or stop, suspend or abandon it depending on the severity of the incident
•a spectator blows a whistle which interferes with play - play is stopped and restarted with a dropped ball
•an extra ball, other object or animal enters the field of play during the match, the referee must: stop play (and restart with a dropped ball) only if it interferes with play unless the ball is going into the goal and the interference does not prevent a defending player playing the ball, the goal is awarded if the ball enters the goal (even if contact was made with the ball) unless the ball enters the opponents’ goal–allow play to continue if it does not interfere with play and have it removed at the earliest possible opportunity
•allows no unauthorized persons to enter the field of play
Assistant referees
They indicate when:
• the whole of the ball leaves the field of play and which team is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in
• a player in an offside position may be penalized
• a substitution is requested
• at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper moves off the goal line before the ball is kicked and if the ball crosses the line; if additional assistant referees have been appointed the assistant referee takes a position in line with the penaltymark
The assistant referee’s assistance also includes monitoring the substitution procedure.
The assistant referee may enter the field of play to help control the 9.15 m (10 yards) distance.
The game is to start ON TIME and ONLY play the specified amount of minutes. Please leave the field after your amount of game time. This will give the next team a couple minutes to stretch and prepare for their game. Please give courtesy for the next team to prepare for their game!!
U5 - practice time and scrimmage time (coaches’ decision)
U6 - practice time and scrimmage time (coaches’ decision)
U7 - 4 - 10 minute quarters; 5 min half; 2 min between quarters
U8 - 4 - 10 minute quarters; 5 min half; 2 min between quarters
U10 - 2 – 25 minutes halves; 5 min half U14 - 2 – 25 minutes halves; 5 min half U18 - 2 – 25 minutes halves; 5 min half
A kick-off starts both halves of a match, both halves of extra time and restarts play after a goal has been scored. Free kicks (direct or indirect), penalty kicks, throw-ins, goal kicks and corner kicks are other restarts (see Laws 13–17).
A dropped ball is the restart when the referee stops play and the Law does not require one of the above restarts.
If an offence occurs when the ball is not in play this does not change how
play is restarted.
1. Kick-off Procedure
• The team that wins the toss can choose to take the kick-off or which goal to attack
• for the second half, the teams change ends and attack the opposite goals
• after a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by their opponents
For every kick-off:
• all players, except the player taking the kick-off, must be in their own half of the field of play
• the opponents of the team taking the kick-off must be at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play
• the ball must be stationary on the center mark
• the referee gives a signal
• the ball is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves
• a goal may be scored directly against the opponents from the kick-off; if the
ball directly enters the kicker’s goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opponents
Offences and sanctions
If the player taking the kick-off touches the ball again before it has touched another player an indirect free kick, or for deliberate handball a direct free kick, is awarded.
In the event of any other kick-off procedure offence the kick-off is retaken.
2. Dropped ball
Procedure
If play is stopped inside the penalty area, the ball will be dropped for the goalkeeper
If play is stopped outside the penalty area, the ball will be dropped for one player of the team that last touched the ball at the point of the last touch
In all cases, all the other players (of both teams) must be at least 4m (4.5yds) away
If the ball touches the referee (or another match official) and goes into the goal, team possession changes or a promising attack starts, a dropped ball is awarded
The referee drops the ball at the position where it was when play was stopped, unless play was stopped inside the goal area in which case the ball is dropped on the goal area line which is parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was when play was stopped.
The ball is in play when it touches the ground.
Offences and sanctions
The ball is dropped again if it:
• touches a player before it touches the ground
• leaves the field of play after it touches the ground, without touching a player
If a dropped ball enters the goal without touching at least two players play is restarted with:
• a goal kick if it enters the opponents’ goal
•a corner kick if it enters the team’s goal
1. Ball out of play
The ball is out of play when:
• it has wholly passed over the goal line or touchline on the ground or in the air
• play has been stopped by the referee
2. Ball in play
The ball is in play at all other times, including when it rebounds off a match official, goalpost, crossbar or corner flagpost and remains in the field of play.
1. Goal scored
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 offence has been committed by the team scoring the goal.
If a referee signals a goal before the ball has passed wholly over the goal line, play is restarted with a dropped ball.
2. Winning team
The team scoring the greater number of goals is the winner. If both teams score no goals or an equal number of goals the match is drawn.
When competition rules require a winning team after a drawn match or home-and-away tie, the only permitted procedures to determine the winning team are:
•away goals rule
•two equal periods of extra time not exceeding 15 minutes each
•kicks from the penalty mark
A combination of the above procedures may be used.
Note: Wins, Losses, and Draws will be recorded for the U7 age groups and older. A regular season champion will be determined based on a tally of the overall record. Wins = 2pts, Draws = 1pt, Losses = 0pt. In the event of a tie, the head to head record of the teams will be used as the first tiebreaker. The second tiebreaker will be a coin flip.
1. Offside position
It is not an offence to be in an offside position.
A player is in an offside position if:
• any part of the head, body or feet is in the opponents’ half (excluding the halfway line) and
• any part of the head, body or feet is nearer to the opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent. The hands and arms of all players, including the goalkeepers, are not considered.
A player is not in an offside position if level with the:
• second-last opponent or
• last two opponents
2. Offside offence
A player in an offside position at the moment the ball is played or touched* by a team-mate is only penalized on becoming involved in active play by:
• interfering with play by playing or touching a ball passed or touched by a team-mate or
• interfering with an opponent by:
•preventing an opponent from playing or being able to play the ball by clearly obstructing the opponent’s line of vision or
•challenging an opponent for the ball or
(*The first point of contact of the ‘play’ or ‘touch’ of the ball should be used)
•clearly attempting to play a ball which is close when this action impacts on an opponent or
•making an obvious action which clearly impacts on the ability of an opponent to play the ball
or
• gaining an advantage by playing the ball or interfering with an opponent when it has:
•rebounded or been deflected off the goalpost, crossbar, match official or an opponent
•been deliberately saved by any opponent
A player in an offside position receiving the ball from an opponent who deliberately plays the ball (except from a deliberate save by any opponent) is not considered to have gained an advantage.
A ‘save’ is when a player stops, or attempts to stop, a ball which is going into or very close to the goal with any part of the body except the hands/arms (unless the goalkeeper within the penalty area).
In situations where:
• a player moving from, or standing in, an offside position is in the way of an opponent and interferes with the movement of the opponent towards the ball this is an offside offence if it impacts on the ability of the opponent to play or challenge for the ball; if the player moves into the way of an
opponent and impedes the opponent’s progress (e.g. blocks the opponent) the offence should be penalised under Law 12.
• a player in an offside position is moving towards the ball with the intention of playing the ball and is fouled before playing or attempting to play the ball, or challenging an opponent for the ball, the foul is penalised as it has occurred before the offside offence
• an offence is committed against a player in an offside position who is already playing or attempting to play the ball, or challenging an opponent for the ball, the offside offence is penalised as it has occurred before the foul challenge
No offence
There is no offside offence if a player receives the ball directly from:
• a goal kick
• a throw-in
• a corner kick
Offences and sanctions
If an offside offence occurs, the referee awards an indirect free kick where the offence occurred, including if it is in the player’s own half of the field of play.
A defending player who leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission shall be considered to be on the goal line or touchline for the purposes of offside until the next stoppage in play or until the defending team has played the ball towards the halfway line and it is outside their penalty area. If the player left the field of play deliberately, the player must be cautioned when the ball is next out of play.
An attacking player may step or stay off the field of play not to be involved in active play. If the player re-enters from the goal line and becomes involved in play before the next stoppage in play, or the defending team has played the ball towards the halfway line and it is outside their penalty area, the player shall be considered to be positioned on the goal line for the purposes of offside.
A player who deliberately leaves the field of play and re-enters without the referee’s permission and is not penalised for offside and gains an advantage, must be cautioned.
If an attacking player remains stationary between the goalposts and inside the goal as the ball enters the goal, a goal must be awarded unless the playercommits an offside offence or Law 12 offence in which case play is restarted with an indirect or direct free kick.
Direct and indirect free kicks and penalty kicks can only be awarded for offences committed when the ball is in play.
1. Direct free kick
A direct free kick is awarded if a player commits any of the following offences against an opponent in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force:
• charges
• jumps at
• kicks or attempts to kick
• pushes
• strikes or attempts to strike (including head-butt)
• tackles or challenges
• trips or attempts to trip
If an offence involves contact it is penalised by a direct free kick or penalty kick.
• Careless is when a player shows a lack of attention or consideration when making a challenge or acts without precaution. No disciplinary sanction is needed
• Reckless is when a player acts with disregard to the danger to, or consequences for, an opponent and must be cautioned
• Using excessive force is when a player exceeds the necessary use of force and/or endangers the safety of an opponent and must be sent off
A direct free kick is awarded if a player commits any of the following offences:
• handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within their penalty area)
• holds an opponent
• impedes an opponent with contact
• bites or spits at someone
• throws an object at the ball, opponent or match official, or makes contact with the ball with a held object See also offences in Law 3
Handling the ball
Handling the ball involves a deliberate act of a player making contact with the ball with the hand or arm. The following must be considered:
• the movement of the hand towards the ball (not the ball towards the hand)
• the distance between the opponent and the ball (unexpected ball)
• the position of the hand does not necessarily mean that there is an offence
The goalkeeper has the same restrictions on handling the ball as any other player outside the penalty area. Inside their penalty area, the goalkeeper cannot be guilty of a handling offence incurring a direct free kick or any related sanction but can be guilty of handling offences that incur an indirect free kick.
2. Indirect free kick
An indirect free kick is awarded if a player:
• plays in a dangerous manner
• impedes the progress of an opponent without any contact being made
• is guilty of dissent, using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures or other verbal offences
• prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from the hands or kicks or attempts to kick the ball when the goalkeeper is in the process of releasing it
• commits any other offence, not mentioned in the Laws, for which play is stopped to caution or send off a player
A player must be cautioned for:
• gesturing or acting in a provocative, derisory or inflammatory way
Delaying the restart of play
Referees must caution players who delay the restart of play by:
• appearing to take a throw-in but suddenly leaving it to a team-mate to take
• delaying leaving the field of play when being substituted
• excessively delaying a restart
• kicking or carrying the ball away, or provoking a confrontation by deliberately touching the ball after the referee has stopped play
• taking a free kick from the wrong position to force a retake
Sending-off offences (Red Cards)
Head Coach is responsible for himself, his coaches, his players, his fans. Anyone that is Ejected is GONE from that game and the NEXT ONE!!
A player, substitute or substituted player who commits any of the following offences is sent off:
• denying the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (except a goalkeeper within their penalty area)
• denying a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent whose overall movement is towards the offender’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick (unless as outlined below).
• serious foul play
• biting or spitting at someone
• violent conduct
• using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures
• receiving a second caution in the same match
A player, substitute or substituted player who has been sent off must leave the vicinity of the field of play and the technical area.
Denying a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity
Where a player denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by a deliberate handball offence the player is sent off wherever the offence occurs.
Where a player commits an offence against an opponent within their own penalty area which denies an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity and the referee awards a penalty kick, the offender is cautioned if the offence was an attempt to play the ball; in all other circumstances (e.g. holding, pulling, pushing, no possibility to play the ball etc.) the offending player must be sent off.
A player, sent off player, substitute or substituted player who enters the field of play without the required referee’s permission and interferes with play or an opponent and denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity is guilty of a sending-off offence.
The following must be considered:
• distance between the offence and the goal
• general direction of the play
• likelihood of keeping or gaining control of the ball
• location and number of defenders
Serious foul play
A tackle or challenge that endangers the safety of an opponent or uses excessive force or brutality must be sanctioned as serious foul play. Any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with excessive force or endangers the safety of an opponent is guilty of serious foul play.
Violent conduct
Violent conduct is when a player uses or attempts to use excessive force or brutality against an opponent when not challenging for the ball, or against a team-mate, team official, match official, spectator or any other person, regardless of whether contact is made.
In addition, a player who, when not challenging for the ball, deliberately strikes an opponent or any other person on the head or face with the hand or arm, is guilty of violent conduct unless the force used was negligible.
Offences where an object (or the ball) is thrown
In all cases, the referee takes the appropriate disciplinary action:
• reckless – caution the offender for unsporting behavior
• using excessive force – send off the offender for violent conduct.
3. Restart of play after fouls and misconduct
If the ball is out of play, play is restarted according to the previous decision
If the ball is in play and a player commits an offence inside the field of play
against:
•an opponent – indirect or direct free kick or penalty kick
•a team-mate, substitute, substituted or sent off player, team official or a match official – a direct free kick or penalty kick
•any other person – a dropped ball
If, when the ball is in play:
•a player commits an offence against a match official or an opposing player, substitute, substituted or sent off player, or team official outside the field of play or
•a substitute, substituted or sent off player, or team official commits an offence against, or interferes with, an opposing player or match official outside the field of play, play is restarted with a free kick on the boundary line nearest to where the offence/interference occurred; a penalty kick is awarded if this is a direct free kick offence within the offender’s penalty area.
If a player standing on or off the field of play throws an object (including the ball) at an opposing player, substitute, substituted or sent off player, or team official, match official or the ball, play is restarted with a direct free kick from the position where the object struck or would have struck the person or the ball. If this position is off the field of play, the free kick is taken on the nearest point on the boundary line; a penalty kick is awarded if this is within the offender’s penalty area.
If an offence is committed outside the field of play against a player, substitute, substituted player or team official of their own team, play is restarted with an indirect free kick on the boundary line closest to where the offence occurred.
If a player makes contact with the ball with an object (boot, shinguard etc.) held in the hand play is restarted with a direct free kick (or penalty kick).
If a substitute, substituted or sent off player, player temporarily off the field of play or team official throws or kicks an object onto the field of play and it interferes with play, an opponent or match
official, play is restarted with a direct free kick (or penalty kick) where the object interfered with play or struck or would have struck the opponent, match official or the ball.
1. Types of free kick
Direct and indirect free kicks are awarded to the opposing team of a player, substitute, substituted or sent off player, or team official guilty of an offence.
Indirect free kick signal
The referee indicates an indirect free kick by raising the arm above the head; this signal is maintained until the kick has been taken and the ball touches another player or goes out of play. An indirect free kick must be retaken if the referee fails to signal that the kick is indirect and the ball is kicked directly into the goal.
Ball enters the goal
• if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal is awarded
• if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal kick is awarded
• if a direct or indirect free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded
2. Procedure
All free kicks are taken from the place where the offence occurred, except:
• indirect free kicks to the attacking team for an offence inside the opponents’ goal area are taken from the nearest point on the goal area line which runs parallel to the goal line
• free kicks to the defending team in their goal area may be taken from anywhere in that area
• free kicks for offences involving a player entering, re-entering or leaving the field of play without permission are taken from the position of the ball when play was stopped. However, if a player leaves the field of play as part of play and commits an offence against another player, play is restarted with a free kick taken on the boundary line nearest to where the offence occurred; for direct free kick offences a penalty kick is awarded if this is within the offender’s penalty area
• the Law designates another position (see Laws 3, 11, 12)
The ball:
• must be stationary and the kicker must not touch the ball again until it has touched another player
• is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves except for a free kick to the defending team in their penalty area where the ball is in play when it is kicked directly out of the penalty area
Until the ball is in play all opponents must remain:
• at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball, unless they are on their own goal line between the goalposts
• outside the penalty area for free kicks inside the opponents’ penalty area
A free kick can be taken by lifting the ball with a foot or both feet simultaneously. Feinting to take a free kick to confuse opponents is permitted as part of football.
If a player, while correctly taking a free kick, intentionally kicks the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but not in a careless or reckless manner or using excessive force, the referee allows play to continue.
3. Offences and sanctions
If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than the required distance, the kick is retaken unless the advantage can be applied; but if a player takes a free kick quickly and an opponent who is less than 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball intercepts it, the referee allows play to continue. However, an opponent who deliberately prevents a free kick being taken quickly must be cautioned for delaying the restart of play.
If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its penalty area, any opponents are inside the penalty area because they did not have time to leave, the referee allows play to continue.
If an opponent who is in the penalty area when the free kick is taken, or enters the penalty area before the ball is in play, touches or challenges for the ball before it has touched another player, the free kick is retaken.
When there is a ‘wall’ of three or more defenders, the attackers are not allowed within 1m (1 yd) of the wall; an attacker less than 1m (1yd) from the ‘wall’ when the kick is taken will be penalized with an indirect free kick
When the defending team takes a free kick in their own penalty area, the ball is in play once the kick is taken; it does not have to leave the penalty area before it can be played
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again before it has touched another player an indirect free kick is awarded, if the kicker deliberately handles the ball:
• a direct free kick is awarded
• a penalty kick is awarded if the offence occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area unless the kicker was the goalkeeper in which case an indirect free kick is awarded
A penalty kick is awarded if a player commits a direct free kick offence inside their penalty area or off the field as part of play as outlined in Laws 12 and 13.A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick.
1. Procedure
The ball must be stationary on the penalty mark.
The player taking the penalty kick must be clearly identified.
The defending goalkeeper must remain on the goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts until the ball has been kicked.
The players other than the kicker and goalkeeper must be:
• at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the penalty mark
• behind the penalty mark
• inside the field of play
• outside the penalty area
After the players have taken positions in accordance with this Law, the referee signals for the penalty kick to be taken.
The player taking the penalty kick must kick the ball forward; backheeling is permitted provided the ball moves forward.
The ball is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves.
The kicker must not play the ball again until it has touched another player.
The penalty kick is completed when the ball stops moving, goes out of play or the referee stops play for any offence.
Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken and completed at the end of each half of the match or extra time. When additional time is allowed, the penalty kick is completed when, after the kick has been taken, the ball stops moving, goes out of play, is played by any player (including the kicker) other than the defending goalkeeper, or the referee stops play for an offence by the kicker or the kicker’s team. If a defending team player (including the goalkeeper) commits an offence and the penalty is missed/saved, the penalty is retaken
2. Offences and sanctions
Once the referee has signaled for a penalty kick to be taken, the kick must be taken. If, before the ball is in play, one of the following occurs:
• the player taking the penalty kick or a team-mate offends:
•if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken
•if the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and restarts with an indirect free kick
• except for the following when play will be stopped and restarted with an indirect free kick, regardless of whether or not a goal is scored:
•a penalty kick is kicked backwards
•a team-mate of the identified kicker takes the kick; the referee cautions the player who took the kick
•feinting to kick the ball once the kicker has completed the run-up (feinting in the run-up is permitted); the referee cautions the kicker
• the goalkeeper or a team-mate offends:
•if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded
•if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken; the goalkeeper is cautioned if responsible for the offence
• a player of both teams offends the Laws of the Game, the kick is retaken unless a player commits a more serious offence (e.g. illegal feinting); if both the goalkeeper and kicker commit an offence at the same time:
•if the kick is missed or saved, the kick is retaken and both players cautioned
•if the kick is scored, the goal is disallowed, the kicker is cautioned and play restarts with an indirect free kick to the defending team
If, after the penalty kick has been taken:
• the kicker touches the ball again before it has touched another player:
•an indirect free kick (or direct free kick for deliberate hand ball) is awarded
• the ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward:
•the kick is retaken unless the ball is going into the goal and the interference does not prevent the goalkeeper or a defending player playing the ball, in which case the goal is awarded if the ball enters the goal (even if contact was made with the ball) unless the ball enters the opponents’ goal.
• 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 position where it touched the outside agent
A throw-in is awarded to the opponents of the player who last touched the ball when the whole of the ball passes over the touchline, on the ground or in the air.
A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in:
• if the ball enters the opponents’ goal – a goal kick is awarded
• if the ball enters the thrower’s goal – a corner kick is awarded
1. Procedure
At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower must:
• stand facing the field of play
• have part of each foot on the touchline or on the ground outside the touchline
• throw the ball with both hands from behind and over the head from the point where it left the field of play
Note: In U7 and U8 age groups, improper throw-ins are retaken and the second throw is played.
All opponents must stand at least 2 m (2 yds) from the point at which the throw-in is taken.
The ball is in play when it enters the field of play. If the ball touches the ground before entering, the throw-in is retaken by the same team from the same position. If the throw-in is not taken correctly it is retaken by the opposing team.
If a player, while correctly taking a throw-in, intentionally throws the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee allows play to continue.
The thrower must not touch the ball again until it has touched another player.
2. Offences and sanctions
If, after the ball is in play, the thrower touches the ball again before it has touched another player an indirect free kick is awarded; if the thrower deliberately handles the ball:
• a direct free kick is awarded
• a penalty kick is awarded if the offence occurred inside the thrower’s penalty area unless the ball was handled by the defending team’s goalkeeper in which case an indirect free kick is awarded
An opponent who unfairly distracts or impedes the thrower (including moving closer than 2m (2yds) to the place where the throw-in is to be taken) is cautioned for unsporting behavior and if the throw-in has been taken an indirect free kick is awarded.
For any other offence the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team.
A goal kick is awarded when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, on the ground or in the air, having last touched a player of the attacking team, and a goal is not scored.
A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the opposing team; if the ball directly enters the kicker’s goal a corner kick is awarded to the opponents if the ball left the penalty area.
1. Procedure
• The ball must be stationary and is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player of the defending team
• The ball is in play once the kick is taken; it can be played before leaving the penalty area
• Opponents must be outside the penalty area until the ball is in play
Note: Placement of the ball for goal kicks in the U7 and U8 age groups is based on the ability to kick the ball out of the penalty area.
2. Offences and sanctions
If the ball is touched by an attacking player before it leaves the penalty area the kick is retaken.
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again before it has touched another player an indirect free kick is awarded
If the kicker deliberately handles the ball:
• a direct free kick is awarded
• a penalty kick is awarded if the offence occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area unless the kicker was the goalkeeper in which case an indirect free kick is awarded
If an opponent who is in the penalty area when the goal kick is taken, or enters the penalty area before the ball is in play, touches or challenges for the ball before it has touched another player, the goal kick is retaken.
If a player enters the penalty area before the ball is in play and fouls or is fouled by an opponent, the goal kick is retaken and the offender may be cautioned or sent off depending on the offence.
For any other offence the kick is retaken.
A corner kick is awarded when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, on the ground or in the air, having last touched a player of the defending team, and a goal is not scored.
A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the opposing team; if the ball directly enters the kicker’s goal a corner kick is awarded to the opponents.
1. Procedure
• The ball must be placed in the corner area nearest to the point where the ball passed over the goal line
• The ball must be stationary and is kicked by a player of the attacking team
• The ball is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves; it does not need to leave the corner area
• The corner flagpost must not be moved
• Opponents must remain at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the corner arc until the ball is in play
2. Offences and sanctions
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again before it has touched another player an indirect free kick is awarded;
If the kicker deliberately handles the ball:
• a direct free kick is awarded
• a penalty kick is awarded if the offence occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area unless the kicker was the goalkeeper in which case an indirect free kick is awarded
If a player, while correctly taking a corner kick, intentionally kicks the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but not in a careless or reckless manner or using excessive force, the referee allows play to continue.
For any other offence the kick is retaken.
We have adopted these rules to help the flow of the game and to create an atmosphere where the game of indoor soccer in South Baltimore can be enjoyed by Players and Fans alike. These rules are set forth by the Board of Directors of the SBYSL and are enforced by the referees appointed by the board for each game.
Referees and coaches are, indeed, strongly urged to attend all league meetings about the rules.
Among other things, the Rules' intent is to promote the adoption of standards for indoor soccer, which will further promote its identity, growth and, above all, fun for those of all skill levels and ages.
We ask all players, coaches, spectators, referees, and Board Members to keep in mind that this league is a volunteer run league and everyone is here for the kids and the promotion of the League as a whole. This being said, we would like everyone to play hard, play fair and above all, HAVE FUN
League Point System: Each team win will earn 3 points for a win and 1 point for a Tie. There are no points awarded for a loss. The team which accumulates the most points will be the SBYSL regular season champion. In the event that teams finish the regular season tied, cumulative goal differential will be used to determine the standings. (A coin flip will be used if a third tie break is required.) At the end of the season we will have a playoff to determine the overall champion.
See Official Field Diagram for standard dimensions for the field, goals and markings.
The ball is Size 4 (6/7,8/9) or Size 5 (10/13, 14/17).
Ball Change: The ball may not be changed except by the Referee.
The game ball is delivered to the Referee prior to each game. At the end of each Half, the ball is maintained by the Referee. Upon the game's conclusion, the Referee returns the game ball to the person or team which supplied them.
Teams
6/7 Yr Olds - 8 Total Players (7 with 1 keeper) Minimum 6 TOTAL PLAYERS
8/9 Yr Olds - 8 Total Players (7 with 1 keeper) Minimum 6 TOTAL PLAYERS
10/13 Yr Olds - 7 Total Players (6 with 1 keeper) Minimum 5 TOTAL PLAYERS
14/17 Yr Olds - 6 Total Players (5 with 1 keeper) Minimum 5 TOTAL PLAYERS
NO COACHES ALLOWED ON THE FIELD WITHOUT REFEREE PERMISSION IN ANY AGE GROUP
No players or spectators on field during halftime. Post-game: Players and spectators must yield to the oncoming teams. If time allows, oncoming teams can use the field for a few minutes prior to kick off for warm-ups.
Two coaches are allowed inside the Players Box. No coaches are allowed behind the goal or along the floor area.
Each team may substitute players freely; provided that, during play, players must substitute off the field of play or within the Touch Line in the area of their Team Bench. ALL COACHES MUST TRY TO GIVE "ALL" PLAYERS EQUAL PLAYING TIME
Any team in violation will receive a loss for the game in question and also have 3 points removed from their team in the standings and a possible coach suspension.
There will be a 20 second Guaranteed Substitution at the following stoppages.
The referee in the box will raise his hand over his head during guaranteed substitutions, and will look to the coaches. Coaches should yell "SUB" and the referee in the box will hold play for up to 20 seconds to complete the substitution. If the coach does not yell within a few seconds, the referee in the box will signal for play to resume, and normal substitutions must be made.
There will be no substitutions allowed at the following stoppages:
The Referee sends any player to his Team Bench who requires treatment for injury or blood (regardless whether the blood is his own or another's, or is on his body or uniform). This occurs at the first opportunity recognized by the Referee, whether at the game's next stoppage or his order when (i) the injury is deemed critical, (ii) by the location of the injured player, he is likely to interfere with play, or (iii) the injured player's team has control of the ball. Any player sent off for treatment may not reenter until fit to return and until, if applicable, the expiration of the player's Time Penalty. The Referee shall approve any blood treatment prior to allowing the player to reenter the field. If allowed by the Referee and permitted by administrative policy, a player whose uniform is stained with blood and untreated may wear alternative clothing.
Players wear their team's uniform, consisting of the same colors, shin guards UNDER socks, and indoor footwear (flat bottom shoes are required).
The Goalkeeper wears jersey colors distinguished from all other field players and from the referees
Jewelry and other accessories are prohibited.
(Note: the league highly recommends that players with braces use a mouth guard. Players who require glasses should try to use sport googles, contacts, or a restraint. Both of these items are recommendations and will not prevent a player from participating.)
One Referee or Two Referees officiates each game and a Timekeeper. So long as a Referee is on the facility compound of an assigned game, he shall execute, or delegate to other Game Officials the execution of, these Rules.
Decisions of Fact and Rule:
The decisions of the Referee regarding facts connected with play and interpretation of Rules are final. The Referee may change any decision prior to a Restart upon his own reconsideration.
The Referee's power to assess penalties, and otherwise assure fair play and maintain control of a game, extends to violations of these Rules committed during play, during stoppages, and as players and other team personnel proceed to and from the field of play. This includes the power to:
Award or Disallow a Goal: The Referee determines whether or not a goal is scored.
Suspend or Terminate the Game: The Referee stops, suspends, or terminates the game at his discretion by reason of the elements, interference by spectators, an unsafe condition, or other justifiable cause.
Stop the Clock: The Referee stops the Game Clock due to an unusual delay (subject to administrative policy.)
Prohibit Field Entry: The Referee ensures that no unauthorized person enters the field of play during a game. Summon Security: The Referee asks facility security guards to prevent any spectator, including team personnel, from interfering with the play of the game for: (1) Violent conduct, including tossing objects onto the field of play; (2) Foul or abusive language or behavior; or (3) Persistent unseemly behavior.
Subject to administrative policy, the Referee files a Game Report, including information on any disciplinary action and other incident (e.g., serious injury) or circumstance occurring before, during, or after the game.
The game is to start ON TIME and ONLY play the specified amount of minutes. Please leave the field after your amount of game time. This will give the next team a couple minutes to stretch and prepare for their game. Please give courtesy for the next team to prepare for their game!!
A Kickoff from the Center Mark starts play at the beginning of each Quarter and after every goal. Immediately prior to the Kickoff, all players remain in their respective defensive halves, and all defending players are outside of the Center Circle. Once the Referee signals the Kickoff, a player of the team having the Kickoff has 5 seconds to play the ball. A player who starts play may not again play the ball until it touches another player. The ball may be played either forwards or backwards.
The Visitor Team takes the Kickoff for the first and third quarters and the Home Team takes the Kickoff for the second and fourth quarters. The team sitting on the right (looking from the Ref crease) is the home team.
Teams change defensive ends after every quarter.
Restarts take place by a Kickoff, Free Kick, Goalkeeper Distribution, or Dropped Ball. The team opposing that which is responsible for the stoppage takes the Restart. Except for a Dropped Ball, the same player who takes a Restart may not again make contact with the ball until touched by another player. Other than for Kickoffs or as provided below, Restarts occur within three feet (3') from the spot of the ball at the moment of stoppage.
A team receives a Free Kick after stoppages other than when a Dropped Ball or Goalkeeper Distribution is required. Before the team takes the Free Kick, the ball must be stationary. All opposing players are at least 10 feet from the spot of the Free Kick (or, if within 10 feet of the opponent's Goal, along the Goal Line). The Referee whistles the Restart for all Free Kicks taken from any circle Mark and after stoppages due to an injury, Time Penalty, or other incident within the Referee's discretion. In the instance of a Time Penalty or ejection, the Referee whistles the Restart after the player serving the Time Penalty has sat down in the Penalty Area or the ejected person has left the area visible to the field of play.
The spot of the Free Kick is that provided above, except:
If neither team has clear possession of the ball at a stoppage, the Referee restarts play with a Dropped Ball. A Dropped Ball caused while the ball is inside a Penalty Box takes place at the Free Kick Mark. The ball is not in play until it hits the ground.
Play restarts with a Goalkeeper Distribution anywhere within the Penalty Box after an attacking player has last touched the ball before crossing an end perimeter wall.
The ball is "in play" once each Kickoff or Restart legally begins and the ball makes any discernable movement. The ball remains "in play" until a stoppage, recognized by the Referee.
For Restarts by a team within its Penalty Arch, the ball is not "in play" until the game is properly restarted and the ball is propelled beyond the Penalty Arch by the player taking the Restart.
The ball is "out of play" once any stoppage occurs which the Referee acknowledges or orders, whether for goals, Fouls, Time Penalties, injuries, out of bounds, Three-Line Violations, or Superstructure Violations.
A Three-Line Violation occurs when a player propels the ball in the air across the two Red Lines and the Halfway Line toward the opponent's Goal without touching the Perimeter Wall, another player or a Referee on the field of play.
A Superstructure Violation occurs when the ball contacts any part of the roof or roof netting above the field of play. The side nets are not considered a superstructure violation only the ceiling netting.
A team scores a goal when the whole of the ball legally passes over the Goal Line between the goalposts and under the crossbar. A goal may be scored directly from a Kickoff or Restart.
The team scoring the greater number of goals during a game is the winner.
No goal is allowed if an outside agent alters the path of the ball on its way over the Goal line.
A Foul, resulting in a Free Kick, is assessed to a player who commits any of the following offenses in a manner that the Referee considers careless, serious, reckless, or involving excessive force:
(Note: No head balls allowed during practice, warm-ups or games for under 10 age groups. 10/13 can only head the ball during actual game play. 14/17 can head the ball during practice, warm-ups and games.)
A Free Kick results for the following offenses:
(a) Illegal Substitution After Injury: Attempting to enter play without the required Referee consent; Referee consent is indicated by a whistle, raised hand, or verbal communication with the referee.
(b) Equipment Violation: Entering play without an ordered uniform adjustment;
(c) Leverage: Using the body of a teammate to propel oneself to head the ball;
(d) Encroachment: Entering the protected area of an opposing player taking a Free Kick (after initial Warning);
(e) Trickery: Passing the ball back to a Goalkeeper by trickery (Rule 10.3(b));
(f) Dissent: Committing any of the following offenses, whether before, during, or after the game:
(1) Referee Abuse: Words or actions directed by any player or team personnel at an official in dissent;
(2) Breach of Penalty Area Decorum: Delay in entering the Penalty Area; failure to sit and remain seated in the Penalty Area after a Warning; or premature or unpermitted exit from the Penalty Area;
(3) Entering the Referee Crease without the Referee's permission;
(g) Other: Behavior which, in the Referee's discretion, does not warrant another category of penalty.
(NOTE: The ball must remain inside the penalty area for the goalkeeper to handle with their hands. The body of the goalkeeper can exit the penalty area and they can still legally handle the ball with their hands. Once the ball is wholly outside of the penalty lines, it can no longer be handled legally with the hands.)
The opposing team receives a Free Kick at the arc at top of box for the following violations by a Goalkeeper:
(Note: the goalkeeper is not allowed to use their feet to dribble the ball back into the penalty box and pick it up with their hands. The penalty is a free kick restart, similar to pass back violation.)
The Referee issues a Team Penalty for the following violations by a team or unidentified person:
The Referee allows play to continue, notwithstanding the commission of an offense, when the team against which it has been committed will benefit from an existing offensive advantage.
A Penalty Kick is awarded for the following Fouls committed by a defender in his defensive half of the field:
(a) A Foul within the Penalty Arch or Goal for which he receives a Time Penalty;
(b) A Foul from behind against an attacking player, having control of the ball and one or no defensive players between himself and the Goal; and
(c) Any Foul where he is the last player on his team between the attacking player with the ball and the Goal
Unless otherwise provided in rules 10.8 or 10.9, the Referee issues a Blue Card for serious violations of Rule 10.1 and for:
(a) Deliberate Handball: Handling the ball deliberately (or by a Goalkeeper outside of his Penalty Arch);
(b) Goalkeeper Endangerment: Endangering a Goalkeeper within his Penalty Arch by sliding or charging into him, regardless whether he is in control of the ball;
(c) Boarding: Propelling an opponent into the perimeter wall, whether or not intentionally;
(d) Players' Unsporting Behavior: Players' violating Rule 10.3; and
(e) Team Penalties: Violating Rule 10.4.
NO SLIDING ON FIELD ( SLIDING ON FIELD IS CONSIDERED A DANGEROUS PLAY)
ONLY GOAL KEEPERS ARE ALLOWED TO SLIDE INSIDE THE BOX.
The Referee issues a Yellow Card for serious or reckless violations of Rule 10.1 and for the following (except when Rule 10.7 applies):
(a) Second Blue Card: When Rule 10.7 applies, committing a second Blue Card offense;
(b) Deliberate Handball: Handling the ball deliberately (or by a Goalkeeper outside of his Penalty Arch);
(c) Goalkeeper Endangerment: Endangering a Goalkeeper within his Penalty Arch by sliding or charging into him, regardless whether he is in control of the ball;
(d) Boarding: Propelling an opponent into the perimeter wall, whether or not intentionally;
(e) Unsporting Behavior: Violating Rule 10.3 by any team personnel;
(f) Team Penalties: Violating Rule 10.4; and
(g) Provoking Altercation: Making physical contact with an opponent (e.g., pushing or poking), short of fighting, as defined in Rule 10.9, or using the ball in so doing, particularly in the case of a Goalkeeper
A person receives a Red Card for Fouls, which the Referee considers violent or committed with excessive force, and for:
Head Coach is responsible for himself, his coaches, his players, his fans.
Anyone that is Ejected is GONE from that game and the NEXT ONE!!
The following penalties apply to offenses for which a Card is issued (subject to further action by the Administrative Authority):
Players are designated by their teams to serve Time Penalties of their team, their Goalkeeper, non-player personnel, and of teammates who receive Red Cards. Otherwise, the person who commits a carded offense serves the penalty. Players serving Time Penalties serve their Time Penalties, seated, until their expiration and the Referee permits their release.
Short-Handed Play: For each Time Penalty being served by a player, his or her team plays with one fewer field player until its expiration; provided that, a team may not have fewer than the minimum required, regardless of the number serving Time Penalties. Should a player receive a Time Penalty, while two or more teammates are already in the Penalty Area, his or her team continues to play with the minimum while he or she joins his teammates in the Area.
Exceptions: Under the following circumstances, Time Penalties either expire prior to their completed countdown, or have the beginning of their countdowns delayed:
Delayed Penalty: In instances where the Referee would issue a Blue Card, but for the Advantage Rule, the referee acknowledges the offense by holding the Card above his head until the earlier to occur of the following:
Once play is stopped, the offense is recorded and assessed, as customary. In the event of a powerplay goal, the Time Penalty is not served and the provisions above regarding early release from the Penalty Area remain applicable.
Tiebreaker: NOTE: All games will end at the completion of regulation time. No overtime or tiebreakers will be played during the regular season. Overtime and tiebreakers will only be played during the playoffs or championship games.
For a Penalty Shot:
A Tiebreaker takes place if the score is still tied at the end of regulation:
Facilities Rules & Regulations