League Format and Rules:
Coed Team Composition
- Our league operates under a coed format, emphasizing inclusivity and balanced team composition. Each team must ensure they have a roster that includes at least two players of each gender. This approach is designed to address any potential imbalances in team gender distribution and promote fairness across all matches. Unlike some leagues, we do not enforce a minimum number of players of each gender to participate in a game. This flexible approach aims to alleviate stress and worry among players and enables everyone to focus on enjoying the game to its fullest extent.We believe that fostering an environment of equality and balance enhances the overall experience for all participants and encourages camaraderie on the field. By removing rigid gender requirements, we aim to create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere where players can simply focus on playing soccer and having fun.
Equipment/Set-Up/Team Colors:
- Teams consist of 7 players, including the goalkeeper.
- Appropriate footwear such as outdoor trainers or cleats is recommended, no metal cleats are allowed. While shin guards are mandatory, they are.
- Team captains are responsible for ensuring all players wear matching colors. In case of a color clash, the Home team will have preference, and the Away team must provide an alternative color.
Team Requirements:
- Teams must field a minimum of five (5) players; failure to do so will result in forfeiting the match.
League structure
- League structure will be tailored based on the number of participating teams, typically, the team accumulating the highest points by the end of the season will be crowned champion.
- Points will be awarded as follows: 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, and 0 points for a loss.
- In the event of tied points at the conclusion of the league phase, ranking will be determined by: 1. Head-to-Head encounters; 2. Goal Difference (+/-); 3. Goals Scored; and 4. Goals Against.
- Forfeits:If a game is forfeited, a 3-0 score will be awarded to the opposing team.
- Kick-off Times/Defaults: Players must arrive punctually to ensure games start on time. Games will commence at the scheduled kick-off time.
- A default occurs if any team cannot field a squad 5 minutes past the official start time or if they fail to meet team requirements. Teams may agree to waive minimum player rules and trade players to balance the teams before the game starts.
- Substitutions: Player substitutions are permitted at any time, ensuring a smooth transition without disrupting the flow of the game.
- Handballs: Handballs below the shoulder, resulting in a deliberate advantage, will be penalized unless deemed incidental, unintentional, or not advantageous to the possessing team.
- Free Kicks:Free kicks are indirect in the league.
- Penalties: Direct infringements within the goalkeeper's area, such as handballs or fouls, will result in penalty kicks taken from the penalty spot, the teams' captains will determine an appropriate distance.
- Kick-ins/Corners/Goal Kicks/Kick-Offs:Throw-ins are replaced with kick-ins. A goal can be scored directly from a corner kick, goal kick, or kick-off. Opponents must remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.
- Goalkeepers: Goalkeepers are identified by their gloves and are restricted to using their hands only within the penalty area.
- Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is prohibited, except for goalkeepers. Sliding to block shots or passes is also not allowed.
- Scoring: A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line.
- To maintain fairness and encourage teamwork, no player may score more than three goals per game. This rule ensures balanced gameplay and promotes collaboration among team members, emphasizing shared success over individual achievement.
- Offsides: As there is no referee to enforce offsides, the rule will not be in effect. However, players are expected to exercise common sense to prevent cherry-picking and maintain fair gameplay. Offsides may still be observed informally, with players encouraged to respect the spirit of the game and avoid exploiting positional advantages unfairly.
- Agreement on Final Score Confirmation: Before submitting the final score to the league organizer, both teams must agree on the outcome of the match. This ensures fairness and transparency in recording game results.
Violence
- No violence or aggressive behaviours will be tolerated. Respectful behavior within the league is paramount to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all participants. Any instances of violent conduct or any aggressive verbal or physical behavior directed towards league organizers, fellow players will not be tolerated. Such actions undermine the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play that we strive to uphold.It is imperative that all individuals involved in the league treat each other with respect and dignity, regardless of the circumstances. Disagreements should be resolved through civilized discourse and without resorting to aggression or hostility.Violations of these principles will be met with severe consequences, such as suspension or even permanent expulsion from the league. This rule is to protect all league participants. We expect all members to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, civility, team spirit, respect and to contribute positively to the league's reputation and camaraderie.
NOTE: This is the base format and Rules, NOT FINAL. If team captains agree to a different policy, they can play however they like but must agree upon it before the game starts and whether it is a forfeit or not.