A. All San Andreas Youth Soccer Organization (SAYSO) games shall be played under the current “Laws of the Game” published by FIFA, as amended by any Affiliating Organization, and subject to these specific Rules and Regulations.

B. SAYSO shall distribute or make available these Rules and Regulations to all SAYSO administrators, team officials, game officials, and players.

C. It is the responsibility of team officials to acquire and understand the rules, regulations, and other information regarding competitions from Affiliating Organizations.

D. Rules, regulations, and other information from only one Affiliating Organization at a time shall affect competitions played by SAYSO teams unless there has been an agreement reached between the Affiliating Organizations themselves.

E. In the event of a conflict, the rules of the Affiliating Organization shall take precedence.

F. In these Rules and Regulations, the term “team official” shall mean, “coach, assistant coach, manager, or other registered member.” The term “game official” or “official” shall mean “referee, assistant referee, or officiating team” The term “member” shall mean an individual who has completed the registration procedure for SAYSO and/or an Affiliating Organization. The term “administrator” shall mean any SAYSO member who serves as officer, director, staff member, or field marshal. The term “parent” shall mean “parent and/or legal guardian.” The term “Affiliating Organization” shall mean the California Youth Soccer Association (CYSA), the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), United States Club Soccer (USCS), the Police Athletic League (PAL), Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA, or any other organization offering insured youth competitions appropriate to SAYSO players and teams through independent registration. “Board of Directors” shall mean “SAYSO Board of Directors.” “Seasonal Year” shall mean “August 1 through July 31 of the following year.” “Season” shall mean “Spring”, “Fall”, “Winter”, “Summer”, individually and collectively, depending on the context.

G. Voluntary participation by SAYSO teams in competitions sponsored by Affiliating Organizations shall be encouraged. Information regarding these competitions shall be obtained from the Affiliating Organizations. It is the responsibility of the participating teams to obtain the rules and regulations regarding these competitions.

H. These Rules and Regulations may be amended by the Board of Directors without prior notice as necessary to correct errors, clarify terms, establish policy, ensure consistency, consolidate information, provide missing information, define or expand programs, justify actions already taken, or further the goals of SAYSO.

I. No new or amended provisions of these Rules and Regulations involving fines, penalties, suspensions, or sanctions may be applied retroactively.

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SECTION 2. TEAMS AND MEMBERSHIP

A. SAYSO shall develop its own teams by combining players registered in its internal programs.

B. A coach may not bring a team of players selected by that coach into SAYSO. However, such a coach may bring a team of players selected by that coach into a SAYSO league.

C. Clubs with independent management and finances may not be granted membership in SAYSO. However, such a club may enter teams into a SAYSO league.

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SECTION 3. SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT

A. Safety

1. No player shall be allowed to play with an injury that could be aggravated or that constitutes a danger to others.

2. No player wearing an orthopedic cast, temporary cast, or splint shall be permitted to play.

3. Shin guards are mandatory for all players in practices and games.

4. Players may not wear jewelry that constitutes a danger to themselves or others.

B. Injuries All significant injuries incurred in tryouts, practices, scrimmages, games, and tournaments shall be reported to the Board of Directors within 24 hours of the injuries.

C. Risk Management The Board of Directors shall develop and implement a Risk Management Program when the number of registered players exceeds 150 at any one time. This program shall be similar in scope and concept to the USYS KidSafe Program. SAYSO's interim risk management procedures shall include the following requirements:

1. It shall be the Risk Management Policy of SAYSO to take every reasonable effort to exclude from program administration responsibilities any adult or minor with a criminal record that would bring unnecessary risk to the health and safety of SAYSO's soccer program participants.)

a. Program Administrators include officers, directors, officials, and program directors, team managers, registered team parents, athletic trainers, coaches, assistant coaches and substitute coaches, SAYSO-trained referees, and anyone else who has an official capacity in the soccer program.

b. All Program Administrators shall complete the SAYSO Statement of Interest and Application/Disclosure forms, association Risk Analysis forms, or equivalent.

c. Program Administrators shall agree to be subject to a legally sensitive criminal history check (which requires fingerprinting).

2. All game officials used in league games shall be governed by the rulings and requirements of their certifying body.

3. Team officials shall bring a first-aid kit to all practices and games.

4. Team officials shall bring copies of parental medical authorization (release) forms to all practices and games.

5. All players shall be covered by supplemental accidental injury insurance, either through SAYSO or through an Affiliation Organization

D. Photographs, Names, Player Lists, and Team Rosters

1. SAYSO shall maintain reasonable efforts not to associate complete names of players with photos for third parties to casually view on the internet. This policy shall not prevent SAYSO from placing team names and photographs on password protected web pages and issuing passwords to team families.

2. SAYSO shall maintain reasonable efforts not to publish lists of player names and rosters of player addresses for third parties to casually view on the internet. This policy shall not prevent SAYSO from placing lists and rosters on password protected web pages and issuing passwords to team families.

3. SAYSO may issue news releases and articles to newspapers in a manner that is common and customary to the journalism industry.

4. After a child enters high school, a parent may request that his/her child's name and photograph be displayed together as appropriate for the purposes of college recruiting.

5. Except as is required for association affiliations and insurance, SAYSO shall not provide third parties with addresses (email or residence) or other contact information. SAYSO may distribute third party information (fliers, announcements, brochures, etc.) directly, however.

6. Team rosters may be printed, emailed, or otherwise made available to league and team officials (e.g., assistant coaches, team managers, etc.) as is necessary in order to conduct reasonable team business as long as such league and team officials have been awarded a qualifying document (e.g., a pass, card, credential, or certificate) by the league's affiliating association.

7. Parents shall not be prevented from voluntarily disclosing their contact information to other team families.

E. Responsibility of Team Officials v. Parents

1. It shall not be the responsibility of team officials to attend to the medical and/or personal needs of players, including administration of preventative and other medications, whether or not prescribed, or the application of sun block and insect repellant.

2. It shall not be the responsibility of team officials to ensure that players attend SAYSO events with proper clothing.

3. It shall not be the responsibility of team officials to ensure that players attend SAYSO events with proper food, beverages, or hydration.

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SECTION 4. AGE DIVISIONS

A. Age Divisions shall be comprised of players who, before the first day of August of the current year, are:

Under 19 years of age (U19)

Under 18 years of age (U18)

Under 17 years of age (U17)

Under 16 years of age (U16)

Under 15 years of age (U15)

Under 14 years of age (U14)

Under 13 years of age (U13)

Under 12 years of age (U12)

Under 11 years of age (U11)

Under 10 years of age (U10)

Under 9 years of age (U9)

Under 8 years of age (U8)

B. SAYSO may establish concurrent calendar year age divisions as necessary to participate in programs from Affiliating Organizations that use calendar years.

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SECTION 5. ROSTERS AND NUMBER OF PLAYERS

A. No paper or league team shall have more than the appropriate number of players on its roster at any given time:

1. U8: minimum roster: 7; maximum roster [established by affiliating organization - 26 for US Club Soccer] (Fall); number on the field: 7

2. U9: minimum roster: 8; maximum roster [established by affiliating organization - 26 for US Club Soccer]; number on the field: 8

3. U10: minimum roster: 8; maximum roster [established by affiliating organization - 26 for US Club Soccer]; number on the field: 8. Teams that played U10 in the Fall may play 11 v 11 during the subsequent Spring.

4. U11-U19: minimum roster: 11; maximum roster [established by affiliating organization - 26 for US Club Soccer]; number on the field: 11

B. Any player listed on the match report shall be considered as having played under the name and shirt number as listed. The accuracy of the entries on the match report is the responsibility of the team officials.

C. Failure to cooperate with a reasonable request to substantiate the legitimacy of any player who has played or is suspected of playing in a particular game shall result in a Disciplinary Committee investigation and hearing, and may result in forfeiture, fines, probation, and/or suspension, at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

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SECTION 6. PLAYER REGISTRATION

A. Players who registers with SAYSO will be subject to the following procedures:

1. All players must complete the registration forms adopted by SAYSO. The player is registered from the moment the parent signs the registration form, pays the appropriate fees, and satisfies any other registration rules (including submission of pictures, providing all requested information, and signing of specific documents) established prior to the moment of registration, and is accepted by the appropriate affiliating organization.

2. A player identification card ("Player Pass") shall be issued only on presentation of proof of age in the form of original birth certificate, passport, or driver's license or appropriate copy to the Registrar. Where birth certificates are not obtainable, the Board of Directors shall determine and request documentation for proof of age. Hospital, baptism, and religious certificates may not be used for proof of age. Proofs of age and translations of foreign documents must be acceptable to SAYSO and the Affiliating Organizations.

3. New passes will be issued to players every year.

4. All passes shall be laminated. Prior to lamination, a photograph shall be affixed and stamped with the appropriate stamp per the rules and regulations of the Affiliating Organization.

B. The Board of Directors may request additional proof of age from any player at any time following registration. Proof of age shall be presented within seven (7) days of the date postmarked on the request sent to the player's address. Failure to respond to such request shall result in the immediate suspension of the player involved and team forfeiture of all league games in which the player has participated.

C. Any allegation or indication of falsification of documents will be turned over to the SAYSO Disciplinary Committee. If investigation reveals actual falsification of documents, SAYSO may impose appropriate sanctions, and the matter will be turned over to the Affiliating Organization for additional prosecution.

D. Youth players who have been registered on an adult amateur team during the season must obtain consent from the Board of Directors, present proof of proper release, and be in good standing with their previous team in order to register with SAYSO.

E. No team may use an outside or guest player. An “outside player” is any player who plays for a SAYSO team without being registered to a SAYSO team.

F. Players shall be permitted to register regardless of city of residency.

G. Registration materials will be submitted directly to the SAYSO Registrar who shall, in turn, pass the materials on to the Affiliating Organizations, if any. The SAYSO Registrar will check all materials passed through for completeness and accuracy.

H. Late registrants shall be accepted on a space-available basis. If no space is available, individuals will be placed on a waiting list. As openings become available, an offer of registration will be made with a specific expiration date. A late registration fee may be charged.

I. Checks that are not cleared by financial institutions will result in a charge, determined by the Board of Directors, which must be paid within two weeks of written notification. Failure to “make good” will result in the individual or team being considered in “bad standing” and the denial of all services and products associated with the original payment.

J. The inter-league and inter-district requirements and procedures, if any, of Affiliating Organizations shall be adhered to.

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SECTION 7. ADULT REGISTRATION

A. Team officials and administrators who register with SAYSO will be subject to the following procedures:

1. All adult must complete the registration forms adopted by SAYSO. The player is registered from the moment the parent signs the registration form, pays the appropriate fees, and satisfies any other registration rules (including submission of pictures, providing all requested information, and signing of specific documents) established prior to registration.

2. Proofs of date of birth shall not be required for adults.

3. New passes will be issued every year.

4. All passes shall be laminated. Prior to lamination, a photograph shall be affixed and stamped with the appropriate stamp per the rules and regulations of the Affiliating Organization.

B. Any allegation or indication of falsification of documents will be turned over to the SAYSO Disciplinary Committee. If investigation reveals actual falsification of documents, SAYSO may impose appropriate sanctions, and the matter will be turned over to the Affiliating Organization for additional prosecution.

C. Registration materials will be submitted directly to the SAYSO Registrar who shall, in turn, pass the materials on to the Affiliating Organizations, if any. The SAYSO Registrar will check all materials passed through for completeness and accuracy.

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SECTION 8. PLAYER RELEASES, TRANSFERS, AND ADDS

A. Players may seek and will be granted release or transfer for any reason, including moving to another team. SAYSO shall not attempt to restrict the free movement of any player for any reason at any time.

1. Except when approved by the Board of Directors, players may not be released by SAYSO without the consent of the player, parent, and coach (i.e., against their will.) The Board of Directors will consider releases only in the following situations: (a) violation of SAYSO or Affiliation Organization rules; (b) moving out of the area; (c) long-term injury or illness; (d) team dissolution; (e) request of player.

2. Players who decline to continue playing may remain on a team roster without being released unless space is needed on that team.

3. Released players may play for other teams.

B. SAYSO shall be governed by the “anti-poaching provisions” of the Affiliating Organization, if any, but SAYSO shall not avail itself upon any such provisions for protection from release or transfers.

C. Any player seeking release or transfer must submit the appropriate completed forms and other documents and pay any fees in accordance with the administrative rules of SAYSO and any Affiliating Organization.

D. Any player released for disciplinary (or misconduct) reasons may be subject to a disciplinary hearing before being transferring to another team. Suspensions or other punishments must be served before transfers or releases are permitted.

E. Irregardless of SAYSO's Refund Policy, transferred and released players shall forfeit any fees already paid. Any amounts outstanding shall remain outstanding after transfer or release.

F. Players may be added to SAYSO (teams) by following normal registration procedures of SAYSO and any Affiliating Organization. There is no limit on the number of players SAYSO may register on paper teams. The maximum roster size of any Affiliating Organization cannot be exceeded for affiliated competitions.

G. Waiting periods (e.g., none for US Club Soccer and 7 days for CYSA league play adds and transfers) of Affiliating Organizations must be observed and honored.

H. Maximum transaction counts (e.g., none for US Club Soccer and 3 transfers onto a CYSA team per seasonal year) of Affiliating Organizations may apply.

SECTION 9. DEADLINES

A. Registration for SAYSO's Spring programs shall begin no later than March 1.

B. Registration for SAYSO's Fall programs shall begin no later than June 1.

C. Actual registration schedules will be announced via email, flier, SAYSO website, mailings, and public announcements via newspapers, as determined by the Board of Directors.

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SECTION 10. TEAM COLORS, UNIFORMS, AND FLAGS

A. SAYSO’s colors shall be:

1. ('Crickets' Spring Soccer Program) Kelly green and white

2. (SAYSO teams in the Hot Shots Spring League) red and white

3. (Premier Development Program) red and white

4. (SAYSO teams in the Hot Shots Fall League) red and white

5. Team officials’ apparel: grey

6. SAYSO and team logos (e.g., a cricket, gryphon, or SAYSO crest) shall be in black or other colors approved by the Board of Directors.

7. Text (e.g., "Staff" or "Gryphons") shall be in black.

B. Each SAYSO player participating in a game shall do so in complete uniform, with permanent numbers six (6) inches or larger in a contrasting color. Uniforms must be clean and presentable at the start of the game with shirts tucked in and socks pulled up over the shin guards. These requirements apply to home, away, and alternate uniforms.

1. Only styles, colors, and designs approved by the Board of Directors may be worn or used. This approval applies to all clothing, equipment, and accessories used by the team.

2. All SAYSO uniforms and apparel shall include the SAYSO logo in an appropriate size, locations, and color so as to be visible.

C. The goalkeeper of each team shall wear colors that do not resemble the colors of either team. The game official shall make the final judgment in this matter.

D. When the colors of two competing teams are similar to the point of confusion before or during play, as judged by the game official, the home team shall change colors. In the event that a team’s colors conflicts with the colors of the game official and the game official elects not to change, the conflicting team must change colors.

E. It is recommended that each player use an approved type of soccer footwear, appropriate for the weather and field conditions. Any type of footwear judged to be unsafe by the game official shall not be worn in a game. Tennis shoes may be worn.

F. Each player shall have a uniform number assigned at the beginning of the SAYSO season. This uniform number shall not change for the duration of the season. This number must be displayed on the player’s uniform during all SAYSO games.

G. The Board of Directors must approve all advertisement on uniforms, bags, warm-ups, sweats, tee shirts, flags, banners, and signage.

H. All purchasing shall be done through the SAYSO office using authorized vendors.

I. SAYSO flags and pennants shall be displayed at all home and away competitive events. Flags and pennants do not have to be displayed at practices.

1. All flags and pennants shall be of the single-pole, free-standing variety. A flag set will usually consist of a single (hollow) pole, a metal stake, mallet, and a flag with a slip-over sleeve. The pole may be metal, composite, or PVC, and it may be telescopic.

2. Unless approved by the Board of Directors, SAYSO flags shall be 36 inches high by 48 inches wide.

3. SAYSO flags shall be solid colors consistent with SAYSO's or a team's colors. Logos and insignia shall be consistent with SAYSO's or a team's colors.

4. Each team shall have access to and use of a flag for its away competitive games.

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SECTION 11. PROGRAMS

A. SAYSO shall be authorized organize the following internal competitions: (a) 'Crickets Spring Soccer Program, (b) Hot Shots Spring Soccer League, (c) Spring Chicken Jamboree, (d) Summer Champions Academy, (e) Summer Team Camp, (f) Hot Shots Fall Soccer League, (g) Fall Premier Development Program (PDP!), (h) Rag Doll’s Revenge girls summer tournament, (i) Water Dog’s Revenge boys fall tournament, and (j) other competitions authorized by the Board of Directors.

B. SAYSO teams may participate in competitions organized by Affiliating Organizations.

C. No team may participate in any other competition without the permission of the Board of Directors.

D. SAYSO shall be authorized to develop additional future leagues of play, tournaments, and league competitions and their corresponding rules and regulations.

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SECTION 12. 'CRICKETS' SPRING SOCCER PROGRAM

A. The U6/U7 'Crickets' Spring Soccer Program is designed to help players begin to make the transition between recreational and competitive programs. This “rec-to-comp” transition begins at U6 and is fully implemented by the time U10 players begin playing in highly competitive, full-team leagues.

1. Paper teams formed from registered SAYSO players may be used in internal Spring programs as long as those teams do not compete in external (non-SAYSO) leagues.

2. No tryouts shall be required.

3. Registration shall be from a pool of recommended and open-registration players.

4. Fees shall be as approved by the Board of Directors.

5. Practices

a. Practices shall consist of rotation through station-based “clinics” followed by a general period of open play allowing application of techniques. Clinics may be simultaneous or sequential. Stations shall be filled in order of arrival, with equal numbers of players being assigned to each station.

b. The curriculum shall be as approved by the Board of Directors.

c. Practice locations shall be rotated among convenient locations as limited by field availability.

d. No practices shall be required.

e. Practices shall be no longer than 90 minutes. Practices shall begin on time and end on time.

f. Practices may be coed (i.e., mixed-gender)

6. Play days

a. At least one play day shall be scheduled for every two weeks of practice.

b. All participants in good standing shall be allowed to participate. Participation in play days by individual players is optional.

c. No predetermined or established teams may participate. Participating play day teams shall be formed in order of arrival. Teams may be “balanced” by SAYSO staff between periods.

d. Teams may be coed (i.e., mixed gender.)

e. All games shall be played at a convenient location.

f. Play days shall consist of three or four consecutive periods of play separated by appropriate periods of rest. Each period shall be 15-20 minutes long.

g. Play day games shall be officiated by SAYSO coaches and game officials. “Instructional” style game officiating shall be used in the first two periods; game officials shall give “do-overs” and instruction.

h. Special Play Day Rules: (i) Variable team size depending on participation: 5v5 to 8v8; (ii) No offside; (iii) No designated positions; (iv) goalkeepers, if any, to be rotated after every goal; (v) Free substitution and movement of players onto and off of the field at any time; (vi) Players may be added or subtracted at any time; (vii) No yellow or red cards shall be issued. (Game officials shall explain an infraction to the offending player. If an infraction is repeated, the game official shall suggest that the coach take appropriate action.)

i. All play day players shall be permitted to play 100% of each game. Additional games shall be created when team size exceeds the maximum permitted.

j. No individual or team standings shall be kept.

k. Play day players may be given participation awards.

7. There shall be no significant “travel” (until U10).

8. Additional details shall be as determined by the Board of Directors

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SECTION 13. PREMIER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (PDP!)

A. Fall Premier Development Program

1. The U9 Fall Premier Development Program designed to help players continue making the transition between recreational and competitive programs that was begun in the 'Crickets' and Hot Shots Spring Soccer Program. This “rec-to-comp” transition begins at U6 and is fully implemented by the time U10 players begin playing in highly competitive, full-team leagues.

2. Paper teams formed from registered SAYSO players may be used in internal Fall SAYSO programs as long as those teams do not compete in external (non-SAYSO) leagues.

3. Tryouts shall be required for U10 and older. The Board of Directors may, at its option, exempt certain players from this requirement.

4. Registration shall not be limited geographically.

5. Fees shall be as approved by the Board of Directors.

6. Additional details shall be as determined by the Board of Directors as needed.

B. Practices

1. Practices shall consist of rotation through station-based “clinics” followed by a general period of open play allowing application of techniques. Clinics may be simultaneous or sequential. Stations shall be filled in order of arrival, with equal numbers of players being assigned to each station.

2. The curriculum shall be as approved by the Board of Directors.

3. No practices shall be required in the U9 Rec-to-Comp program.

4. Practices shall be no longer than 120 minutes. Practices shall begin on time and end on time.

5. Practices may be coed (i.e., mixed-gender)

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SECTION 14. PDP! LEAGUE

A. U10 Fall PDP! League

1. There may be significant (e.g., 20-50 miles) “travel” to away games and tournaments.

2. Practices shall conform to Section 40.

3. Additional details shall be as determined by the Board of Directors as necessary.

B. U11 Fall PDP! League

1. There may be significant (e.g., 50-100 miles) “travel” to away games and tournaments.

2. Practices shall conform to Section 40.

3. Additional details shall be as determined by the Board of Directors as necessary.

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SECTION 15. TRYOUTS

A. Tryout dates and locations shall be announced to the SAYSO membership and general public. Mail, email, fliers, the SAYSO website, public announcements via local newspapers, and announcements to local clubs and Affiliating Organizations may be used for this purpose.

B. The SAYSO Head Coach shall organize and conduct tryouts.

1. Tryouts may not exceed three hours in any single day unless a two-hour intermission is provided at least every three hours.

2. It is the intention of SAYSO to complete the tryout process with as few rounds as possible. There shall be no more than three rounds of cuts. No player shall be asked to attend more than three days of tryouts.

3. Tryouts shall be conducted at locations with readily accessible drinking water and toilet facilities.

4. Tryouts may not be held if the air temperature is in excess of 90*F. Tryouts will be held rain or shine.

5. Tryouts may be held in conjunction with regular practice sessions.

C. SAYSO tryouts shall be open.

D. Only the minimum administrative procedures and fees needed for insurance purposes shall be used. Once a player has been “accepted” into a program, the complete registration procedure must be complied with.

E. Playing up is permitted, consistent with the physical, emotional, and social development of the player.

F. U8-U11 team construction shall be the responsibility of the SAYSO Head Coach. U12-U19 team construction shall be according to a drafting procedure approved by the Board of Directors and involving all team officials in that age group. Coaches may, but are not required to, freeze one or more players from the previous year’s team, in accordance with the drafting procedure approved by the Board of Directors.

G. A list of all players who have tried out, with their tryout scores, shall be provided to the coaching staff.

H. Players related to members of the coaching staff by blood or marriage may try out. However, these players may not be evaluated by related coaches. If chosen, these players may not be coached by related coaches.

I. The results of the tryouts shall be announced within 7 days of the tryouts in a manner that is private and considerate.

J. A player “accepted” into a SAYSO program shall have 7 days to complete the formal registration procedure and pay all required fees. In the event that a player fails to complete the registration process, the acceptance and registration opportunity shall be withdrawn.

K. No U8 or U9 player shall be required to play for a team assigned to any particular team official unless no other alternative exists.

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SECTION 16. PRACTICES

A. Practice days, times, and fields shall be coordinated with the SAYSO office. No practice shall deviate from the scheduled days, times, and fields without SAYSO notification and approval.

B. A minimum of two team officials (i.e., two registered adult members) shall attend each practice. In the event of an emergency, one team official shall remain with the team while the other attends to the emergency.

C. Maximum and recommended number of required practices per week:

1. U8 Spring: 0 required; 2 recommended; 5 maximum (available)

2. U9: (a) U9 Fall Premier Development Program: 0 required; 3 recommended; 5 maximum (available)

(b) U9 Spring: 0 required; 2 recommended; 5 maximum (available)

3. U10: 2 required; 3 recommended; 4 maximum

4. U11-U13: 3 required; 4 recommended; 5 maximum

5. U14-U15: 2 required; 3 recommended; 4 maximum

6. U17-U19: 1 required; 2 recommended; 3 maximum

D. Format

E: Goalkeeping Skills

F. Incorporation of Fitness Conditioning

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SECTION 17. GAME PROCEDURES

A. Coaching by team officials from the sidelines is discouraged but permitted, subject to the following conditions:

1. Team officials shall be within ten (10) yards in either direction of the halfway line.

2. Coaching shall be of a technical or tactical nature and shall be consistent with the game of soccer (i.e. giving directions to one’s team on points of strategy and position.)

3. Language and attitude shall not be conducive to misconduct or violence. Language and attitude shall not result in verbal or physical abuse or assault of the game official on the part of the players, substitutes, team officials, and/or spectators.

B. Team officials are responsible for the actions of their teams, players, and spectators. They are required to take all precautions to prevent and discourage unruly behavior, threats, and/or assaults on players or officials, before, during and after the game. Team officials may be sanctioned for inappropriate behavior from their sidelines.

C. At least one adult registered to the team playing and possessing either a valid SAYSO Administrator’s Pass or a Coach’s ID card, must be on the sideline at all times during the game, or the game will be forfeited by the team without the coach/administrator. If a team meeting this requirement starts a game but ceases meeting the requirement during the game due to any reason (i.e. ejection, illness, or other conflict), the team will immediately forfeit, and the game must be terminated. It is suggested that each team have at least two (2) licensed and registered coaches to avoid forfeiture due to the absence of one of the coaches.

D. Electronic communication devices, such as megaphones and walkie-talkies, shall not be used at any SAYSO competition except by the Board of Directors or its designee for the purpose of announcing teams at the awards ceremonies or for the purpose of coordinating officials and administrators during tournaments.

E. Except where limited by field conditions, all players, parents, administrators, and spectators shall stay on their assigned sides of the fields, 1 yard off the sideline, during games. Field Marshals and other SAYSO Administrators shall enforce this rule during games. Failure to comply with this rule shall, at the game official’s discretion, result in game suspension.

F. “Standard” game duration and ball size shall be as follows:

U9-U10: two 25-minute halves played with size 4 ball

U11-U12: two 30-minute halves played with size 4 ball

U13-U14: two 35-minute halves played with size 5 ball
U15-U16: two 40-minute halves played with size 5 ball
U17-U19: two 45-minute halves played with size 5 ball

G. A ten (10) minute intermission shall be allowed between halves.

H. Substitutions shall be according to the guidelines of Section 18. In the event that substitutions are permitted according to another scheme by an Affiliating Organization, SAYSO teams shall nevertheless endeavor to abide by the guidelines of Section 18.

I. A “cautioned” or “yellow carded” player may be substituted at the time card is issued. The player may subsequently reenter the game whenever the player’s team may lawfully substitute.

J. Substitution shall be made at midfield within (10) yards of the halfway line. The substitute player shall not enter the field of play until allowed by the game official and until after the player substituted has left the field of play.

K. Excessive substitution resulting in confusion or delay of game is to be handled and discouraged by the game official

L. Game Stoppage and Delays

1. If, for any reason, a game is not played or completed, the Scheduler shall decide the standing of the game depending upon the reason for the game stoppage.

2. The Scheduler may reschedule the game, order the game to stand as played, order remaining time to be played off at a later date, or order such other action depending upon the circumstances is determined to be proper.

3. All games shall start at their scheduled times and the delay of a game for any reason shall not extend the start of the following game past the grace period for the following game.

4. The grace period shall be fifteen (15) minutes after the scheduled game time.

5. U11-U18 teams must start a game with a minimum of seven (7) registered players in good standing. The players must be on the field ready to play at the end of the grace period, or the game will be subject to forfeit.

6. It shall be the responsibility of the game official to start the game on time, and he/she shall be the judge of the timeliness of teams. No protests regarding late starts shall be entertained without confirmation on the match report. Actions taken by the Scheduler shall be based solely on official notations on the match report.

7. In the case of where only one team is present, the game official shall check the passes of the team in attendance and follow the normal procedure before the absent team shall be subjected to forfeiture.

8. The game official may terminate or suspend the game, but only the Scheduler or Board of Directors may determine a match to have been forfeited.

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SECTION 18. PLAYING TIME AND SUBSTITUTIONS

A. SAYSO shall utilize an “inclusion model” (i.e., experience is more important than outcome) for establishing minimum playing times for pre-teen players.

B. In SAYSO 'Crickets' Spring programs, new games shall be opened for new arriving players to ensure that all players get to play 100% of every game.

C. When SAYSO teams compete in competitions with Affiliating Organizations, rosters may be greater than that basic team size for the corresponding age group in order to accommodate planned and unplanned absences.

D. Minimum Playing Time Guidelines

1. Spring U6-U7 'Crickets' Program

100% of all games, every game (achieved by opening new “games” for arriving players)

2. Spring U8-U9 Hot Shots Program

Approximately equal time to all players who come to league games, as modified by item G.

3. Fall Premier Development Program (PDP!)

(a) U9-U10: Approximately equal time to all players who come to league games, as modified by item G.

(b) U11-U13: 50%-75% of all games, averaged over all games, as modified by item G.

E. Use of Playing Time Reduction as a Sanction

1. U8-U10: Playing time shall NOT reduced as a sanction against players who have missed practices or games. (Players who miss a significant number of practices will be dropped from the roster at the end of the season.)

2. U11-U12: Playing time may be reduced by as much as 50% of the game time as a sanction against players who have missed practices or games. (Players who miss a significant number of practices will not be eligible for State Cup and will be dropped from the roster at the end of the season.)

3. U13-U19: Playing time may be reduced by as much as 100% of the game time as a sanction against players who have missed practices or games. (Players who miss a significant number of practices will be asked to leave the team during the season.)

F. Unlimited reentry shall be permitted in both halves of the game.

G. Game times shall be considered equal (i.e., there shall be a "level playing field") for all players showing up to a competitive event. A coach shall give all players in attendance an opportunity to demonstrate the degrees or amounts of their contributions to the team. Coaches, having determined the degrees or amounts of contributions players are making to the team, shall have the right to modify playing times for particular players for that game, according to the following guidelines:

1. Except in critical games (e.g., games determining championships), players shall not be limited in playing time merely to ensure a game outcome.

2. Substantial reductions in and/or elimination of playing time shall be allowed to accommodate players who are, in the opinion of the SAYSO team official present, injured, not game fit, ill, recovering from illness, tired, disinterested, unmotivated, playing poorly, inattentive, argumentative, belligerent, out of control, poorly-behaved, disruptive, or otherwise "having a bad day" or "out of it".

3. Parents are entitled to a courteous and honest assessment from SAYSO of their child's future in competitive soccer. Such assessment by SAYSO's coaching staff (e.g., a team coach) shall be conducted off the playing field and on non-game days.

4. Parents in disagreement with SAYSO's assessment are invited to make use of SAYSO's grievance procedures. (See Sec. 33.)

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SECTION 19. TEAM OFFICIAL (COACH) RESPONSIBILITIES

A. It shall be the responsibility of team officials to:

1. Know SAYSO’s Rules and Regulations and the rules and regulations of any Affiliating Organization.

2. Utilize the SAYSO coaching curriculum and to provide the best coaching available

3. Provide an environment in which players can improve their knowledge of soccer, with an emphasis on promoting their desire to develop their skills to the highest possible level while maintaining their interest, so that they may successfully compete in high school, college, and throughout their lives.

4. Be prepared at practice sessions and games.

5. Look out for the safety of the players at all times.

6. Work with SAYSO and Affiliating Organization officials to resolve conflicts if they arise.

7. Manage and control the team and parent sidelines during games.

8. (Rec-to-Comp Programs) Provide equal game opportunities for all players to improve.

9. (Competitive Programs) Field the best team possible.

10. Conduct themselves in a courteous manner, before and after games. Treat opposing players and coaches with respect. Shake hands with opposing coaches in public

11. Communicate openly and regularly with team members, parents, and SAYSO.

12. Help players develop, through words and deeds, setting the highest standards of character. Set a good example for players and fans to follow, exemplifying the highest moral and ethical behavior.

13. Be fair, logical, and consistent.

14. Attend monthly SAYSO meetings.

15. Instruct players in proper sportsmanship and demand they make sportsmanship and ethics their number 1 priority.

16. Respect the judgment of game officials, abide by the laws of the game, and display no behavior that could incite others.

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SECTION 20. PLAYER RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Players shall refrain from using bad language, misbehaving, being deliberately unkind or rough, missing three or more required practices and games (excludes U8 and U9 programs), and other actions that are contrary to the objectives of SAYSO. Players shall be expected to behave in a professional manner that indicates their desire to learn and play and their willingness to participate.

B. Players shall carry their own equipment.

C. Players shall assist the team officials and captains when requested.

D. Players shall “police up” the playing field and sidelines.

E. Players shall keep the team officials informed about their availability and health.

F. Be dedicated to improving their level of play.

1. Attend practices regularly

2. Attend all games and tournaments

3. Practice individual skills (juggling, heading, volleying, footwork, etc.) on their own

G. Demonstrate good sportsmanship and respect for others.

1. Treat teammates with respect.

2. Treat opponents with respect.

3. Respect the judgment of game officials. Display no behavior that could incite others.

4. Abide by the laws of the game.

5. Live up to the high standard of sportsmanship established by SAYSO.

H. Complete the current season

I. (U11 and older) Participate in state-wide tournaments (e.g., CYSA’s “State Cup”)

J. Remain drug, alcohol, and tobacco free.

K. Maintain a level of academic performance that is satisfactory to their parents.

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SECTION 21. PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Parents shall transport players to and from all practices and games.

B. Parents shall ensure that players attend all required practices and games. (U8 and U9 programs have no required practices or games.)

C. Parents shall keep the team officials informed about the availability and health of their children.

D. When requested by the team officials, parents shall (in turn) be responsible for supply team refreshments.

E. Parents shall provide proper and safe playing equipment (including soccer footwear and shin guards) for their children or be solely responsible for the outcome.

F. Parents shall sign the SAYSO “Silent Sunday” pledge and abide by SAYSO’s behavioral guidelines.

1. Parents shall let the players play, the coaches coach, and the game officials officiate.

2. Parents shall not openly question the referee’s judgment, honesty, integrity, sense of fair play, or sportsmanship during a game.

3. Parents shall realize that it is a privilege to attend a game, and neither parenthood nor fees paid provide a license to verbally assault others or to become unruly or obnoxious.

G. If possible parents shall attend SAYSO’s “Positive Soccer Seminar” when invited.

H. Parents shall leave fields as clean or cleaner than upon arrival.

I. Parents shall support the player in team fundraising activities.

J. Parents shall conduct themselves in a courteous manner when representing SAYSO.

K. Parents shall support their child’s team by attending as many games as possible.

L. Parents shall remain positive towards their child’s progress and performance, the team’s record, and the program’s accomplishments. Parents shall relieve developmental pressure, not increase it. Parents shall accept the results of each game. Parents shall encourage their child to be gracious in victory and to turn defeat into accomplishment by working towards improvement.

M. Parents are encouraged to applaud good players, plays, and playing by both teams.

N. Parents shall not bring alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, loose dogs, or profanity to practices, competitions, or tournaments.

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SECTION 22. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS

A. The purchase, sale, and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages at any SAYSO competition or event is expressly prohibited except where permitted by state law.

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SECTION 23. TRANSPORTATION

A. Parents shall be responsible for transporting players to and from all practices and games, in town and out of town.

B. Permission slips signed by parents shall be required for events for which SAYSO supplies the transportation.

C. Except in emergencies, cases of abandonment, and dangerous situations, coaches may not transport, shelter, or harbor players in their vehicles.

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SECTION 24. RESPONSIBILITIES OF BOOSTERS AND SPIRIT GROUPS

A. Use only positive cheers.

B. Do not antagonize or demean opponents or game officials.

C. Recognize outstanding performance of the opponents.

D. Know the laws of the game sufficiently to be able to cheer at the correct times.

E. Maintain enthusiasm and composure at all times.

F. Do not use cheers as distractions at critical times.

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SECTION 25. EXAMPLES OF EXEMPLARY BEHAVIOR

A. (All) Applauding during the introductions of game officials and opponent’s coaches and players.

B. (Players) Helping an opponent to his/her feet after being whistled for a foul.

C. (All) Gracefully accepting adverse decisions by game officials.

D. (Players; Coaches) Shaking the hands of opponents, coaches, and officials following a game.

E. (All) Applauding good performance of opponents.

F. (All) Showing concern for injured opponents. Providing applause when injured opponents stand up or leave the field.

F. (Players) Providing a “game stoppage” for an injured opponent by kicking the ball into touch (off the field).

G. (Players) When an opponent has created a game stoppage for an injured player on your team, return the ball to their possession by throwing it back towards the goalkeeper when play resumes.

H. (All) During the National Anthem, stand, remove your hat, face the flag, stop talking, place your right hand on your chest, remain standing until the end. If you sing, following the words and music precisely.

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SECTION 26. EXAMPLES OF UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR

A. (All) Attempting to distract a player by any means at a critical moment.

B. (All) Using disrespectful or derogatory yells, chants, songs, or gestures.

1. “You can beat that fat kid.”

2. “Are you going to let that midget take that ball from you?”

3. “We can beat this team. We’re better than they are.”

4. “Come on: Play our game. They’re just playing kickball.”

C. (All) Criticizing, questioning, booing, or heckling game officials.

D. (Players) Refusing to shake hands with or acknowledge good performance of opponents.

E. (All) Blaming losses on game officials, coaches, or teammates.

F. (All) Using sarcasm, laughter, or name-calling to belittle an opponent.

G. (All) Using profanity.

H. (All) Displays of anger.

I. Inciting violent actions

1. “Take out that player.”

2. “If that player pushes you again, push him back.”

3. “If the referee won’t protect you, then you have to protect yourself.”

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SECTION 27. FORFEITS

A. The game official may terminate or suspend a game, but only the Scheduler or Board of Directors may determine a match to have been forfeited.

B. In addition to the forfeiture of a game, a team may be subject to fines.

C. Forfeits shall be recorded as 3-0 wins in favor of the non-forfeiting team.

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SECTION 28. IRREGULAR BEHAVIOR

A. The Board of Directors may fine, sanction, and/or suspend any team or individual in the following situations:

1. Refusing or neglecting to fulfill any obligations as a member.

2. Violation of the provisions of the Constitution, Bylaws, and these Rules and Regulations

3. Committing of any act that is determined to be contrary to or inconsistent with the principles and standards of good sportsmanship.

4. Failing to accurately enter all required information on the match report.

5. Being sent-off for a second time in a single season.

6. Failure to submit requested proof of age.

7. Behavior that encourages verbal and other abuse or assault by the other individuals.

7. (Team officials only) Failure to attend regular SAYSO meetings.

B. A team may be subject to forfeiture of games if it is found in violation of any of the following:

1. Non-payment of fees, including submission of dishonored checks.

2. Non-payment of fines within fourteen (14) days of official Disciplinary Committee action.

3. Non-payment of game official’s fees prior to the next scheduled game.

4. Failure to show up for a scheduled game.

5. Failure to present proper identification of players in the form of valid player passes.

6. Inability to field seven (7) players in good standing who are registered to that team.

7. Failure to be on the field and ready to play following the expiration of the grace period.

8. Without the game official’s permission, leaving the field in total with the intent to not continue the game.

9. Failure or refusal to continue the game as requested by the game official.

10. Violations of registration rules.

11. Misconduct that causes the termination of the game.

12. Violation of disciplinary (red/yellow card) regulations.

13. Using outside, borrowed, or unregistered players in an official competition.

14. Failure to have the required number of team officials present before and during a match.

15. Failure to submit a proof of age of any player when requested.

16. Falsification of documents including registration forms and match reports.

17. Failure to comply with SAYSO’s rescheduling procedures.

18. Failure to meet administrative requirements that results in the termination, cancellation, or suspension of the match.

19. Failure to accurately enter all information on match report.

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SECTION 29. PROTESTS AND APPEALS

A. Send-offs resulting in one- and two-game suspensions, including send-off resulting from double-cautions, may not be protested or appealed, regardless of reason.

B. PROTESTS. Any team or individual may protest any adverse action of another team or individual by using the following procedure.

1. The protest must be made in writing.

2. The postmark will determine the filing date. If the protest is hand-delivered to the SAYSO office, the date and time received and acknowledged by signature by the appropriate person shall determine the filing date. If delivered by hand, the person delivering the protest must countersign the receiving document.

3. The original protest must be submitted to the SAYSO office with the appropriate filing fee.

4. A protest of a game must be filed in writing within seventy-two (72) hours following the completion of the game.

5. The game official's match report shall be the basis for assessing all offenses where predetermined penalties are applicable. Other offenses shall be reviewed and administered by the Disciplinary Committee.

6. The Scheduler shall rule on protests involving issues specified in the Bylaws and these Rules and Regulations. The Head Referee shall rule on protests involving misapplication of the laws of the game.

7. All rulings made by the Scheduler and Head Game official shall be reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors.

8. Individuals shall be officially advised orally, via email, and/or in writing of penalties, fines, and suspensions imposed.

C. APPEALS. Any individual or team may appeal any adverse decision made using the following procedures:

1. Disciplinary Committee decisions may be appealed to the Board of Directors using the following procedure:

a. The original appeal shall be submitted in writing to the SAYSO office with the appropriate filing fee.

b. The appeal must be filed within seven (7) days from notification of the action being appealed.

2. Appeal of a Board of Directors decision may be made to the appropriate Affiliating Organization using the time schedule and procedures appropriate to that organization. (Information regarding these procedures shall be made available by the SAYSO office.)

3. Failure of an appellant to appear at a scheduled hearing after proper notification shall result in the automatic denial of the appeal and forfeiture of the appeal fee. Notification of the meeting shall be at the discretion of the Board of Directors and may be by email or addressed to the appellant at the address that was submitted with the appeal.

4. Filing fees will be returned when a ruling is made in favor of the appellant.

5. All Scheduler, Head Game official, and/or Disciplinary Committee actions, excepting such actions provided for elsewhere in these Rules and Regulations, shall be reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors prior to becoming final.

6. Individuals will be advised by the Board of Directors of its decision.

7. SAYSO shall inform, permit, and facilitate the right of appeal to the appropriate Affiliating Organization.

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SECTION 30. FEES

A. Team and player fees shall be as determined by the Board of Directors.

B. Registration and basic player fees shall be the same for all players in the same program.

C. Special team fees may be determined depending on the team activities.

1. Team fees may be different from one team to another.

2. Team fees shall be categorized and explained at the time they are determined.

D. Teams and players shall not be allowed to participate in competitions until all fees are paid.

E. The following teams and player fees have been determined by the Board of Directors.

1. Spring Leagues: No more than $225 per player, exclusive of uniform and equipment costs.

2. Fall Leagues: No more than $525 per player, exclusive of uniform and equipment costs.

3. For any protest or appeal of disciplinary action or game outcome: $25 (refunded if the protest or appeal is upheld.)

4. For referee assignment by SAYSO (per game, in addition to amounts paid to referees, all amounts payable in advance): $15 for a single referee; $25 per team of 3 referees

5. For administration of nonprofit donations for the benefit of third parties and consistent with SAYSO’s charter: 0% of the amount administered

6. For replacing a picture for use on a player pass: $3

7. For replacement of a lost pass: $15

8. For checks returned to maker for insufficient funds or other reasons: $25 or actual bank charge, whichever is greater.

9. For trying out: $0, when accompanied by a signed and