COASTAL YOUTH SOCCER LEAGUE
CONSTITUTION, BY-LAWS and GAME RULES
Amended October 2012
CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE 1: NAME
a. The Organization shall be known as the Coastal Youth Soccer League. Here-in referred to as the CYSL.
ARTICLE 2: PURPOSE
a. The purpose of the CYSL shall be to foster the development of soccer. Promote sportsmanship and goodwill between members and to formulate uniform regulations and controls within the Organization.
ARTICLE 3: AFFILIATION
a. The CYSL shall be affiliated with Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, United States Youth Soccer Association, United States Soccer Federation and Federation De Internationale Football Association.
ARTICLE 4: MEMBERSHIP
a. The geographic area of the CYSL shall encompass the towns of Carver, Cohasset, Duxbury, Halifax, Hanover, Hingham, Hull, Kingston, Marshfield, Middleboro, Norwell, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton and Scituate.
b. The Membership of the CYSL shall consist of the following Associations: Carver YSA, Cohasset YSA, Duxbury YSA, Halifax YSA, Hanover YSA, Hingham YSA, Hull YSA, Kingston YSA, Marshfield YSA, Middleboro YSA, Norwell YSA, Pembroke YSA, Plymouth YSA, Plympton YSA, Sacred Heart YSA and ScituateYSA.
c. New Associations may be admitted by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the CYSLMembers.
d. Any Association may be expelled by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the CYSL Members.
e. Any Association may withdraw from the CYSL providing notice is given in writing six (6) months in advance of CYSL spring play.
f. Member As sociat ions wi l l have one vote at any CYSL meet ing.
g. Member Associations shall submit the name of its Registrar to the CYSL Registrar.
h. Member Associations shall submit the names of its Town President, Town Coordinator, Referee Coordinator and Statistician to the CYSL Executive Committee.
ARTICLE 5: BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
a. There shall be a CYSL Board of Directors consisting of one designated Representative from each of the Member Associations. Herein referred to as the BOD, Member Associations shall submit and maintain a list of Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Representatives.
b. There shall be an Executive Committee of the BOD consisting of a President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Registrar. Here-in referred to as the EC. Members of the EC shall be elected by a majority vote of the BOD Representatives or their designated alternates.
c. Nominations for EC positions will be accepted during September. Elections to EC positions will take place the first week in October. Newly elected officers will assume their positions at the conclusion of the election.
d. All EC Officers shall serve for two (2) years. The President, Second Vice President and Treasurer and shall be elected in even numbered years; the First Vice President, Secretary and Registrar shall be elected in odd numbered years. Even and odd years are determined by the Spring Season. For example, the 2008-2009 CYSL season is an ODD year since the Spring Season takes place in 2009.
The President will appoint individuals to fill vacant EC positions until an election is held.
e. Executive Committee officers may also hold committee appointed paid positions within the League.
f. The League Referee Coordinator is appointed by the Massachusetts State Referee Committee or the CYSL Executive Committee, and shall be an advisor to the Standards Committee.
g. The League Statistician is appointed by the EC and approved by the CYSL BOD each year. This position may be a paid position, with amount approved each year as part of League budget.
ARTICLE 6: DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND DEFINED APPOINTED
POSITIONS
a. The President shall preside at all meetings of the BOD and EC, call all regular and special meetings, appoint and maintain contact with working groups or ad hoc committees and represent the CYSL at meetings with State and National
federations. The President will, subject to the approval of the BOD, appoint a Standards Committee, a Competition Committee and other committees as required. The President shall vote only to break ties at regular and special meetings of the
BOD. The President shall have the authority to carry out the policies established by the CYSL.
b. The 1st Vice President shall generally assist the President and assume the President’s duties in his/her absence. The 1st Vice President shall chair the Standards Committee and other committees at the discretion of the President. The 1St Vice P resident shall receive all referee reports of misconduct and keep records of such misconducts.
c. The 2nd Vice President shall generally assist the President and assume the 1St Vice President’s duties in his/her absence. The 2nd Vice President shall chair the Competition Committee and other committees at the discretion of the President
d. The Secretary shall keep an accurate record of all meetings, attend to all correspondence, send out notices and prepare and distribute a current listing of Member Association Representatives, Executive Committee Members and Committee Chair persons. At scheduled meetings, the secretary will have the past year’s minutes available.
e. The Treasurer shall receive and disburse all monies at the direction of the BOD. He/she must keep an accurate record of all monies received and disbursed. He/she must submit a report at all quarterly meetings and when called upon to do so at any meeting of the BOD or EC.
f. The Registrar shall receive, review and validate all U12 and older team rosters used in connection with team play and register all teams with State/National Associations as may be required by these By-Laws. The Registrar may validate additional Player Registrations and Pass Cards.
g. The Referee Coordinator shall be responsible for recruiting, training and developing referees within the CYSL. He/she shall be responsible for scheduling referees for CYSL Tournaments, Jamborees and Play-off games.
h. If an EC member does not attend meetings for three consecutive months, the BOD may review and vote to determine if that member should continue in their position.
i. The Statistician will maintain game results and standings for the CYSL season, including playoffs.
ARTICLE 7: MEETINGS
a. The BOD will meet at least monthly starting in August through June. A meeting schedule will be set for next 12 months starting at the August meeting.
b. The President may call special meetings at any time. The President must call a special meeting, upon written request, from four, or more, Member Associations. The written request must clearly state the object of the meeting. The President shall
be responsible for notifying all BOD members of any special meeting. The 1st Vice President will assume these duties in the absence of the President.
c. All BOD meetings shall be open except in cases where issues of a personal nature may be the subject.
d. All BOD and EC decisions will be by majority vote unless otherwise stated. A quorum for BOD meetings will be 9 voting Association Members, 4 Members for EC meetings.
e. Except as otherwise provided for in these by-laws, all questions shall be decided by a simple majority of votes cast. In case of doubt as to procedure, Roberts Rules of Order shall govern
f. The President shall call a meeting of the EC at any time necessary to conduct League business. President must hold a meeting within seven (7) days of written request signed by a minimum of four (4) EC members.
g. The President or in the absence of the President the 1st vice President, shall call a meeting of the EC twice a year in May and October. President must hold a meeting within seven (7) days of written request signed by a minimum of four (4) EC members.
ARTICLE 8: AMENDMENTS
a. Amendments to the Constitution and/or by-laws may be made at any meeting of the BOD by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the CYSL Members provided that notice of the proposed change has been submitted in writing to all members of the BOD at least
thirty (30) days prior to the meeting.
b. Amendments to CYSL Game Rules may be made at any meeting of the BOD by a Two-thirds (2/3) vote of the CYSL Members.
ARTICLE 9: FEES
a. Annual fees shal l be paid by each Member Associat ion to the CYSL
b. Fees and budget shall be determined by the EC and approved by the BOD.
c. Fees shall be for the sole purpose of meeting operating expenses and verified by the EC.
ARTICLE 10: BY-LAWS AND GAME RULES
a. The BOD may from time to time enact by-laws and Game Rules, which shall be binding upon all CYSL teams at scheduled CYSL games.
BY-LAWS
1. LEAGUE-TEAM ORGANIZATION
a. There will be a First Division and/or Second Division in the U12 through U19 age groups. A Third Division or a non MTOC eligible Division cannot be added without BOD approval. Ul0 will be the Third Division.
b. If an Association has one or more teams in a sex/age group, then one team must be entered into the First Division unless the Competition Committee makes a recommendation to move a team to Second Division based on the Divisional matrix. The matrix will be formed utilizing requests for team placement, past League results, CYSL scheduling formats, and will be presented to the BOD in
December and January. Changes in team placement may be made by the Competition Committee until the final schedule is completed.
c. An Association may appeal to the Competition Committee for placement adjustments. Request for adjustments must meet deadlines set by the Competition Committee. Deadlines may be adjusted at regular scheduled league meetings by the Competition Committee to coincide with their meeting schedule. Requests for adjustments must be provided to the Competition Committee in writing. An Association may include any other material they feel is relevant in a request.
2. TEAM COMPOSITION
a. Each Association shall be divided into Girls and Boys Divisions by age groups as specified by the Leagues Committee requirements for the MTOC. Associations may appeal to the Competition Committee for an exception.
b. All rostered players shall reside within that town or Association. Request for player waiver must be brought before the Competition Committee for approval. Rosters used at all CYSL U12 and older sanctioned competitions must bear the signature of both the Association Registrar and the CYSL Registrar.
c. Dual Rostering. No player may simultaneously play on more than one CYSL team during the season. If a player is detected playing on a second CYSL team, the matter shall be referred to the Standards Committee.
i. Dual rostering refers to a player over the age 14 as of the immediately preceding August 1st, playing for more than one team in a CYSL sanctioned soccer competition or for a team in the CYSL and a team which does not compete for a MTOC championship (such as MAPLE).
ii. Players age 14 and younger as of the immediately preceding August 1st, may play on a CYSL team and a team which is not competitive with CYSL (such as MAPLE) in the same season.
iii. Dual rostering eligibility is based on the player’s age, not the age group of the team on which the player is rostered.
d. Rosters, for all teams U12 and older, must be signed by the Association Registrar or President and submitted to the League Registrar for validation prior to use. Rosters must be typed or computer printed resembling a MA Youth Soccer official
roster and containing the same information. Rosters with white out or tape over will not be accepted. A player may not play until rostered, the roster bears the validation signature of the League Registrar, and the player has been issued and completed a current Pass Card.
e. Roster Deadlines
i. Preliminary Rosters for all teams U10 and older, must be submitted to the League Competition Committee by the second League meeting in January.
ii. Final Spring Team Rosters for all teams U12 and older, must be submitted to the League Registrar for validation prior to the fourth Saturday in March. The League Registrar may adjust submittal deadlines but in no event past the beginning of CYSL league play. Changes in deadlines will be announced at a CYSL regular meeting and be recorded in the minutes. Spring Team Rosters submitted to the League Registrar for validation must have the minimum of 7 players in accordance with CYSL Game Rule 8.
iii. Teams in competition for MTOC must submit to the League Registrar, for validation, an updated roster with no more than 18 players fourteen days (14) prior to the Mass Tournament of Champions (MTOC) roster freeze date as established by the MA Youth Soccer Leagues Committee and announced at a CYSL league meeting. This is the ‘MTOC roster”. This roster shall be limited to 18 players listed in alphabetical order by last name. For any MTOC roster that has in excess of 18 names at the roster freeze date, the first 18 players will be retained and the remaining players shall be removed by the League Registrar.
f. Roster Changes
After the Competition Committee receives Preliminary Rosters and initiates its meetings to determine team placement in the league matrix, all Roster adds and transfers must be submitted to and approved by the Competition Committee. Roster changes after the fourth Saturday in March (see Spring Team Roster Deadlines, Paragraph ii above) will be limited to three (3) player adds or transfers per team.
The following exceptions apply:
i. Players previously not affiliated with MYSA during the current soccer year (September 1st through August 3 1st) may be added to a roster, up to the roster maximum, at any time by submitting a request to the Competition Committee.
ii. If, during the course of a season, a team does not have enough players to continue a season, a written request from that Association President to the Competition Committee can be made to effect additional player adds or transfers.
iii. All rosters submitted to the League Registrar for validation after a roster freeze shall bear the date of Competition Committee approval and the initials of the Association Registrar or President in the lower right hand corner
3. TEAM SIZE
a. All players must be MYSA registered for the current year. Players may not appear in any game without being MYSA registered and rostered. All MYSA registrations must be filed promptly. All MYSA registrations must include the appropriate approvals.
b. For CYSL play only, including playoffs, an Association may place and play more than 18 players on a 11 v 11 roster as long as they do not exceed the following age group limits:
U14
– 21 players U18 – 25 players
U16
– 23 players U19 – 25 players
c. For CYSL play only, including playoffs, an Association may place and play not more than 15 players on a 8 v 8 roster
d. An Association can apply to exceed the age group roster limit(s). Request must be made in writing to the Competition Committee. The Competition Committee mustapprove all waiver requests.
4. PLAYER POOL
a. If a Member Association has MYSA registered players within an age group in which that Association does not have sufficient numbers of players to field a viable team, the Association may request that these registered players be assigned to the CYSL Player Pool. Copies of the player’s registration forms must be provided if requested by the Competition Committee and/or the CYSL Registrar.
b. The Competition Committee will develop guidelines and procedures as necessary to administer the Player Pool, subject to BOD approval. The CYSL Competition Committee will develop viable teams by merging the MYSA registered players of two or more Member Associations. The Competition Committee will present these teams before the CYSL Board of Directors prior to first March CYSL meeting for their approval by simple majority vote.
c. No player will be assigned from the player pool without Competition Committee approval. Any games played with a pool player not approved by the Competition Comm. may be subject to forfeit.
5. AGE LIMITS
Age Groups for September 1, 2009 - August 31, 2010
Two year age grouping for 2009/2010 Season:
UNDER 19 Born on or after AUG 1, 1990 & Younger
UNDER 18 Born on or after AUG 1, 1991 & Younger
UNDER 16 Born on or after AUG 1, 1993 & Younger
UNDER 14 Born on or after AUG 1, 1995 & Younger
UNDER 12 Born on or after AUG 1, 1997 & Younger
UNDER 10 Born on or after AUG 1, 1999 & Younger
6. SEASON
a. References made to a season will mean the period between September 1 through August 31.
b. Organized CYSL scheduled spring games will begin the last Saturday of March or the first Saturday of April.
c. The optional Fall Recreational games will begin on the third Saturday in September.
7. STANDARDS COMMITTEE
a. The Standards Committee will consist of eight (8) members, including the 1st Vice President, with a #1 and #2 alternate. The CYSL First Vice President will chair this committee. A member of the EC will chair this committee in cases where the 1st Vice President’s Association is involved. Names of potential members will be submitted to the First Vice President along with outline of youth soccer experience. The First Vice President will submit a list of his committee to the CYSL BOD for approval. The CYSL 1st Vice-President will chair this committee and only vote to break ties. All members must be registered with MYSA.
b. The Standards Committee will hear and rule on all protests, reports of misconduct, and complaints in regard to officials, coaches, players or Member Associations and/or their representatives. The Standards Committee will request written reports from the Referee and both coaches involved. The Standards Committee may question the parties involved (Referee, coaches, etc.) and/or may invite testimony from others. In cases where the referee report indicates a serious misconduct may have occurred (in the opinion of the Standards Committee), the Standards Committee Chairperson will cause an investigation to take place by the Standards Committee prior to passes being returned.
c. A member of the Standards Committee shall be disqualified from participating, deliberating, or ruling on a particular protest if that member was involved in the game as a referee, coach, or is the relative of an involved referee or coach, has a relative playing on team(s) involved, or is from an Association involved. In such instances one of the Standards Committee alternates will sit.
d. Initial hearing process must begin within 14 days of receipt of complaint. The Standards Committee Chairperson will notify the involved parties as soon as possible. Deliberations and final decision may be made in closed session. The Standards Committee will render a final decision within sixty (60) days of receipt of complaint. Standards Committee decisions are final and not subject to CYSL appeal. Appeals may be filed with MYSA
e. At least one Association member must be changed on the Standards Committee each year.
f. The Chairperson will keep a record of all reports forwarded to the Standards Committee and will return all passes after reviewing the referee report. Passes will be returned to the Association Member or a designated Association official.
g. The Standards Committee may recommend to the CYSL Board of Directors such penalties, up to and including banishment from the league for life, for act(s) of misconduct by a player or coach. Lesser penalties may be imposed.
8. COMPETITION COMMITTEE
a. The Competition Committee will consist of seven (7) members, including the 2nd Vice President, and shall be members of the EC or Primary Association Members from Member Associations. The CYSL 2nd Vice-President will chair this committee and only vote to break tie votes. The CYSL Registrar and League Statistician shall be members of this committee. CYSL 2nd Vice- President will submit committee member’s names to the BOD for approval.
b. The purpose of the Competition Committee is to develop even competition. The Competition Committee will establish placement of teams and seeds within each division of play in accordance with By-law #1. The Competition Committee will also establish the formats and seeds for the CYSL Playoffs and Tournaments.
c. The Competition Committee will have the right of access to team’s records for all games played with MYSA affiliation.
d. The Competition Committee will have the option to review changes made to team rosters and have the authority to deny roster changes.
e. The Competition Committee will administrate the CYSL player pool .
f. If the committee has two or more members from the same association, the association will have only one vote during committee proceedings.
g. At least one Association member must be changed on the Competition Committee each year.
9. PROTEST
a. A rules violation may be protested, a referee’ s judgment cannot .
b. Any dispute must be communicated to the Chairman of the Standards Committee or an Executive Board Member within 72 hours of the incident.
c. A fee of $100.00 must accompany the formal written protest, which must be signed by the Association President and postmarked no more than 7 days after incident or a shorter period of time at the discretion of the Standards Committee Chairperson. This written protest must be addressed to the Chairman of the CYSL Standards Committee. The protest fee shall be forfeited should the protest not be sustained.
CYSL GAME RULES
Current FIFA, USYSA and MYSA rules shall be in effect except as specifically stated in these rules. The CYSL Standards Committee will be the final authority on any point covered by the game Rules, FIFA, USYSA or MYSA rules.
1. CYSL STANDINGS
a. During CYSL play. Teams will be awarded points as follows:
Win = 3 points, Tie = 1 point, Loss = 0 points
b. In the event of a forfeit, the team forfeiting receives 0 points: the other team receives 3 points.
c. Crossover games with another section do not count in CYSL standings.
d. The CYSL Statistician will maintain a record of all scores, results and standings.
e. Each Member Association must appoint an Association Statistician who will obtain the results from all games involving that Association each weekend. The Association will forward all results to the League Statistician during the week following the games. A Member Association will be subject to a $50.00 fine for game results not received within 10 days of the scheduled game unless such game is postponed or cancelled by the CYSL. Associations must report all postponements within same ten days.
f. All games count in the special eight game schedule.
2. BALL
a. The host team shall provide a regulation game ball; #4 for U10 & U12 teams and #5 for U14 to U19 teams.
3. UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
a. Uniforms and equipment will consist of numbered shirts, shorts, socks, and suitable Soccer shoes or sneakers. In cases where the colors conflict, the home team must wear an alternate color shirt or pinnie. All shirts must have clearly legible numbers
on back or the original number must be clearly visible through the pinnie with no duplicate numbers. Players will be allowed to wear sweat clothes under their uniforms only if sweat clothes match the colors submitted to league.
b. A player shall not wear anything that is considered by the Referee to be dangerous to themselves or to other players. Players will not be allowed to wear any of the following: earrings, finger rings, barrettes of any type, wrist watches, wrist chains, neck chains, shoes with metal cleats, or casts of any type.
c. S h i n - g u a r d s a r e m a n d a t o r y
d. Players who must wear glasses during the game must wear a glass strap.
e. The following is a list of the traditional colors for CYSL Towns and Associations. Any uniform color change must be submitted to CYSL BOD for approval, which will not be unreasonably withheld.
Association Colors
Carver cranberry
Cohasset blue / white
Duxbury green / white
Halifax silver / red
Hanover yellow
Hingham white / red vertical stripes
Hull blue / gold
Kingston red/black
Marshfield white / green
Middleboro orange / black
Norwell yellow / navy blue
Pembroke red / white / blue
Plymouth navy / red/ black
Plympton silver / black
Sacred Heart purple
Scituate blue / blue
4. PLAYER PASSES
a. Signed Pass cards will be used for all League games excluding U10’s. Passes must be typed and certified (signed) by each Association Registrar or President. Pass cards for all players and coaches require a photograph and ‘lamination” no later than May first (1st). Validated signed Rosters are required for U10’s
b. Pass cards and two copies of MYSA team roster must be submitted to the referee before each game. If cards and/or rosters are not available, team has until the end of the game to produce missing documents. If they are not available at game’s end, forfeit will be declared against the team without documentation.
c. The Referee will insure that the MYSA team rosters and player pass cards match the players dressed for the game. The Referee will keep all players’ pass cards until after the game. In the event of a red card or other ejection, the Referee will retain ejected player(s) pass card(s). The referee shall forward the pass cards and a game report to Standards Committee within three (3) days. Referees will sign each team’s roster, indicate the final score and give a copy to opposing coaches.
d. Teams must have a carded coach present at each game, whose responsibilities shall include maintaining control and discipline over the team. Coaches will be issued a coaches pass card with a maximum of three (3) per team. In the event a team appears without a carded coach, a clearly responsible adult substitute, twenty-one (21) years of age or older, with positive identification, will assume the coaching responsibility. The referee shall note the person’s name, address and telephone number on the game roster.
5. SUBSTITUTIONS
Substitutions may be made at the following times with permission of the referee. a. Prior to a throw-in by either team providing the team making the throw-in substitutes and substitute players are already at midfield ready for substitution.
b. Prior to a goal kick by either team.
c. After a goal by either team.
d. After an injury by either team, as allowed by the referee.
e. At half time.
6. INJURED PLAYER
An injured player must be substituted when he/she is down and the referee stops the play. Goalkeepers are exempt from this rule. The injured player may return to the game on the nextsubstitution.
7. LENGTH OF GAMES AND OVERTIME PERIODS
a. Group Game Overtime for Playoffs Tournaments
Under 19/18 Two 40 Minute Halves Two 5 Minute Halves
Under 16 Two 40 Minute Halves Two 5 Minute Halves
Under 14 Two 35 Minute Halves Two 5 Minute Halves
Under 12 Two 30 Minute Halves Two 5 Minute Halves
Under 10 Two 30 Minute Halves Two 5 Minute Halve
b. In play-off or tournament play, if the game is still tied after the overtime periods.FIFA “Kicks from the Penalty Mark” rules will apply in order to determine the winner.
c. FIFA Kicks from the Penalty Mark will be administered as follows. The Referee shall toss a coin and the team whose Captain wins the toss must take the first kick. Each team shall take five (5) kicks from the Penalty Mark. Kicks shall be taken alternately by different players.
d. If, after both teams have taken five (5) kicks, both have scored the same number of goals, or have not scored any goals, five (5) additional kicks shall be taken in the same order until one team has scored a goal more than the other from the same number of kicks. Players taking the penalty kicks must be on the field at the end of overtime play.
8. GAME TIMES AND FORFEITS
a. The referee and teams should be present at the playing field 20 minutes prior to the scheduled start of game. Teams that have not arrived at the playing field 20 minutes after the scheduled start shall forfeit the game.
b. A minimum of 7* players must be present to begin play. If 7* players are not present 20 minutes after scheduled start, a forfeit win is awarded to the team with 7* or more players. If both teams have 7* or less players 20 minutes after the scheduled start, then a forfeit loss is assessed to both teams. The referee will notify the CYSL Statistician and CYSL Vice President within 48 hours of the forfeited match. After the 20-minute forfeit, a game may be played for the benefit of the players present and the good of the game. Forfeited games shall not be rescheduled. 6* players for U12, 8v8 competition.
c. For U10, U12, and U14, when the referee does not arrive within 20 minutes after scheduled start, the two coaches shall agree upon a qualified person to serve as a substitute Referee and play game.
d. For U16 to U19 games, when the referee does not arrive within 20 minutes after scheduled start, both coaches will determine if a qualified person is present to serve as a substitute referee, and appoint that person to officiate the game. If coaches use a qualified person to officiate the game, the game may not be protested on that basis. If no substitute can be found the game must be re-scheduled. Rescheduling is difficult so every effort should be made to play the game as scheduled.
e. In case of a forfeit, each coach must notify both Town Associations within 24 hours of the scheduled game. The Town Association must provide a written notice of the forfeiture to the Standards Committee within 7 days of the scheduled game.
f. Teams committing a no show forfeit the day of the game will be fined $50.00. Teams forfeiting with notification prior to the date of the game will be fined $20.00.
g. A $300.00 fine will be charged to any Association that withdraws a team from play after week one of season.
h. The association of a MTOC eligible team will be responsible for those fees.
9. CANCELED & RESCHEDULED GAMES
a. FIELD UNPLAYABLE: Town Coordinators will make the decision if a field is in unplayable condition due to weather prior to 7:00 AM, Saturday, 11:00 AM Sunday or 2 hours before the first game, whichever is earlier. The Town Coordinator will then notify the appropriate home team coaches and Town Referee Coordinator. The Town Referee Coordinator will notify the assigned referees. Home team coaches are responsible for immediately notifying the visiting team coach. If you cannot contact the visiting coach two hours prior to a rained out game, then please be at the field to notify the visiting coach. Unless notified by the Town Coordinator or home team coach, teams must report to the scheduled field where the decision to play is made by the assigned referee. Any canceled games in the month of April must be played before May 15. Any canceled games in May or June must be played before the last game of the season. Forfeits will result if the above procedure was not followed or games are not played within the make up period. An appropriate fine (8f) is charged when a game is forfeited.
b. HALTED PLAY: In the event of electric and/or thunderstorms, the game shall be stopped for the duration of the storm. Re-starts are solely the referee’s decision. If the game cannot be restarted, it shall be replayed. Any halted games in the month of April must be played before May 15, any halted games in May or June must be played before the last game of the season. Forfeits will result if the game is not played within the make up period. An appropriate fine (8f) is charged when a game is forfeited.
c. MEMORIAL DAY: An Associations number one (1) team may reschedule Memorial Day weekend games if they have nine (9) or less players for 11 v 11; six (6) or less players for 8v8. Notification of postponement must be made by the first Saturday in May. All other teams will be allowed to reschedule the Memorial Day weekend game if their entire team is entered in a Memorial Day soccer tournament. Coaches postponing the game must notify their town coordinators, who must provide in writing, to the SC, the name of the tournament(s) and players participating. Any games rescheduled for Memorial Day weekend must be played before Memorial Day. Forfeits will result if the reporting procedure and rescheduling procedure is not followed or the make up game is not played within the make up period. An appropriate fine (8f) is charged when a game is forfeited.
d. SCHEDULING PROCEDURES FOR ALL MAKE UP GAMES: Home coach will provide the away coach and each Town Coordinator with a list of three (3) different dates and times within 5 days of initial notification. The away coach must respond within 5 days of receiving the dates. If the coaches cannot agree, Town Coordinators must attempt to resolve the dispute. If the Town Coordinators cannot agree to a date, the matter will be forwarded to the Standards Committee. Notice of the Standards Committee decision shall be given in writing to both teams.
10. PLAY-OFF GAMES
a. The playoff matrix will be setup by the Competition Committee but may be adjusted by the Executive Committee because of rain and ties in sections to expedite the schedule. Changes will be communicated to the Town Association.
b. The playoff sites chosen by the league are neutral sites even if one of the team is from that town. The league appoints all referees.
c. If the top teams in any First Division section finish the program with a tied record of points, a play-off game or games will be scheduled to break the tie. The Executive Committee will schedule these games at a neutral site and provide the officials. These decisions are usually made on the Monday after the season ends at a league meeting. Decisions will be communicated to the Town Associations. Games will be scheduled within two weeks after the end of the season depending on field and referee availability. The winning team will proceed to the State First Division Tournament.
d. If the top teams in any Second Division section finish the program with a tied record of points, a play-off game or games will be held on a neutral field before the CYSL Second Division Tournament to determine the section entrant. The Executive Committee will schedule these games at a neutral site and provide the officials. A large number of ties in a particular age group could cause changes in the playoff schedule. These decisions are usually made on the Monday after the season ends at a league meeting. Decisions will be communicated to the Town Associations.
e. All teams finishing first, including ties, will receive Coastal League Champion Patches, or Pins.
11 . REFEREES
Referees shall be certified by the USSF and registered. For all U 19 and for U16 games there shall be a referee and two referee linesmen. For other games, the home team must provide linesman, preferably adults. Club linesmen will only call the ball out of play. The referee will make all other decisions.
12. AUTOMATIC PENALTIES CARD (5) IN A SEASON
RED
Player receiving a Red Card will be expelled from the game with no substitution.
First - One game suspension assessed the next scheduled game whenever played.
Second - Two game suspension
Third - Suspension for the remainder of the season and the individual must appear before the Standards Committee prior to being allowed to play or coach during the next season.
YELLOW (and/or RED)
Player receiving a Yellow Card must be substituted, but may reenter game.
Two in one game, a one game suspension.
Three, a seasonal accumulation of Yellow and/or Red, one game suspension.
Four, a seasonal accumulation of Yellow and/or Red, a two game suspension.
Five, a seasonal accumulation of Yellow and/or Red, suspension for the remainder of the season. Individual must appear before Standards Committee before being allowed to play or coach during the next season. If the individual feels there are mitigating circumstances, he or she may appeal the case to the CYSL Standards Committee.
13. FRACASES OR UNBECOMING CONDUCT: If a player leaves the sidelines to participate in a fracas and it is so noted by any game referee, then that player shall be suspended. In addition, a report shall be forwarded to the Standards Committee, which could result in banishment from further league play. If any member on a team engages in unbecoming conduct which is brought to the League’s attention, the Standards Committee will investigate and apply appropriate penalties.
14. . REFEREE SUPPORT AND CONTROL OF SPECTATORS: The Coastal Youth Soccer League has adopted a Zero Tolerance Policy, which is included in the booklet. All Member Associations have agreed to follow this policy.
a. Team Officials, coaches and managers, are to maintain the highest Standards of conduct for themselves, their players and supporters at all match. Abusive and obscene language, violent play, violent conduct, fighting and other behavior detrimental to the game, will not be tolerated.
b. Team Officials, coaches and managers, must fully support the referee at all times. In cases where the fans are, in the opinion of the referee, getting out of hand (verbal abuse to the referee, opposing players, coaches or opposing spectators) the referee has the power to stop the game and ask the appropriate coach to get his or her fans under control. In no case, will the referee deal directly with a spectator. If after the appropriate coach has tried to comply with the referee’s request and the problem still exist, the referee can terminate the game and make a full report to the Standards Committee Chairman. In cases where the spectator affiliation cannot be determined, it is up to the home team coach to address the situation. If the situation is not corrected, the referee can terminate the game.
c. In the case where the referee terminates the game, the referee will forward a report to the CYSL Standards Committee. The CYSL Standards Committee will recommend all penalties. Penalties may include playing all away games, suspension of team from the league to playing without spectator support. For the particular game, the CYSL Standards Committee may decide to award points to either of the team or neither of the teams based on their evaluation rather than replay the game.
d. If a team official, coach or manager is “sent off” from the field for conduct, he/she will receive an automatic 3 game suspension. Such suspension will apply to the team that the person was coaching at the time of the ejection. Should there not be enough games remaining in the regular season and playoffs for that year, such suspension will carry over into the following CYSL season. The Standards Committee reserves the right to impose further action including a suspension from other teams based upon a review of the circumstance, e.g. referee report, witness statements, etc.
e. All coaches and non-playing players must stay on their own half of the field, at least 5 yards from the midfield line. Substitute players waiting to enter the game should wait on their own half of the field at the midfield line. Players and coaches may not enter the field of play unless invited by the referee.
f. Spectators are expected to stay five (3) yards from the touchline. No spectators allowed behind goals or end lines.
15. GAME TIMES
Field limitations of a town may cause time changes, so be sure to call opposing coaches to confirm game time and fields. The Home coach is responsible for notifying the visiting coach of time changes, field changes and rain postponements.
SUGGESTED GAME TIMES: GIRLS
Saturday S u n d a y
U10 - 9:00 AM U12 – 10:15 AM U16 1:00PM
U14 - 11:30 AM U18/19 4:00 PM
SUGGESTED GAME TIMES: BOYS
Saturday S u n d a y
U10 - 1:00 PM U12 – 2:15 PM U16 2:30PM
U14 - 3:30 PM U18/19 4:00PM
U10 GAME RULES
Below are the rules for the U10 program. These rules are based on a recommended program from the USYSA plus additions by a CYSL U10 Committee. The purpose of the program is to provide an atmosphere where the players feel free to try a lot of different techniques without being concerned about winning or losing. Coaching emphasis should be skills and ball control by the individual player. Fewer players are being put on a small field to ensure that each player has a lot of touches of the ball. By extending the small field concept to the Ul0s, we expect the players to have better skills at the U12 level when they should begin to learn tactics.
LAW I: THE FIELD
A. DIMENSIONS:
The field of play shall be rectangular, with a suggested length of 60 yards and a width of 40 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. Fields will vary.
B. MARKINGS:
1. Distinctive lines not more than 5 inches wide.
2. A halfway line shall be marked across the field.
3. A center circle with a radius of 8 yards.
4. Four corner arcs with a 1 yard radius.
5. Goal area - 6 yards from each goal post and 6 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
6. Penalty area - 14 yards from each goal post and 14 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
C.GOALS
Maximum 7 feet high and 21 feet wide.
Minimum size of 7 feel high and 12 feet wide.
Size will vary.
LAW II: THE BALL SIZE FOUR (4)
LAW III: NUMBER OF PLAYERS
A. Maximum number of players on the field at any one time: seven (7) one of whom must be designated as a keeper.
B. Substitution:
1. Prior to a throw-in by either team providing the team making the throw-in makes a substitution and substitute players are already at midfield ready for substitution.
2. Prior to a goal- kick by either team.
3. After a goal by either team.
4. After an injury by either team, when the Referee stops the play.
5. At half time.
C. Playing time: EACH PLAYER SHALL PLAY A MINIMUM OF 50% OF THE TOTAL PLAYING TIME.
D. CYSL rule #2 except co-ed acceptable if no other roster slot available
E. CYSL recommends a maximum roster size of 15. This should allow adequate playing time for all.
F. All teams competing in U10 must be level picked.
LAW IV: PLAYERS EQUIPMENT
Conform to FIFA
LAW V: REFEREE
A . Registered Referee
B . All rule infractions shall be explained to the offending player providing it does not interfere with the “flow” of the game.
LAW VI:
ASSISTANT REFEREES:
Use club linesmen/women.
LAW VII:
DURATION OF GAME:
A. The game shall be divided into 2 equal halves of 30 minutes each.
B. Half-time break shall be 5 minutes.
LAW VIII
: THE START OF PLAY: Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards from the center mark while the kick-on is in progress.
LAW IX: BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY:
Conform to FIFA.
LAW X: METHOD OF SCORING
Conform to FIFA.
LAW XI: OFF-SIDE:
Conform to FIFA.
LAW XII: FOULS AND MISCONDUCT
An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when, a goalkeeper handles the ball within his/her penalty area and throws, punts, or kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with the goalkeepers side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. If a goalkeeper dribbles the ball outside the penalty area or does not play the ball with the hands, then the kick may cross the midfield. An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when a goalkeeper and/or field player, when making a goal kick, kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with his/her side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. In both cases, the indirect free kick will be taken at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.
LAW XIII: FREE KICKS:
Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away before kick is allowed.
LAW XIV: PENALTY KICKS:
Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away before kick is allowed.
LAW XV: THROW IN
Conform to FIFA.
LAW XVI: GOAL KICK:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that the goal kick cannot go directly beyond the midfield line. The penalty for kicking the ball directly beyond the midfield line is an indirect free kick awarded to the opposing team at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.
LAW XVII: CORNER KICK:
Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away from the ball.
GENERAL RULES
Opposing coaches and players should shake hands after each game. Participation awards for ALL - no trophies or awards just for the best team. Game results will be kept for league jamboree use and not be published. All U10 teams will participate in the U10 JAMBOREE on the 10th weekend of the season.
U12 8v8 GAME RULES
Below are the rules for the U12 8v8 program. These rules are based on a recommended program from the US Youth Soccer plus additions by a CYSL Board of Directors. Advantages of playing small sided games:
• More time with coach.
• Energetic workouts due to playing both offense and defense.
• More efficient use of field space.
• Matches can be played simultaneously across a full size field.
• Children are physically more efficient in smaller space.
• Children are actively involved for a longer period of time.
• It takes less time to score a goal or advance to goal.
• Greater success rate for the players.
LAW I: THE FIELD
A. DIMENSIONS: The field of play shall be rectangular, with a suggested length of 70 yards and a width of 55 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. Fields will vary.
B. MARKINGS:
1. Distinctive lines not more than 5 inches wide.
2. A halfway line shall be marked across the field.
3. A center circle with a radius of 8 yards.
4. Four corner arcs with a 1 yard radius.
5. Goal area - 6 yards from each goal post and 6 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
6. Penalty area - 14 yards from each goal post and 14 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.
7. Penalty marc is ten (10) yards from the center of the goal line.
8. Penalty arc with a radius of eight (8) yards.
C. GOALS: 6 feet high by 18 feet wide.
LAW II: THE BALL: SIZE FOUR (4)
LAW III: NUMBER OF PLAYERS
A. Maximum number of players on the field at any one time: eight (8) one of whom must be designated as a keeper.
B. S u b s t i t u t i o n :
1. Prior to a throw-in by either team providing the team making the throw-in makes a substitution and substitute players are already at midfield ready for substitution.
2. Prior to a goal- kick by either team.
3. After a goal by either team.
4. After an injury by either team, when the Referee stops the play.
5. At half time.
C. Maximum roster size of 15. CYSL recommends a roster size of 13. This should allow adequate playing time for all.
D. The minimum number of players to begin a match is six (6).
LAW IV: PLAYERS EQUIPMENT
: Conform to FlFA
LAW V: REFEREE
Registered Referee
LAW VI: ASSISTANT REFEREES
Use club linesmen/women.
LAW VI: DURATION OF GAME:
A. The game shall be divided into 2 equal halves of 30 minutes each.
B. Half-time break shall be 5 minutes.
LAW VIII: THE START OF PLAY:
Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards from the center mark while the kick-on is in progress.
LAW IX: BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY
Conform to FIFA.
LAW X: METHOD OF SCORING:
Conform to FIFA.
LAW XI: OFF-SIDE:
Conform to FIFA.
LAW XII: FOULS AND MISCONDUCT:
An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when, a goalkeeper handles the ball within his/her penalty area and throws, punts, or kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with the goalkeepers side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. If a goalkeeper dribbles the ball outside the penalty area or does not play the ball with the hands, then the kick may cross the midfield. An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when a goalkeeper and/or field player, when making a goal kick, kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with his/her side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. In both cases, the indirect free kick will be taken at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.
LAW XIII: FREE KICKS
Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must be 8 yards away before kick is allowed.
LAW XIV: PENALTY KICKS:
Conform to FIFA with the exceptions that the penalty mark is ten (10) yards from the center of the goal line and those players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight (8) yards from the penalty marc.
LAW XV: THROW IN:
Conform to FIFA.
LAW XVI: GOAL KICK:
Conform to FIFA with the exception that the goal kick cannot go directly beyond the midfield line. The penalty for kicking the ball directly beyond the midfield line is an indirect free kick awarded to the opposing team at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.
LAW XVII: CORNER KICK:
Conform to FIFA with the following exception: Opponents must 8 yards away from the ball.
