East Longmeadow Soccer Association Rules and Regulations

INSTRUCTIONAL SOCCER Grades 1 and 2

Team makeup:

            1. Maximum per team shall be 15 players

            2. Teams will play eight on the playing field, including the keeper

3. Goalkeeper is encouraged to be changed every quarter, no one player may play goal for more than one quarter per game.

Game makeup: 

            1. The game shall consist of four 10 minute quarters, but may be modified by the referee

            2. There will be a five-minute break at half time, and a two minute break between other quarters

            3. A toss of a coin will used to decide which team has the ball at the beginning of the game

            4. All players must have equal playing time

5. Teams shall play at equal strength. In the event that one team does not have enough players, the coaches will decide whether to play short, or whether the larger team can furnish a player or players for the smaller team to even up the sides

            6. Goalkeepers must wear a contrasting colored shirt

            7. Substitutions may be made at any whistle by notifying the referee.

            8. Shin guards must be worn during ALL GAMES AND PRACTICES as required by the Recreation    Department

            9. Coaches will NOT be allowed on the playing field.

            10. The referee should explain ALL rule infractions to the offending and/or offended players

Rules of play:

            1. ALL decisions of the referee(s) are FINAL

            2. Intentional handballs will be called.  Unlike FIFA rules, the ball will be given to the non-fouling             team for an  INDIRECT kick at a point safely outside of the penalty area

3. Instructions may be given by either the coach or referee after illegal throw-ins. The player will have   up to two attempts to complete the throw-in properly before the ball is given to the other team for their    throw-in

4. The Offside pass rule will not be enforced, however, gross violations of this rule will not result in a goal being awarded

5. Unnecessary roughness (Unsportsmanlike conduct) will not be allowed. Unlike FIFA rules, the ball will be awarded to the offended team by way of an INDIRECT kick at a point safely outside the penalty area

            6. Penalty kicks will NOT be awarded for appropriate fouls; instead, the ball will be given to the             offended team for an INDIRECT kick at a point safely outside the penalty area

            7. All players must sit or kneel for all injury time-outs.  Play will resume by way of a DROPPED ball

            8. ALL changes to the schedule must be made through the Recreation Department.

9. Soccer is sometimes played in inclement weather.  Unless notified that games have been canceled, assume the game to be played.  The final decision is left with the referee on the field. Decisions will not be made until 5:00 PM weekdays, and 11:00 am on weekends, after which coaches will be notified

10. Absolutely no jewelry may be worn, all players must be in uniform, with shirts tucked in, and socks pulled up. Note: The “blousing” of shirts is considered a contravention to this rule and is NOT allowed  

            11. No spectators or coaches will be allowed behind the goal area

If you have any questions please call The Recreation Department between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on weekdays at 525-5437.

revised 7/31/2008