MIAMI-DADE SOCCER LEAGUE (MDSL)

MIAMI-DADE SOCCER LEAGUE (MDSL)

U6-U8 Rules and Procedures (Rev. 09/21/2019) FYSA CODE OF ETHICS

Players

• I will encourage good sportsmanship from fellow players, coaches, officials and parents at all times. • I will remember that soccer is an opportunity to learn and have fun. • I deserve to play in an environment that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol; and expect everyone to refrain from their use at all

soccer games. • I will do the best I can each day, remembering that all players have talents and weaknesses the same as I do. • I will treat my coaches, other players and coaches, game officials, other administrators, and fans with respect at all times;

regardless of race, sex, creed, or abilities, and I will expect to be treated accordingly. • I will concentrate on playing soccer. Always giving my best effort. • I will play by the rules at all times. • I will at all times control my temper, resisting the temptation of retaliation. • I will always exercise self-control. • My conduct during competition towards play of the game and all officials shall be in accordance with appropriate behavior and in

accordance with FIFA’s “Laws of the Game,” and in adherence to FYSA rules. • While traveling, I shall conduct myself so as to bring credit to myself and my team. • I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex

alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs. • I will never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity.

Coaches/Volunteers

• I will never place the value of winning before the safety and welfare of all players. • I will always show respect for players, other coaches, and game officials. • I will lead by example, demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship at all times. • I will demonstrate knowledge of the rules of the game, and teach these rules to my players. • I will never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity. • I will not tolerate inappropriate behavior, regardless of the situation. • I will not allow the use of anabolic agents or stimulants, drugs, tobacco, or alcohol by any of my players. • I will never knowingly jeopardize the eligibility and participation of a student-athlete. • Youth have a greater need for example than criticism. I will be the primary soccer role model. • I will at all times conduct myself in a positive manner. • Coaching is motivating players to produce their best effort, inspiring players to learn, and encouraging players to be winners. • My actions on sidelines during games shall be in the spirit of “good sportsmanship” at all times. Profanity, profane gestures,

arguing, inciting disruptive behavior by spectators and/or players, or any conduct not in the spirit of good sportsmanship, shall require disciplinary action from the affiliate.

• I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs.

• I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon FYSA, its members or its programs. • I will accurately and completely complete the coach/volunteer application form and by application attest to the accuracy of the

information submitted.

Parents/Spectators

• I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, game officials, and administrators at all times.

• I will place the emotional and physical wellbeing of all players ahead of any personal desire to win. • I will support the coaches, officials, and administrators working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable

experience for all. • I will remember that the game is for the players, not for the adults. • I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, game officials, administrators, and fans with respect. • I will always be positive. • I will always allow the coach to be the only coach. • I will not get into arguments with the opposing team’s parents, players, or coaches. • I will not come onto the field for any reason during the game. • I will not criticize game officials. • I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex

alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs.

• I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon FYSA, its members or its programs. Failure to comply may result in the suspension of your privilege to participate in FYSA sanctioned events, for the following periods: 1st offense -- suspension for a minimum of thirty (30) days to a maximum of five (5) years. 2nd offense -- suspension for a minimum of one (1) year to a maximum of ten (10) years. 3rd offense -- suspension for a minimum of five (5) years to a maximum of fifty (50) years. NOTE: Any individual charged with a violation of this Code of Ethics shall be afforded due process as defined in FYSA’s Rule

Section 600 before the implementation of any suspension. 1. INTRODUCTION The Miami-Dade Soccer League (MDSL) is a volunteer nonprofit organization that provides recreational and competitive soccer programs for boys and girls ages 6 to 12 years in the Miami-Dade, Kendall and adjacent unincorporated areas. The purpose of the MDSL shall be to develop, promote and administer the game of soccer among youth without regard to race, religion, color, creed, sex or national origin. The Miami-Dade Soccer League reserves the right to deny participation to any club and\or team(s) based on previous experience and \or behavior deemed to be or has been deemed inappropriate or in violation of our sanctioning body the Florida Youth Soccer Association's (FYSA) Code of Ethics. Playing in the Miami-Dade Soccer League is a privilege not a right. The decision to accept or deny vest solely with the administration of MDSL and may not be appealed. The rules and procedures that follow are either mandated or authorized by the MDSL

SPIRIT OF THE RULES All Coaches, Players, Club Representatives or other individuals representing a registered organization within the MDSL shall refrain at all times from seeking an advantage through the deliberate manipulation, misapplication or misinterpretation of any of these Policies and Procedures. All those identified above shall at all-time adhered to the "Spirit of the Rules" and the intent of the rules stated or implied herein. Except where modified herein, rules of play shall be according to the FIFA "Laws of the Game”. Competition sanctioned by the League shall abide by the "Laws of the Game" and any modifications specifically published, unless further modified by this League. All contests sanctioned by the League shall abide by the official rules, and the modifications as published by this League, unless otherwise amended by the Board of Directors. 2. GENERAL RULES OF ORDER Each participating Club and their members must abide by the bylaws and rules of the Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA). Rules added or amended by FYSA must be adopted by this league and its affiliates. The rules in this manual apply to all aspects of league operation and competition. Rules governing a unique league operation or competition will specifically identify that to which it applies.

ARTIFICIAL NOISE-MAKING DEVISES ARE PROHIBITED 3. SEASONAL YEAR AND LEAGUE SCHEDULES The seasonal year shall be defined as a period of time from March 1st. of each year through the 31st of October of the same year. 4. SCHEDULE CHANGES Schedule changes are inevitable as a result of bad weather, unanticipated field closures, etc. However, once the MDSL schedule is officially posted for the season, it is considered primary compared to other events such as tournaments and outings. After the scheduled has been posted, club representatives must follow procedure when requesting game changes: 1. Field and time only changes – The league reserves the right to move games as needed with the proper email notification to the participants at least 72 hours from the original schedule. The only purpose for these changes are to facilitate referee assignment. 2. All other changes – If there is a need to change the date or time of a game, this needs to be a mutual agreement by both coaches and done through email communication. All modifications of this type must be completed at least ten days in advance of the game. GAME CHANGES NOT APPEARING ON THE ON-LINE WEBSITE ARE NOT APPROVED.

5. LEVELS OF COMPETITION Typically there are three divisions; D1 First, D2 Second and D3 Third 6. REGISTRATION, ROSTERING AND PLAYER TRANSFER All players must be registered with FYSA. Player pass should show the date of birth verified by FYSA. 7. GAME OPERATIONS 7.1 THE FIELD SITE DIRECTOR There shall be a Site Director regardless of the number of games being played. The Site Director must not be a coach, participant or parent associated with the game being played. The Site Director is responsible for all of the games played at his/her field. Site Directors must coordinate with the Referees to ensure that the Referees can perform their duties without any interference from spectators, the coaches, or players. The Site Director must be available to assist in any game control requested by any of the officiating team, and also to assist in correcting field conditions as requested by the Referee. The Site Director shall have the authority to terminate or postpone any soccer game at the game site due to what may be considered potentially hazardous weather or other unexpected hazardous conditions, or to protect the field from damage when flooded. In all such cases, the Site Director shall complete a full report as required by this League. MDSL recommends that the safety of all players be paramount in making such decisions! 8. GAME PROCEDURES 1. Each team is responsible for their portion of the Referee fees for their game, regardless of the age level competing. The payment shall be made in cash and in the exact amount. Failure to make payment of the above Referee fees shall result in a forfeit; the League shall award the game to the opponent. The member organization not making payment shall then be responsible for payment of the entire referee fee payment and shall also be fined an amount as directed by the MDSL Board of Directors not to exceed $ 100.00 for a first offense. 2. Paper work will consist of the following, but shall not be limited to:

a. FYSA official team roster for each team competing and b. Card Report (yellow/red) if applicable. 8.1 PRE GAME All teams are required to report to the designated game site in a timely manner, and be prepared to begin the game at its scheduled time. A team that is not ready to play 15 minutes past the scheduled game time shall forfeit the game. The Site Director may shorten a game by the amount of time a game is delayed by a team up to 15 minutes. MDSL regular season games may end in a draw (tie). In the event of a draw, the two teams will both be awarded one point toward their divisional standings. There will be no overtime periods played during regular seasonal games. The winning of a regular season game will result in the winning team receiving three (3) points for the win. 8.2 GAME AND CROWD CONTROL Spectators shall remain not less than 3 yards from the field line as a means of separating the spectators from the field of play. Spectators are not permitted to watch the game alongside the field from any other location. This is to include: comer areas, goal areas and especially the team's "Technical Areas” (bench). Team members (both players and coaches) must remain in their designated "Technical Area" of the field. Both teams are to be on the same side of the field but opposite that of the spectators. Each team shall be permitted only (3) coaches in their "Technical Area". Each must possess a valid coach’s pass for the team playing. No coaching shall be permitted from any other portion of the field other than the designated "Technical Area”. 8.3 INCLEMENT/HAZARDOUS WEATHER (Rainout Policy) Soccer is an all-weather sport. We play in rain, cold and wind. We do not play when there is danger to the children or spectators or when we may cause extensive damage to the fields. If there is lightning in the area we will cancel matches or suspend matches that

have already begun. In the event of inclement conditions, club officials will evaluate field conditions and the weather forecasts to make a determination at the earliest practical time. Games are always to be played as scheduled unless the fields are closed. a) Coaches are not authorized to call off a game due to weather or field conditions. The job of determining field suitability for play falls upon the Field Marshal. However, if a parks department or field director has closed the field, a referee is not allowed to overrule that decision. b) If threatening weather is expected or at hand, coaches should contact the field director to make sure the fields are not closed, it is the responsibility of the coaches to make sure that games will be played as scheduled. They should also make sure to have contact numbers for the opposing coach, the assignor, and the referees. c) In the case of a game cancellation due to serious, inclement and/or hazardous weather prior to the start of the game, both teams will play in the next available date a makeup game consisting of two half’s less five minutes each . This may require that a team may play two games on their next available date, if this would occur; the games will be played with no less than two hours in between but never more than three. d) If the game is stopped anytime without completing the first half of play, then a new Mini-Game will be scheduled on the next available day to be played before or after an already scheduled game for one of the teams involved or in a selected time spot agreeable by both teams. The Mini-Game will consist of two continuous half’s of:

U6-U8 5 minutes each half e) When a game is cancelled after the first half is completed, the score at that moment will be the final score. f) Referee's game report shall reflect all such circumstances. The game will not be re-scheduled. NOTE: In general, it is safe to play in the rain, unless lightning is present, in which case the game will immediately be cancelled. The primary determining factor in whether we play or cancel is the current condition of the field and projecting whether damage will result from using that field. We would rather have a day of cancelled games than weeks or months of dealing with a closed field because we chose to play when we shouldn’t have. 8.4 POST GAME CEREMONIES The MDSL encourage good sportsmanship and recommends a formal or otherwise organized post-game ceremony for the purpose of exchanging "handshakes" at the conclusion of the games; the Officials will witness this procedure. 9. LAWS OF THE GAME The restatement of any of the law is for convenience; included are additional items for youth games as specified by MDSL. 9.1 THE FIELD OF PLAY - LAW 1 The MDSL requires that all fields, regardless of designated age level of competition be uniform in several specific areas. 9.2 GENERAL Listed below are the basic standards for all soccer fields. Following this section are the specific dimensions for the individual age division fields. 1. All fields of play shall have areas designated as team "Technical areas" and shall be marked when possible. 2. All fields of play regardless of the age level of competition shall have when possible on the side of the field opposite that of the team's technical areas, a barrier or line set up in such a manner so as to separate the spectators from the field of play. The barrier or line shall be set back from the "touch line" a distance of a minimum of three (3) yards and shall run the length of the field from 18 yard line to 18 yard line (top of each penalty area). 3. All fields of play must be equipped with a set of goals meeting the required specifications and should be equipped with nets that are firmly secured in a proper manner. Goals must be anchored per FIFA Law 1. 4. All fields of play shall be equipped with comer flags meeting the required specifications. The MDSL recognizes the recommendations of US Soccer in regards to field and equipment sizes and mandates those as required by this organization. The following subsections detail those specific designations to the individual age levels of competition. 9.3 FIELD SIZES

Age Group Field Size Goal Min/Max U6-U8 20 x 30 yards 4’ x 6’

10. THE BALL - LAW 2 The required FIFA approved ball sizes to be used are as follows:

AGE GROUP BALL SIZE U6 #3 U8 #4

Both teams shall be responsible for providing a game ball for the referees to select from. 11. NUMBER OF PLAYERS - LAW 3

AGE GROUP NUMBER OF PLAYERS Max. Roster MINIMUM TO PLAY MATCH U6-U8 4 V 4 8 3

No Goal-Keepers 12. RULES OF PLAY Except as provided by MDSL or FYSA, the “FIFA Laws of the Game” apply to all competitions sponsored by MDSL. Refer to the special rules of competition for Under 6 and Under 8 if any. 13. SUBSTITUTIONS Players may be substituted only when the Referee has stopped play. The number of substitutions is unlimited unless competition superseding MDSL jurisdiction specifically determines otherwise. Substitutions may be made at the following times: a. By the offensive team prior to a throw-in in the team's favor. b. Prior to a goal kick, by either team. c. After an injury, by either team, when the Referee has stopped play. d. Between periods and after a goal is scored by either team. NOTE: Whenever the Goalkeeper is changed, it is required that the Coach notify the Referee. The Referee's permission is necessary, in any situation. A substitute may not enter the field of play until he or she has been so instructed by the Referee, and shall enter and leave from the half-way line. The substitute player must be up and standing at the half-way line prior to requesting the substitution. 14. THE PLAYERS EQUIPMENT - LAW 4 1. All players of the same team must wear the same style uniform shirts, shorts and socks. Shirts shall be numbered on the back and no two players on the same team may wear the same number. 2. No items of clothing or equipment which are not a part of the uniform are allowed. In the event of colder weather, additional clothing may be worn but only if worn underneath the uniform. 3. The Goalkeeper must wear a distinctive colored uniform, but shall not wear a black jersey which could conflict with the Referee's or Assistant Referees' Uniforms. 4. Uniform shirts must be tucked into the uniform shorts when on the field of play. 5. No jewelry (wristwatches, earrings, or other items) may be worn. 6. Proper shin guards must be worn under the uniform socks by every player regardless of age level. 7. The home team is required to wear its primary colors to home games, unless it is known that the visiting opponent's alternate colors conflict. If the home team prepares for a team with conflicting colors they are still required to bring their primary colors in case of a conflict. The opponent is required to wear its alternate colors when visiting. Any time there is a conflict, the home team is required to change. 8. The home team's club may resolve the issue by supplying its team with an alternate jersey, pennies that allow the jersey number to be seen, or numbered pennies.

15. THE REFEREE - LAW 5 The MDSL recognizes the Referee's many and sometimes difficult responsibilities. It further recognizes that the Referees are mandated to conduct themselves in a particular manner and enforce the "Laws of the Game" according to the USSF. This policy is written to communicate the rules and regulations of the MDSL relating to the areas of concern of the Referees assigned to officiate games within the organization. Understanding these policies, which may be unique to this League, will assist in reaching the level of professionalism desired. All clubs associated with the MDSL are required to use a USSF certified Referee Assignor and shall be responsible for scheduling/providing a uniformed referee and two (2) uniformed assistant referees for all scheduled games. 16. REFEREE FEES

AGE GROUP REFEREE\TEAM REFEREE SPLIT U6-U8 $ 10.00 $ 20 (Single Referee)

17. REPORTING TO THE FIELD 1. Referees are to report to the assigned game site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled kickoff time, and shall be totally prepared to begin. 2. Referees are to report to the "Site Director" for special instructions and assignment confirmation. 3. Referees should introduce themselves to their assigned Assistant Referees and immediately coordinate the details for performing the pre-game inspections and working together as a team during the game. a. Check all field conditions, markings and all equipment: b. All fields are to be equipped with regulation comer flags. c. All goals are to be of regulation size, in a safe condition and should be equipped with nets that are firmly secured. d. Field dimensions must conform to those that are mandated by the MDSL as described in our rules and\or procedures. e. The team's side of the field (opposite that of the spectators), when possible, shall have a line marked on the ground three yards (minimum) away from the touch line and 10 yards on either side of the center-line. NOTES: 1) in the event that a marked technical area is not provided, the referee will instruct the coaches that they must remain 1 yard off the touch line and may not travel down the touch line any farther than the center circle extends away from the halfway line. 2) In the event that a marked spectator line/barrier is not provided, the referee will notify the spectators they are to remain 3 yards off the touch line and between the top of each penalty area (between the 18’s). If spectators refuse to cooperate, it is the responsibility of the Field Director to remain and enforce this rule. 3) Both teams and their coaches are required to be on the same side of the field and opposite that of the spectators. NO SPECTATORS are permitted to be in any other location around the game site other than where designated. If photographs/ movies are to be taken from any fixed location other than the spectator's side, the Field Director should notify and identify the photographer to the referee. f. The Referee and Assistant Referee should introduce themselves as the Officiating Team for the match to the Coaches from both teams. The Coaches should then be told to prepare their players for equipment inspection and check-in. g. The Officiating Team should then introduce themselves to the players and perform the team's inspection. The inspection should be one of comparing jersey numbers to the roster and comparing the player passes to the roster and the picture to the player. All players’ equipment should be examined at this time as well. h. A team that is not ready to play the game 15 minutes after the scheduled game time shall forfeit. The League shall award the game. In such an event, the Referee must report the incident to the Site Director who in turn shall notify the proper League representative. 18. TERMINATION OF A GAME 1. Referees may terminate the game at any time if the Referee feels that his authority in the game has been undermined and that the game is not under his control due to the behavior of players, coaches or spectators. If such an incident occurs, the Referee shall be required to write the following information in the game report. a. Time the game began. b. Time the game was terminated.

c. Reason for the termination.

d. Game score at the time of termination.

e. The identity of the player or players who were cautioned, or ejected during the game or the identity of the ejected coach and the reason for taking such action against either. 2. If a Referee terminates a game for any reason prior to the expiration of the scheduled length of the game, the Referee shall report this action to the Site Director immediately. The Referee Assignor shall also be notified. 19. REMOVAL OF A COACH OR SPECTATOR 1. If a coach is ejected from the game, the coach shall leave the field. The coach shall be ordered completely off the premises and be out of sight and out of voice. Sanctions shall be applied as directed by the MDSL Board of Directors. 2. If a player is ejected, the player should leave the field at the referee’s discretion. The Referee should consider any and all special circumstances such as a player being dependent on a car pooling situation. If such is the case, the Referee may instruct the player to sit with the spectators. The coach will assign an adult to be responsible for the player’s conduct while on the sideline. 3. The Referee may eject a spectator. If a spectator is causing a problem of a magnitude that is undermining "the good of the game", the Referee should do the following: a. Instruct the Coach of the team to control the spectator that is supporting the team. b. The Coach responsible for the spectator may himself be ejected for failure to control his or her spectators. c. Advise the Site Director to control the spectator who is causing problems, or remove him from the premises. d. If, after all of the above have been exhausted, and the spectator has not left or ceased his behavior, the Referee shall terminate the game. 20. REFEREE'S DUTIES AT END OF GAME 1. Complete the game report as accurately and neatly as possible. List all pertinent information at the back of the FYSA rosters for each team as follows:

• Record the final score and note the home and or visitor team. • Record all cautions and red cards indicating the name of player/player's pass number, team code, and the reason for the card

given. The MDSL provides a report for such situations and requires its use. • Make sure that the game report shows game number, field number, home and visitor team and game time. • Report all serious injuries on the game report, also requires USSR report • The Referee signs and dates the report. • For the accuracy of the score, signature of both teams coaches confirming the score and or report is mandatory. • Attach the FYSA team roster for both teams to the game report

NOTE: Red Card send-off on reports must have sufficient description of the rule violation to enable a discipline or hearing committee to assess the appropriate sanction and/or additional disciplinary action. 2. Return all players' passes and coaches' passes to the appropriate coach or team manager at the end of the game. In the event of send-off the referee may elect to return the passes to the Site Director for return to the team. 3. Upon completing everything required, turn everything in to the Site Director. 21. REFEREE'S JUDGEMENT The Referee's judgment with regards to the physical condition of the field and its acceptability for play and to the actual happening and occurrences relating to the conduct of the game, and to those prerogatives or judgments inherently granted to the Referee by the "Laws of the Game" as published by FIFA shall not be challenged. 22. LAW 6 THE ASSITANT REFEREE 1. No Assistant Referees will be used on the U6-U8 age groups. .

23. LAW 7 -THE DURATION OF THE MATCH

AGE GROUP LENGTH OF THE GAME LENGTH OF HALF TIME U6-U8 4-10 minutes 5 minutes between each brake

• For U6-U8 teams- PLAYERS MUST PLAY HALF OF THE GAME MINIMUM. • THE REFEREE WILL ENFORCE A 2 MIN. WATER BREAK DURING EACH HALF. PLAYERS ON THE FIELD MUST REMAIN ON THE FIELD AND COACHES ARE NOT TO USE THE TIME FOR TEAM COACHING. THE WATER BREAK SHOULD BE TAKEN AT APPROXIMATELY MIDWAY BETWEEN HALVES AT A STOPAGE OF PLAY SELECTED BY THE REFEREE. • COACHES CONVERSING WITH PLAYERS BEYOND THE REFEREES REQUEST FOR PLAYERS TO RESUME PLAYING AFTER A WATER BREAK MAY BE REPORTED BY THE REFEREE FOR VIOLATION OF THE SPIRIT OF THE RULES ON THE GAME. 23.1 DURATION LEAGUE PLAYOFFS AND TOURNAMENTS The policies governing draws and overtime periods during competition in league playoff games and championship games are listed below and shall be adhered to. League Playoff’s 1. MDSL playoff games cannot end in a draw (tie). 2. In the event a draw occurs after regulation play, then the two teams shall proceed to "Kicks from the Penalty Mark", as prescribed by FIFA. League Championship 1. MDSL championship games cannot end in a draw (tie). 2. In the event a draw occurs after regulation play, the procedures indicated in the FIFA "Laws of the Game" shall apply. A breakdown of those periods is listed below: 3. If after the two periods of overtime, the tie is broken, the game shall be over and awarded to the highest scoring team. 4. If after the two periods of overtime, the score remains tied, then the two teams shall proceed to "Kicks from the Penalty Mark", as prescribed by FIFA. 5. A team leaving the field, displaying unsportsmanlike conduct shall relinquish rights to team trophies. Sanctions shall be imposed as directed by the MDSL BOD.

24. MDSL TIEBREAKER RULE Ties will be broken using the following procedure. For all tiebreakers, if an uneven number of games have been played, any numerical measurements will be averaged over the number of games. Tiebreakers 1) Head-to-Head 2) Goal Differential (with a maximum of +/- 3 per game) 3) Goals for (with a maximum of +/- 3 per game) 4) Goals against (with a maximum of +/- 3 per game) 5) Most Wins 6) Kicks from the Penalty Mark In cases where there are more than two teams tied, head-to-head will only be applied if all three or more teams have played each other. If so and one team has lost to all of the others, that team is eliminated and the rest of the tiebreakers are applied to the remaining teams. 25. FEE'S AND FINES The league shall have the authority to levy fines and fees as published below: All MDSL fees and fines shall be determined by the League's Board of Directors on an annual basis and approved by a majority vote; if no an action is taken, the fees shall remain in effect until changed. 1. TEAM FEES PER SEASON (Due with team registration):

AGE GROUP Team Registration Fee U6-U8 $ 200.00

AGE GROUP LENGTH OF OVERTIME PERIOD U6-U08 2-5 minute periods

Note: All players must be register with FYSA or they will not have excess accident insurance available. For further information about registration, please send email to [email protected]. 2. DROPPED TEAM / ADD TEAM $50.00 (after final deadline for registration) 3. DROPPED TEAM /ADD TEAM $100.00 (after published schedule) 4. FORFEIT GAME (NO SHOW) $200.00 5. POLICY VIOLATION $25.00 6. SPECTATOR /COACH NOT LEAVING FIELD WHEN EJECTED $100.00 7. UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT BY COACH $100.00 * The Policy Violation Fee (# 5) covers all violations not specifically listed above. 26. REPORTING VIOLATIONS: In the event a club needs to seek assessment of a fine on another club, the club director will submit a written report of the violation to the Board of Directors within no more than ten days from the date of the violation. The report shall contain the Who, What, When, Where and How of the violation. If the violation, is not brought before the Board within the time specified any fines assessed will be placed in the league general fund to cover league expenses. All fees due to MDSL shall be considered delinquent if not paid, in cleared funds, after 10 days of occurrence. Affiliates may be placed Not in Good Standing when fees are not timely paid. The MDSL Treasurer will recommend to the BOD for approval to place a club in NGS. Governmental run programs which require an invoice will be granted 30 days from the date of receipt of invoice, if necessary. 27. MDSL MERCY RULE After the first half has been completed, or at any point in time in the second half where the goal differential meets or exceeds eight (8) goals, the game is considered complete and the match shall be ended. 28. RULES OF COMPETITION Registration of players and coaching staff is required for competition on the Club; League, State, National and International level for any MDSL sanctioned or sponsored events. All registered players/coaches must comply with applicable rules, policies and procedures and remain "in good standing" to be eligible to compete. 29. TEAM DECLARATION Each team must be declared with a Coach and a Division Code. 30. GAME ROSTER The FYSA Official team roster is the only roster allowed for the MDSL games. Each team must bring to every game (No exceptions):

1. FYSA team roster No guest players allowed in league cup competition. 2. FYSA player passes with D/O/B verified 3. Referee fees

31. GUEST PLAY Guest play is intended to promote player development from the bottom up. It also allows a club to field teams that may be short players rather than forfeit a match or even fold a team. The spirit of the rule is not to allow player movement for the purpose of affecting division standings. The following are the applicable league rules for guest play. (Guest players must be from the same club). NO GUEST PLAYERS FOR LEAGUE CUP 1. Three (2) guest players from the same club may be used in any regular league match. Guest player(s) may only play in one team for the game day and must be listed (hand written) in the FYSA Game roster for that day. FYSA rosters cannot have “Dual Register Players” all players must be primary register to the team.

2. Clubs or Teams violating the guest play rules will forfeit each match where an ineligible player participated and will be sanctioned as per MDSL fees and fines. Further, if the forfeiture of a match results in a tie in the standings the team having the greatest number of violations will be ranked lower in the standings. This rule supersedes the normal progression of tiebreakers. This rule is in addition to fines and sanctions. 32. LEAGUE CUP QUALIFYING Playoffs and Championships will be held for each single age increment where we have at least four teams and above represented. Note: First place team will play fourth and second place team will play the third place team. The winners of both semi-finals will play for the championship. With age groups having two flights, the first place team of flight A will play the second team of flight B and the first place team from flight B will play the second place team of flight A. The winners of both semi-finals will play for the championship. 33. ROSTER FREEZE FOR LEAGUE CUP Each club with teams eligible for League Playoffs must provide the league with a FYSA roster of players that will be designated to represent each eligible team in League Cup play. The roster freeze is fifteen (15) days prior to start the league playoffs games. Any player added to the team within less than fifteen (15) days prior to the start the league playoffs games or not listed as primary player to the team will be considered a guest player and will not be eligible to play. NO GUEST PLAYERS FOR LEAGUE CUP. 34. SPECIFIC RULES FOR U6 and U8 TEAMS REFEREE Each game will have one referee on the field. The decisions of the referee shall be final. There will be no protests. (Their authority and the exercise of the powers granted to them by the Laws of the Game shall commence as soon as they enter the locality where the field is situated, and shall cease when they leave) There are no linesman or assistant referees. All players must participate in 50% of the game playing time. Teams and matches may be coed. METHOD OF SCORING Goals can be scored from anywhere on the attacking half of the field. Goals cannot be scored directly by a team from their half of the field. Players may enter the goal box to play the ball but they cannot be waiting for the ball inside the goal box. (Goal area) OFF-SIDE The offside rule does not apply. But no player from either team can be inside the goal box. (Goal area) FOULS & MISCONDUCT (Conform to F.I.F.A.) FREE-KICK (Conform to F.I.F.A.) All free kicks for this age are indirect (goals cannot be scored directly from a free kick). PENALTY KICK (Conform to F.I.F.A.) The penalty spot is the center of the field. All defenders shall not be closer than 10 feet from the ball. THROW-IN (Conform to F.I.F.A.) GOAL KICK (Conform to F.I.F.A.) Except that the kicker cannot propel the ball over the halfway line in the air. Violation will be an indirect free kick, where the ball crossed the line. The ball may bounce or roll across the halfway line). CORNER KICKS (Conform to F.I.F.A.) With the exception that opponents must be positioned at least 10 feet from the ball. SLIDE TACKLING No sliding of any kind is allowed HEADING THE BALL (Conform with the US Soccer mandate) Intentional heading is banned for this division. An indirect free kick will be awarded to the opposing team if a player deliberately touches the ball with his/her head. The indirect free kick is to be taken from the place where the player touched the ball with his/her head.

FOLLOWING ARE THE FYSA RULES FOR DISCIPLINE THAT WILL APPLY IF NEEDED 502. DISCIPLINE - GAME CONDUCT When Discipline/Sanctions are imposed, they must meet the required minimums as specified by FYSA and/or USSF. The

Disciplining body must evaluate the incident as to intent, severity and past misconduct to determine the appropriate disciplines/sanctions. More severe disciplines/sanctions shall be imposed for multiple red cards during a season and for misconduct directed towards officials or administrators.

502.1 One Game Suspension:

1. Resulting from a second caution; (i.e., persistent infringement or dissent by word or action). 2. Denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not

apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area). 3. Denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving toward the player’s goal by an offense punishable

by a free kick or a penalty kick. 4 Serious Foul Play is defined as using disproportionate and unnecessary strength in a manner likely to hurt or injure an

opponent; any tackle from behind which endangers the safety of an opponent. 502.2 Offensive or insulting or abusive language:

1 One (1) game suspension -- Offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures not directed. 2. Three (3) game suspension -- Offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures directed toward a player,

referee, assistant referee, administrator, spectator or game and /or tournament official. 3. Six (6) game suspensions -- Adult directed to a youth referee.

502.3 Violent Conduct:

1. One (1) game suspension (minor infractions) -- dead-ball foul that is neither violent or with intent to harm or injure; attempting to strike, hit or punch.

2. Two (2) game suspension (minor infractions) -- is defined as the aggression of a player towards an opponent with clearly no intent to play or fight for the ball; threatening gestures.

3. Four (4) game suspension (major infractions) – striking with the intent to injure; fighting; any intentional exposure of the anatomy considered lewd and lascivious; all gestures with any part of the body which implies visual profanity.

4. Six (6) game suspension (major infraction) -- Entering a fight in progress or action resulting in law enforcement being called; entering the field of play and committing any additional offense (e.g., violent conduct, foul or abusive language; this will be in addition to the sanction for the subsequent violation).

502.4 Spitting - 4 (four) game suspension:

Spitting is defined as spitting on or at an opponent or another person as well as spitting onto their own hand prior to shaking hands with their opponent and/or the referees or other game officials.

502.5 FYSA affiliates shall notify the FYSA Office within seven (7) days of any player or coach red card/ejection for violent conduct (major infraction), foul and/or abusive language/gestures directed, spitting, or referee abuse. If the player or coach has two such ejections during a seasonal year or a third within two seasonal years, FYSA will notify the player, coach, affiliate agent of record and reporting affiliate that an additional suspension for thirteen (13) games or six (6) months, whichever is longer be applied to the end of the current suspension. Multiple offenses relating to the same red card/ejection will qualify under this rule. The action may be appealed to the FYSA Protest and Appeals Committee.

502.5.1 Any player who attempts to conceal their identity either before, during or post game, shall be suspended for a minimum of

sixty (60) days or eight (8) games whichever is longer. 502.6 GAME OFFICIALS

Misconduct toward a referee may include, but it not limited to, all registered referees, assistant referees, forth officials or other duly appointed to assist. It also includes any unlicensed or unregistered person serving in an emergency capacity as a referee under USSF Policy 531, Section 2 and any club assistant referees.

Any act committed before, during, or after a match, even at later times, if it is match related, such as at work or at home may

constitute misconduct toward game officials. 502.6.1 REFEREE ABUSE

Referee abuse is a verbal statement or physical act not resulting in bodily contact which implies or threatens physical harm to a referee or the referee’s property or equipment. Abuse includes, but is not limited to, the following acts committed upon a referee; using foul or abusive language toward a referee (must imply a threat of physical harm) , spewing any beverage on a referee’s personal property; spitting at (but not on) the referee; verbally threatening a referee with remarks that carry imply or direct threats of physical harm.

Verbal threats are remarks that carry the implied or direct threat of physical harm. Such remarks as “I’ll get you after the game.” or “You won’t get out of here in one piece.” shall be deemed referee abuse.

Discipline: Minimum sanctions

a. Six (6) games or three (3) month suspension, whichever is longer. b. Spitting at a referee or game official, six (6) games or six (6) month suspension, whichever is longer. c. An adult upon a youth referee, minimum of one (1) year suspension.

502.6.2 REFEREE ASSAULT

Referee assault is an intentional act of physical violence at or upon a referee committed before during, or after a match, even later times if it is match related such as at work or at home. “For the purpose of this rule, “intentional act” shall mean an act intended to bring about a result which will invade the interests of another in a way that is socially unacceptable. Unintended consequences of the actions are irrelevant.” Assault includes, but is not limited to, the following act committed upon a referee: hitting, kicking, punching, choking, spitting on, grabbing or bodily running into a referee; the act of kicking or throwing any object at a referee that could inflict injury; damaging the referee’s uniform or personal property (i.e., car, equipment, etc.). The player, coach, manager, spectator or official committing the referee assault is automatically suspended as follows:

a. For a minor or slight touching of the referee or the referee’s uniform or personal property, at least six (6) months from the time of the assault;

b. Except as provided in above, for any other assault, at least twelve (12) months from the time of the assault; c. For an assault committed by an adult and the referee is seventeen (17) years of age or younger, at least three

(3) years; or d. For an assault when serious injuries are inflicted, at least five (5) years.