SOUTH TEXAS YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION
PROPOSED RULE CHANGE #2
(One Change per Form, Please)
******************************************************************
SECTION I: ADD OR CHANGE A RULE
Is there currently a rule that applies? _____X _____Yes ___ ___ No
Primary Page No(s):
GENERAL RULES OF PLAY ALL LEVELS AND AGES EXCEPTIONS AND
ADDITIONS TO FIFA LAWS
Secondary Page No(s):__________
Rule Location: Section in its entirety.
Title of Section: Section in its entirety.
Rule as it presently reads:
Proposed Additions and/or Changes:
The General Rules of Play Document is being presented as a complete re-write
SECTION II. JUSTIFICATION FOR THE PROPOSED RULE CHANGE:
The proposed revisions accommodate the following goals:
1. Provide clarity in the document by placing much of the content in a logical order and inserting tables with
content information so that rules are easier to find and understand.
2. Ensuring that this document only includes the “exceptions to FIFA play” as noted in the title and does not
have unnecessary jargon, recommendations/tips, or redundancy.
3. Consolidating all rules of play for all age groups into a similar locations (rather than dividing 11-aside and
small-side rules into different locations in the document) so that information/rules are easier to understand
and locate.
4. Updating proposed changes to outdated rules where indicated
5. Correcting grammar, punctuation, and other formatting errors in the document
*This document is a final draft of the revisions and should be reviewed along with the version which provides
notations and explanations of changes and modifications to the document.
Submitted by: Rules Revision Committee
-1-
GENERAL RULES OF PLAY
ALL LEVELS AND AGES
EXCEPTIONS AND ADDITIONS
TO FIFA LAWS
Except as otherwise noted in these rules, FIFA Laws will govern the play of all games in STYSA
Competitions for youth play.
6.0. AGE GROUPS
All South Texas Youth Soccer Association play must be between teams of the same age groups.
Age groups are determined by the player’s age as of midnight, July 31, of the year in which the
player could be registered with STYSA for fall season play.the immediately preceding Registration
Period.
[RC Note: The CURRENT STYSA Rule 6.0 refers to “midnight of July 31, of the year in which the
player could be registered with STYSA for Fall season play.” This does not match CURRENT STYSA
Rule 3.3.2.1, which refers to “previous Seasonal Year.” Both the current and proposed changes
seem to offer confusion.
The Rules Committee suggestion uses “immediately preceding Registration Period”, defined in
Rule 3.1.22 as August 1 – July 31. The Rules Committee suggested change should be reviewed
with the STYSA Registrar and others knowledgeable about registration to determine if it is
suitable. This also appears in Rules Change Proposal #1, Rule 3.3.1.]
The age groups are as follows:
Under 19 years of age
Under 18 years of age
Under 17 years of age
Under 16 years of age
Under 15 years of age
Under 14 years of age
Under 13 years of age
Under 12 years of age
Under 11 years of age
Under 10 years of age
Under 9 years of age
Under 8 years of age
Under 7 years of age
Under 6 years of age
Under 5 years of age
Under 4 years of age
[RC Comment: The age groups are specified in the revised Rule 3.3.1 under Rules Change Proposal #1. As
that rule governs team formation in more detail, the duplicate statement here could be deleted. ]
[RC Comment: In any event, the Executive Committee and Governing Board must avoid inconsistency
between this Rule 6.0 and Rule 3.3.1, as they cover the same issues. If either proposal is not adopted, then a
corrective amendment of the other proposal is needed, to coordinate the two rules as actually in effect.]
Any coach or assistant coach who is responsible for knowingly playing an ineligible player will be
subject to suspension from participation in any STYSA sanctioned program.
Age groups can be combined at the discretion of the association/club as needed (exe.g.,. U10-12)
or include brackets to combine age groups.
[RC Note: This edit corrects the cross-reference usage.
The actual proposed rule as stated here should be clarified by the proponent, as the “include
brackets” clause seems to duplicate the “combine age groups” clause. Is there a difference
intended, and if so, what is it?]
-2-
6.1. SPECIAL RULES OF PLAY – Under-4 through Under-19 Age Groups EXCEPTIONS AND
ADDITIONS TO FIFA LAWS
6.1.0 Age Group
a. A player with his / her parent’s and coach’s permission, and in compliance with the
local association playing rules, may play in an older age group; however. [RC Note:
This “however” usage does not fit grammatically with the new sentence in the
following part b.]
b. Except as provided herein, no player may play in a younger age group thant the age
group for which he/she is eligible. For Division III players only, if a medical condition
exists (substantiated in writing by a licensed physician with no family relationship to
player, that will prohibit or severely hinder a player from playing in his/her own age
group, the player may seek special approval from his/her Local Association / Club
Board and Member Association to allow the player to play down in a younger age
group. All requests must be submitted to and approved by the STYSA Executive
Committee prior to the player’s first game.
c. Age groups Under-12 and younger shall be permitted to play with a number of
players fewer than that specified in the FIFA Laws of the Game.
[RC comment: The committee did not understand why the “medical condition” play-down option of
part b here applies only to Division III and not to Division IV, which could well have similar situations.
Could that “medical condition” option apply in both Division III and Division IV?]
6.1.1. Law I. Number of Players
Age
Maximum # of
players Rostered*
Minimum # of
players
Rostered
Maximum # of
Players on the
field per team
U16-U19
*
*
11
Minimum # of
players on the field
per team to avoid
forfeit
7
U13-U15
*
*
11
7
U12/U11
*
*
U10/U9
*
*
U8/U7
*
*
U6/U5/U4
*
*
8
8 (if playing 8v8)
6 (if playing 6v6)
7 (if playing 7v7)
4 (if playing 4v4)
4
6
6 (if playing 8v8)
4 (if playing 6v6)
5 (if playing 7v7)
2 (if playing 4v4)
3
*Maximum and minimum number of players rostered to a team to be determined by
the national, state and local competition. For teams participating in state competitions,
please refer to the competition rules. Local competition rules can be set by the local
association or club.
If permitted not prohibited by the rules of by the competition, coaches can agree, prior
to the game, to adjust the environment as needed so that a forfeit can be avoided or
game can be played even if a forfeit does occur. Playing a game pursuant to such an
agreement does not alter a forfeiture that otherwise would occur. This can be
accomplished by borrowing eligible players from the other team and adjusting both
teams to make the teams even.
-2-
6.1.2. Law II. Playing Time & Substitution Requirements
Playing Time Requirements:
Division
Playing time requirements
Division I
No minimum playing time for each
registered player
SuperSuper II, Division II,
Division III, Division IV and
Academy
50%
Exceptions
Due to Illness or Disciplinary
reasons.*
[RC Note: The “e” of Super was deleted in the proposal.]
*In the event that a player is present but will not be playing, the coach must inform the
opposing coach and game officials as well as noting on the game card that the player
will not be playing.
Substitution Rules:
Prior permission of the referee is required:
On a throw-in (by the team in possession)
On a goal kick (by either team)
Permission of the referee is not required:
After any goal (by either team)
After stoppage of play for an injury (either team)
The resumption of play after the half time break
At half time (by either team)
After a caution (the player receiving the caution)
[RC Note: This table appears properly when printed, but is inexplicably condensed on this redline. IN THE
TABLE, delete from “Prior permission is required” the entry for “At half time (by either team)” but change the entry
under “Permission is not required” to read: “The resumption of play after the half time (except with respect to a
change of goalkeeper).”]
6.1.3 Law III. Field of Play and Exceptions and Additions to FIFA Laws U5-U19
The association / club / league which controls the fields shall determine the location of
the teams, players, coaches, fans and supporters in relation to the field and each other.
Field dimensions, goal sizes, and all necessary field markings will follow USSF, USYS, and
STYSA rules and recommended guidelines. Field of Play and Technical Areas are also
subject to national, state and local competition rules.
[RC Note: Edit here adds an omitted word.]
Each member association is responsible for establishing a system of yearly inspection of
goals utilized by its member clubs, leagues and associations. A statement shall be
provided to STYSA with the submission of fall registration that the goals have been
inspected prior to the beginning of the fall season and found to be in safe condition. A
statement or form and criteria shall be established by STYSA for a standardized
procedure of inspection. The statement shall be signed by an officer of the member
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association. This requirement must be met or the member association shall not be in
good standing.
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
U13-U19
Goals
Center Circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Offside
U11-U12
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
Goals
Center circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Restarts
Penalty Arc
Offside
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
Goals
Center circle
U9-U10
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Restarts
Offside
Minimum Dimensions
(W) 50 x (L) 100 yards
Maximum Dimensions
100 x130 yards
(W) 55-70 x (L) 110-130 yards
(suggested)
24 x 8 feet
10 yards in radius
18 x 44 yards
6 x 20 yards
12 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line
10 yards radius form the penalty spot
The FIFA Offside Rule shall Apply
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(W) 70 x (L) 90 yards
18 x 6 feet
21 x 7 feet
8 yards in radius
14 x 35 yards
6 x 19 yards
9 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line
Conform to FIFA with the exception of the opponents of the team
taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the ball until it is in
play.
8 yards radius form the penalty spot
The FIFA Offside Rule shall apply
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(W) 60 x (L) 80 yards
(8-a-side)
(8-a-side)
(W) 30 x (L) 50 yards
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(6-a-side)
(6-a-side)
21 x 7 feet (8-a-side)
18 x 6 (6-a-side)
8 yards in radius (8-a-side)
7 yards in radius (6-a-side)
14 x 35 yards (8-a-side)
12 x 25 yards (6-a-side)
6 x 19 yards (8-a-side)
4 x 16 yards (6-a-side)
9 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line (8-aside)
8 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line (6-aside)
8 yards radius form the penalty spot (8-a-side)
7 yards radius form the penalty spot (6-a-side)
Conform to FIFA with the exception of the opponents of the team
taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the ball until it is in
play (8-a-side) and six (6) yards from the ball if playing 6-a-aside.
The FIFA Offside Rule shall apply
-4-
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
Goals
Center circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
U7-U8
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Fouls
Restarts
Throw-ins
Offside
Goalkeeper
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
U5-U6
Goals
Center circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Fouls
Restarts
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 30 x (L) 50 yards
(W) 50 x (L) 70 yards
(7-a-side)
(7-a-side)
(W) 20 x (L) 40 yards
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(4-a-side)
(4-a-side)
15 x 5 feet or 18 x 6 feet (7-a-side)
12 x 6 feet or hockey goals (4-a-side)
8 yards in radius (7-a-side)
5 yards in radius (4-a-side)
14 x 35 yards (7-a-side)
none (4-a-side)
6 x 19 yards (7-a-side)
3 x 3 (4-a-side)
If playing 7v7 no penalty shots for fouls within penalty area. If playing
4v4 no penalty area
none
All fouls shall be penalized with indirect kicks
From the point of taking an indirect kick or corner kick, opponents
shall not be any closer than 6 yards if playing 7v7 or 5 yards if playing
4v4
If there is an infraction of the FIFA throw-in rules, the player throwing
the ball in shall receive one additional throw-in after a correcting
instruction from referee. If the player violates the FIFA rule on
his/her second attempt then the opposing team shall be awarded a
throw-in
The Offside rule shall be interpreted liberally; however, no player
may play in an obvious offside position in front of or near the goal
such as a designated scorer if playing 7v7. If playing 4v4, there shall
be no offside.
If Playing 7v7 there shall be a goalkeeper. If playing 4v4 there is no
goalkeeper.
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 15 x (L) 20 yards
(W) 20 x (L) 30 yards
Goals shall be approximately 4 feet tall by 6 feet wide. Hockey goals
may be used. Cones spaced 6 feet apart may be used.
3 yards in radius
none
None
none
none
There shall be no penalty shots.
All fouls shall be penalized with indirect kicks.
From the point of taking an indirect kick or corner kick, opponents
shall not be any closer than 3 yards.
-5-
If there is an infraction of the FIFA throw-in rules, the player throwing
the ball in shall receive one additional throw-in after a correcting
instruction from referee. If the player violates the FIFA rule on
his/her second attempt then the opposing team shall be awarded a
throw-in.
Some associations may elect to play without throw-ins. In such cases,
the ball will be returned to play by an indirect kick taken from the
touchline where the ball exited the field of play. STYSA- sanctioned
tournaments will use the throw-in.
There shall be no offside
There will be no goalkeeper
Throw-ins
Offside
Goalkeeper
Technical AreasIf there is a Technical Area marked for each team, it will include, but not be limited to,
that team’s “bench area.” Coaches, players, and eligible adults permitted to be present
with the team must remain within the markings and within their half, except for
substitution and warm-up. If both teams are assigned to one side of the field, only
coaches, players, and eligible adults permitted to be present with the team may be
within the Technical Area.
6.1.4 Law IV. Ball
Ball sizes for the age groups will follow the chart below and USSF/USYS rules and
recommended guidelines.
Ball Size
Age
Size
U13-U19
5
U12/U11
4
U10/U9
4
U8/U7
3
U6/U4
3
6.1.5 Law V. Length of Games
Length of Games
Age
Time
U19
Two Forty Five (45) minute halves/5 min half
U17/U18
Two Forty Five (45) minute halves/5 min half
U15/U16
Two Forty (40) minute halves/5 min half
U13/U14
Two Thirty Five (35) minute halves/5 min half
U12/U11
Two Thirty (30) minute halves/5 min half
U10/U9
Two Twenty Five (25) minute halves/5 min half
U8/U7
Four Ten (10) minute quarters
U6/U5/U4
Four Eight (8) minute quarters
-6-
If deemed necessary, competition officials, coaches and/or referees may adjust the
length of games due to weather conditions (i.e. water breaks) or may adjust based on
the nature of the competition.
6.1.6 Law VI. Player Equipment
a. All players will wear shin guards which are commercially produced and
specifically designed to provide protection to the shins.
b. No player will be allowed to play with a hard cast (padded or otherwise), nor will
any player be allowed to play with any brace (knee or otherwise) that contains
exposed metal or hard plastics, unless it is wrapped with a minimum of ½ inch
high-density foam wrapping or the manufacturer’s recommended protective
coating.
c. Bandannas of any style may not be worn during any game. Players may not wear
a bandanna either on their heads, legs or arms. Exceptions may be made at the
local level for medical reasons.
d. The Players’ Equipment: Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based
on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish teams.
6.1.7 Law VII. Referees
The referee’s judgment decisions shall be final in all matters concerning the rules
governing the playing of the game, the playability of the field and the appropriateness
of the uniforms. At the completion of the match, the referee shall have each coach sign
the game report and submit the game report to the competition representative.
For rRules pertaining to the number of players on the field to avoid forfeit will be
determined by the national, state and local competition. Also see Law I, Rule . 6.1.1.
[RC Note: Edited to add a “rule” reference.]
Unless an agreement can be made prior to the match (see Law I, 6.1.1.). It shall be the
duty of the referee to declare a forfeit in the event that a team has less than the
required minimum number of players on the field ready to play within 15 minutes after
the game was scheduled to start. If neither team has the required number, it shall be a
double forfeit and shall be scored as a loss for both teams. In the event that the referee
rules that the field is not playable, or that the uniforms are inappropriate, then he
should note these facts on the game report and have each coach sign it.
[RC Note: Delete the text on forfeiture declared by referee. The Committee understands that a
referee does not determine a forfeit. That is governed by the rules of competition. The referee
would only note facts on the referee’s report. This deletion also coordinates with the
“agreement to play” change proposed in Rule 6.1.1. The Rules Committee received input on
referee authority under FIFA laws, which included the following: “Per FIFA Laws of the game
(Law 5) the Referee only has the authority to stop, suspend or abandon a match. (Law 7) Any
abandoned match is to be replay unless determined otherwise by a competition authority. The
referee can only determine if the game is played due to number of starting or continuing
players. The situation/conditions that resulted in that have to be evaluated by the competition
authority before a decision can be made regarding forfeiture.” The Executive Committee
should consult as needed for coordination with FIFA and other Laws.]
-7-
A game card will be completed by the referee for all play within STYSA. This card will, at a
minimum, contain the following:
** Association, age group, division, game location, date, game time
** Team names and final score
** Cautions (yellow cards) or ejections (red cards) issued, by team with player / name
** Any protest noted and brief basis for those protests
** Prior to each STYSA sanctioned match, each team shall present to the referee the
Adult Participation Pass for each Coach and other Eligible Adult who is present. The
referee shall record as part of the game card each Adult Participation Pass that is so
presented, by marking on the roster next to the name of each Coach (over age 17)
or other Eligible Adult who is listed on the roster and is identified on an Adult
Participation Pass and by recording on the game card the name of each Coach (over
age 17) or other Eligible Adult for whom an Adult Participation Pass is presented
but is not on the roster.
These game cards are to be retained through the end of the District or STYSA Tournaments.
Disputes must be noted on the referee’s game report and a complete description of the
incident shall be submitted to the appropriate Disciplinary and Protest Representative.
6.1.8 Law VIII- Fouls and Misconduct
The FIFA Law with respect to the charging of the goalkeeper shall not apply in youth
play. There shall be no charging of the goalkeeper, fairly or unfairly, in STYSA sanctioned
competition. Any such act will be considered as “dangerous play” at the least and
punished accordingly.
Rules Committee Recommendation:
With the corrections and recommendations of the Committee, we think Rules Change Proposal #2 as so revised
is in an appropriate form for further consideration by the Executive Committee and the Governing Board. The
policy questions raised by the changes are for decision by the Executive Committee and Governing Board.
See Rules Committee Report dated May 21, 2015, for more information.
Executive Committee Recommendation:
Recommend passage as amended.
Except as otherwise noted in these rules, FIFA Laws will govern the play of all games in STYSA Competitions for
youth play.
6.0. AGE GROUPS
All South Texas Youth Soccer Association play must be between teams of the same age groups.
Age groups are determined by the player’s age as of midnight, July 31, of the year in which the player could
be registered with STYSA for fall season play.the immediately preceding Registration Period.
[RC Note: The CURRENT STYSA Rule 6.0 refers to “midnight of July 31, of the year in which the player
could be registered with STYSA for Fall season play.” This does not match CURRENT STYSA Rule 3.3.2.1,
which refers to “previous Seasonal Year.” Both the current and proposed changes seem to offer confusion.
The Rules Committee suggestion uses “immediately preceding Registration Period”, defined in Rule 3.1.22
as August 1 – July 31. The Rules Committee suggested change should be reviewed with the STYSA
-8-
Registrar and others knowledgeable about registration to determine if it is suitable. This also appears
in Rules Change Proposal #1, Rule 3.3.1.]
The age groups are as follows:
Under 19 years of age
Under 18 years of age
Under 17 years of age
Under 16 years of age
Under 15 years of age
Under 14 years of age
Under 13 years of age
Under 12 years of age
Under 11 years of age
Under 10 years of age
Under 9 years of age
Under 8 years of age
Under 7 years of age
Under 6 years of age
Under 5 years of age
Under 4 years of age
[RC Comment: The age groups are specified in the revised Rule 3.3.1 under Rules Change Proposal #1.
As that rule governs team formation in more detail, the duplicate statement here could be deleted. ]
[RC Comment: In any event, the Executive Committee and Governing Board must avoid inconsistency
between this Rule 6.0 and Rule 3.3.1, as they cover the same issues. If either proposal is not adopted, then a
corrective amendment of the other proposal is needed, to coordinate the two rules as actually in effect.]
The age groups are as follows:
Under 19 years of age
Under 18 years of age
Under 17 years of age
Under 16 years of age
Under 15 years of age
Under 14 years of age
Under 13 years of age
Under 12 years of age
Under 11 years of age
Under 10 years of age
Under 8 years of age
Under 6 years of age
Any coach or assistant coach who is responsible for knowingly playing an ineligible player will be subject to
suspension from participation in any STYSA sanctioned program.
Age groups can be combined at the discretion of the association/club as needed (exe.g.,. U10-12) or include
brackets to combine age groups.
[RC Note: This edit corrects the cross-reference usage.
The actual proposed rule as stated here should be clarified by the proponent, as the “include brackets”
clause seems to duplicate the “combine age groups” clause. Is there a difference intended, and if so, what is
it?]
6.1. SPECIAL RULES OF PLAY – Under-4 through Under-19 Age Groups EXCEPTIONS AND
ADDITIONS TO FIFA LAWS
6.1.0 Age Group
d. A player with his / her parent’s and coach’s permission, and in compliance with the local
association playing rules, may play in an older age group; however. [RC Note: This
“however” usage does not fit grammatically with the new sentence in the following part b.]
e. Except as provided herein, no player may play in a younger age group thant the age group
for which he/she is eligible. For Division III players only, if a medical condition exists
(substantiated in writing by a licensed physician with no family relationship to player, that will
prohibit or severely hinder a player from playing in his/her own age group, the player may
seek special approval from his/her Local Association / Club Board and Member Association
to allow the player to play down in a younger age group. All requests must be submitted to
and approved by the STYSA Executive Committee prior to the player’s first game.
f. Age groups Under-12 and younger shall be permitted to play with a number of players fewer
than that specified in the FIFA Laws of the Game.
-9-
[RC comment: The committee did not understand why the “medical condition” play-down option of part b here
applies only to Division III and not to Division IV, which could well have similar situations. Could that “medical
condition” option apply in both Division III and Division IV?]
6.1.1.
Law III. Number of Players
Age
Maximum # of
Players on the
field per team
U16-U19
11
Minimum # of
players on the
field per team to
avoid forfeit
7
U13-U15
11
7
U12/U11
8
8 (if playing
8v8)
6 (if playing
6v6)
7 (if playing
7v7)
4 (if playing
4v4)
4
6
U10/U9
U8/U7
U6/U5/U4
6 (if playing 8v8)
4 (if playing 6v6)
5 (if playing 7v7)
2 (if playing 4v4)
3
*Maximum and minimum number of players rostered to a team to be determined by the national,
state and local competition. For teams participating in state competitions, please refer to the
competition rules. Local competition rules can shall be set by the local association or club.
If permitted not prohibited by the rules of by the competition, coaches can agree, prior to the
game, to adjust the environment as needed so that a forfeit can be avoided or game can be
played even if a forfeit does occur. Playing a game pursuant to such an agreement does not alter
a forfeiture that otherwise would occur. This can be accomplished by borrowing eligible players
from the other team and adjusting both teams to make the teams even.
6.1.2.
Law III. Playing Time & Substitution Requirements
Playing Time Requirements:
Division
Playing time requirements
Exceptions
Under 11-12 all play
levels
50%
Due to Illness or
Disciplinary reasons.*
Division I
No minimum playing time for
each registered player
SuperSuper II, Division II,
Division III, Division IV
and Academy
50%
Due to Illness or
Disciplinary reasons.*
[RC Note: The “e” of Super was deleted in the proposal.]
*In the event that a player is present but will not be playing, the coach must inform the opposing
coach and game officials as well as noting on the game card that the player will not be playing.
Substitution Rules:
-2-
Prior permission of the referee is required:
On a throw-in (by the team in possession)
On a goal kick (by either team)
After any goal (by either team)
After stoppage of play for an injury (either team)
At half time (by either team)
After a caution (the player receiving the caution)
Permission of the referee is not required:
The resumption of play after the half time break
[RC Note: This table appears properly when printed, but is inexplicably condensed on this redline. IN THE
TABLE, delete from “Prior permission is required” the entry for “At half time (by either team)” but change the entry
under “Permission is not required” to read: “The resumption of play after the half time (except with respect to a
change of goalkeeper).”]
6.1.3
Law I. Field of Play and Exceptions and Additions to FIFA Laws U5-U19
The association / club / league which controls the fields shall determine the location of the teams,
players, coaches, fans and supporters in relation to the field and each other. Field dimensions,
goal sizes, and all necessary field markings will follow USSF, USYS, and STYSA rules and
recommended guidelines. Field of Play and Technical Areas are also subject to national, state
and local competition rules.
[RC Note: Edit here adds an omitted word.]
Technical AreasIf there is a Technical Area marked for each team, it will include, but not be limited to, that
team’s “bench area.” Coaches, players, and eligible adults permitted to be present with
the team must remain within the markings and within their half, except for substitution and
warm-up. If both teams are assigned to one side of the field, only coaches, players, and
eligible adults permitted to be present with the team may be within the Technical Area.
U13-U19
Age
U11-U12
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
Minimum Dimensions
(W) 50 x (L) 100 yards
Maximum Dimensions
100 x130 yards
(W) 55-70 x (L) 110-130
yards (suggested)
Goals
Center Circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Offside
24 x 8 feet
10 yards in radius
18 x 44 yards
6 x 20 yards
12 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line
10 yards radius form the penalty spot
The FIFA Offside Rule shall Apply
Markings on the field
Field Size
Goals
Center circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Restarts
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(W) 70 x (L) 90 yards
18 x 6 feet
21 x 7 feet
8 yards in radius
14 x 35 yards
6 x 19 yards
9 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line
Conform to FIFA with the exception of the opponents of the
team taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the ball
until it is in play.
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Age
Penalty Arc
Offside
8 yards radius form the penalty spot
The FIFA Offside Rule shall apply
Markings on the field
Field Size
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(W) 60 x (L) 80 yards
(8-a-side)
(8-a-side)
(W) 30 x (L) 50 yards
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(6-a-side)
(6-a-side)
21 x 7 feet (8-a-side)
18 x 6 (6-a-side)
8 yards in radius (8-a-side)
7 yards in radius (6-a-side)
14 x 35 yards (8-a-side)
12 x 25 yards (6-a-side)
6 x 19 yards (8-a-side)
4 x 16 yards (6-a-side)
9 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line (8a-side)
8 yards and perpendicular from the midpoint of the goal line (6a-side)
8 yards radius form the penalty spot (8-a-side)
7 yards radius form the penalty spot (6-a-side)
Conform to FIFA with the exception of the opponents of the
team taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the ball
until it is in play (8-a-side) and six (6) yards from the ball if
playing 6-a-aside.
The FIFA Offside Rule shall apply
Goals
Center circle
U9-U10
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Restarts
Offside
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
Goals
Center circle
U7-U8
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
Fouls
Restarts
Throw-ins
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 30 x (L) 50 yards
(W) 50 x (L) 70 yards
(7-a-side)
(7-a-side)
(W) 20 x (L) 40 yards
(W) 40 x (L) 60 yards
(4-a-side)
(4-a-side)
15 x 5 feet or 18 x 6 feet (7-a-side)
12 x 6 feet or hockey goals (4-a-side)
8 yards in radius (7-a-side)
5 yards in radius (4-a-side)
14 x 35 yards (7-a-side)
none (4-a-side)
6 x 19 yards (7-a-side)
3 x 3 (4-a-side)
If playing 7v7 no penalty shots for fouls within penalty area. If
playing 4v4 no penalty area
none
All fouls shall be penalized with indirect kicks
From the point of taking an indirect kick or corner kick,
opponents shall not be any closer than 6 yards if playing 7v7 or
5 yards if playing 4v4
If there is an infraction of the FIFA throw-in rules, the player
throwing the ball in shall receive one additional throw-in after a
correcting instruction from referee. If the player violates the
FIFA rule on his/her second attempt then the opposing team
shall be awarded a throw-in
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Offside
Goalkeeper
Age
Markings on the field
Field Size
Goals
Center circle
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Spot
Penalty Arc
U5-U6
Fouls
Restarts
Throw-ins
Offside
Goalkeeper
The Offside rule shall be interpreted liberally; however, no
player may play in an obvious offside position in front of or near
the goal such as a designated scorer if playing 7v7. If playing
4v4, there shall be no offside.
If Playing 7v7 there shall be a goalkeeper. If playing 4v4 there
is no goalkeeper.
Minimum Dimensions
Maximum Dimensions
(W) 15 x (L) 20 yards
(W) 20 x (L) 30 yards
Goals shall be approximately 4 feet tall by 6 feet wide. Hockey
goals may be used. Cones spaced 6 feet apart may be used.
3 yards in radius
none
None
none
none
There shall be no penalty shots.
All fouls shall be penalized with indirect kicks.
From the point of taking an indirect kick or corner kick,
opponents shall not be any closer than 3 yards.
If there is an infraction of the FIFA throw-in rules, the player
throwing the ball in shall receive one additional throw-in after a
correcting instruction from referee. If the player violates the
FIFA rule on his/her second attempt then the opposing team
shall be awarded a throw-in.
Some associations may elect to play without throw-ins. In such
cases, the ball will be returned to play by an indirect kick taken
from the touchline where the ball exited the field of play.
STYSA- sanctioned tournaments will use the throw-in.
There shall be no offside
There will be no goalkeeper
Each member association is responsible for establishing a system of yearly inspection of
goals utilized by its member clubs, leagues and associations. A statement shall be
provided to STYSA with the submission of fall registration that the goals have been
inspected prior to the beginning of the fall season and found to be in safe condition. A
statement or form and criteria shall be established by STYSA for a standardized procedure
of inspection. The statement shall be signed by an officer of the member association.
This requirement must be met or the member association shall not be in good standing.
6.1.4
Law II. Ball
Ball sizes for the age groups will follow the chart below and USSF/USYS rules and recommended
guidelines.
Ball Size
Age
Size
U13-U19
5
U12/U11
4
U10/U9
4
U8/U7
3
U6/U4
3
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6.1.5
Law VII. Length of Games
Length of Games
Age
Time
U19
Two Forty Five (45) minute halves/5 min half
U17/U18
Two Forty Five (45) minute halves/5 min half
U15/U16
Two Forty (40) minute halves/5 min half
U13/U14
Two Thirty Five (35) minute halves/5 min half
U12/U11
Two Thirty (30) minute halves/5 min half
U10/U9
Two Twenty Five (25) minute halves/5 min half
U8/U7
Four Ten (10) minute quarters
U6/U5/U4
Four Eight (8) minute quarters
If deemed necessary, competition officials, coaches and/or referees may adjust the length of
games due to weather conditions (i.e. water breaks) or may adjust based on the nature of the
competition.
6.1.8
Law IV. Player Equipment
e. All players will wear shin guards which are commercially produced and specifically
designed to provide protection to the shins.
f. No player will be allowed to play with a hard cast (padded or otherwise), nor will any
player be allowed to play with any brace (knee or otherwise) that contains exposed metal
or hard plastics, unless it is wrapped with a minimum of ½ inch high-density foam
wrapping or the manufacturer’s recommended protective coating.
g. Bandannas of any style may not be worn during any game. Players may not wear a
bandanna either on their heads, legs or arms. Exceptions may be made at the local level
for medical reasons.
h. The Players’ Equipment: Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on
weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish teams.
6.1.9
Law V. Referees
The referee’s judgment decisions shall be final in all matters concerning the rules governing the
playing of the game, the playability of the field and the appropriateness of the uniforms. At the
completion of the match, the referee shall have each coach sign the game report and submit the
game report to the competition representative.
For rRules pertaining to the number of players on the field to avoid forfeit will be determined by
the national, state and local competition. Also see Law I, Rule . 6.1.1.
[RC Note: Edited to add a “rule” reference.]
Unless an agreement can be made prior to the match (see Law I, 6.1.1.). It shall be the duty of
the referee to declare a forfeit in the event that a team has less than the required minimum
number of players on the field ready to play within 15 minutes after the game was scheduled to
start. If neither team has the required number, it shall be a double forfeit and shall be scored as a
loss for both teams. In the event that the referee rules that the field is not playable, or that the
uniforms are inappropriate, then he should note these facts on the game report and have each
coach sign it.
[RC Note: Delete the text on forfeiture declared by referee. The Committee understands that a referee
does not determine a forfeit. That is governed by the rules of competition. The referee would only note
facts on the referee’s report. This deletion also coordinates with the “agreement to play” change
proposed in Rule 6.1.1. The Rules Committee received input on referee authority under FIFA laws, which
included the following: “Per FIFA Laws of the game (Law 5) the Referee only has the authority to stop,
suspend or abandon a match. (Law 7) Any abandoned match is to be replay unless determined
otherwise by a competition authority. The referee can only determine if the game is played due to
number of starting or continuing players. The situation/conditions that resulted in that have to be
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evaluated by the competition authority before a decision can be made regarding forfeiture.”
Executive Committee should consult as needed for coordination with FIFA and other Laws.]
The
A game card will be completed by the referee for all play within STYSA. This card will, at a minimum,
contain the following:
** Association, age group, division, game location, date, game time
** Team names and final score
** Cautions (yellow cards) or ejections (red cards) issued, by team with player / name
** Any protest noted and brief basis for those protests
** Prior to each STYSA sanctioned match, each team shall present to the referee the Adult
Participation Pass for each Coach and other Eligible Adult who is present. The referee shall
record as part of the game card each Adult Participation Pass that is so presented, by
marking on the roster next to the name of each Coach (over age 17) or other Eligible Adult
who is listed on the roster and is identified on an Adult Participation Pass and by recording
on the game card the name of each Coach (over age 17) or other Eligible Adult for whom an
Adult Participation Pass is presented but is not on the roster.
These game cards are to be retained through the end of the District or STYSA Tournaments.
Disputes must be noted on the referee’s game report and a complete description of the incident shall be
submitted to the appropriate Disciplinary and Protest Representative.
6.1.8
Law XII- Fouls and Misconduct
The FIFA Law with respect to the charging of the goalkeeper shall not apply in youth play. There
shall be no charging of the goalkeeper, fairly or unfairly, in STYSA sanctioned competition. Any
such act will be considered as “dangerous play” at the least and punished accordingly.
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