CYSL GAME RULES

Approved August 23, 2022

Current IFAB, USYSA and MYSA rules shall be in effect except as specifically stated in these rules. The CYSL Standards Committee will be the final authority on any point covered by the game Rules, IFAB, USYSA or MYSA rules.

1. CYSL STANDINGS
2. During CYSL play. Teams will be awarded points as follows: Win = 3 points, Tie = 1 point, Loss = 0 points
3. In the event of a forfeit, the team forfeiting receives 0 points and the other team receives 3 points.
4. Each Member Association must input all results during the week following the games. A Member Association will be subject to a $50.00 fine for game results not received within 10 days of the scheduled game unless such game is postponed or cancelled by the CYSL. Associations must report all postponements within the same ten days.
5. BALL
   1. The host team shall provide a regulation game ball; #4 for Grade 3/4 and Grade 5/6 games and #5 for Grade 7/8 and higher games.
6. UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
   1. Uniforms and equipment will consist of numbered shirts, shorts, socks, and suitable soccer shoes or sneakers. In cases where the colors conflict, the home team must wear an alternate color shirt or pinnie. All shirts must have clearly legible numbers on back or the original number must be clearly visible through the pinnie with no duplicate numbers. Players will be allowed to wear sweat clothes under their uniforms only if sweat clothes match the colors submitted to league.
   2. No players shall play wearing a hard cast, even if covered.
   3. A player shall not wear anything that is considered by the Referee to be dangerous to themselves or to other players. Players will not be allowed to wear any of the following: earrings, finger rings, barrettes of any type, wrist watches, wrist chains, neck chains, or shoes with metal cleats.
7. Shinguards are mandatory equipment.
8. Players who must wear glasses during the game must wear a glasses strap.
9. The following is a list of the traditional colors for CYSL Associations. Associations may change colors prior to the season by informing the League.

 

Association                                  Colors
Carver                                  cranberry

Cohasset                                blue / white

Duxbury                                green / black

Halifax                                   red

Hanover                                 white

Hingham                                    white / red stripes

Hull                                        blue / gold

Kingston                                grey

Marshfield                                 green / white

Middleboro                           orange / black

Norwell                                 yellow / navy blue

Pembroke                              red/navy blue

Plymouth                               navy blue

Plympton                              navy / grey/ white

Sacred Heart                             royal blue

Scituate                                 blue

4. COACH AND PLAYER CREDENTIALS
5. All rosters for the fall and spring seasons are required to be photo rosters. For the fall season, the rosters must be typed and certified (signed) by each Association Registrar.  For the spring season, the rosters must also be signed by the CYSL Registrar.
6. For the fall season, teams are required to use rosters including color photos by Columbus Day.
7. For the spring season, any team not having photo rosters will be required to forfeit the game.
8. Teams must have coaches that have completed the requirements to be awarded a lanyard at all games in the fall and spring. The lanyard is an indication that the coach is registered and has completed all required CORI and adult registration training requirements.
9. In the event a rostered coach fails to have their lanyard available, yet their name and photo are on the team’s roster, the game will be played with the coach allowed in the technical area. The referee must note the coach’s lack of a lanyard in the Game Report in Game Officials. Standards Committee may award a $25 fine to the association.
10. If no adult with a lanyard is present and no adult listed on the roster is available, then the referee will only allow the game to be played if any adult with a lanyard is available to coach the team. The referee will record the name of the adult who coached and the team in a Game Report in Game Officials.
11. If no adult with a lanyard is available to coach the team, the referee will abandon the game and report the team lacking an appropriate coach in Game Officials for Standards Committee to make a ruling.

 

1. Two copies of the MYSA team roster and player credentials, if required, must be submitted to the referee before each game. Paper copies of the roster are required. No electronic versions will be accepted.  Jersey numbers may be written in for Coastal League games.  White out and/or tape are not allowed on rosters. Players may not be written in.
2. If player credentials and/or rosters are not available, the team has until the end of the game to produce the missing documents. If they are not available at game’s end, then the referee will report the missing information in a game report. The Standards Committee will review and award a forfeit against the team without documentation.
3. The Referee will ensure that the MYSA team rosters and player credentials match the players dressed for the game. The Referee will keep all players’ credentials until after the game. In the event of a red card or other ejection, the Referee forward a game report to Standards Committee within three (3) days. Referees will sign each team’s roster, indicate the final score, and give a copy to the opposing coaches.
4. SUBSTITUTIONS
5. Substitutions may be made at the following times with permission of the referee:

• Prior to a throw-in by either team providing the team making the throw-in substitutes and substitute players are at midfield ready for substitution.
• Prior to a goal kick by either team.
• After a goal by either team.
• After an injury by either team, as allowed by the referee.
• At half time.

2. Substitute players waiting to enter the game should wait on their own half of the field at the midfield line. All substituted players must enter and exit the field at the halfway line between the technical areas.
3. Technical areas are defined as an area inclusive of each bench, starting ten yards from midfield and extending no more than twenty yards. It can be no closer to the touch lines than three yards.   Only adults wearing lanyards and players are authorized to be in the technical areas during a game.

 

6. INJURED PLAYER
7. An injured player must be substituted when he/she is down, and the referee stops the play. Goalkeepers are exempt from this rule. The injured player may return to the game on the next
8. For concussions, CYSL follows the MYSA protocol, which is:
   1. Mass Youth Soccer requires all Member Organizations where no HCP (health care professional) is present at a soccer activity (practice, game, clinic, etc.) that any player who (1) sustains a significant blow to the head or body, (2) complains about or is exhibiting symptoms consistent with having suffered a concussion or (3) is otherwise suspected of having sustained a concussion, must be evaluated by an HCP before the player will be allowed to return to practice or play.
      1. No coach shall permit a player who has been removed from a game for a concussion to RTP (return to play) until cleared to do so by an HCP.
      2. If a coach seeks to allow a player who has been removed from a game for a concussion assessment to re-enter the game, the referee shall allow the player to return to the field but shall:
         • immediately stop play
         • direct the player to leave the field of play and
         • direct the coach to remove the player and select a substitute
      3. If a coach seeks to allow a player to re-enter the game who has been removed from a game for a concussion assessment, the referee shall issue a warning to the coach. If a coach persists in seeking to allow such player to re-enter the game after having ben issued a warning, the referee shall be entitled to take such other disciplinary measure as are permitted.
   2. Unless an HCP determines that the player has not suffered a concussion and clears the player to RTP, the player will not be permitted to return to practice or play until the player has successfully completed the graduated RTP protocol described below and has been cleared to RTP by a physician.
   3. Return to Play (RTP) Protocol – Mass Youth Soccer and all Member Organizations will follow the following graduated RTP protocol (not including steps b. (4) - (5) unless the player has a baseline test and access to a neuropsychologist).
      1. For any player removed from a practice or play who has been diagnosed as having suffered a concussion, the player will not be permitted to return to practice or play until the player has successfully completed a graduated RTP protocol under the guidance of an HCP.
      2. The graduated RTP protocol will consist of at least the following steps:
         • the player must be symptom free at rest for 24 hours before commencing the protocol;
         • the player must be symptom free after moderate activity for 24 hours;
         • the player must be symptom free after heavy activity for 24 hours;
         • player will retake baseline tests (SCAT3, BESS, and/or imPACT);
         • neuropsychologists must review and interpret test versus baseline; and
         • HCP must confirm that the player has competed the RTP process and a physician must make the final RTP decision.
      3. LENGTH OF GAMES AND OVERTIME PERIODS
      4. The game lengths are as follows:

Group                        Game            Overtime for Playoffs Tournaments

Grade 12/PG         Two 40 Minute Halves          Two 5 Minute Halves

Grade 9/10/11      Two 40 Minute Halves          Two 5 Minute Halves

Grade 7/8             Two 35 Minute Halves          Two 5 Minute Halves

Grade 5/6              Two 30 Minute Halves          Two 5 Minute Halves

Grade 3/4              Two 30 Minute Halves

1. In play-off or tournament play, if the game is still tied after the overtime periods IFAB “Kicks from the Penalty Mark” rules will apply in order to determine the
2. IFAB “Kicks from the Penalty Mark” will be administered as follows: the Referee shall toss a coin and the team whose Captain wins the toss must take the first kick. Each team shall take five (5) kicks from the Penalty Mark. Kicks shall be taken alternately by different players.  Players taking the penalty kicks must be on the field at the end of overtime play.
3. If, after both teams have taken five (5) kicks, both have scored the same number of goals, or have not scored any goals, alternating additional kicks shall be taken in the same order until one team has scored a goal and the other does not score a goal. Players taking the penalty kicks must be on the field at the end of overtime play.
4. GAME TIMES AND FORFEITS
5. The referee and teams should be present at the playing field 20 minutes prior to the scheduled start of game. Teams that have not arrived at the playing field 20 minutes after the scheduled start shall forfeit the game.
7. A minimum of 7 players must be present to begin play for 11 v 11 competition. For 9 v 9 competition, 6 players are required.
8. If the minimum number of players are not present 20 minutes after scheduled start, a forfeit win is awarded to the team with the minimum number of players. If both teams have less than the minimum number of players 20 minutes after the scheduled start, the referee will prepare a game report within 48 hours of the scheduled game. The Standards Committee will review the report and award a forfeit as appropriate. After the 20-minute wait period, a scrimmage game may be played for the benefit of the players present and the good of the game. Forfeited games shall not be rescheduled.
9. For Grade 3/4, Grade 5/6 and Grade 7/8 Coastal Cup Divisions, when the referee does not arrive within 20 minutes after scheduled start, the two coaches may agree upon a qualified person to serve as a substitute Referee and play the game. Given the difficulties in rescheduling games, every effort should be made to play the game.
10. For 5/6 and 7/8 Division One and Two Only, and Grade 9/10/11 and Grade 12/PG games, when the referee does not arrive within 20 minutes after scheduled start, both coaches will determine if a certified referee is present to serve as a substitute referee and appoint that person to officiate the game. If coaches use a qualified person to officiate the game, the game may not be protested on that If no substitute can be found the game must be re-scheduled.
11. In case of a forfeit in advance of the game start, each coach must notify both Town Associations within 24 hours of the scheduled game. The Town Association must provide a written notice of the forfeiture to the Standards Committee within 7 days of the scheduled game.
12. Teams committing a no show forfeit the day of the game will be fined $100.00. Teams forfeiting with notification prior to the date of the game will be fined $25.00.
13. The Association of a MTOC eligible team will be responsible for fees assessed due to forfeits at MTOC.
14. For Grade 9/10/11 and Grade 12/PG, these games have traditionally been played on Sunday afternoons. If both teams are in agreement, the home team may schedule these games for any weeknight or Saturday during the regular season.
15. CANCELED & RESCHEDULED GAMES
    1. FIELD UNPLAYABLE: Town Coordinators will make the decision if a field is in unplayable condition due to weather prior to 7:00 AM or 2 hours before the first game, whichever is earlier. The Town Coordinator will then notify the home team coaches and Town Referee The Town Referee Coordinator will notify the assigned referees. Home team coaches are responsible for immediately notifying the visiting team coach. If you cannot contact the visiting coach two hours prior to a rained out game, then please be at the field to notify the visiting coach. Unless notified by the Town Coordinator or home team coach, teams must report to the scheduled field where the decision to play is made by the assigned referee.
16. HALTED PLAY: In the event of electric and/or thunderstorms, the game shall be stopped for the duration of the storm. Re-starts are solely the referee’s decision. If the game cannot be restarted, it shall be replayed.
17. INSUFFICIENT PLAYERS: Associations that do not have enough players to field a team may request to reschedule the game. The opponent is under no obligation to reschedule.
18. DATES FOR ALL MAKE UP GAMES FOR GRADES 3/4, 5/6 AND 7/8: Any games originally scheduled through May 13^th and not played for any reason must be played and the scores reported prior to Memorial Day. Any canceled games after May 13^th must be played before the last game of the season. If the last game of the season is postponed, it must be made up by the next scheduled CYSL meeting.  Forfeits will result if the procedures in (9g) were not followed or games are not played within the makeup Requests for forfeit declarations for games originally scheduled prior to May 13th must be made to the Chair, Standards Committee before Memorial Day.  Requests for forfeit declarations for games after May 13^th must be made to the Chair, Standards Committee before the last game of the season.  If no request is received by these dates, a double forfeit will be awarded.  An appropriate fine (8g) is charged when a game is forfeited.
19. DATES FOR MAKEUP GAMES FOR GRADES 9/10/11 AND 12/PG: Any games not played due to (9a) through (9c) must be played by the last Sunday of the regular season. Forfeits will result if the procedures in (9g) were not followed or games are not played within the makeup   Requests for forfeit declarations must be made to the Standards Committee before the last Sunday of the regular season.  If no request is received by this date, a double forfeit will be awarded.  An appropriate fine (8g) is charged when a game is forfeited.
20. MEMORIAL DAY: CYSL does not schedule games on Memorial Day weekend.
21. SCHEDULING PROCEDURES FOR ALL MAKE UP GAMES: The home coach will provide the away coach with a list of three (3) different dates and times within 5 days of initial notification. The away coach must respond within 5 days of receiving the dates. If the coaches cannot agree, the Town Coordinators must attempt to resolve the dispute. If the Town Coordinators cannot agree to a date, the matter will be forwarded to the Standards Committee. Notice of the Standards Committee decision shall be given in writing to both teams.
22. PLAY-OFF GAMES
23. The playoff matrix will be setup by the Competition Committee but may be adjusted by the Executive Committee because of rain and ties in sections to expedite the schedule. Changes will be communicated to the Town Associations.
24. The playoff sites chosen by the league are neutral sites even if one of the teams is from that town. The league appoints all referees.
25. If two teams are tied for 1 spot for the playoffs, then the head-to-head record will determine which team makes the playoffs. If teams tied in the head-to-head matchup, then a playoff game will be scheduled.  Games are scheduled at the tournament site or at a neutral field. All officials are assigned by CYSL.
26. If two teams are tied and two teams are eligible for the playoffs, the head-to-head record will determine team placement. If teams tied in the head-to-head, placement will be determined by the blind draw below.

 

Alphabetical order determines the highest seed.  Team Number determines letter.

 

A	E	G	I	C	B	J	H	F	D
4	1	3	8	7	5	2	6	9	10

 

1. If three teams or more teams are tied in a section where two teams advance to playoffs, then playoff games will be scheduled. The blind draw will be used to determine playoff game pairings.  The team(s) with the highest letter will get any byes that are required.  All teams will play at least one game.
2. To protest a playoff game, you must notify a CYSL official and your association within two hours of the game end. Your association must agree to support the protest.  Remember that judgement calls by referees cannot be protested; only incorrect application of a game law can be protested.  A protest fee of $100 must be guaranteed by the association.  A check must be submitted with the written protest.  Playoffs may continue while a protest is being heard. The protest fee will be returned if the protest is upheld and forfeited if the protest is denied.

 

11. REFEREES
12. Referees shall be certified by the MSRR and registered.
24. AUTOMATIC PENALTIES FOR CARD(S) IN A SEASON
25. A player receiving a Red Card will be expelled from the game with no substitution.
26. A player receiving a Yellow Card must be substituted but may reenter the game.
27. A player receiving two Yellow Cards in a game will be expelled from the game with no substitution.
28. A player receiving a RED card(s) during the combined fall and spring seasons will also be subject to the following additional discipline:

• First - One game suspension assessed the next scheduled game whenever played.
• Second – Two game suspension
• Third - Suspension for the remainder of the season and the individual must appear before the Standards Committee prior to being allowed to play or coach during the next season.

5. A player receiving an accumulation of YELLOW and RED cards during the fall and spring seasons will also be subject to the following additional discipline:

• An accumulation of Three (3) Yellow and/or Red Cards - One game suspension
• An accumulation of Four (4) Yellow and/or Red Cards - Two game suspension
• An accumulation of Five (5) Yellow and/or Red Cards - A suspension for the remainder of the Individual must appear before Standards Committee before being allowed to play or coach during the next season.

1. A coach ejected from a game (receiving a red card) will receive an automatic three game suspension.
2. A coach receiving two cautions (yellow cards) in the course of a season will receive an automatic one game suspension.
3. All coach and player suspensions will be posted on the CYSL website.

 

6. If the individual feels there are mitigating circumstances related to the red or yellow card, he or she may appeal the card to the CYSL Standards Committee.
19. FRACASES OR UNBECOMING CONDUCT
20. If a player leaves the sidelines to participate in a fracas and it is so noted by any game referee, then that player shall be suspended. In addition, a report shall be forwarded to the Standards Committee, which could result in banishment from further league play.
21. If any member on a team engages in unbecoming conduct which is brought to the League’s attention, the Standards Committee will investigate and apply appropriate penalties.

 

 

14. ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
15. Team Officials, coaches and managers, are to maintain the highest Standards of conduct for themselves, their players and supporters at all matches. Abusive and obscene language, violent play, violent conduct, fighting and other behavior detrimental to the game, will not be tolerated.
16. All coaches and non-playing players must stay on their own half of the field, at least 5 yards from the midfield line. Players and coaches may not enter the field of play unless invited by the referee.
17. Spectators are expected to stay five (5) yards from the touchline. No spectators are allowed behind goals or end lines.
18. Team Officials, coaches and managers must fully support the referee at all times. Coaches are also responsible for controlling spectators.  In no case, will the referee deal directly with a spectator.
19. No one is to address the referee during the games. This includes audible comments questioning calls and/or abusive or defaming comments.
20. The following exceptions for coaches apply:

• Responding to a referee initiating a communication
• Making substitutions
• Pointing out emergencies or safety issues
• Asking the referee to clarify a restart in a polite and constructive way

1. Penalties for not following the Zero Tolerance Policy are:

• Minor Infraction – Referee may ignore a random occurrence. If repeated occurrences from spectators occur, the referee will ask the coach(es) to quiet the offending spectator.  Repeated occurrences elevate the infraction to a Serious Infraction.
• Serious Infraction – Depending on the seriousness of the infraction, the referee will caution or eject the coach or spectator. In the case of spectators, the caution will be given to the coach of the team with the offending spectator.  Expelled individuals must leave the playing field and immediate surroundings.
• Abandon Game – If the infractions continue, the referee may terminate the game.

1. In the case where the referee issues a yellow or red card, directs a person to leave the field or terminates the game, the referee will forward a report to the Town Referee Assignors and the CYSL Standards Committee. The CYSL Standards Committee will recommend all penalties. Penalties may include playing all away games, suspension of team from the league to playing without spectator support.  For the particular game, the CYSL Standards Committee may decide to award points to either of the team or neither of the teams based on their evaluation rather than replay the game.
2. If a team official, coach or manager is “sent off” from the field for conduct, he/she will receive an automatic 3 game suspension. Such suspension will apply to the team that the person was coaching at the time of the ejection.  The coach may continue to coach other teams during the suspension. Should there not be enough games remaining in the regular season and playoffs for that year, such suspension will carry over into the following CYSL season.  The Standards Committee reserves the right to impose further action including a suspension from other teams based upon a review of the circumstance, e.g. referee report, witness statements, etc.
3. The Zero Tolerance Policy extends to abuse via social media. The discovery of abuse via social media that is directed towards another player, a coach or referee will be referred to the Standards Committee for review and potential suspension.
4. The Zero Tolerance Policy extends to any conduct that is listed in the MYSA Prohibited Conduct Policy.  Among the prohibited conducts are harassment, sexual harassment, racial, religious, or national origin harassment, child sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, emotional misconduct, physical misconduct, bullying, and hazing.   When a report of any of the prohibited conducts is received by CYSL or a member town, the protocols in the MYSA Athlete and Participant Safety Policy will be followed.  The policy can be found on the MYSA website, mayouthsoccer.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GRADE 3/4 GAME RULES

 

Below are the rules for the Grade 3/4 program. These rules are based on a recommended program from the USYSA plus additions by a CYSL Grade 3/4 Committee. The purpose of the program is to provide an atmosphere where the players feel free to try a lot of different techniques without being concerned about winning or losing. Coaching emphasis should be skills and ball control by the individual player. Fewer players are being put on a small field to ensure that each player has a lot of touches of the ball.

By extending the small field concept to the Grade 3/4, we expect the players to have better skills at the Grade 5/6 level when they should begin to learn tactics.

LAW I: THE FIELD

1. DIMENSIONS:

The field of play shall be rectangular, with a suggested length of 60 yards and a width of 40 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. Fields will vary.

1. MARKINGS:
2. Distinctive lines not more than 5 inches wide.
3. A halfway line shall be marked across the field.
4. A center circle with a radius of 8 yards.
5. Four corner arcs with a 1yard radius.
6. Goal area - 6 yards from each goal post and 6 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
7. Penalty area - 14 yards from each goal post and 14 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
8. Build-Out Line - the halfway line will be used as the build-out line for all goalie distributions and free kicks that start in an own team's penalty area.
9. GOALS

Maximum 7 feet high and 18 feet wide. Minimum size of 5 feet high and 12 feet wide. Size will vary.

LAW II: THE BALL - SIZE FOUR (4)

LAW III: PLAYERS

1. TEAM MAKEUP

Teams will be divided by gender into boys and girls per CYSL rule #2. Co-ed is acceptable if no other roster slot available.  Competition Committee needs to approve co-ed rosters.

1. ROSTER SIZE

CYSL recommends a maximum roster size of 13. This should allow adequate playing time for all.

1. PLAYERS ON FIELD

Seven (7) players are allowed on the field at any one time. One of the seven players must be designated as the goalkeeper.

1. PLAYING TIME

EACH PLAYER SHALL PLAY A MINIMUM OF 50% OF THE TOTAL PLAYING TIME.

1. ROSTER COMPOSITION

All teams competing in Grade 3/4 must be level picked.

LAW IV: PLAYERS EQUIPMENT - Conform to IFAB

LAW V: REFEREE:

1. Registered Referee
2. All rule infractions shall be explained to the offending player providing it does not interfere with the “flow” of the game.

LAW VI: ASSISTANT REFEREES: Assigned by town.  Club linesmen/women can be used if no assigned linesmen/women available

LAW VII: DURATION OF GAME:

The game shall be divided into 2 equal halves of 30 minutes each with a half-time break of 5 minutes.

LAW VIII: THE START OF PLAY:

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards from the center mark while the kick-on is in progress.

LAW IX: BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY - Conform to IFAB.

LAW X: METHOD OF SCORING - Conform to IFAB.

LAW XI: OFF-SIDE - Conform to IFAB.

LAW XII: FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

1. GOALIE DISTRIBUTION

An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when, a goalkeeper handles the ball within his/her penalty area and throws, punts, or kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with the goalkeepers side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. If a goalkeeper dribbles the ball outside the penalty area or does not play the ball with the hands, then the kick may cross the midfield.

1. GOAL KICKS

An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when a goalkeeper and/or field player, when making a goal kick, kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with his/her side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. In both cases, the indirect free kick will be taken at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.

1. HEADING

All players in U10 age groups shall not engage in heading in either games or practices.   An indirect kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee, deliberately heads or attempts to head the ball at the point of the infraction.

If, in the opinion of the referee, a deliberate head ball or attempt to head the ball occurs in the penalty area, the indirect free kick will be taken on the top edge of the penalty area parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurs.

If, in the opinion of the referee, a player does not deliberately head or attempt to head the ball, then play should continue.

1. BUILD OUT LINE

When the goalie has the ball in their hands during play from the opponent, the opposing team must move behind the build out line until the ball is put into play.  Once the opposing team is behind the build out line, the goalie can resume distribution in accordance with these game rules.  Ideally, the goalkeeper will wait until the opposing team has retreated to put the ball into play but has the option to do so sooner.  If the goalie does not wait, they accept the positioning of the opponents and the consequences of how play develops.   After the ball is put into play by the goalkeeper, the opposing team can cross the build out line and play resumes as normal.

The opposing team must also move behind the build out line during a goal kick until the ball is in play.  Limitations on the goal kick as specified in these game rules apply.

The ball is considered “in play” in accordance with IFAB rules.  There are no modifications because of the build out line.

LAW XIII: FREE KICKS

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away before kick is allowed.

LAW XIV: PENALTY KICKS:

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away before kick is allowed.

LAW XV: THROW IN - Conform to IFAB.

LAW XVI: GOAL KICK

The opposing team must move behind the build out line during a goal kick until the ball is put into play.  The goal kick cannot go directly beyond the midfield line. The penalty for kicking the ball directly beyond the midfield line is an indirect free kick awarded to the opposing team at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.

LAW XVII: CORNER KICK

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away from the ball.

 

 

 

 

GRADE 5/6 9v9 GAME RULES

Below are the rules for the Grade 5/6 9v9 program. These rules are based on a recommended program from the US Youth Soccer plus additions by a CYSL Board of Directors. Advantages of playing small sided games:

• More time with coach.
• Energetic workouts due to playing both offense and defense.
• More efficient use of field space.
• Matches can be played simultaneously across a full size field.
• Children are physically more efficient in smaller space.
• Children are actively involved for a longer period of time.
• It takes less time to score a goal or advance to goal.
• Greater success rate for the players.

LAW I: THE FIELD

1. DIMENSIONS

The field of play shall be rectangular, with a suggested length of 70 yards and a width of 55 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. Fields will vary.

1. MARKINGS
2. Distinctive lines not more than 5 inches wide.
3. A halfway line shall be marked across the field.
4. A center circle with a radius of 8 yards.
5. Four corner arcs with a 1yard radius.
6. Goal area - 6 yards from each goal post and 6 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
7. Penalty area - 14 yards from each goal post and 14 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
8. Penalty mark is ten (10) yards from the center of the goal line.
9. Penalty arc with a radius of eight (8) yards.
10. GOALS

The goals shall be 6 feet high by 18 feet wide.

LAW II: THE BALL - SIZE FOUR (4)

LAW III: NUMBER OF PLAYERS

1. PLAYERS ON FIELD

Nine (9) players, one of whom must be designated as a goalkeeper are allowed on the field at any one time.

1. MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE

The maximum roster size of 15.

 

1. MINIMUM NUMBER OF PLAYERS

The minimum number of players to begin a match is six (6).

LAW IV: PLAYERS EQUIPMENT - Conform to FlFA

LAW V: REFEREE: Registered Referee

LAW VI: ASSISTANT REFEREES: Assigned by town.

LAW VI: DURATION OF GAME

The game shall be divided into 2 equal halves of 30 minutes each with a five minute half time.

LAW VIII: THE START OF PLAY:

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards from the center mark while the kick-on is in progress.

LAW IX: BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY - Conform to IFAB

LAW X: METHOD OF SCORING - Conform to IFAB

LAW XI: OFF-SIDE - Conform to IFAB

LAW XII: FOULS AND MISCONDUCT: LAW XII:  FOULS AND MISCONDUCT: 

1. GOALIE DISTRIBUTION

An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when a goalkeeper handles the ball within his/her penalty area and throws, punts, or kicks the ball into the opposing penalty area.  If the violation occurs, an indirect free kick will be awarded at the top of the opposing penalty area.

1. HEADING

All players in U12 age groups shall not engage in heading in either games or practices.   An indirect kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee, deliberately heads or attempts to head the ball at the point of the infraction.

If, in the opinion of the referee, a deliberate header or attempt to head the ball occurs in the penalty area, the indirect free kick will be taken on the penalty line parallel goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurs.

If, in the opinion of the referee, a player does not deliberately head or attempt to head the ball, then play should continue.

LAW XIII: FREE KICKS

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away before kick is allowed.

LAW XIV: PENALTY KICKS

Conform to IFAB with the exceptions that the penalty mark is ten (10) yards from the center of the goal line and those players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight (8) yards from the penalty mark.

LAW XV: THROW IN - Conform to IFAB.

LAW XVI:  GOAL KICK 

Conform to IFAB with the exception that the goal kick cannot go directly into the opposing penalty area.  The penalty for kicking the ball directly into this area is an indirect free kick awarded to the opposing team at the top of their penalty area.

LAW XVII: CORNER KICK

Conform to IFAB with the following exception: Opponents must 8 yards away from the ball.

 

 

1. COACH AND PLAYER CREDENTIALS
2. All rosters for the fall and spring seasons are required to be photo rosters. For the fall season, the rosters must be typed and certified (signed) by each Association Registrar.  For the spring season, the rosters must also be signed by the CYSL Registrar.
3. For the fall season, teams are required to use rosters including color photos by Columbus Day.
4. For the spring season, any team not having photo rosters will be required to forfeit the game.
5. Teams must have coaches that have completed the requirements to be awarded a lanyard at all games in the fall and spring. The lanyard is an indication that the coach is registered and has completed all required CORI and adult registration training requirements.
6. In the event a rostered coach fails to have their lanyard available, yet their name and photo are on the team’s roster, the game will be played with the coach allowed in the technical area. The referee must note the coach’s lack of a lanyard in the Game Report in Game Officials. Standards Committee may award a $25 fine to the association.
7. If no adult with a lanyard is present and no adult listed on the roster is available, then the referee will only allow the game to be played if any adult with a lanyard is available to coach the team. The referee will record the name of the adult who coached and the team in a Game Report in Game Officials.
8. If no adult with a lanyard is available to coach the team, the referee will abandon the game and report the team lacking an appropriate coach in Game Officials for Standards Committee to make a ruling.

 

1. ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
2. Team Officials, coaches and managers, are to maintain the highest Standards of conduct for themselves, their players and supporters at all matches. Abusive and obscene language, violent play, violent conduct, fighting and other behavior detrimental to the game, will not be tolerated.
3. All coaches and non-playing players must stay on their own half of the field, at least 5 yards from the midfield line. Players and coaches may not enter the field of play unless invited by the referee.
4. Spectators are expected to stay five (5) yards from the touchline. No spectators are allowed behind goals or end lines.
5. Team Officials, coaches and managers must fully support the referee at all times. Coaches are also responsible for controlling spectators.  In no case, will the referee deal directly with a spectator.
6. No one is to address the referee during the games. This includes audible comments questioning calls and/or abusive or defaming comments.
7. The following exceptions for coaches apply:

• Responding to a referee initiating a communication
• Making substitutions
• Pointing out emergencies or safety issues
• Asking the referee to clarify a restart in a polite and constructive way

1. Penalties for not following the Zero Tolerance Policy are:

• Minor Infraction – Referee may ignore a random occurrence. If repeated occurrences from spectators occur, the referee will ask the coach(es) to quiet the offending spectator.  Repeated occurrences elevate the infraction to a Serious Infraction.
• Serious Infraction – Depending on the seriousness of the infraction, the referee will caution or eject the coach or spectator. In the case of spectators, the caution will be given to the coach of the team with the offending spectator.  Expelled individuals must leave the playing field and immediate surroundings.
• Abandon Game – If the infractions continue, the referee may terminate the game.

1. In the case where the referee issues a yellow or red card, directs a person to leave the field or terminates the game, the referee will forward a report to the Town Referee Assignors and the CYSL Standards Committee. The CYSL Standards Committee will recommend all penalties. Penalties may include playing all away games, suspension of team from the league to playing without spectator support.  For the particular game, the CYSL Standards Committee may decide to award points to either of the team or neither of the teams based on their evaluation rather than replay the game.
2. If a team official, coach or manager is “sent off” from the field for conduct, he/she will receive an automatic 3 game suspension. Such suspension will apply to the team that the person was coaching at the time of the ejection.  The coach may continue to coach other teams during the suspension. Should there not be enough games remaining in the regular season and playoffs for that year, such suspension will carry over into the following CYSL season.  The Standards Committee reserves the right to impose further action including a suspension from other teams based upon a review of the circumstance, e.g. referee report, witness statements, etc.
3. The Zero Tolerance Policy extends to abuse via social media. The discovery of abuse via social media that is directed towards another player, a coach or referee will be referred to the Standards Committee for review and potential suspension.
4. The Zero Tolerance Policy extends to any conduct that is listed in the MYSA Prohibited Conduct Policy.  Among the prohibited conducts are harassment, sexual harassment, racial, religious, or national origin harassment, child sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, emotional misconduct, physical misconduct, bullying, and hazing.   When a report of any of the prohibited conducts is received by CYSL or a member town, the protocols in the MYSA Athlete and Participant Safety Policy will be followed.  The policy can be found on the MYSA website, mayouthsoccer.org.