This organization shall be known as the UNITED SOCCER ASSOCIATION, INC., a non-profit public educational organization incorporated in the State of Florida, hereinafter referred to as "USA" or "the Association."

 

The purpose of the association shall be to provide a scheduling body for those clubs wishing to affiliate, to promote the welfare of the youth and adults involved in youth soccer; to promote good sportsmanship for and from all involved in youth soccer; to encourage educational courses, clinics and instruction for the purpose of increasing the knowledge and efficiency of those involved in youth soccer, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion or sex; and, to engage in all other acts it may be legally permitted to do.

 

The representative colors of USA shall be red, white and blue.

 

This Association shall be affiliated with the United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), through the Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA). The area represented by USA is located in Region C of FYSA. This Association may also affiliate with other soccer associations upon vote of the Board of Directors.

 

The Association shall be governed by its Constitution, Bylaws and Rules and Regulations except when these provisions are superseded by the governing authority of the USYSA, or the FYSA.

 

a) AUTHORITY: The governing authority of USA shall be vested with the Board of Directors and/or the Executive Committee of the Association whose power shall be defined in this Constitution and the By-laws.

 

b) DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS: The Board of Directors shall be comprised of the PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT SENIOR BOYS, VICE PRESIDENT JUNIOR BOYS, VICE PRESIDENT GIRLS, SECRETARY, TREASURER, IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT, REFEREE LIAISON and CLUB PRESIDENTS of member clubs in good standing.

 

c) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors shall be comprised of the PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENTS, SECRETARY, TREASURER, the immediate Past President and the Referee Liaison. In addition, the President may, but is not required to, appoint up to two (2) representatives from member Clubs to serve as full voting AT LARGE members of the Executive Committee, subject to ratification by the full Board of Directors.

 

d) DECISIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: All decisions of the Executive Committee shall be binding unless over-ridden by the full Board of Directors at the next meeting of the full Board of Directors following the decision of the Executive Committee. At each Board of Directors’ meeting, the President shall announce all Executive Committee decisions made since the last Board of Directors’ meeting.

 

e) FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS: No elected officer, appointed official, committee chairman, special agent, or any other USA representative may obligate funds of the Association for any reason or cause without the approval of the Executive Committee or the Board of Directors.

a) MEMBERSHIP BY CLUBS: Membership in USA may be by either affiliated clubs or associated clubs membership. All clubs wishing to compete in the USA league must elect to be either affiliated or associated members on or before the date of registration of teams in league play.

 

b) MEMBERSHIP PROCEDURES: The Executive Committee will establish the procedures, rules, and fees required for USA affiliation, to be ratified at any regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors.

 

c) ADHERENCE TO THE RULES: All members and affiliated clubs shall abide by the Constitution, Bylaws and Rules and Regulations and amendments thereto, as well as those of the USYSA, FYSA, AND ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION with which this Association is affiliated.

 

d) MANDATORY REGISTRATION:

1.      All member clubs and clubs that affiliate with USA must register all their players with FYSA.

2.      All TEAMS must register with USA through their respective clubs.

 

The Annual General Meeting shall be in the month of May for the purpose of electing officers and to transact any other business which shall come before the meeting, including, but not limited to, the amendment of the Constitution, Bylaws and/or the Rules and Regulations of this Association. The FYSA Region C Vice President shall be notified of the time and place of the Annual General Meeting.

 

a) CLUB VOTING:

1.      Each affiliated club in good standing shall receive one (1) vote for each team affiliated with this Association when voting on changes in the Constitution and Bylaws. Only clubs that have affiliated with USA prior to the start of the season shall be eligible to vote at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.

2.      On all matters not specifically described in 08-a-1 above, each affiliated club in good standing shall receive one (1) vote. Each affiliated club may exercise their vote on matters affecting only the Girls program, only if the club has at least one girls team entered in USA. Only clubs that have affiliated with USA prior to the start of the season shall be eligible to vote at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.

 

b) INDIVIDUAL VOTING: Each member of the Executive Committee shall be entitled to one (1) vote. The President may vote only in the case of a tie.

 

c) PROXY: A Club President may assign his vote by written PROXY, which must be submitted to the Secretary before voting. Such proxy may be good for the year.

 

d) ASSUMPTION OF OFFICE: The newly elected officers will assume office immediately following their election at the Annual General Meeting at which they were elected.

 

e) GOOD STANDING: For purposes of eligibility to vote, good standing shall mean that the Club has i) paid all fees, fines and assessments owed to the Association; ii) maintained the requirements of Section 101(a) of the By Laws; and iii) has otherwise complied with the Constitution, By Laws and the Rules and Regulations of the Association.

 

09 AMENDMENTS

 

a) TIMING: Amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws of USA will be made at the Annual General Meeting in May, unless otherwise specified below or in the Bylaws of this Association.

 

b) ADOPTION: An amendment shall be deemed adopted by an affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the voting membership as defined in the Bylaws that are present and voting.

 

c) PROPOSALS TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS: Proposals made by the Executive Committee shall be posted on the USA website at least 20 days in advance of the May meeting. Proposals may be submitted by any other member club representative and shall be submitted to the Executive Committee no later than the April Executive Committee meeting for posting on the USA website. When the President determines that an emergency situation exists, he may entertain motions to amend the Constitution and Bylaws of the Association at any time. After ten (10) calendar days, these motions may be voted on at any regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors.

 

d) RULES AND REGULATIONS: Rules and Regulations may be amended at any regular meeting provided written notice of the proposed amendments have been distributed at the immediately preceding regular meeting or mailed to all members at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting at which the vote will take place.

 

a) MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR AFFILIATION: A club may be either affiliated or associated one seasonal year upon request, and upon application by and acceptance of any of its teams for scheduling by USA, and compliance with the following;

 

1.      Payment of all fees;

2.      Documentation of;

3.      Affiliation with FYSA;

4.      Sufficient number of qualified referees to adequately officiate club games;

5.      Any additional conditions or fees contained in these Bylaws or which the Board of Directors may impose for individual teams and/or clubs as a result of prior violations of the letter or the spirit of the USA Constitution, Bylaws or Rules and Regulations.

6.      Associated membership shall be defined as non-voting members of USA. Clubs electing the Associated Club membership will not be required to attend monthly meetings other than the annual coaches meeting and will have no voting rights.

 

b) FEES: All USA team fees shall be payable at a time determined by the Executive Committee. Teams/ Clubs will not be eligible for any scheduled competition sanctioned by the Association unless all fees are paid.

 

c) CLUBS HAVING THREE (3) OR FEWER TEAMS: Clubs having three (3) or fewer teams affiliated with FYSA (regardless of the number registered with USA) shall post a performance bond in an amount to be determined by the Executive Committee, to insure full compliance with all Rules and Regulations and to insure said teams complete all required matches.

 

d) FIELDS: Clubs must have home fields and goals which comply with the sizes required by FYSA, or, if more restrictive, as set forth by the Executive Committee. USA reserves the right to inspect the home fields of any affiliate and, should a majority of the Executive Committee determine that said field(s) are unplayable or unsafe, require that affiliate to play all of its games as "away" games. The decision of the Executive Committee shall be final on this issue. Home fields for all affiliates must be located within FYSA Districts C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4 or C-6, except as follows: The Executive Committee may establish central sites at any location in Region C for league play for any Age Group or Division.

 

All bank checks, drafts and money orders submitted to the Association shall be made payable to UNITED SOCCER ASSOCIATION or USA. No cash transactions will be accepted. Checks must be "Club" checks from FYSA affiliated clubs. NO PERSONAL CHECKS WILL BE ACCEPTED. The Executive Committee may establish procedures for payment over the internet.

For the purpose of administration, the seasonal year for USA operations and activities is defined as commencing August 1 and ending July 31 annually.

 

a) PRESIDENT: The President shall be the chief executive officer of the Association and shall preside at all USA meetings and may vote only in the case of a tie; appoint standing committees and their chair annually; and perform all other responsibilities as directed by the Board of Directors.

 

b) VICE PRESIDENT SENIOR BOYS: The Vice President Senior Boys shall, in the absence of the President, perform all duties of the President; shall act as the Senior Boys director (U-15 thru U-19) and preside at all Senior Boys meetings; and, shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him by the President, the Executive Committee, or the Board of Directors.

 

c) VICE PRESIDENT JUNIOR BOYS: The Vice President Junior Boys shall, in the absence of the President and the Vice President Senior Boys, perform all duties of the President, shall act as the Junior Boys Director (U-9 thru U-14) and preside at all Junior Boys meetings; and, shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him by the President, the Executive Committee, or the Board of Directors.

 

d) VICE PRESIDENT GIRLS: The Vice President Girls shall, in the absence of the President, the Vice President Senior Boys and the Vice President Junior Boys, perform all duties of the President; shall act as the Girls Director and preside at all girls meeting and, shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him by the President, the Executive Committee, or the Board of Directors.

 

e) SECRETARY: The Secretary shall maintain an accurate record of all meetings, handle correspondence, provide notice of all meetings as required, maintain files of the association, post the meeting minutes on the USA website and, shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him by the President, the Executive Committee, or the Board of Directors.

 

f) TREASURER: The Treasurer shall maintain records and receipts of all monies received by the Association and deposit same in a recognized bank or other financial institution in the name of the Association; shall assure that all accounts are paid by check and that all checks bear TWO (2) signatures designated by the Executive Committee; shall obtain the specific approval of the Executive Committee for any non-budget expenditure in excess of $500.00 -, shall produce all financial records when required by the Executive Committee to be properly balanced and to reflect the financial status of the Association; shall submit a financial report summary at each scheduled meeting and a written financial report at the Annual General Meeting of the Association; shall be responsible for preparing any and all financial documents required by the State of Florida or related to the tax exempt status of the Association.

 

h) REFEREE LIAISON: The Referee Liaison shall act as a liaison between the Association and the Referee organization. The Referee Liaison shall investigate matters concerning referees and report to the Executive Committee his/her findings..The Referee Liaison shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him by the President, the Executive Committee, or the Board of Directors.

 

i) AGE GROUP COORDINATOR: Each Age Group shall have two Age Group Coordinators, one for girls and one for boys. The Age Group Coordinator shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Executive Committee. One person may be the Age Group Coordinator for more than one group. The duties of each Age Group Coordinator (AGC) shall be as follows:

 

1.      U-9 through U-14 AGC’s shall attend all monthly Board meetings from September through March and shall attend the AGM.

2.      U-15 through U-19 AGC’s shall attend all monthly Board meetings from July through November and shall attend the AGM.

3.      Post scores on the Website by Tuesday following the weekend play.

4.      Communicate to all team representatives any matters brought up at the monthly meeting that may affect their team.

5.      Approve and coordinate all game rescheduling and other special events or meetings as required.

6.      Recommend Division placement as set forth in the Rules and Regulations.

7.      Attend the Annual Coaches meeting.

8.      Attend the AGC preparation meeting for the Annual Coaches meeting.

9.      Organize the spring league, as applicable to the AGC.

10.    Be familiar with the USA Constitution, By Laws and Rules and Regulations.

11.    Inform the applicable Vice President of any rulings made.

 

j) PROJECT COORDINATOR: The Project Coordinator is a paid position, appointed by the Executive Committee on a year to year basis. The Project Coordinator shall oversee and coordinate all Association meetings and special events, programs and projects. The Project Coordinator is expected to attend all USA Board and Executive Committee meetings as an ex-officio member.

 

k) LEAGUE SCHEDULER: The League Scheduler is a paid position, appointed by the Executive Committee on a year to year basis. The League Scheduler shall oversee and coordinate all scheduling of league play, shall maintain game results and standings, shall maintain records of sanctions and keep track of all yellow cards and red cards issued in League play. In addition, The League Scheduler shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him by the President, the Executive Committee, or the Board of Directors. The League Scheduler is expected to attend all USA Board and Executive Committee meetings as an ex-officio member.

 

l) RESIGNATION, DEMISE OR REMOVAL: In the event of the resignation, demise, removal or permanent incapacitation of any officer or appointee, the Executive Committee or President, as applicable, shall appoint a replacement to fill the un-expired term.

 

m) ADVERSE CONDUCT: Conduct prejudicial to the best interests of the objectives of the Association, or nonfeasance, misfeasance, or malfeasance with regards to official USA duties will be cause for removal of a member of the Board of Directors and/or Executive Committee, provided that such allegations are brought to the Board of Directors and that the member so charged is notified of the allegations in writing, hand delivered or postmarked at least fourteen (14) days in advance of any meeting where such allegations are to be discussed or acted upon. Any member of the Board of Directors and/or Executive Committee who is arrested by law enforcement officials or indicted for commission of any felony, as defined by the laws of Florida, shall be automatically suspended until said charges are resolved or until his term expires and the President shall appoint a temporary replacement for the suspended member.

 

n) VOTING: No member of the Board of Directors or the Executive Committee may vote on any disciplinary matter or protest involving any player, coach, team or affiliate involving his home club.

 

o) TERM OF OFFICE: Each elected officer shall hold the office for a term of two years. The President, Vice President Senior Boys and Secretary elected in odd numbered years and the Vice President Junior Boys, Vice President Girls and Treasurer elected in even numbered years.

 

a) REGULAR MEETINGS: Regular meetings of USA shall be held at least monthly at a time and place determined by the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may cancel the December meeting upon notice to the Board of directors at the November meeting. Each Club President, or his or her proxy, shall attend all regular meetings. Each proxy shall be delivered to the Association on a form approved by the Association.

 

b) ANNUAL MEETING: Annual Meetings shall be as set forth in the Constitution.

 

c). EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: The Executive Committee shall meet on a regular basis, whenever the President deems it necessary, or whenever the President is instructed in writing to do so by at least two (2) members of the Executive Committee.

 

d) QUORUM: At all meetings of the Board of Directors or the Executive Committee a Quorum shall be a majority of those entitled to appear and vote.

 

e) RULES OF ORDER: Robert’s Rules of Order shall be the Parliamentary authority for all meetings of the Association unless otherwise agreed to by the membership or required by the USA Constitution, Bylaws or Rules and Regulations.

 

f) MEETING LOCATIONS: Except for occasional special events, all meetings shall be held at a location within FYSA Region C.

 

a) STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRMANSHIPS AND COORDINATORS: The President shall annually appoint the following, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee;

1.      Chairman of the Rules and Regulations Committee

2.      Chairman of the Protests and Appeals Committee

3.      Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee

4.      Referee Liaison

 

b) COMMITTEES: Whenever the President deems it necessary, or when instructed to do so by the Executive Committee or the Board of Directors, he shall appoint AT LARGE members to a committee and instruct the Chairman to convene the committee as soon as possible to deal with the assigned issue. When the committee has reached a decision on the assigned issue, it will make a recommendation to the Executive Committee and the AT LARGE members will be excused.

 

c) DISCHARGE: Each Standing Committee Chairperson and Coordinator shall be discharged annually at the end of the Annual General Meeting in May. Standing Committee Chairpersons and Coordinators may be re-appointed.

 

a) PROCEDURE: All protest and appeals shall be filed with the person duly appointed by the Association to receive such appeals and protests, together with a filing fee in the form of a check or money order payable to the Association in the amount of $100. In the event the protest or appeal involves another member, the person filing the appeal shall also serve a copy of the protest to the Club President of the member. In the event the protest or appeal is granted in all or part, the filing fee shall be refunded to the person or member who filed the appeal or protest.

 

b) MATTERS SUBJECT TO APPEAL OR PROTEST: Only matters which relate to the Constitution, Bylaws and Rules of the Association; disciplinary actions imposed in league play, results of competitions sanctioned by the Association, specifically published rules for a competition, the misapplication of the LAWS OF THE GAME or matters relating to the Bylaws and Rules of FYSA shall be subject to Appeal and/or Protest. Judgment calls of the referee are not subject to appeal or protest.

 

c) HEARING AND NOTICE: The Executive Committee of the Association shall hear all protest and appeals. The Association shall provide notice of the time, date and place of the hearing to the person or member that filed the appeal or protest and any other affected member at least five (5) days prior to the hearing. Service on a member shall be made upon the Club President. Any notice may be made by e-mail, facsimile or mail. All hearings shall be conducted informally, unless otherwise required by the Bylaws or Rules of FYSA. All interested parties shall have the right to present evidence prior to any decision by the Executive Committee.

 

d) APPEALS FROM DECISIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Any decisions of the Executive Committee are subject to review by the Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting, but only if an interested party notifies the President of the Association and all other interested parties at least five (5) days prior to such regularly scheduled meeting. Such notice may be made by e-mail, facsimile, or mail.

 

Any interested party may appeal a decision of the Board of Directors for a decision by the Affiliates at the Annual General Meeting of the Association, but only if an interested party notifies the President of the Association and all other interested parties, at least ten (10) days prior to such annual meeting. Such notice may be made by e-mail, facsimile, or mail.

 

e) APPEALS FROM THE DECISIONS OF THE ASSOCIATION: Only those matters subject to the jurisdiction of the FYSA may be appealed to the FYSA and only to the Bylaws and Rules of the FYSA.

 

f) LIMITATIONS OF CIVIL ACTIONS, COSTS AND ATTORNEY FEES: No member, member or either the Affiliate or Associate, player, parent, official, team, club, referee or other person or entity shall invoke the aid of any court or tribunal without first exhausting all of the available remedies provided herein and by the Bylaws and Rules of the FYSA.

 

If any such member, member or either the Affiliate or Associate, player, parent, official, team, club, referee or other person or entity (hereinafter refereed to as the “Offending Party”) fails to exhaust such available remedies before seeking the aid of any court or tribunal, the Offending Party shall pay the Association its reasonable expenses including attorney fees and compensate any officer or the Association at the rate of $40/hour for the time spent that is reasonably related to such court or tribunal proceeding including travel expenses. The Offending Party may be subject to suspension from the Association and any other discipline as permitted by the Bylaws and Rules of the Association.

 

The Executive Committee shall have the vested responsibility, right and authority to:

1.      Reprimand, suspend, bar completely or otherwise discipline any player, coach, team manager, or assistant coach and/or any affiliated team or club for violations of the USA or FYSA Constitutions, Bylaws, or Rules and Regulations unless the full Board of Directors acts to modify or rescind the disciplinary measures within 45 days of the Executive Committee decision.

2.      Interpret and Enforce the USA Constitution, By-Laws, and Rules and Regulations.

3.      Budget for and administer the FUNDS of the Association.

4.      Adopt TEMPORARY RULES and REGULATIONS for situations not provided for by the Constitution, By-Laws or existing Rules and Regulations; or deemed necessary and desirable in order to serve the best interests and objectives of the Association.

 

Should the UNITED SOCCER ASSOCIATION be dissolved, all assets remaining after payment of all debts shall be transferred to an appropriate 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization for the express purpose of developing and promoting amateur youth soccer.

 

The Rules and Regulations and operating procedures contained herein shall govern all affiliated or associated members of the United Soccer Association (USA). The United Soccer Association adopts the FYSA Rules of Competition and should any of these rules conflict with the FYSA Rules, and be less restrictive than the FYSA Rules, the FYSA rules shall prevail.

 

a) AFFILIATED/ASSOCIATED MEMBER’S RULES: Clubs must submit their Constitution, By-Laws, and Rules and Regulations for review and approval by the USA Executive Committee, if not approved by the FYSA.

 

b) VIOLATORS: Any player, coach, team manager, club, league official, or official of this Association determined to have violated the Constitution, By-Laws, or Rules and Regulation of the USA shall be subject to disciplinary action by the Executive Committee pursuant to Section 1.08 of the Bylaws, subject to review of the USA Board of Directors.

 

c) RESPONSIBILITY: Each team is responsible for the action and personal conduct of its team members, team manager, coach, parents and spectators; and is additionally responsible to ensure that its actions ON and OFF the field do not bring discredit upon the team or this Association.

 

d) FURTHER RESPONSIBILITY: All USA affiliated club officials are responsible for governing the conduct and actions of those individuals associated with their organizations.

 

e) BOARD MEETINGS: Three absences from Regular Meetings of the board of Directors by an affiliated club during the year proceeding the Annual General Meeting that are un-excused by the Executive Committee shall result in that club being in bad standing and ineligible to vote at the AGM. The club may regain good standing and eligibility to vote by paying the fine for missed absences as set by the Executive Committee.

 

a) DEFINITION: For purpose of definition, the Constitution, By-Laws, and Rules and Regulations of this Association apply to FYSA and USA affiliated amateur youth players on teams within age groups up to NINETEEN (19) years. "YOUTH" shall refer to any player who has not attained his/her NINETEENTH (19) birthday before the LAST DAY OF JULY (7/31) of the seasonal year in which he/she applies for registration.

 

b) AGE GROUPS: Age groups shall be as determined by FYSA and/or USYSA rules and regulations.

 

c) FORMAT:              Under 9                                   6v6      Academy format

                                   Under 10                                 6v6      competitive format

                                   Under 11                                 8v8      competitive format

                                   Under 12                                 8v8      competitive format

                                   Under 13 thru Under 19    11v11     competitive format

 

 

a) REGISTRATION REQUIRED: All players on teams affiliated with USA are required to be properly registered with FYSA.

b) DOCUMENTATION: Each team shall complete and submit to USA:

1.      USA affiliation form and fees.

2.      A bond, if required by action of the Executive Committee, Board of Directors and/or the Bylaws.

 

c) TEAMS WITH SAME NAMES: All teams that have the same club name must be separately identified by either a numerical suffix or a different team name. The same club name/team name combination may not be used for more then one team in the same age group.

 

d) RESPONSIBILITY: Each team/club shall be responsible for assuring the accurate and proper registration of players, affiliation of teams, the proper account of fiscal transactions, and reporting to the District Commissioner and Executive Committee of the Association.

 

e) DOCUMENT FALSIFICATION: Falsification of player registration form, team roster forms, or other records of the FYSA or the USA shall be subject to DISCIPLINARY ACTION, up to and including permanent suspension of the individual(s) involved.

 

f) IGNORANCE OF THE LAW: A plea of ignorance to the Constitution, By -Laws, or Rules and Regulations of this Association is not deemed a sufficient defense, and violators will be required to account for their actions to the Executive Committee and/or Board of Directors.

 

g) PLAYER PASSES/COACHING PASSES: ALL players and coaches must have a valid laminated FYSA player pass available for inspection at the time of team check-in along with proper team roster and/or guest player form to participate in a USA Game. Should a player or coach participate in a game  and not be properly registered, or possess a pass as required herein, his/her team shall automatically forfeit the contest 3-0 to the opposing team, and may be subject to disciplinary action by the Executive Committee of the Association, depending on the circumstances of the violation.

 

h) Any U-8 Boys Team (majority of players are under 8) playing in the U-9 Division shall post a $250.00 bond to assure completion of all league games without any forfeits. Any U-9 Girls team (majority of players under 9) playing in the U-10 Division shall post a $250.00 bond to assure completion of all league games without any forfeits.

 

i) Any club may be subject to a $250.00 fine per game for any team which fails to complete all league games without forfeits.

 

a) TEAM ROSTER:

1.      No team shall have more than eighteen (18) players in U-13 thru U-16 age groups; no more than twenty (22) players in the U-17 thru U19 age groups; no more than 14 players in U-11and U-12 age groups; no more than twelve (12) players in U-10 age groups. The U-9 age groups will be based on Academy play, and there may be no more than twelve (12) players per each team slot registered for the club. U-17 thru U-19 age groups must submit a game day roster listing only eighteen (18) players for participation to the referee prior to the starting of the match.

2.      A team requesting USA scheduling shall have a minimum 11 registered players for age groups U-13 thru U-19; 8 registered players for age group U-11; and 6 registered players for the U-10 age groups. U-9 age groups will be based on Academy play, and the club must have a minimum of 6 players for each team slot requested for U-9.

3.      A Verified Team Roster, or FYSA Event Roster, reflecting the team’s then current players shall be the FYSA team roster as printed from the FYSA protected website by the Club Representative.

4.      During regular league play, a player may only play with his/her primary team, with the exception of a I) a player multiple rostered to both a U-14 and U-15 team; or II) a player who is a guest player as defined by subsection a) 5 below. No team may have more than 3 multiple rostered players. The exception to this is for the U-9 age groups, which may have unlimited rostered players, based on Academy format rostering.

5.      During regular season play and for all age groups, and U-11 through U-19 team may have up to (3) “guest players” from within the team’s Club, and any U-9 or U-10 team may have up to two (2) “guest players” from within the team’s Club, in conformance with the specific rules adopted by the Board of Directors from time to time and posted on the website and subject to the following:

a.       A guest player may play a maximum of two games per day.  The guest player may participate in one game with the player’s rostered team and one game as a guest player, or two games as a guest player.  At no time can a guest player participate in more than two games per day.

b.      A guest player may only guest play from one team in a Club, in which the player is either a recreational (such as GYSA or TARSA) or USA League team player, to another team in a Club as set forth in specific criteria adopted by the Board of Directors and posted on the website.

c.       Any guest player must be reported on a guest player form delivered with the game report and team roster and player passes at check-in to the referee.

d.      The coach must provide the referee with a completed FYSA “Guest Player Form” as found on the FYSA website under Registration / Forms.

6.      The Under 9 age groups will play in an Academy Format, with all players at the same club registered to 1 team code. Each club will determine, based on the total numbers of U-9 players registered, the number of team slots they will register with the league. There may be no more than 12 players per team slot, and no fewer than 6 players per team slot, registered. The League will form schedules for U-9 age groups based on the number of teams/team slots requested by all affiliates. Game for U-9 teams will use an FYSA event roster with the players for that game identified, as well as appropriate player passes for each player. The event roster for each game must contain between 6 and 12 players.

GUEST PLAYER SPECIFIC SITUATIONS:

1.      U-11's through U-19's:  Club has an “A” team and a “B” team in the same age group in the USA League, with the A team being the team in the higher division.   

·     Player from B team may guest on the A team. 

·     Player from B team may guest play on Club’s team in an older age group, whether that team is an A or B team. 

·     Player from A team may guest play on Club’s team in an older age group, whether that team is an A or B team.

·     Player from A team may not guest on the B team.

·     Player from B team that is “playing up” may guest play on age appropriate team (play down), whether A or B.

·     Player from A team that is “playing up” may guest play on age appropriate team (play down), but only on an A team.

2.      U-11's through U-19's: Club has two teams in the same Division in the USA League.  Club must designate one team as the A team (generally team with better record from previous year) and one team as the B team.

·         Player from B team may guest on the A team. 

·         Player from B team may guest play on Club’s team in an older age group, whether that team is an A or B team. 

·         Player from A team may guest play on Club’s team in an older age group, whether that team is an A or B team.

·         Player from A team may not guest on the B team.

·         Player from B team that is “playing up” may guest play on age appropriate team (play down), whether A or B.

·         Player from A team that is “playing up” may guest play on age appropriate team (play down), but only on an A team.

·         Player from Club recreational team may guest play on A team or B team.

3.      Club has two or more teams in Under 9 or Under 10 in the USA League.

·         Players may guest play back and forth between the two teams in the age group.

·         Players may guest play up to either team.

·         Players may guest play to age appropriate team.

·         Players from Club recreational team may guest play on any age appropriate team.

4.      U-11's through U-19's: Club has teams in different age groups.  Younger age group team is in a lower division than the older age group team.

·         Player from younger age group may guest play for team in older age group.

·         Player from older age group may not guest play for team in younger age group.

·         Player from Club recreational team may guest play on either team.

5.      U-11's through U-19's: Club has teams in different age groups.  Lower age group team is in a higher division than the higher age group team.

·         Player from younger age group may guest play for team in older age group.

·         Player playing up in older age group may guest play for team in younger age group.

·         Player from Club recreational team may guest play on either team.

6.      U-11's through U-19's:  Club has teams in different age groups.  Lower age group team is in the same division as the higher age group team.

·         Player from younger age group may guest play for team in older age group.

·         Player playing up in older age group may guest play for team in younger age group.

·         Player from Club recreational team may guest play on either team.

b) PLAYER TRANSFER or RELEASE: shall be as determined by FYSA.

 

c) POACHING: Any team which, through its coach, authorized officials or representatives, attempts to induce a registered player of any other team under this Association’s jurisdiction to transfer or otherwise leave his/her team prior to the end of the seasonal year, shall be deemed to have committed a "POACHING" offense and shall be subject to disciplinary action. The specific definition POACHING shall be as defined by FYSA from time to time.

 

d) POACHING PENALTY: Any club officer, referee, coach, or team representative determined by the Board of Directors to have engaged in POACHING, shall be disciplined by SUSPENSION from USA affiliation and activities for a minimum of one (1) year, with notification of such actions made to the FYSA. On any recurring offense the penalty shall be determined by the Board of Directors, but may never be less then a minimum of ONE (1) YEAR suspension.

 

a) APPLICABILITY: These rules apply to general competition among USA teams and clubs.

 

b) PURPOSE: The intent and purpose is to insure that player registration, team/club affiliation, age grouping, as defined previously; as well as general rules of play, player equipment, disciplinary and other actions are applied UNIFORMLY and consistently among all affiliates, thus attaining standardization throughout this Association.

 

a) GENERAL: Except where modified herein, Rules of Play shall be FIFA "Laws of the Game." Competition sanctioned by this Association shall abide by the "Laws of the Game " along with any modifications or regulations of the FYSA or USA.

 

b) BEHAVIOR: Officials, directors, and coaches of both teams are RESPONSIBLE to ensure that teams, coaches, fans, and spectators conduct themselves in a proper and respectful manner.

1.      There shall be no ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES allowed on or near the playing field during any game under this Association’s jurisdiction.

 

c) THE FIELD:

1.      The home team will be responsible for the CONDITIONS of the grounds, field markings, and equipment.

2.      Nets and corner flags are REQUIRED.GOALS MUST BE ANCHORED!

3.      The referee assigned for that particular game shall determine the PLAYABLE CONDITION of the field. If the game cannot be played due to UNPLAYABLE CONDITIONS, the HOME TEAM is responsible for notifying their Club Commissioner or scheduler so that the game may be rescheduled.

4.      It is the responsibility of the VISITING TEAM’S COACH to determine the directions to the playing field and to confirm times each week.

5.      PLAYERS and COACHES of BOTH teams shall be on the same side of the field prior to and during the entire match. A COACH must be present from each team during the entire match. SPECTATORS shall be on the OPPOSITE side. Spectators are not allowed on the playing field until BOTH  TEAMS LEAVE THE FIELD.

 

d) LENGTH OF GAME, OVERTIME, AND BALL SIZE:

1.      Shall be as determined by FYSA and USYSA.

2.      It shall be the responsibility of BOTH TEAMS to have an appropriate game ball.

3.      The referee shall be responsible for the selection of the game ball(s).

e) PLAYER PASSES:

 

1.      ALL players and coaches affiliated with the USA shall have a VERIFIED FYSA PLAYER PASS, or a FYSA COACHING PASS in order to participate in USA scheduled competition. A temporary FYSA player pass is acceptable provided it is valid i.e., must be signed by the District Commissioner, player s picture affixed, and an expiration date that is current.

2.      Individual Presentation: All players shall individually present their player pass to the referee prior to the start of the game.

3.      Pass Disposition: Player and coaches passes are to be RETURNED to the team manager or coach at the conclusion of the game, except for a pass belonging to a either a player or coach who was EJECTED.

4.      Failure to Produce a Pass: If a player does not present a player pass to the referee prior to the game, he/she shall not PLAY in the game, and may be asked to LEAVE the TEAM BENCH area by the referee.

5.      Red Cards: The Player or Coaching Pass of a player or coach who was ejected shall be retained by the Referee, who shall send the Player or Coaching Pass to the Vice President of the applicable division with the game report and supplemental report. The Coach will notify the Vice President of the applicable division of the players or coach who was ejected via the RED CARD WEBSITE in order to expedite processing of suspensions. The Vice President shall either assign the number of games of suspension if the minimum is assigned, or convene the Disciplinary Committee for any other proposed suspension. The Vice President shall return the Player or Coaching Pass to the Team once evidence has been presented to the Vice President on official game reports that the suspension has been completely served.

 

f). PLAYER’S UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT:

1.      Contrasting Colors: Where colors of competing teams are IDENTICAL or SIMILAR, the designated home team must effect a CHANGE of COLORS distinct from their opponents.

2.      Goalkeeper’s Uniform: ALL goalkeepers must wear a RECOGNIZABLE jersey, which shall not be the same color as either team’s uniform shirts.

3.      Uniform Numbers: Player’s uniform numbers are to be affixed to the back of the uniform shirt. No TWO PLAYERS from ONE TEAM may have an IDENTICAL UNIFORM NUMBER while both are playing on the field at the same time. Numbers must be a minimum of six (6) inches in height.

4.      Illegal Equipment: In accordance with the "Laws of the Game," the referee shall be responsible to insure that no player wears anything which may cause INJURY to himself or to another player.

5.      Casts and Braces: Players wearing an ORTHOPEDIC CAST (plaster or fiberglass) shall not be ELIGIBLE to participate in ANY GAME. Orthopedic Braces may be allowed if:

a.       The player has a written statement from a physician stating that he/she feels the brace is necessary and that no further injury is likely to occur to the joint which is supported by the brace, AND;

b.      The parent has signed a waiver to free FYSA of any claim against FYSA and its insurance company in case of further injury to the joint protected with the brace.

c.       A player may be removed from the game if at anytime the referee determines a player is using or attempting to use the brace to injure another player.

6.      Protective Equipment: ALL PLAYERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR PROTECTIVE SHIN GUARDS (to be worn beneath their game socks) at all times while actively participating in PRACTICE or a GAME. Such shin guards shall be of the type and style of protective athletic equipment specifically designed to protect the player’s lower leg (SHIN BONE).

7.      FOOTWEAR: Footwear will meet all of the requirements of LAW IV of FIFA "LAWS of the GAME" including matching socks for all field players, excluding goalkeepers. The referee is charged with the responsibility to inspect footwear prior to the kickoff and later if necessary. The referee shall determine whether or not footwear meets the required standards of safety.

 

g). REFEREES:

 

1.      Report Forms and Roster Card: The referee shall require that both teams enter ALL the appropriate information on the league game report form prior to the start of the game and both coaches shall sign the Game Report at the end of the game. The coaches from both teams shall supply a copy of the Verified Team Roster, or Event Roster or game day roster for U-9 age groups, to the referee for inclusion with the Game Report. A Verified Team Roster, or Event Roster/Game Day Roster for U-9 age groups, shall be be the FYSA team roster as printed from the FYSA protected website by the Club Representative.

2.      Verification of Documents: The referee shall verify the identity of each player by his/her PLAYER PASS and shall collect the passes of those players who intend to participate. The referee shall also require each coach or team manager to sign the game report, verifying the accuracy of the information entered on the form.

3.      Player Eligibility: The referee will allow participation of only those players whose names appear on the Verified Team Roster, or in a guest player form, or an Event Roster/Game Day Roster for U-9 age groups, and for whom he/she has collected player passes.

4.      Equipment Check: The referee shall check and make certain that each player’s equipment is in proper order.

5.      Post-Game Actions: Upon completion of the game, the referee shall RETURN the player and coaching passes to the respective coaches or team managers, except for the passes of any EJECTED (Red Carded) players or coaches. The referee will retain the team rosters and guest player forms presented at check-in along with the referee copy of the game report and forward these documents to the applicable Vice President.

6.      Cautioned and Ejected Players/infraction Report: In games where the referee was USA assigned and a player or coach was CAUTIONED (Yellow Carded) or EJECTED (Red Carded), the referee will complete the supplemental report and MAIL it, along with the player/coaching pass for any player that was ejected from the game, along with a copy of the game report, team rosters and any guest player forms, to the applicable USA Vice President, or other person designated on the form, within forty eight (48) hours of the conclusion of the game. The referee must also file their supplemental report online at the USA Red Card website within forty eight (48) hours of the conclusion of the game.

7.      Other Incidents: It is the referee’s responsibility via his game report, to report any unusual incident created by PLAYERS, COACHES, or SPECTATORS which might bring discredit to the game or the USA.

8.      Referee Absence: In the event the assigned referee fails to appear, the coaches of the respective teams may find and must agree on an alternate and the GAME shall be PLAYED OFFICIALLY as SCHEDULED. If the coaches cannot agree then the game shall be rescheduled. Once the coaches agree and the game is started, the game must be completed.

9.      Number of Referees: 6v6 games shall have one referee. 8v8 and 11v11 games shall have a center referee and two assistant referees.

10. Referee Failure: Failure of a Referee to abide by procedures set forth above shall not invalidate any game or the effect of any cards issued during the game.

 

h) GIRLS SOCCER-USE OF ARMS: Girls may use their arms, in a defensive manner for the protection of their UPPER THORAX.

 

i) SUBSTITUTIONS:

1.      Procedure: Players may be substituted only during a stoppage of the game, and then, only with the consent of the referee. The number of substitutions shall be unlimited and may be made at the following times:

a.       Prior to a throw-in in your favor.

b.      Prior to a goal kick by either team.

c.       After a goal has been scored by either team.

d.      After an injury by either team, when the referee has stopped play.

e.       Between periods.

a.       Following a game stoppage for a CAUTION, the player cautioned may be substituted with the consent of the referee.

2.      Substituted Player: A player who has been removed by substitution may re-enter the game.

3.      Red Card: No substitute is allowed for any player EJECTED (Red Carded) by the referee.

 

j) COACHING: Coaching from the sideline, the purpose of which is to provide direction to one’s own team on positioning and points of strategy, is conditionally permitted as followed:

1.      Bench Area: Coaches and player substitutes must remain on the bench or in the immediate vicinity of the team s bench while the game is in progress. The Bench Area may only contain up to three (3) FYSA registered non-player personnel for the team. This includes all coaches, trainers and medical personnel. In the event an injured player requires medical treatment, a medical person may come over to treat the injured player in the Bench Area. Once treatment is completed the medical person must leave the Bench Area.

2.      Mechanical Devices: Coaches may not utilize mechanical devices, such as voice amplifiers.

3.      Limitations: Coaches may provide limited direction to their players in a manner that is intended to be instructional, or informative as to player positioning or team strategy. COACHES SHALL NOT ATTEMPT TO DIRECT A PLAYER’S EVERY MOVE ON THE FIELD DURING THE GAME.

4.      Ungentlemanly Conduct: Coaches, players or player substitutes shall not use profanity or make insulting or otherwise derogatory remarks or gestures to their own team, the opposing team, the referees, or to the spectators. Cases of UNRULY and/or DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR will be reported, by the referee, to the applicable USA Vice President for action and may result in suspension or expulsion as determined by the Executive Committee and/or the Board of Directors.

5.      Enticing Ill Behavior: Coaches, players, or player substitutes shall not, by their remarks or gestures, in any manner ENTICE DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR.

6.      Punitive Measures: Coaches, players, or player substitutes violating the above rules will be subject to ejection, as well as to further disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the Executive Committee and/or the Board of Directors.

7.      Coaches Only: Only registered personnel may coach from the within the Bench Area. No parents, spectators or other individuals may coach players at any time during the game.

8.      Red Card Suspensions: It shall be the duty of the Coach to assure that any player under suspension for a red card shall not participate for the required number of games, whether or not the player pass has been returned. The Coach shall assure that the game report reflects that any player serving a suspension is noted thereon.

 

k) POST GAME PROCEDURES: Both coaches shall either call or send an e-mail to the Age Group Coordinator by 10:00 p.m. on the Monday night after the game with the score of the game. Both coaches are required to retain a copy of all their game reports until the end of the season of play.

 

l) CLUB OFFICIAL: Each home team shall have a designated Field Marshall for all league games, readily identifiable by special clothing. The Field Marshall shall assist the referee in fixing any equipment problems and shall assist in spectator control. The Field Marshall shall report to the Club, which shall report to the USA League, any altercations or incidents and the action taken to resolve. The Field Marshall should not attempt to become physically involved in any altercation, but in the event of such altercation, shall call the appropriate Law Enforcement Agency.

 

 

Disciplinary actions shall follow the rules adopted by FYSA.

 

NO RESCHEDULED GAMES: Preliminary schedules will be sent to the teams/clubs at the start of the season for review. Teams/Clubs will have one week to review the proposed schedule. In the event a team is participating in a tournament or notes that a match is unacceptable due to travel time, then an immediate request to the opposing team/club and Age Group Coordinator (AGC) and league scheduler must be made to change the proposed game date or time. Following such one week time period, the final schedule shall be posted and thereafter all games must be played as scheduled, except for games canceled to e) below or upon approval of the Executive Committee for exceptional circumstances.

 

a) FAILURE TO APPEAR: All games are to be played at field locations indicated on the schedules. No game will be accepted if played elsewhere without the prior approval of the Age Group Coordinator.

 

b) GAME TIMES: A game time on the same day may be changed with the approval of the Age Group Coordinator and Referee Assignor if such a change is made at least ten (10) days prior to the scheduled game. The Home Team Coach shall notify the League Scheduler with a copy to the AGC and Referee Assignor at least ten (10) days prior to the scheduled game. Any such rescheduled game time must be agreed to in advance by both teams and the Age Group Coordinator in order for the original game time to be changed. If the League Scheduler is not notified timely and the referees show up, the Home Team will be billed for the fees.

 

c) TIME FRAME: All rescheduled games must be replayed within 15 days of the original game date at the original game site at a time mutually agreed to by the Coaches and Age Group Coordinator. The Referee Assignor shall be notified of the revised date and time. In the event the coaches cannot agree the date and time of the rescheduled game shall be set by the Age Group Coordinator.

 

d) UNPLAYABLE CONDITIONS: In the event a game is canceled by the referee due to unplayable conditions, the Home Team shall notify the Age Group Coordinator within 48 hours and the game shall be rescheduled within the time frames set forth in subsection c) above.

 

f) DELAY OF START:

1.      Any team delaying the start of a scheduled game by more than FIFTEEN (15 ) MINUTES, unless a postponement has been effected, shall FORFEIT the game to the OPPONENT by the score of THREE (3) to ZERO (0), unless the delay was due to circumstances beyond the control of the team.

2.      By Referee: Referees who are responsible for the late start of a game, without proper cause or having failed to notify or gain permission for absence from the proper authority, will be subject to disciplinary actions, and may be called upon to explain their actions.

 

g) FORFEITS: If a forfeit occurs for failure to appear or non-compliance then a fine may be imposed upon the team and/or club.

 

h) TRAVEL TIMES: Home teams will not schedule any games before 10:00 AM involving opponents traveling more than 50 miles or 2 hours without the approval of the Age Group Coordinator.

These RULES and REGULATIONS may be AMENDED in accordance with the USA Constitution.

 

Any matters not provided for in these RULES and REGULATIONS, or those of the USSF, USYSA, FYSA, or FIFA, shall be determined by the Executive Committee or the Board of Directors of this Association.

 

The following safety rules are incorporated into the Rules and Regulations to help establish standard safety practices for players and coaches and as a reminder to referees. Coaches are urged to review these safety standards with their players.

GLASSES: Glasses should only be worn if mandatory for proper vision, shall have SAFETY LENSES and shall have a safety strap.

SHIN GUARDS: SHIN GUARDS MUST BE WORN BY ALL PLAYERS PLAYING IN THE USA league.

PROJECTIONS: Sharp projections of any type are forbidden, including ornaments, or items carried in pockets, or attached to clothing or to the person. These include, but are not limited to RINGS, BRACELETS, MEDALLIONS. NECK CHAINS, EAR RINGS, WRIST WATCHES, PENS, and PENCILS.

CASTS: Players wearing a CAST may DRESS OUT but, shall not PLAY.

DANGEROUS CONDITIONS: Dangerous conditions of play, such as substandard playing conditions, structural or electrical hazards, lightning, etc., are grounds for match postponement by the referee. These conditions must be reported to the applicable USA Vice President at the earliest opportunity.

INJURY: Any injury must be reported directly to the player’s parent(s) at the earliest opportunity. Where it is the judgment of the coach that medical attention is required, the player’s parent(s) and family physician should be notified. If this cannot be done in a reasonable amount of time, the County EMS system should be activated so that trained personnel can attend to the player’s injury.

PLAYING FIELDS: Playing fields should be policed for sharp stones, broken glass or other sharp projections. This activity should be performed by the home team.

TELEPHONE NUMBERS: Coaches should always have in their possession telephone numbers for:

1.      Player’s parent(s), both HOME and WORK.

2.      Player’s family physician.

3.      Local Police.

4.      County EMS.

5.      Ambulance Service.

 

The following system has been established for standings:

 

a) Game Points: 5 points for a win, 2 points for a tie, no points for a loss; and if no clear winner;

 

b) SECOND: Head to head competition; and if no clear winner;

 

c) THIRD: Adjusted goal differential, goals scored minus goals allowed with a maximum of plus or minus three (3) goals per game; and if no clear winner;

 

d) FOURTH: Total goals allowed, if no clear winner;

 

e) FIFTH: The tied teams will be decided by a coin toss, unless the teams involved are subject to promotion/relegation, then the tied teams will be required to play a match of regulation time for their age group; and if at the end of regulation time a winner has not been decided;

 

f) SIXTH: Two overtime periods will be played to completion; and if at the end of the overtime periods a winner has not been decided;

 

g) SEVENTH: Penalty kicks will be taken in accordance with FIFA "Taking of kicks from the penalty spot" to obtain a result.

 

h) U-9 Age Groups: No standings will be kept or reported for any U-9 age groups.

 

Placement of teams within the various Divisions of each age group shall be guided by the principals of fairness, competitiveness and balance. Balance means that to the greatest extent possible, each team in a Division will play each of the other teams within that Division the same number of games during the league schedule. This may not be entirely possible for the lowest Division within an age group due to uneven numbers of teams within the age group.

 

U-9: Under 9 age groups will play in an Academy style format. Each affiliate wishing to enter U-9 teams will determine the number of team slots, “U-9 teams”, they wish to enter based on the total number of players registered. Groups will be determined, with the number of groups decided by the Executive Committee, based on the number of U-9 teams registered. Each group shall be divided into groups of an equal number of teams, to the extent practicable. Group placement shall be based solely on Geographical placement. Requests for specific groupings, to place teams from the same affiliate into separate groups can be made during the annual coaches meeting or to the Executive Committee. Such requests will be subject to the ability to form equal groups based upon geographical location.

No groups may be allowed to be formed for play outside of a regional format for reasons of competition or alleged strength of teams etc.

Attempts will be made to have the teams play a home and away, balanced, schedule. Where this is not possible, the AGC and the Executive committee will determine how to schedule additional games in the best interest of all teams.

The AGC will provide the Executive Committee the recommended group placement after the annual coaches meeting. In the event that no challenges to the group placement are received by the Executive Committee, the recommendation of the AGC will stand. In the event of a challenge, the Executive Committee will make a decision at its next regular or special meeting. Any affiliate that fails to attend the annual coaches meeting shall forfeit the right to challenge the recommendation of the AGC.

U10: Each Under 10 Age Group (Boys and Girls) shall be divided into geographic Regions, with the number set by the Executive Committee after determining the number of teams registered. Each group shall be divided into groups of an equal number of teams, to the extent practicable. The group placement shall be established based upon request of teams with the application, subject to adjustment to equalize Divisions and groups and by geographic placement. The assignment of the teams shall be made at the Annual Seeding Meeting. No Round Robin Seeding Tournaments shall be held for Under 10's.

 

At the annual coaches meeting a group of teams may agree to play outside the regional format (whether developmental or alleged superior teams) provided they agree to the separate grouping arrangements and receive recommendation by the AGC and approval by the Executive Committee.

 

Attempts will be made to have the teams play a home and away schedule. However in those groups where this is not possible, after a portion of the season has been completed (each team has played each other one time), the AGC and Executive Committee will make the necessary decision in the best interests of all teams to complete a fair schedule.

 

The AGC will provide the Executive Committee the recommended placement after the annual coaches meeting. In the event no challenges are received by the Executive Committee, the recommendation of the AGC shall stand. In the event of a challenge, the Executive Committee shall make a decision at its next regular or special meeting. Any team which fails to attend the Annual Coaches Meeting shall forfeit the right to challenge the recommendation of the AGC.

b) U-11 & U-12: Each Under 11 and 12 Age Group (Boys and Girls) shall be divided into two or three Divisions, with the number set by the Executive Committee after determining the number of teams registered. Each Division shall be divided into groups of an equal number of teams, to the extent practicable, with emphasis of 8 teams in each Division.

 

The Under 11 Divisions will be agreed upon at the Annual Coaches Meeting and recommended by the AGC to the Executive Committee. In the event the coaches can’t agree, then the AGC will recommend Divisional Placement to the Executive Committee. In the event no challenges are received by the Executive Committee the recommendation of the AGC shall stand. In the event of a challenge, The Executive Committee shall make a decision at its next regular or special meeting. Any team that fails to attend the Annual Coaches Meeting shall forfeit the right to challenge the recommendation of the AGC.

The Under 12 Divisions shall be based upon Promotion/Relegation. No Round Robin Seeding tournaments shall be held for Under 11’s or Under 12’s.

For the Under 12 Divisions, to the extent practical, the top 6 teams from Division I shall remain in Division I. The bottom two teams from Division II shall be Promoted to Division I.   EXCEPTION: Any New Team may petition the Executive Committee for permission to play in Division I. The Executive Committee shall review all such petitions and shall select the one team judged to be the best by the Executive Committee and judged to be sufficiently good to compete in Division I. This team shall play the lower team from Division II being Promoted. The winner shall be in Division I. If the New Team loses, it shall be relegated to Division III. If the Division II team loses, it shall remain in Division II. To the extent practical, while maintaining geographic regions, Division II shall consist of the following: I) the bottom two teams from last year’s Division I; ii) the two teams qualifying from the Division II/III playoff set forth below; and iii) that number of teams from last year’s Division II needed to bring the number of teams in Division II to the number in the Division as set by the Executive Committee, with the spaces going to the teams with the highest standings from the immediate preceding year. The top two teams from each group in Division III and the bottom two teams from Division II shall have a playoff to determine which two teams shall be promoted to Division II, at a time and under a format as set forth by the Executive Committee. 

The grouping of the teams in Division III shall be made at the Annual Seeding Meeting. In the event the coaches cannot decide on the assignments at the Annual Seeding Meeting the AGC shall recommend the assignments to the Executive Committee. Any team that wishes to challenge the recommendation of the AGC shall notify the Executive Committee in writing or by e-mail within 5 days after the Annual Seeding Meeting. In the event no challenges are received by the Executive Committee the recommendation of the AGC shall stand. In the event of a challenge, the Executive Committee shall make a decision at its next regular or special meeting. Any team that fails to attend the Annual Seeding Meeting shall forfeit the right to challenge the recommendation of the AGC. 

After the first portion of the season has been completed (each team has played each other one time), each Division is subject to a “reshuffle”. The purpose of the reshuffle shall be to restore balance in quality of teams within each Division and group, and thereby give teams a greater likelihood of playing more games against teams of equal level. The extent and specifics of the reshuffle shall be recommended by the applicable AGC to the applicable Vice President. The decision of the Vice President shall stand.

c) U13 & U14: Each Age Group (Boys and Girls) shall be divided into three Divisions – I, II and III. Division I shall consist of 8 teams each. Division II shall be determined based upon the number of teams registered and the recommendations of the AGC to the Executive Committee. Division III shall be divided into groups of an equal number of teams based upon seeding and geographic placement. 

The U-13’s age group shall be first placed upon agreement at the Annual Coaches Meeting. If no agreement, then all teams in prior year Division I and Division II along with Division III teams with a winning record and any New Team which desires placement in either Division I or Division II will be eligible to participate in a Round Robin Tournament. The tournament will be seeded based upon prior year standings. The Tournament will be held the 2^nd weekend of September. 

The U-14’s age group shall be based upon principals of Promotion/Relegation. No Round Robin Seeding Tournaments shall be held for the U-14’s.

For the Under 14 Divisions, the top 6 teams from Division I shall remain in Division I. The bottom two teams from Division I shall be relegated to Division II. The top two teams from Division II shall be promoted to Division I. EXCEPTION: Any New Team may petition the Executive Committee for permission to play in Division I. The Executive Committee shall review all such petitions and shall select the one team judged to be the best by the Executive Committee and judged to be sufficiently good to compete in Division I. This team shall play the lower team from Division II before being promoted. The winner shall be in Division I. If the New Team loses, it shall be relegated to Division III. If the Division II team loses, it shall remain in Division II.

Division II shall consist of the following: I) the bottom two teams from last year’s Division I; ii) the two teams qualifying from the Division II/III playoff set forth below; and iii) that number of teams from last year’s Division II needed to bring the number of teams in Division II to 8 with the spaces going to the teams with the highest standings from the immediate preceding year. The top two teams from each group in Division III and the bottom two teams from Division II shall have a playoff to determine which two teams shall be promoted to Division II, at a time and under a format as set forth by the Executive Committee. 

The grouping of the teams in Division III shall be made at the Annual Seeding Meeting. In the event the coaches cannot decide on the assignments at the Annual Seeding Meeting the AGC shall recommend the assignments to the Executive Committee. Any team that wishes to challenge the recommendation of the AGC shall notify the Executive Committee in writing or by e-mail within 5 days after the Annual Seeding Meeting. In the event no challenges are received by the Executive Committee the recommendation of the AGC shall stand. In the event of a challenge, the Executive Committee shall make a decision at its next regular or special meeting. Any team that fails to attend the Annual Seeding Meeting shall forfeit the right to challenge the recommendation of the AGC. 

d) Under 15-19: Each Age Group (Boys and Girls) shall be divided into three Divisions – I, II and III. Division I and II shall consist of 8 teams each. Division III shall be divided into groups of an equal number of teams based upon seeding and geographic placement. Each Age Group shall be placed first based upon agreement at the Annual Seeding Meeting. If no agreement, the teams shall be placed based upon principals of Promotion/Relegation. No Round Robin Seeding Tournaments shall be held for Under 15’s through Under 19’s. The top 6 teams from Division I shall remain in Division I. The bottom two teams from Division I shall be relegated to Division II. The top two teams from Division II shall be Promoted to Division I. EXCEPTION: Any New Team may petition the Executive Committee for permission to play in Division I. The Executive Committee shall review all such petitions and shall select the one team judged to be the best by the Executive Committee and judged to be sufficiently good to compete in Division I. This team shall play the lower team from Division II being Promoted. The winner shall be in Division I. If the New Team loses, it shall be relegated to Division III. If the Division II team loses, it shall remain in Division II.

Division II shall consist of the following: I) the bottom two teams from last year’s Division I; ii) if only one group in Division III then the top two teams in Division III; if more than one group in Division III, then the top team from each group in last year’s Division III; and iii) that number of teams from last year’s Division II needed to bring the number of teams in Division II to 8, with the spaces going to the teams with the highest standings from the immediate preceding year. 

The grouping of the teams in Division III shall be made at the Annual Seeding Meeting. In the event the coaches cannot decide on the assignments at the Annual Seeding Meeting the AGC shall recommend the assignments to the Executive Committee. Any team that wishes to challenge the recommendation of the AGC shall notify the Executive Committee in writing or by e-mail within 5 days after the Annual Seeding Meeting. In the event no challenges are received by the Executive Committee the recommendation of the AGC shall stand. In the event of a challenge, the Executive Committee shall make a decision at its next regular or special meeting. Any team that fails to attend the Annual Seeding Meeting shall forfeit the right to challenge the recommendation of the AGC.