SOCCER
ASSOCIATION
Rules and
Guidelines
Approved July 28, 2003
Amended September 11, 2006
In-House Playing Rules and
Guidelines
Applicability
In-house playing rules apply to all players, coaches and parents participating in the PTSA in-house program. These rules may be amended, modified or changed in accordance with the PTSA bylaws.
The in-house guidelines are a set of suggested rules that may be adopted by the individual Age Groups (e.g., U-10 boys, U-8 girls, etc.) at the start of a playing session (e.g., Fall, Spring, etc.). The specific guidelines adopted by an Age Group shall be determined by a majority vote of coaches present at the Age Group coach’s meeting held prior to the start of the playing session. The Age Group Commissioner may act as the tie breaker in all votes. (NOTE: In situations where the Age Group Commissioner is also a coach, the Age Group Commissioner may vote twice to break a tie.)
Age Groups shall adopt guidelines prior to the start of the Fall playing session. The adopted guidelines will carryover to the Spring playing session unless amended, modified or changed prior to the start of the Spring playing session. Adopted guidelines can only be changed in mid-session by a unanimous vote of all coaches and Age Group Commissioner.
The in-house playing rules and guidelines are structured as follows:
- Playing rules and guidelines applicable to all Age Groups
- Playing rules and guidelines applicable to U-15 Boys and Girls
- Playing rules and guidelines applicable to U-12 Boys and Girls
- Playing rules and guidelines applicable to U-10 Boys and Girls
- Playing rules and guidelines applicable to U-8 Boys and Girls
- Playing rules and guidelines applicable to Grasshoppers (U-6 Boys and Girls)
The playing rules are delineated in FIFA format (i.e., there are 17 Laws for playing soccer). This provides a consistent format for all playing rules at all age levels. This allows a better understanding of the rules and the differences among the age groups. Additional rules and guidelines are listed after the 17 Laws.
In-House Playing Rules and
Guidelines (All Age Groups)
I. FIFA Laws
FIFA Laws are modified for each specific Age Group. See the rules for the specific Age Group. FIFA Laws can be viewed from the link provided in the PTSA web site (www.ptsoccer.net).
II. Playing Rules
1. The home team will wear a white jersey and provide the game ball.
2. Slide tackling is not permitted in the Grasshopper, U-8 and U-10 Age Groups. (See Law XII in each age-group rules.)
3. Harassment of the referees is forbidden. (See Law XII in each age-group rules.) All decisions made by the referee are final. Complaints must be submitted in writing using the Referee Evaluation Form and mailed within three (3) days to the Referee Coordinator. Mail copies to the Age Group-Commissioner and PTSA Vice President or President. Coaches should keep a copy for the records. All other disputes shall be brought to the attention of the Age Group-Commissioner and, if necessary, the PTSA Vice President or President.
4. All players are expected to attend practices. Players that participate in one (1) weekly practice shall be entitled to play at least half of the next regularly scheduled game. Coaches are strongly encouraged to rotate players through all positions.
5. Opposing players and coaches shall shake hands and show good sportsmanship after each game
6. Parent/coaches, will be subject to disciplinary action by the PTSA for harassment of the referee, other coaches/parents and players or for entering the playing field, without the referee’s permission.
7. No alcoholic beverages will be consumed or allowed near the playing area.
8. If possible, both team benches should be located on the same side of the field, separated by the halfway line and opposite the spectators. No one is permitted behind either end line. Coaches must stay within the “Technical or Coaching Area” which is defined as an area one (1) yard from the touchline and no more than ten (10) yards from the halfway line. Coaching by parents, or anyone other than the PTSA head coach or assistants, is not permitted. Only two (2) assistants are allowed behind the bench at games.
III. Guidelines
1. During field(s) renovation, all coaches should avoid using the permanent goals. The permanent goals can be used for goal keeper and shooting practice if necessary, and for scrimmages and sanctioned games.
2. Regardless of the number of players available at a game, both sides should play at equal strength. If a game is forfeited (after waiting (15) minutes) because of a team’s lack of players, sharing players (on those two (2) teams only) to play a pick-up game is permissible and encouraged.
All FIFA Laws apply except as modified below
LAW I - THE FIELD:
FIFA rules apply. All lines are part of the field of play. See Figure 1. The exact field size will be determined by the Director of Fields.
LAW II - THE BALL:
FIFA rules apply. Size 5 ball.
LAW III - NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
FIFA rules apply, except for substitutions. The intent for this age group is to play 11 vs 11 games. If team sizes do not permit 11 vs 11 games, smaller sided games (as little as 9 vs 9) may be authorized by the Age Group Commissioner without Board approval. Substitutions shall be per PA West rules.
A. Substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee:
1. Prior to a throw-in by team in possession of the ball.
2. Prior to a goal-kick, by either team.
3. After a goal, by either team.
4. After an injury, when the referee stops play, by either team; an injured player does not have to be substituted unless bleeding.
5. At half-time and quarters.
6. When the referee stops play to administer a caution to a player, only the cautioned player may be substituted, prior to the restart of the game.
B. The number of substitutions shall be unlimited except as stated in A.6.
C. All substitutions will occur from the halfway line during a stoppage in the game. The substitute must not enter the field of play until the player he/she is replacing has left and then only after having received a signal from the referee.
D. Substitutes shall be subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee whether called to play or not.
LAW IV - PLAYERS EQUIPMENT:
FIFA rules apply. In addition the following clarifications apply:
1. Shin guards must be worn at all practices and games. Metal spikes are not
permitted.
2. Field players must conform to the standard PTSA dress code at all games.
This includes the appropriate red or white PTSA jersey, red shorts and red
matching socks. Black shorts and white socks are permissible. Travel team
jerseys should not be worn. If a player is not able to conform with the above at a game, a non-standard uniform is permissible
with the agreement of the referee and opposing coach.
3. Any garment worn under the uniform that protrudes beyond the uniform must be
the same color as that part of the uniform. The proper team uniform should be,
if possible, worn outermost. All team members (field players) must be dressed
identical.
4. The goal keeper must wear a jersey that distinguishes him or her from all
field players including the opponents and referees.
5. Players must not wear anything that could be dangerous to themselves or
others, including metal cleats, metal hair barrettes, breakable glass eye wear,
jewelry or wrist watches. [The FIFA interpretation of this law precludes a toe
cleat on all soccer shoes. Accordingly,
all players are prohibited from wearing shoes with toe cleats during games.]
6. Mouth protection is recommended.
LAW V - REFEREE:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW VI - LINESMEN:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW VII- DURATION OF GAME:
The game shall consist of:
Four (4) fifteen (15) minute quarters.
Two (2) minute break at quarters.
Five (5) minute break at half.
LAW VIII - THE START OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply. A goal may be scored directly from the kickoff.
LAW IX - BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW X - METHOD OF SCORING:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XI - OFF-SIDE:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XII - FOULS AND MISCONDUCT:
FIFA rules apply. The referee shall inform the Referee Coordinator of all cards and injuries. The referee shall allow coaches to assist caring for an injured player.
LAW XIII - FREE KICKS:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XIV - PENALTY KICKS:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XV - THROW-IN:
FIFA rules apply. No second chance throw-ins.
LAW XVI - GOAL KICK:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XVII - CORNER KICK:
FIFA rules apply. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
ADDITIONAL PTSA RULES
An injured player should kneel, sit or lay down. Only after the referee stops play, and with the referee’s consent, should the coaches or parents enter the field to administer first aid.
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES
None.
All FIFA Laws apply except as modified below
LAW I - THE FIELD:
FIFA rules apply. All lines are part of the field of play. See Figure 1. The exact field size will be determined by the Director of Fields.
LAW II - THE BALL:
FIFA rules apply. Size 4 ball.
LAW III - NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
FIFA rules apply, except for substitutions. The intent for this age group is to play 11 vs 11 games. If team sizes do not permit 11 vs 11 games, smaller sided games (as little as 9 vs 9) may be authorized by the Age Group Commissioner without Board approval. Substitutions shall be per PA West rules.
A. Substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee:
1. Prior to a throw-in by team in possession of the ball.
2. Prior to a goal-kick, by either team.
3. After a goal, by either team.
4. After an injury, when the referee stops play, by either team; an injured player does not have to be substituted unless bleeding.
5. At half-time and quarters.
6. When the referee stops play to administer a caution to a player, only the cautioned player may be substituted, prior to the restart of the game.
B. The number of substitutions shall be unlimited except as stated in A.6.
C. All substitutions will occur from the halfway line during a stoppage in the game. The substitute must not enter the field of play until the player he/she is replacing has left and then only after having received a signal from the referee.
D. Substitutes shall be subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee whether called to play or not.
LAW IV - PLAYERS EQUIPMENT:
FIFA rules apply. In addition the following clarifications apply:
1. Shin guards must be worn at all practices and games. Metal spikes are not
permitted.
2. Field players must conform to the standard PTSA dress code at all games.
This includes the appropriate red or white PTSA jersey, red shorts and red
matching socks. Black shorts and white socks are permissible. Travel team
jerseys should not be worn. If a player is not able to conform with the above at a game, a non-standard uniform is
permissible with the agreement of the referee and opposing coach.
3. Any garment worn under the uniform that protrudes beyond the uniform must be
the same color as that part of the uniform. The proper team uniform should be,
if possible, worn outermost. All team members (field players) must be dressed
identical.
4. The goal keeper must wear a jersey that distinguishes him or her from all
field players including the opponents and referees.
5. Players must not wear anything that could be dangerous to themselves or
others, including metal cleats, metal hair barrettes, breakable glass eye wear,
jewelry or wrist watches. [The FIFA interpretation of this law precludes a toe
cleat on all soccer shoes. Accordingly,
all players are prohibited from wearing shoes with toe cleats during games.]
6. Mouth protection is recommended.
LAW V - REFEREE:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW VI - LINESMEN:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW VII- DURATION OF GAME:
The game shall consist of:
Four (4) fifteen (15) minute quarters.
Two (2) minute break at quarters.
Five (5) minute break at half.
LAW VIII - THE START OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply. A goal may be scored directly from the kickoff.
LAW IX - BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW X - METHOD OF SCORING:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XI - OFF-SIDE:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XII - FOULS AND MISCONDUCT:
FIFA rules apply. The referee shall inform the Referee Coordinator of all cards and injuries. The referee shall allow coaches to assist caring for an injured player.
LAW XIII - FREE KICKS:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XIV - PENALTY KICKS:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XV - THROW-IN:
FIFA rules apply. No second chance throw-ins.
LAW XVI - GOAL KICK:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XVII - CORNER KICK:
FIFA rules apply. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
ADDITIONAL PTSA RULES
An injured player should kneel, sit or lay down. Only after the referee stops play, and with the referee’s consent, should the coaches or parents enter the field to administer first aid.
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES
None.
All FIFA Laws apply except as modified below
LAW I - THE FIELD:
FIFA rules apply. All lines are part of the field of play. See Figure 1. The exact field size will be determined by the Director of Fields.
LAW II - THE BALL:
FIFA rules apply. Size 4 ball.
LAW III - NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
FIFA rules apply, except for substitutions. The intent for this age group is to play 7 vs 7 games. If team sizes warrant, smaller sided games (as little as 6 vs 6) or larger sided games (8 vs 8) may be authorized by the Age Group Commissioner without Board approval. Substitutions shall be per PA West rules.
A. Substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee:
1. Prior to a throw-in by team in possession of the ball.
2. Prior to a goal-kick, by either team.
3. After a goal, by either team.
4. After an injury, when the referee stops play, by either team; an injured player does not have to be substituted unless bleeding.
5. At half-time and quarters.
6. When the referee stops play to administer a caution to a player, only the cautioned player may be substituted, prior to the restart of the game.
B. The number of substitutions shall be unlimited except as stated in A.6.
C. All substitutions will occur from the halfway line during a stoppage in the game. The substitute must not enter the field of play until the player he/she is replacing has left and then only after having received a signal from the referee.
D. Substitutes shall be subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee whether called to play or not.
LAW IV - PLAYERS EQUIPMENT:
FIFA rules apply. In addition the following clarifications apply:
1. Shin guards must be worn at all practices and games. Metal spikes are not
permitted.
2. Field players must conform to the standard PTSA dress code at all games.
This includes the appropriate red or white PTSA jersey, red shorts and red
matching socks. Black shorts and white socks are permissible. Travel team
jerseys should not be worn. If a player is not able to conform with the above at a game, a non-standard uniform is
permissible with the agreement of the referee and opposing coach.
3. Any garment worn under the uniform that protrudes beyond the uniform must be
the same color as that part of the uniform. The proper team uniform should be,
if possible, worn outermost. All team members (field players) must be dressed
identical.
4. The goal keeper must wear a jersey that distinguishes him or her from all
field players including the opponents and referees.
5. Players must not wear anything that could be dangerous to themselves or
others, including metal cleats, metal hair barrettes, breakable glass eye wear,
jewelry or wrist watches. [The FIFA interpretation of this law precludes a toe
cleat on all soccer shoes. Accordingly,
all players are prohibited from wearing shoes with toe cleats during games.]
6. Mouth protection is recommended.
LAW V - REFEREE:
FIFA rules apply. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
LAW VI - LINESMEN:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW VII- DURATION OF GAME:
The game shall consist of:
Four (4) twelve (12) minute quarters.
Two (2) minute break at quarters.
Five (5) minute break at half.
LAW VIII - THE START OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be eight (8) yards away from the ball. A goal may be scored directly from the kickoff.
LAW IX - BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW X - METHOD OF SCORING:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XI - OFF-SIDE:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XII - FOULS AND MISCONDUCT:
FIFA rules apply. The referee shall inform the Referee Coordinator of all cards and injuries. The referee shall allow coaches to assist caring for an injured player.
LAW XIII - FREE KICKS:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be eight (8) yards away from the ball.
LAW XIV - PENALTY KICKS:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be eight (8) yards away from the ball.
LAW XV - THROW-IN:
FIFA rules apply. No second chance throw-ins.
LAW XVI - GOAL KICK:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW XVII - CORNER KICK:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be eight (8) yards away from the ball. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
ADDITIONAL PTSA RULES
An injured player should kneel, sit or lay down. Only after the referee stops play, and with the referee’s consent, should the coaches or parents enter the field to administer first aid.
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES
None.
All FIFA Laws apply except as modified below
LAW I - THE FIELD:
FIFA rules apply. All lines are part of the field of play. See Figure 2. The exact field size will be determined by the Director of Fields.
LAW II - THE BALL:
FIFA rules apply. Size 3 ball.
LAW III - NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
FIFA rules apply, except for substitutions. The intent for this age group is to play 5 vs 5 games between teams of 8 +2/-1 players. If age group size warrants, smaller sided games (as little as 4 vs 4 without goal keepers) or larger sided games (6 vs 6) may be authorized by the Age Group Commissioner without Board approval. Substitutions shall be per PA West rules.
A. Substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee:
1. Prior to a throw-in by team in possession of the ball.
2. Prior to a goal-kick, by either team.
3. After a goal, by either team.
4. After an injury, when the referee stops play, by either team; an injured player does not have to be substituted unless bleeding.
5. At half-time and quarters.
6. When the referee stops play to administer a caution to a player, only the cautioned player may be substituted, prior to the restart of the game.
B. The number of substitutions shall be unlimited except as stated in A.6.
C. All substitutions will occur from the halfway line during a stoppage in the game. The substitute must not enter the field of play until the player he/she is replacing has left and then only after having received a signal from the referee.
D. Substitutes shall be subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee whether called to play or not.
LAW IV - PLAYERS EQUIPMENT:
FIFA rules apply. In addition the following clarifications apply:
1. Shin guards must be worn at all practices and games. Metal spikes are not
permitted.
2. Field players must conform to the standard PTSA dress code at all games.
This includes the appropriate red or white PTSA jersey, red shorts and red
matching socks. Black shorts and white socks are permissible. Travel team
jerseys should not be worn. If a player is not able to conform with the above at a game, a non-standard uniform is permissible
with the agreement of the referee and opposing coach.
3. Any garment worn under the uniform that protrudes beyond the uniform must be
the same color as that part of the uniform. The proper team uniform should be,
if possible, worn outermost. All team members (field players) must be dressed
identical.
4. The goal keeper must wear a jersey that distinguishes him or her from all
field players including the opponents and referees.
5. Players must not wear anything that could be dangerous to themselves or
others, including metal cleats, metal hair barrettes, breakable glass eye wear,
jewelry or wrist watches. [The FIFA interpretation of this law precludes a toe
cleat on all soccer shoes. Accordingly,
all players are prohibited from wearing shoes with toe cleats during games.]
6. Mouth protection is recommended.
LAW V - REFEREE:
FIFA rules apply. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
LAW VI - LINESMEN:
Linesmen are not required.
LAW VII- DURATION OF GAME:
The game shall consist of:
Four (4) ten (10) minute quarters.
Two (2) minute break at quarters.
Five (5) minute break at half.
LAW VIII - THE START OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be five (5) yards away from the ball. A goal may NOT be scored directly from the kickoff.
LAW IX - BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW X - METHOD OF SCORING:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XI - OFF-SIDE:
There shall be no offside
LAW XII - FOULS AND MISCONDUCT:
FIFA rules apply. The referee shall inform the Referee Coordinator of all cards and injuries. The referee shall allow coaches to assist caring for an injured player.
LAW XIII - FREE KICKS:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
1. All free kicks are indirect.
2. All free kicks awarded to the attacking team in the opponent’s penalty area shall be taken from the outer line (line parallel to the goal line) of the penalty area closest to the spot the free kick was awarded.
3. Opponents must be five (5) yards away from the ball.
LAW XIV - PENALTY KICKS:
No penalty kicks allowed.
LAW XV - THROW-IN:
FIFA rules apply. Second chance throw-ins are allowed in the first half.
LAW XVI - GOAL KICK:
FIFA rules apply subject to Law XIII.
LAW XVII - CORNER KICK:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be five (5) yards away from the ball. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
ADDITIONAL PTSA RULES
The referee stop play at the first sign of an injury to a player. An injured player does not need to kneel, sit or lay down. The referee shall allow the coaches or parents to enter the field to administer first aid.
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES
1. Subject to the applicability of guidelines, second chance throw-ins are allowed in the both halves.
All FIFA Laws apply except as modified below
LAW I - THE FIELD:
FIFA rules apply. All lines are part of the field of play. See Figure 2. The exact field size will be determined by the Director of Fields.
LAW II - THE BALL:
FIFA rules apply. Size 3 ball.
LAW III - NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
FIFA rules apply, except for substitutions. The intent for this age group is to play 3 vs 3 games, without a goal keeper. The maximum number of players on a team is six (6). If the number of players in this age group warrant, larger teams (up to 8) and/or larger sided games (4 vs 4) may be authorized by the Age Group Commissioner without Board approval.
Substitutions are unlimited may be made with the consent of the coaches. Timeouts are called approximately every 5 minutes so that substitutions can be made.
LAW IV - PLAYERS EQUIPMENT:
FIFA rules apply. In addition the following clarifications apply:
1. Shin guards must be worn at all practices and games. Metal spikes are not
permitted.
2. Field players must conform to the standard PTSA dress code at all games.
This includes the appropriate red or white PTSA jersey, red shorts and red
matching socks. Black shorts and white socks are permissible. Travel team
jerseys should not be worn. If a player is not able to conform with the above
at a game, a non-standard uniform is permissible with the agreement of the
referee and opposing coach.
3. Any garment worn under the uniform that protrudes beyond the uniform must be
the same color as that part of the uniform. The proper team uniform should be,
if possible, worn outermost. All team members (field players) must be dressed
identical.
4. The goal keeper must wear a jersey that distinguishes him or her from all
field players including the opponents and referees.
5. Players must not wear anything that could be dangerous to themselves or
others, including metal cleats, metal hair barrettes, breakable glass eye wear,
jewelry or wrist watches. [The FIFA interpretation of this law precludes a toe
cleat on all soccer shoes. Accordingly,
all players are prohibited from wearing shoes with toe cleats during games.]
6. Mouth protection is recommended.
LAW V - REFEREE:
Referees are not required. The opposing coaches shall referee the game and keep time. All rule infractions shall be briefly explained to the offending player.
LAW VI - LINESMEN:
Linesmen are not required.
LAW VII- DURATION OF GAME:
The game shall consist of:
Four (4) ten (10) minute quarters.
Two (2) minute break at quarters.
Five (5) minute break at half.
All games must be completed within the hour.
LAW VIII - THE START OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be five (5) yards away from the ball. A goal may NOT be scored directly from the kickoff.
LAW IX - BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY:
FIFA rules apply.
LAW X - METHOD OF SCORING:
FIFA rules apply
LAW XI - OFF-SIDE:
There shall be no offside.
LAW XII - FOULS AND MISCONDUCT:
FIFA rules apply. No cards shall be issued. The Grasshopper Commissioner shall be informed of any player who habitually guilty of fouls and/or misconduct..
LAW XIII - FREE KICKS:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
1. All free kicks are indirect.
2. All free kicks awarded to the attacking team in the opponents penalty area shall be taken from the outer line (line parallel to the goal line) of the penalty area closest to the spot the free kick was awarded. If there is no penalty area the kick shall be taken no closer than five (5) from the opponents goal.
3. Opponents must be five (5) yards away from the ball.
LAW XIV - PENALTY KICKS:
No penalty kicks allowed.
LAW XV - THROW-IN:
FIFA rules apply. If an incorrect throw-in is made, the coaches must explain the correct technique and allow the player to re-take the throw-in..
LAW XVI - GOAL KICK:
FIFA rules apply subject to Law XIII.
LAW XVII - CORNER KICK:
FIFA rules apply with the following exceptions:
Opponents must be five (5) yards away from the ball. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
ADDITIONAL PTSA RULES
1. Safety First! The coaches shall stop play at the first sign of an injury to a player. An injured player does not need to kneel, sit or lay down. The coaches shall allow the parents to enter the field to administer first aid. The Grasshopper Commissioner shall be informed of all injuries
2. During the game, the coaches can be on the field to help the players. A whistle is handy to start and stop play.
3. Each child must play at least one half of the game. Rotate players so that they play all positions.
4. No game scores are kept, and there are no team standings
5. Parents and spectators watch from the opposite side of the field. Parents are not allowed to watch or help from behind the goals.
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES
None.