Somers Soccer Local Rules Each player must play at least 3/4 of each game if numerically possible, and no player shall play less than 1/2 of a game. 2. For grades 2-3 goalkeeper may play in goal for only 1/4 of a game; for grades 4-9 goalkeeper may play in goal for 1/2 of a game and must play an equal amount of time in the field. (Exception: In a league playing a three team round robin, the keeper may play in goal for one game per week and must play an equal amount of time in the field.) 3. Failure to comply with the rules of participation can result in forfeiture of the game. 4. Number of players to start ...... (see chart). 5. Length of games ...... (see chart). 6. When a team is leading by a sufficient number of goals (normally 3 or 4 goals) the coach of the leading team has the responsibility to take appropriate action to reduce the scoring potential of his/her team either by replacing the high scorers, or by moving them to a defensive position. 7. Uniforms and Players Equipment: The following rules are intended to ensure the safety of the players and to prevent any player having an unfair advantage. Coaches are responsible for ensuring that players comply with these rules before the game begins. Referees will enforce the rules during a pre-game inspection. Any player not in compliance will not be allowed to play. A full uniform comprised of the AYSO Region 95 regulation shirt, white shorts (no colored piping; logos are okay), regulation socks and shin guards, must be worn. Goalkeepers must wear a shirt of contrasting color. All-purpose athletic shoes may be worn. No metal may be exposed. A player may not wear a hard cast or splint (fingers included). A player must leave the field to repair defective equipment, and must be recognized by the referee before re- entering the field. No jewelry (earrings of any kind, necklaces, bracelets, rings, barrettes, etc.) may be worn. Hats will not be allowed. Chewing gum while playing will not be tolerated ! In cold weather: 1) Sweatpants may be worn OVER the regulation shorts. 2) A long-sleeved sweatshirt may be worn UNDER the regulation shirt. It is expected that the coaches and the referee will mutually agree that sweatpants/sweatshirts may be worn based on conditions at the field. In any event, the referee's decision is final. 8. Spectators must stay several feet from the touch line to permit the lines person or assistant referee free passage and a clear line of sight. No one, coaches, players, or spectators, is permitted between the 18-yard line and the goal line or behind the goal line at any time. 9. The referee's decisions on the field are immediate and final. NO PROTESTS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Coaches are responsible for controlling their team's supporters. 10. Under no circumstance will verbal abuse of the referee be tolerated. 11. Line-up cards are required for grades 2-9 inclusive. Coaches must fill out a line-up card and give it to the referee before the start of the game. 12. Goal kicks for 2nd Coed and 2-3 Girls will be taken from the 12 yard penalty kick marker. 13. For Kindergarten Micro-Soccer ONLY: There will be no goal keeper position. Therefore, use of the hands by any player is not permitted, and a goalkeeper shirt is not required. 14. Except as modified, all other rules are standard laws of the game....refer to "Rules of Soccer Simplified." For grades K-1, see separate micro-soccer rules. 15. Practices are extremely important to develop soccer skills and team spirit and are greatly encouraged. 16. Substitutions: for grades 2-9, substitutions will be made only at the quarters, when the ball goes out of play, and after half time. Clock will not be stopped for substitutions at quarters. 17. These rules may be modified without prior notice for specific grade levels with the Regional Commissioners approval. 18. Registration - No player may be added to a team roster after the first game of the playing season without: Permission from Regional Commissioner or Assistant Regional Commissioner and Special regard to the existing balance of the teams in the league involved and Need shown to fulfill numerical team requirements. Note: Official Registration Form and Fees must be submitted to the Regional Commissioner as soon as possible.