GAMES RULES

1. KICKOFF: The ball must be kicked forward and complete on revolution to be in play. Once the ball is properly kicked-off, the kicker may not kick the ball again until it has come in contact with another player. This is also true for corner kicks, direct kicks and indirect kicks.
2. All games are played with running time. The only exception to this rule is for serious injury. Free substitution should be used for minor injuries and time will not stop.
3. Each boy’s games will have two halves, 30 minutes running time each half with a 10-minute half time. Each girl’s game will have four 15-minute quarters with a 10-minute half time.
4. All players MUST wear their colored team shirts in order to play in the game. In case of cold or inclement weather, the child should wear his team shirt over whatever protective clothing is worn. The only exception to this rule is for the goalkeeper who must wear a different colored shirt from the rest of his team and the opposing team.
5. Coaches are not permitted on the field. Referees will be positioned on the field. Although coaches are expected to provide instruction while on the filed, they are asked not to over-direct the players. Part of the learning process is for the players to figure out (on their own) where they should be, who to pass to, etc. The coaches are there primarily to provide corrective instruction and positioning assistance as well as moral support. Too much instruction during the game can be distracting and confusing and therefore should be minimized.
6. Possession of the ball by the goalkeeper with one hand constitutes a stoppage of the attack and a change of possession. Goalkeeper safety should always be a major concern in this league.
7. The goalkeeper has 6 seconds to put the ball back into play upon gaining possession. The goalkeeper may only use hands inside the penalty box area or a handball is called.
8. GOAL KICKS: Goal kicks may be taken by any player on the field, from the kicking team, usually a defender. Opposing players must be out of the penalty box when the kick is taken and the ball must completely pass outside of the penalty box when the kick is taken before either team can touch the ball.
9. THROW-INS: Improper throw-ins are penalized by a change of possession. However, the player should be instructed with the proper throw-in technique (both feet behind the line, both hands over head).
10. OFFSIDES: When a player receives a passed ball there must be a defender between him/her and the goalies. If not, the ball is awarded to the opposing team.
11. PENALTY SHOTS: Penalties are awarded for defensive fouls committed in the penalty box.
12. INDIRECT KICKS: Indirect kicks are called for dangerous plays.
13. DIRECT KICKS: Direct kicks are awarded as a result of pushing, intentional tripping and handballs. In all cases the player should be instructed at the time of infraction to insure the youngster understands the rule. On all direct kicks opposing players are positioned 10 yards away from the ball and may use their fists (positioned close to their body) to protect themselves from the ball.
14. CORNER KICKS: Corner kicks are awarded when an opposing player kicks the ball over the goal line. All corner kicks should be taken and the players instructed on the rule. Re-kicks are not allowed.
15. SPORTSMANSHIP: All players and coaches must end game with line-up for handshake/high-five.