1
Youth Rules and
Regulations
Adopted July 23, 1994
Amended July 8, 1995
Amended January 27, 1996
Amended August 10, 1996
Amended January 12, 1997
Amended January 10, 1998
Amended January 10, 1999
Amended July 17, 1999
Amended January, 2000
Amended July 2000
Amended January, 2001
Amended February 2002
Amended January 2003
Amended March 2003
Amended April 2003
Amended June 2003
Amended August 2003
Amended November 2003
Amended January 2004
Amended July 2004
Amended August 2004
Amended August 8, 2020
Amended August 5, 2023
Amended November 2004
Amended January 2005
Amended February 2005
Amended March 2005
Amended June 2005
Amended August 2005
Amended January 2006
Amended July 2006
Amended March 2007
Amended April 2007
Amended May 2007
Amended July 2007
Amended November 2007
Amended January 09, 2008
Amended January 26, 2008
Amended January 31, 2009
Amended July 18, 2009
Amended February 13, 2010
Amended July 17, 2010
Amended January 22, 2011
Amended July 16, 2011
Amended February 5, 2022
Amended January 28, 2012
Amended July 21, 2012
Amended August 27, 2012
Amended February 2, 2013
Amended July 20, 2013
Amended February 1, 2014
Amended July 19, 2014
Amended January 31, 2015
Amended July 18, 2015
Amended February 13, 2016
Amended July 16, 2016
Amended October 24, 2016
Amended January 21, 2017
Amended July 15, 2017
Amended January 27, 2018
Amended February 20, 2018
Amended February 22, 2018
Amended August 21, 2018
Amended February 9, 2019
Amended August 3, 2019
Amended February 1, 2020
Amended January 28, 2023
This document supersedes those published before.
Lack of knowledge of these rules will not relieve any coach, team official, parent or player of a team participating in or
seeking entry into these programs from the responsibilities and possible penalties herein. All member affiliates, teams,
team officials, parents and players, by their participating in Georgia Soccer youth program play, agree that they are bound
by these rules.
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Lack of knowledge of these rules will not relieve any coach, team official, parent or player of a team participating in or
seeking entry into these programs from the responsibilities and possible penalties herein. All member affiliates, teams,
team officials, parents and players, by their participating in Georgia Soccer youth program play, agree that they are bound
by these rules.
Table of Contents
100.
Administration ____________________________________________________________________ 3
110.
120.
130.
140.
150.
160.
170.
180.
Housekeeping _____________________________________________________________ 3
Georgia Soccer Youth Programs _______________________________________________ 3
Season __________________________________________________________________ 4
Participation _______________________________________________________________ 4
Administrative Procedures ____________________________________________________ 5
Team Assignments _________________________________________________________ 5
Age Classifications _________________________________________________________ 5
Team Registration __________________________________________________________ 6
200.
Member Affiliate Responsibilities _____________________________________________________ 6
210.
220.
230.
240.
250.
Team Selection
6
300.
Participation ___________________________________________________________________ 10
310.
320.
330.
340.
350.
Registrations, Transfers & Releases __________________________________________ 10
Tryouts and Advertising ____________________________________________________ 12
Recruitment for Select Program _____________________________________________ 13
Adult Program ___________________________________________________________ 14
Professional in Georgia Soccer Youth Programs ________________________________ 14
400.
Playing Rules __________________________________________________________________ 14
410.
420.
430.
440.
450
450.
470.
500-600 Rules of US Youth Soccer Affecting Game Play and
Georgia Youth Modifications to the Laws of the Game 18 ........
510.
520.
530.
540.
550.
560.
570.
580.
590.
600.
610.
620.
630.
640.
650.
660.
670.
Law #1: The Field ________________________________________________________ 18
Law #2: The Ball _________________________________________________________ 19
Law #3: The Players ______________________________________________________ 20
Law #4: The Players’ Equipment _____________________________________________ 21
Law #5: The Referees -- Recreational Division __________________________________ 21
Law #6: The Other Match Officials – No Modifications ____________________________ 21
Law #7: The Duration of the Match ___________________________________________ 21
Law #8: The Start and Restart of Play _________________________________________ 21
Law #9: The Ball In and Out of Play – No Modifications ___________________________ 21
Law #10: Determining the Outcome of a Match – No Modifications __________________ 21
Law #11: Offside _________________________________________________________ 22
Law #12: Fouls and Misconduct – No Modifications ______________________________ 22
Law #13: Free Kicks ______________________________________________________ 22
Law #14: The Penalty Kick _________________________________________________ 22
Law #15: The Throw-in ____________________________________________________ 22
Law #16: The Goal Kick____________________________________________________ 22
Law #17: The Corner Kick __________________________________________________ 22
Coach Selection
___________________________________________________________ 7
Referees
..
7..
Concussion Protocol and Heading Restrictions
__________________________________ 10
Scheduling
_______________________________________________________________ 10
Practices
_______________________________________________________________ 14
Passes
_________________________________________________________________ 14
Gameday Lineup Sheets
___________________________________________________ 15
Club Pass System
________________________________________________________ 15
Team Obligations: Spectating and Field Set-up
_________________________________ 16
Scoring
.
16
Awards
________________________________________________________________ 17
3
700.
Sportsmanship _________________________________________________________________ 22
710.
720.
730.
731.
732.
733.
740.
750.
760.
800-900 Glossary _____________________________________________________________________ 30
810.
820.
830.
840.
850.
860.
870.
880.
890.
900.
910.
920.
930.
940.
950.
100.
ADMINISTRATION
110.
Housekeeping: Georgia Soccer staff has the authority to renumber the Georgia Soccer Youth Rules &
Regulations and to update nomenclature that has changed because of sponsorship change or
division/program name change.
120.
Georgia Soccer Programs: The Georgia Soccer Youth Select Programs Divisions (Athena, Classic,
Academy and any other programs or divisions deemed to be designed for select level play), and
Recreational Programs are the responsibility of the respective Georgia Soccer Representatives. Each
representative will appoint a committee, subject to approval of the Georgia Soccer VP-Youth, to
administer their program. The Representative shall serve as the program chairman. A list of each
committee's membership stating name, age group represented, position, and contact information shall be
available for all member affiliates. Each Committee shall be given wide discretionary authority to
administer the program as long as same is consistent with the rules and policies set by member affiliates
and directives from the Georgia Soccer Board of Directors in the operation of their duties. Each
Committee shall be directly responsible to the Georgia Soccer Board of Directors in the operation of their
duties
120.1
Recreational Programs: The Recreational Program is a developmental soccer program for all
youth players. The member affiliate accepts as participants any eligible youths, without regard to
skill level (subject to reasonable terms of registration).
The use of tryouts, invitations, recruiting or similar process to roster players to any recreational
team on the basis of talent or ability is prohibited. Recreational players may not be “cut” from the
team.
A system for rostering players to teams must be used to establish a fair and balanced distribution
of playing talent among all teams participating in the same age group within the member affiliate.
Conduct
________________________________________________________________ 22
Match Terminations, Suspensions, Forfeits, and Reschedules
______________________ 23
Misconduct
_____________________________________________________________ 24
Coach Misconduct
________________________________________________________ 24
Player Misconduct
________________________________________________________ 25
Parent and Spectator Misconduct
____________________________________________ 27
Misconduct -- Penalties for Players, Coaches, Teams and Member Affiliates
__________ 27
Georgia State Cup Competition
28
Discipline and Protest (D&P) and Ethics and Grievance (E&G)
_____________________ 28
Club Pass
______________________________________________________________ 30
Select
_________________________________________________________________ 30
Playing Season
__________________________________________________________ 30
Recreational
____________________________________________________________ 30
Player Registration
_______________________________________________________ 30
Release
________________________________________________________________ 30
Roster
_________________________________________________________________ 30
Seasonal Year
___________________________________________________________ 30
Team Official
30
Transfer
________________________________________________________________ 30
Transfer Process
_________________________________________________________ 31
Unauthorized Recruiting
___________________________________________________ 31
Active Status
____________________________________________________________ 31
Inactive Status
___________________________________________________________ 31
Ineligible Players
_________________________________________________________ 31
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120.1a To further enhance the Recreational Program, Georgia Soccer supports US Youth
Soccer’s teaching philosophy with respect to small-sided soccer in 04U, 06U, 08U, 10U, and 12U.
This philosophy allows the game to be the teacher by maximizing each player’s touches on the
ball and encourages all the players to develop their skills in all positions. Further, the philosophy
discourages intense competition until the older age groups.
120.1b Types of recreational games:
In-House: Single affiliate internal teams play each other. Scheduling of games is done by the
affiliate.
Inter-affiliate: Two affiliates play each other. Scheduling of games is done by the affiliates.
RIAS (Recreation Inter-affiliate Scheduled): All affiliates are scheduled by Georgia Soccer.
120.2 Select Programs:
120.2a Academy: The Academy Program is the select developmental program for boys’ and girls’ teams
from 09U through 12U.
120.2b Athena: The Athena Program is the select program for girls’ teams, as girls’ teams are defined by
US Youth Soccer.
120.2c Classic: The Classic Program is the select program for boys’ teams, as boys’ teams are defined
by US Youth Soccer.
120.2d Other Programs: Where other programs are not administered by Georgia Soccer, the Youth
Board Representatives will set conditions which must be met by the program’s rules. The affiliates
involved must then submit the rules for that program to the Youth Board Representatives for approval
before the program may begin play.
Where other programs are not administered by Georgia Soccer, the Youth Board Representatives will set
conditions which must be met by the program’s rules. The affiliates involved must then submit the rules
for that program to the Youth Board Representatives for approval before the program may begin play.
120.3 Non-Traditional Programs: A non-traditional program is one that does not meet the normal
parameters of youth play within Georgia Soccer. Teams playing within a school, church or other such
group could meet the definition of being nontraditional. If an affiliate offers non-traditional type play, none
of the teams within that affiliate may play in any of the other Georgia Soccer youth programs, nor may
they play in any Georgia Soccer sanctioned tournaments which are geared toward traditional teams.
Georgia Soccer will not administer non-traditional play.
120.4 Home Team: Team listed first on a schedule
130.
Season
130.1 The US Youth Soccer Seasonal Year runs from September 1 through August 31 of the following
calendar year and shall comprise two seasons of play: Fall and Spring.
130.2 The Fall season of play commences with the first league game of the Fall season and terminates with
the end-of-season date published by Georgia Soccer.
130.3 The Spring season of play commences with the first league game of the Spring season and
terminates with the end-of-season date published by Georgia Soccer.
130.4 Select: The number of games and length of the playing seasons shall be determined by the select
committee. The select committee shall provide for play in both Fall and Spring. The select
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committee will not schedule matches in conflict with the Georgia Soccer President’s Cup or the
Georgia Soccer State Cup - Youth where applicable.
140.
Participation
140.1
Each member affiliate participating in Academy, Athena or Classic play must also have a
recreational program. Member affiliates not in compliance will be subject to review and/or
sanction by the Georgia Soccer Board of Directors which could include suspension of affiliate,
probation of affiliate, Georgia Soccer youth tournament play restrictions and fines.
140.2
Teams must meet published “Team Declaration” deadlines. Failure to meet the deadline may
result in non-acceptance of a team. If a team is accepted by the Playing Division Chair, a late fee
will be applied.
140.3
Select Programs: A condition of entry of a team is field and referee availability in proportion to the
number of teams entered. Teams for which member affiliates are not able to provide the required
fields and referees may not be admitted. Failure to provide fields and referees may result in the
removal of teams from the select program.
150.
Administrative Procedures
150.1
Any questions on rules, policies, and procedures of select divisions should be addressed to that
division's committee for resolution.
150.2
Recreational: All RIAS (recreational inter-affiliate scheduled) scheduling functions shall be
performed under the auspices and subject to the approval of the Georgia Soccer Director of
Youth Recreation and/or the Youth Recreation Committee.
150.3
The Youth Recreation Committee will ensure that all member affiliates have the ability to inter-
schedule in a practical manner and will be subject to final review and approval of the Georgia
Soccer Director of Youth Recreation to guarantee participation.
150.4
Scheduling and other administrative duties required for the coordination of each Select Age
Group will be performed by the respective Age Group Coordinator.
160.
Team Assignments
160.1
Team assignments into playing divisions and age groups by the respective committees shall be
final and are not subject to appeal.
160.2
A team may request to play in an older age group, but not in a younger one. This request must
be approved by the Select Committee.
160.3
The Select Committee will assign teams to appropriate playing divisions at the start of each
season (i.e. - Fall & Spring), according to the following guidelines:
160.3a
The number of teams in each division will be determined by the Select Committee and
cannot be appealed.
160.3b
Placement for 13U and 14U select teams will be determined by points accumulated
during the previous season (i.e., either Fall or Spring). For these teams, relegation and
promotion between divisions will occur twice a year and will be based upon the points
standings from the previous season.
160.3c
Placement for 15U and older select teams will be determined by points accumulated
during the Fall. For these teams, relegation and promotion between divisions will occur
once a year and will be based upon the points standings from the Fall season.
160.3d
Select teams must maintain a majority of players from the previous season to maintain
their slot unless their roster has like players to maintain the majority.
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160.3e The Select Committee can modify these requirements where, in its judgment, compelling
considerations justify it. (One example: National League Piedmont Conference or
National League teams returning to state competition)
160.3f If one member affiliate merges with another in its entirety, the slot(s) assigned to that
member affiliate's Select team(s) will not be vacated, but retained by the merged entity if
the team or teams meet all other Rules and provisions.
170.
Age Classifications
170.1
Team Age Classification
170.1a RECREATIONAL: Age groups will be: 04U, 06U, 08U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U,
and 19U.
170.1b ATHENA: Age groups will be: 13U, 14U, 15U, 16U, 17U, 18U, and 19U.
170.1c CLASSIC: Age groups will be: 13U, 14U, 15U, 16U, 17U, 18U, and 19U.
170.2
Player Age Classification
170.2a
Player classification for the soccer year shall be determined based on the official age
group chart of Georgia Soccer-Youth.
170.2b
A player may play on an older age team, but may not play on a younger age team.
170.2c
Proof of age must be presented if deemed necessary. Proof of age shall consist of a
birth certificate, a Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card (DD Form 1173)
issued by the uniformed services of the United States, a birth registration issued by an
appropriate government agency or board of health records, a passport, an alien
registration card issued by the United States Government, a certificate issued by the
Immigration and Naturalization Service attesting to age, a current driver’s license, an
unexpired federal, state, or local government identification card (if documentation of
date of birth is required), or a certification of a United States citizen born abroad issued
by the appropriate government agency. Hospital, baptismal, or religious certificates will
not be accepted.
180.
Team Registration
180.1
Only teams properly registered with member affiliate of Georgia Soccer Youth may be entered in
the select programs or recreational divisions.
180.2
Players may be registered with only one team at any given time, except where specifically
allowed by Georgia Soccer Youth Rules and Regulations.
180.3
Restrictions
180.3a Roster Size
13U to 19U
22
11U to 12U
18
09U to 10U
14
04U to 08U
8
Maximum Roster
Minimum Roster
11
9
7
4
Maximum on Field
11
9
7
4
Game Day Lineup Sheet
18
16
12
8
7
180.3b No indoor team shall be allowed with less than 5 registered players at any given time.
180.4 Electronic Registration: All affiliates must submit registrations electronically to Georgia Soccer no
later than the date designated and published by Georgia Soccer. Failure to meet the published
deadlines may prevent the teams from participating in the coming season.
200.
MEMBER AFFILIATE RESPONSIBILITIES
210.
Team Selection
210.1 Each individual member affiliate will be responsible for selecting its teams for play in the Select
Division Programs.
210.2 Team formations shall comply with all rules of Georgia Soccer Youth as amended.
220.
Coach Selection
220.1
Each member affiliate is responsible for the selection of coaches for its teams.
220.2
It is recommended that all recreation program coaches meet a minimum coaching license as
follows:
Age Group
04U - 08U
10U
12U
14U - 19U
License Level
USSF Grassroots 4v4 License or Rec G 6U/8U Certificate
USSF Grassroots 7v7 License or Rec F Certificate
USSF Grassroots 9v9 License or Rec F Certificate
USSF Grassroots 11v11 License or Rec E Certificate
220.3
All select team head coaches must meet a minimum coaching license requirement as follows:
Program Division
Academy 09U – 10U
Academy 11U – 12U
Athena A & B
Athena Division below B
Classic I & II
Classic Division below II
License Level
USSF Grassroots 7v7 or USSF E
USSF Grassroots 9v9 or USSF E
USSF National D
USSF Grassroots 11v11 License or USSF E
USSF National D
USSF Grassroots 11v11 License or USSF E
220.4
When coaches move from one program division level to another, they have a one-year grace
period to attain the required level license. [Example: Recreational to Classic IV or Athena D,
Athena C to Athena B, Classic III to Classic II].
220.4a Coaches found to be in violation will be suspended from coaching until such time as they
obtain the proper license. Member affiliates shall not designate an individual with the
proper license as the coach simply to circumvent the intent of this rule. It is the
responsibility of the member affiliate to insure that its coaches are properly licensed.
Clubs/Associations shall provide a list signed by a club/association official of select teams
and their coaches and trainers and license level of each on the date select team
declarations are due. Failure to do so may result in the member affiliate’s not being
allowed to participate in the select programs.
220.5
All coaches, assistant coaches, and other team officials of Georgia Soccer youth select and RIAS
teams will be required to have current US Youth Soccer passes provided through Georgia
Soccer; these must be either paper or digital. No more than four such cards per team--or four per
every 12 players where a player pool is used for academy rostering-- will be issued. The card
shall indicate the current license level of the holder, if appropriate. The card shall be presented to
the referee with the player cards to properly identify the coach(es) of the team.
220.5a To be valid, paper passes must have a recent picture of the individual permanently
affixed and must be laminated.
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220.5b To be valid, digital passes must be accessed through Affinity Sports (ADG) and have a
recent picture of the individual.
220.5c In the absence of a credentialed coach, an adult 18 years old or older with a photo ID
may assume the duties as game-day coach.
220.5d Any individual dismissed from a team technical area will be treated as a coaching official
for that team.
230.
Referees
230.1
Every team has the right to a neutral referee and assistant referees.
230.1a
No referee or assistant referee shall officiate a game in which a relative is coaching or
playing unless both coaches provide their specific prior consent by signing both game
day lineup sheets. (04U, 06U and 08U are exempt from this rule.)
230.1b
No referee or assistant referee shall officiate a game where they were a recent (within 1
year) member or coach of either team unless both coaches provide their specific prior
consent by signing both game day lineup sheets.
exempt from this rule.)
(In-house recreational games/play are
230.1c
230.1d
In cases where a team has protested and won the game based upon the violation of any
of the rules 230.1a – 230.1c, the Playing Division Committee shall make a determination
on the outcome of the game based upon the recommendation of the Discipline and
Protest Committee. Outcome decisions will be that the game stands as played, is
Game
Age
4U
SELECT
Center
SELECT
Assistant
Min.
Required
Age
Min
Recommended
Age
xxx
xxx
5U
xxx
xxx
6U
xxx
xxx
7U
xxx
xxx
8U
xxx
xxx
9U
10
10
10U
11
10
11U
12
11
12U
13
11
13U
14
13
14U
15
13
15U
16
14
16U
17
14
17U
18
15
18U
19
15
19U
20
16
Game
Age
Recreational
Center
Recreational
Assistant
Min
Required
Age
Min
Recommended
Age
4U
5
xxx
5U
6
xxx
6U
7
xxx
7U
8
xxx
8U
9
xxx
9U
10
10
10U
11
10
11U
12
11
12U
13
11
13U
14
11
14U
15
11
15U
16
12
16U
17
12
17U
18
14
18U
19
15
19U
20
16
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replayed in its entirety, or is charged as a forfeit. If the game is ordered to be replayed,
the Playing Committee Division has the authority to determine where the game will be
played and which team will bear the cost of the referees.
230.2
The individual member affiliates are responsible for providing referees, playing fields and times.
230.2a
In the event the appointed referee fails to appear within 30 minutes of the scheduled
kick-off time, one of the assistant referees who are present, qualified, and age
appropriate, shall become the referee.
In the event that neither assistant referee agrees to take charge, the coaches may agree
upon a volunteer referee.
230.2b
230.2c
If no such agreement is reached, the game will be postponed.
230.2d
In the event a referee becomes ill during the game, the above procedure shall be
followed.
230.2e
If the game is postponed, both team officials should notify their age group coordinator
and division chair.
230.3
The dual system (i.e., two referees) of refereeing is not approved for Georgia Soccer youth
games.
230.4
Reporting violations rests with the visiting team official and should be referred in writing to the
appropriate Division Committee or for Recreational games, to the home member affiliate.
230.5
The referee(s) is in complete charge of the field and adjacent areas from the time the referee
arrives at the game site until the referee departs. The referee is empowered to:
230.5a Rule on what equipment or accessories are considered dangerous.
230.5b Issue cautions, send offs, and dismissals for the entire period.
230.5c Terminate a game for team official, player or spectator misconduct.
230.5d Refuse to allow the game to be played if in the referee's judgment, the field is unplayable
due to length of the grass, inadequate lines, or other impediments.
230.5e The referee may depart the area certain of receiving his/her fee.
230.6
Recreational Programs
230.6a 04U through 19U: For games not scheduled by Georgia Soccer, each member affiliate
reserves the right to determine whether to use certified referees, club linesmen, team
officials, or parents.
230.6b For RIAS (Recreation Inter-affiliate Scheduled) games, each member affiliate shall
provide at least one certified referee, and it is strongly recommended that two certified
assistant referees be utilized as well.
230.7
Academy Programs
230.7a 09U and older: Each member affiliate shall provide at least one certified referee for each
game scheduled on its own fields.
230.7b 09U and older: Member affiliates are encouraged to provide assistant referees for all
games.
230.8.
Select Programs Divisions
230.8a Each member affiliate shall provide three currently certified USSF referees for each 13U
and older home match.
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230.8b
The referee will be a minimum of 1 year of age above the maximum eligible playing age
of the age group to be officiated.
230.8c
Subsequent to the third reported violation of a member affiliate’s using an underage
referee (i.e., center official), the home member affiliate will be assessed a penalty for
each violation that has occurred during the playing season.
230.8d
At the conclusion of each playing season, each member affiliate shall pay a fine per
official for each occasion in which (a) a game was played but a registered official was not
used as a referee or assistant referee, or (b) a game was postponed, but not in
accordance with the rules of the appropriate division.
Member affiliate fines due under this provision shall be paid before any of that affiliate's
teams shall be registered in the select programs divisions for the following season.
230.8e
230.9.
If a member affiliate knows in advance that 3 certified and qualified referees will not be available
for a select game, the game may be rescheduled with approval of the appropriate program
committee. This approval will require appropriate communication with the member affiliate’s
referee assignor.
230.9a If a game is postponed for failure to provide required officials within the time limit for a
Georgia Soccer Youth Select Program Division game, the following criteria will apply.
230.9b The game will be replayed at the home field of the original visiting team.
230.9c In addition, the original home member affiliate will be provided by email the cost of the
referees & assignor fees by the original away member affiliate. With an email agreement
from the original home member affiliate to pay for the referees, the AGC will reschedule
the game. The original home member affiliate is required to make payment prior to the
game starting on match day. Failure to pay prior to game being played, the original home
member affiliate will forfeit the game.
230.9d
A game cannot be played under protest due to the lack of the required number of
certified referees. If a team official agrees to play/continue play once they become aware
of the number and types of referees (certified versus club), the team official gives up the
right to protest the game based on the number and types of referees. It is recommended
that when choosing the club line person, the visiting team be given first right of refusal.
Both team officials must provide their specific prior consent by signing both game day
lineup sheets prior to play continuing. This does not eliminate the right to protest other
misapplications of the rules.
240.
Concussion Protocol and Heading Restrictions
240.1
Per U.S. Soccer’s Concussion Initiative, if a player is suspected to have a head injury the referee
is instructed to stop play to allow for treatment/evaluation as needed.
240.1a If there is no referee in 4v4, this responsibility falls to the team officials and parents
involved.
240.2
Per Georgia Soccer Youth Rules, the player must leave the field of play for additional evaluation;
a substitution may be made in that moment.
240.3
The player with the suspected head injury may not return to the game unless a Health Care
Professional (HCP) or Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) has cleared the player
240.4
Any team official or parent insisting on returning the player to the game without approved
clearance will result in the referee ending the game.
240.5
Heading
11
240.5a Deliberate or accidental heading is not allowed in 11U and below games. If a player
deliberately or accidentally heads the ball in a game, an indirect free kick should be awarded to
the opposing team from the spot of the offense. If the deliberate or accidental header occurs
within the goal area, the indirect free kick should be taken on the goal area line parallel to the goal
line at the nearest point to where the offense occurred.
240.5b Heading is allowed in games 12U and older without limitations.
250.
Scheduling
250.1
Each member shall appoint a field scheduler/assignor, who will be responsible for assignment of
time and field for each of their select and RIAS teams’ home games and will update each
time/field assignment in the scheduling system.
250.2
Each member will be required to have the first month of games scheduled and posted to the
Georgia Soccer website no later than midnight the Sunday before the season starts. The rest of
the season’s schedule will be assigned and posted no later than 10 a.m. the Monday following
the opening weekend of the season. Failure to do so may result in the loss of home games.
300.
PARTICIPATION
310.
Registrations, Transfers, and Releases
310.1 Recreation Programs
310.1a
Once a recreational player has registered with a member affiliate, the player is bound to
that member affiliate for the specified playing season (fall or spring) and until his/her
team’s post-season commitments are completed.
310.1b
Once a recreational player is rostered to a team, and the team has been activated, an
approved transfer is required to move a player to another team during the playing
season. A transfer is not required when changing to another member affiliate after the
playing season, between the fall and spring playing seasons, or between the spring and
fall playing seasons.
310.1c
For tournament purposes, a recreational player may play with another team as a guest
player within the rules of the given tournament. Invitations to players listed on valid
rosters for out-of-league play, such as indoor or guest player, must be initiated by the
requesting coach through the player’s current coach.
310.2. Select Programs
310.2a. Once a select program player has registered with a member affiliate, the player is bound
to that affiliate until the end of the year for which the registration applies.
310.2b Once a select program player is registered with an affiliate and rostered to a team, a
transfer is required to move to a team in another member affiliate (inter-affiliate) during
that seasonal year; however, a player who is released from his/her team may not transfer
to a team in another member affiliate until his/her team’s full year commitments are
completed, including State Cup, unless the transfer request has been approved by all
parties.
310.2c A player may be released from his/her team at any time and will be put on inactive status
with Georgia Soccer. In order to be returned to active status during the same seasonal
year, the player must go back to his/her original member affiliate and re-register or
initiate a transfer request with that member affiliate.
310.2d Once a select program player is registered and rostered to a team, that player’s financial
obligation as published by the member affiliate and accepted by the player must be
satisfied before a transfer will be considered. (See Glossary for Definition of
Registration.)
1. Select players are limited to one transfer to another Select team per seasonal year;
12
this includes intra-affiliate transfers. The Georgia Soccer Registrar may approve an
additional transfer in order to allow a Select player to participate when otherwise the
player may not have the opportunity.
310.2e
If a player believes he/she has an extraordinary reason to transfer outside of the
parameters stated above, then the player must submit written notification of appeal with
the rationale for consideration to the Georgia Soccer Registrar’s Committee.
Extraordinary circumstances could include but are not limited to unethical behavior by
any party (to be determined by Georgia Soccer Ethics and Grievance - Youth) or
significant change of address.
310.2f
Requests for transfers between teams in the same member affiliate (intra-affiliate
transfers) will be processed at any time and require a transfer form
310.2g
For tournament purposes, a select program player may play with another team as a
guest player within the rules of a given tournament. Invitations to players listed on valid
rosters for out-of-league play, such as indoor or guest player, must be initiated by the
requesting coach through the player’s current coach or it is considered unauthorized
recruiting. Once a coach has been contacted, he/she has the option to approve or deny
the request. No player may guest play with another team without his/her current coach’s
and member affiliate’s permission. Player is ineligible for guest play participation if there
is an unserved disciplinary suspension.
1. If a member ascertains that another member of the association has violated this Rule,
that member is entitled to seek redress by filing a grievance with the Georgia Soccer
Ethics and Grievance Committee - Youth.
310.2h
Unless approved by current club of record, no team shall be allowed to transfer from one
member affiliate to another member affiliate during the seasonal year.
310.2i
Teams may not disband during a fall or spring playing season. If a team disbands during
a fall or spring playing season, the member affiliate may be sanctioned as the playing
program committee deems appropriate.
310.2j
The team official and member affiliate may request that a player be released involuntarily
from a team only if a player is unable to play for one of the following reasons:
1.
2.
3.
Player had violated US Youth Soccer rules or state disciplinary rules.
Player has moved beyond a reasonable travel distance.
Player is injured in such a manner that he/she will be unable to participate for the
remainder of the seasonal year.
Player has abandoned team (i.e. been absent without excuse for four or more
weeks).
To request the release, the team official must submit a written request to the member
affiliate’s registrar.
4.
310.3
Dual Rostering of Players
310.3a All recreational and select players may be rostered to an outdoor team and an indoor
team during the same seasonal year.
310.3b True 14U select program players playing up one or more age groups during the fall
season will be permitted to dual roster for the spring season with a 14U select team that
participated in the fall season. The secondary team (see rule 310.3d) must participate in
the same program and the same or higher division within that program (Classic I, Classic
II, Athena A, Athena B etc.) as the primary team, or the equivalent thereof (subject to rule
310.3h).
310.3c Any select program player whose true playing age group is 15U and above and whose
13
primary team does not participate in a spring season may dual roster with another team,
either with its member affiliate or with another member affiliate, that is participating in the
spring season (subject to rule 310.3h).
310.3d The player’s fall season team will be considered the primary team, and the spring season
team will be considered the secondary team. Primary team games will take precedence
over all other games.
310.3e If a player is rostered with both teams, that player may only participate in the Georgia
State Cup with the primary team.
310.3f A team that adds players through dual rostering, as in Rule #310.3b, may have its spring
season record discounted by the playing program committee when it decides promotion
and relegation of teams.
310.3g A player registered in a non-traditional youth program may also register with a team in a
Recreation, Classic, Athena or Academy program. In such instances, events related to
the Recreation, Classic, Athena or Academy team will take preference over events of the
non-traditional team.
310.3h Before a player is dual rostered, the primary coach must be given a minimum of five days
written notice of intent to dual roster. The original player ID number and profile must be
used by the secondary team.
320.
Tryouts and Advertising
320.1
Player tryouts for Academy, Classic and Athena may not be held before the approved and
published date.
320.2
All member affiliates shall have open tryouts for all select teams. Clubs/Associations may
advertise their tryout schedules in the media of their choice at any point after the tryout dates
have been set by Youth Representatives to the Georgia Soccer Board of Directors.
Advertising includes marketing your association, team, camp, tournament, tryout, or event
through the public media, newspapers, radio outlets, mass mailings, etc. An e-mail distribution
list put together by an individual or association that includes players/families that are registered
with another club does not constitute a mass mailing and is prohibited at all times even during the
open recruiting period.
Mass mailing is provided to Georgia Soccer youth members by using Georgia Soccer’s database,
with that database sent to a certified mailing house, and the content kept confidential from the
individual or association using it.
1.
Coaches’ data is available to all entities so that clubs can market their
tournaments to coaches and teams.
2.
Player data is not available to be purchased by youth clubs for any reason at
any time. Player Data will be available to colleges for the purpose of marketing
their team camps but will still be kept confidential via the mail house.
3.
Clubs can mass mail to their own in-house mail list which is available to them
through the registration program.
320.2a The announcement/advertisement must be limited to the following: tryouts must be open
to all players, the name of the club/association must be clearly stated; its business
address, and telephone number, complete dates, times, places and coaches for tryout
sessions may be included if available.
320.2b No language can be incorporated which would deny the right or ability of any youth
soccer player of the correct age to participate; or which would restrict eligibility for the
14
team to any arbitrary prerequisites such as particular school, church, housing,
subdivision, etc.; nor can the advertisement serve in any way, directly or indirectly, to
coerce or threaten players to try out for a particular member affiliate's team versus
another.
320.2c A member affiliate may advertise for unregistered players at any time.
330.
Recruitment for Select Program
330.1
Prior to May 1, no person may directly or indirectly induce or attempt to induce a player to leave
the team for which he/she has registered without either written notice to the player’s coach or an
approved release on file in the electronic registration system.
330.2
Prior to May 1, no registered player may directly or indirectly contact any other team during the
current seasonal year without either written notice to the player’s coach or an approved release
on file in the electronic registration system.
330.2a If a member ascertains that another member of the association has violated the recruiting
rules, that member is entitled to seek redress by filing a grievance with the Georgia
Soccer Ethics and Grievance Committee - Youth.
330.3
Recruitment Sanctions: If a coach, team official, player, parent of a player, or anybody acting on
behalf of the team is found guilty of unauthorized recruiting, the sanctions may include, but are
not limited to the following: warning, coach suspension, tournament play restrictions, team
advancement restrictions, coach dismissal, and team suspension.
340.
Adult Program
340.1
A player may register with Georgia Soccer Youth and Georgia Soccer Adult during the same
seasonal year.
340.2
Youth games take preference (US Youth Soccer).
340.3
The player retains youth eligibility so long as youth registration is maintained.
340.3a Suspensions or other disciplinary actions must be honored by both member affiliates.
350.
Professional in Georgia Soccer Youth Programs
350.1 In keeping with the amateur nature of Georgia Soccer, and to reduce the potential for conflict of
interest and abuse, Georgia Soccer prohibits all professional sports persons from participation as
players in Georgia Soccer youth programs.
350.2. A professional sports person is defined for this purpose as anyone who derives a significant
portion of their income from involvement in professional sports.
400.
PLAYING RULES
410.
Practices
410.1 After the season of play starts, no team will be normally allowed to practice more than 3 times per
week.
410.2 04U through 08U: After the season of play starts, no team will be allowed to practice more than 2
times per week.
15
410.3 Players 11U and younger shall not engage in heading.
410.4 All 12U and 13U players shall be limited to a maximum of 30 minutes of heading training per
week, with no more than 20 headers per player, per week.
420.
Passes and Game Day Lineup Sheets
420.1 Valid paper passes must have a recent picture of the individual permanently affixed and must
be laminated.
420.2 Valid digital passes must be accessed through Affinity Sports (ADG) and have a recent picture of
the individual. It is recommended that teams presenting digital passes have backup paper passes
available.
420.3
All Recreational passes expire at the end of each season. Referees will only accept passes for the
current playing season (fall or spring).
420.4
Select teams that change division of play between the fall and spring seasons are required to
have new player passes printed in the spring showing the correct division of play.
420.5
For recreational games not scheduled by Georgia Soccer, player and team official passes will
be required at the discretion of the participating affiliates.
420.5a Affiliates choosing to not schedule their recreational play through Georgia Soccer must
disclose to all participants that the failure to use player passes may affect the ability to defend
the providing of insurance coverages.
420.6
All select and Recreational Inter Affiliate (RIAS) teams will be required to have US Youth
Soccer player and team official passes provided through Georgia Soccer; these must be either
paper or digital.
420.6a Any player without a valid pass shall not be permitted to play in the match.
420.6b A team that does not present its passes to the referee prior to the beginning of the
match shall forfeit that match unless, in the Division Committee’s discretion, valid
extenuating circumstances were present.
Game Day Lineup Sheets
430.
430.1
The referee shall not allow a match to take place unless prior to the start of a match, a game day
lineup sheet is prepared by an official of each team and presented to the game official, except in
the 04U to 08U program. The game day lineup sheet shall include the correct date of the game,
the name and jersey number of any players serving a disciplinary suspension, and the name and
jersey number of all participating players including club pass players.
430.1a A team must have the player jersey numbers pre-printed on the game day lineup sheet.
Failure to do this will result in one penalty point per game assessed against the team
totals.
430.1b This penalty point shall be removed from the team if the team demonstrates to Georgia
Soccer that they have fixed the issue within 72 hours (Wednesday) following the
weekend games.)
430.2
For Academy and in-house recreational games: If an electronic form is not available, the game
day lineup sheet shall be presented on a member affiliate /club /state-provided official game day
lineup sheet.
430.3 For Select (13U and above) and RIAS teams: The game day lineup sheet shall be prepared
16
electronically using the Affinity system. Any player not listed on the game day lineup sheet at the
start of the game, or whose name is handwritten and not preprinted on the game day lineup sheet
shall be ineligible to play in that game. Game officials may, however, add handwritten names of
players from the opposing team, provided those names appear on the opposing team’s own
preprinted game day lineup sheet as presented before the game, making those players eligible to
play in that game.
430.3a A team shall present two pre-printed game day lineup sheets to the game official prior to
the beginning of the match; if the match has been rescheduled, the game day lineup
sheet must reflect the new date.
430.4
Game officials must check the paper or digital passes and pre-printed game day lineup sheet
before each game and report any discrepancies to both coaches. If the game official fails to
perform this duty properly, and players are allowed to participate in the game who were not listed
on either game day lineup sheet, those players will be deemed ineligible and a forfeit will be
charged against the team with which the players participated
.
440.
Club Pass System
440.1
During regular season play, a player may club pass to another team, under the rule as defined in
440.3, within the same member affiliate.
440.2
Club-pass play is permitted for 12U and older Recreational players; 11U and 12U academy and
13U–19U Athena, Classic and GPL players.
440.2a Club pass play from Athena to Classic is allowed but not Classic to Athena.
440.2b Club pass play from Recreational Girls to Recreational Boys is allowed but not
Recreational Boys to Recreational Girls.
440.3
Academy 11U and 12U and Select 13U and older players may club pass (1) to a team at the
same age but a higher competitive level, and/or (2) to a team at an older age group at any
competitive level.
440.3a Recreational players may club pass to a recreational team in the same age group or to
an older age recreational team. Recreational players may club pass to any age
appropriate or older select team.
440.4
A player may play with the team on which he is registered and one other team on a given day. A
player may not play in more than two games in any one day. 13U – 16U teams may use a
maximum of five club-pass players in any one game. 17U – 19U teams may use a maximum of
seven club-pass players in any one game.
440.5
Any player found to be playing for a team on which that player is not eligible to participate will be
deemed an ineligible player and a forfeit will be charged against the team with which the player
participated. The D&P Committee has the right to add additional sanctions against either or both
the player and the coach after a hearing to determine intent.
450.
Team Obligations: Spectating and Field Set-up
450.1a Team representatives will be responsible for contacting the opposing team representative
the Saturday prior to a Saturday/Sunday scheduled game for any game cancellations
other than unplayable fields (see rule 450.2).
450.1b The Home Team representative will be responsible for notifying their member affiliate
officials, which may include field and referee assignors, of any game cancellations. This
applies to all regularly scheduled and make-up games.
450.2 The Home Team representative will be responsible for contacting the opposing team
17
representative as early as possible if their game should be canceled due to unplayable field
conditions.
450.3
The Home Team is to provide the game ball, a properly lined and cut field, nets and corner flags.
450.4
All spectators, team officials, and sidelined players must stay clear of the touchline between the
corner and the 18-yard extension of the penalty box.
450.5
When at all possible a LINE should be placed three to five (3 to 5) yards behind the touchline to
keep team officials, spectators and substitutes back from the field and out of the assistant
referee's way.
450.5a All team officials, spectators and substitutes should remain three to five yards behind the
touchline when physically possible.
450.5b The referee or assistant referee may, at any time, restrict the sideline movement of team
officials, players and spectators.
A member affiliate representative may judge fields under their responsibility unplayable. It shall
be their responsibility to notify the opposing team officials, referees, and other parties as soon as
possible after a field closure.
450.6
460.
Scoring
460.1
Scoring is used by Athena, Classic, GPL and RIAS for regular league play.
Academy does not record scores for regular league play at 10U and 11U. Scoring may be
necessary for 12U Academy in order to seed teams.
460.2
Athena, Classic, GPL, 12U Competitive Academy and RIAS teams are required to electronically
submit game reports into the ADG Scheduling / Gaming system within 48 hours of the match.
Electronic game reports consist of the following information:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Scores of both teams.
Yellow Cards for both teams.
Red Cards for both teams.
Head Coach / Assistant Coach / Team Manager ejections for both teams.
Spectator ejection must be submitted via Coach Incident Report.
Game Forfeit.
Game Termination must be submitted via Coach Incident Report
Team removed from field by coach must be submitted via Coach Incident Report
460.3
Additional information can be supplied in the required Coach Incident Report.
460.4
Failure of EITHER TEAM to report any of the above incidents in ADG may result in an E&G ethics
investigation of the person or persons involved in omitting this information.
460.5 The referee will send a written report to Georgia Soccer for all send-offs, dismissals, injuries and
game terminations.
460.6 After review of all game misconduct reports and any ruling by the Discipline & Protest Committee,
the electronic scheduling / scoring system will be updated to reflect any sanctions levied to a
team official or player.
460.7 Standings, if used:
460.7a Standings will be based on accumulated points, adjusted by penalty points.
460.7b Win
5 points
460.7c Tie
2 points
460.7d Loss
0 points
18
460.7e Games decided by forfeiture will be recorded as a 4-0 score.
460.7f The maximum number of points a team may obtain in a match is five.
460.7g To determine divisional standings, in case of a tie in total points within any Division or
Sub-division thereof, the following tie-breaking procedure will apply:
1.
Results of head-to-head competition. This criterion is not used if more than two
teams are tied.
2.
Largest difference in goals scored versus goals allowed (maximum 4 per game,
calculated per game)
3.
Fewest goals allowed
4.
Fewest accrued penalty points
5.
Coin Toss
470.
Awards: All select programs’ youth awards for seasonal play shall be appropriate medals.
19
500.
RULES OF US YOUTH SOCCER AFFECTING GAME PLAY AND GEORGIA YOUTH MODIFICATIONS TO
THE LAWS OF THE GAME
500.1. The Rules of Play used will be the "FIFA Laws of the Game", as modified by the US YOUTH
SOCCER Official Administrative Rulebook and those modifications contained herein.
500.2 In case of conflict, the appropriate Division Rules shall apply.
510.
LAW #1: THE FIELD
510.1
Outer Dimensions (Yards)
Minimum
Maximum
L x W
35 x 25
35 x 25
65 x 45
80 x 55
130 x 100
Age Group
04U to 06U
08U
09U-10U
11U-12U
13U to 19U
L x W
25 x 15
25 x 15
55 x 35
70x 45
100 x 50
Recommended
25 x 20
35 x 25
60 x 40
75 x 50
110 x 70
510.2
Inside Dimensions (Yards)
Age Group
Penalty Area
Goal Area
Penalty Kick Mark
Center Circle
04U to 08U
09U-10U
11U-12U
13U to 19U
None
24 x 12
36 x 14
44 x 18
None
8 x 4
16 x 5
20 x 6
None
10
10
12
3
8
8
10
510.3
Maximum Goal Size (Feet)
Age Group
04U to 08U
09U-10U
11U-12U
13U to 19U
Maximum Height
4
6.5
7
8
Maximum Width
6
18.5
21
24
510.4
No one (spectators or participants) shall be allowed behind the end lines during the course of a
game.
510.4a The referee shall halt the game, if necessary, to enforce this rule.
510.4b Further action by the referee shall be considered, if necessary, under provisions of Law
#5 and Law #12.
510.5
Field size will not be a matter for protest.
510.6
A technical area, as defined in the Laws of the Game, shall be marked in the area designated by
the host member affiliate for players’ seating, unless such marking is not feasible due to the
layout or arrangements of the particular field. The technical area shall not be marked nearer to
the touchline than one yard. There are no other specific dimensions required for the technical
area. Guidance for markings can be found in the Laws of the Game. In situations where no bench
is provided, it is recommended that the technical area not exceed twenty yards in length (parallel
to the touchline) and that the two technical areas be defined on the same side of the field
equidistant from the halfway line. If on the same side of the field, the technical areas should begin
10 yards from the halfway line and extend 20 yards toward the goal line.
510.7
Build-out lines
20
510.7a The build-out line promotes playing the ball out of the back in a less pressured setting.
Build-out lines should be equidistant from the penalty area lines and halfway line OR
Build-out lines should be 8 yards from halfway line.
510.7b When the goalkeeper has the ball in his or her hand hands during play from the
opponent, the opposing team must move behind the build-out line until the ball is put into
play
510.7c Once the opposing team is behind the build-out line, the goalkeeper can pass, throw or
roll the ball to a teammate. Punts and drop kicks are not allowed.
510.7d After the ball is put into play by the goalkeeper, the opposing team can cross the build-
out line and play resumes as normal.
510.7e The opposing team must also move behind the build-out line prior to a goal kick and may
only cross the build-out line once the ball has left the penalty area.
510.7f If a goalkeeper punts or drop kicks the ball, an indirect free kick should be awarded to the
opposing team from the spot of the offense. If the punt or drop kick occurs within the goal area,
the indirect free kick should be taken on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the nearest
point to where the offense occurred.
510.7g The build-out line will also be used to denote where offside offenses can be called.
510.7i Players cannot be penalized for an offside offense between the halfway line and the
build-out line.
510.7j Players can be penalized for an offside offense between the build-out line and the goal
line.
510.8
Build-out Line Practical Applications
510.8a Ideally, the goalkeeper will wait to put the ball into play once all opponents are past the
build-out line.
510.8b However, the goalkeeper can put the ball into play sooner but he or she does so
accepting the positioning of the opponents and the consequences of how play resumes.
510.8c To support the intent of the development rule, coaches and referees should be mindful of
any intentional delays being caused by opponents not retreating in a timely manner or
encroaching over the build-out line prior to the ball being put into play.
510.8d Coaches are responsible for addressing these types of issues with their players.
510.8e Referees can manage the situation with misconduct if deemed appropriate.
510.8f Referees should be flexible when enforcing the 6-second rule and counting the time of
possession should only begin when all opponents have moved behind the build-out line.
520.
LAW #2: THE BALL
520.1
04U through 08U shall use a #3 ball.
520.2
09U
through 12U shall use a #4 ball.
520.3
All others shall use a #5 ball.
21
530.
LAW #3: THE PLAYERS
530.1 The following shall be the number of players for each age division to take part in a match, the
minimum required to begin a match, and the minimum required to continue a match once started:
04U to 08U
09U to
10U
11U to 12U
13U to 19U
Maximum number
on the field
4
7
9
11
To Start Match
3
5
6
7
To Finish Match
3
5
6
7
Any Academy 12U program has the option to schedule 11v11 games during the fall and spring playing seasons.
530.2
LAW #3: The Players -- All Programs
530. 2a Recreation: Each player must play a minimum of half of each half of a match, if he/she
meets practice participation requirements set by their club/association.
1.
04U – 12U: Half of each half is the mandated playing minimum per player. It is
recommended that whenever possible all players should play three-fourths of each
game, unless the player is unwilling or unable.
2.
09U and 10U Goalkeeper Participation: In recreational play, the goalkeeper must be
given at least as much time in each game as a field player as he/she plays as
goalkeeper.
530.2b Select: Each eligible player must play a minimum of half a match, if he/she meets
reasonable practice participation requirements set by their club/association. For 15U and
older teams, this will not apply at the Classic I and Athena A levels.
530.2c 19U teams are not required to have all registered players of the team who are present at
match site play at least one half of the match.
530.3
LAW #3: The Players -- For Teams Ages 04U through 08U (4v4)
530.3a Substitutions shall be unlimited and can occur at any time with the consent of the referee.
530.4
LAW #3: The Players -- For Teams Ages 09U through 12U (7v7 and 9v9)
530. 4a Substitutions are unlimited and can occur at any stoppage with the consent of the
referee.
530. 4b 09U and 10U Goalkeeper Participation: In recreational play, the goalkeeper must be
given at least as much time in each game as a field player as he/she plays as
goalkeeper.
530.5
LAW #3: The Players -- For Teams Ages 13U and up
530.5a Substitutions shall be unlimited except where specified otherwise in the Rules and
Regulations.
530.5b Select competitions may specify substitution policies.
22
530.5c Substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee, at the following times:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Prior to a throw-in in your favor.
Prior to a goal kick, by either team.
After a goal, by either team.
After an injury, by either team, when the referee stops the play. Substitutions shall
not be limited to only the injured player or his team.
At half time.
After a caution or sending off, by either team.
5.
6.
530.5d A player who is sent off may not be substituted.
540.
LAW #4: THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT
540.1
Uniforms will be individually numbered and legible.
540.2
The goalkeeper shall wear a shirt of a different color from his teammates, the referee, and his
opponents, and does not require a number.
540.3
Players may wear a cast on the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, upper arm or shoulder if it is covered
and padded with a closed-cell, slow-recovery foam padding no less than ½-inch thick.
550.
LAW #5: THE REFEREE -- Recreational Division (see Rule 230)
560.
LAW #6: THE OTHER MATCH OFFICIALS -- No modifications
570.
LAW #7: THE DURATION OF THE MATCH
Length of Games, Overtime Periods, and Ball Specifications
570.1 The length of games for each age group shall be as follows
Group
19U
17U
16U
15U
14U
13U
12U
11U
10U
09U
08U
06U
04U
Game
Length
Two 45-min. halves
Two 45-min. halves
Two 40-min. halves
Two 40-min. halves
Two 35-min. halves
Two 35-min. halves
Two 30-min. halves
Two 30-min. halves
Two 25-min. halves
Two 25-min. halves
Four 10 min. quarters
Four 10 min. quarters.
Four 8-10 min. quarters.
570.1a
570.1b
570.1c
570.1d
570.1e
570.1f
570.1g
570.1h
570.1i
570.1j
570.1k
570.1l
570.1m
(Recommended)
(Recommended)
(Recommended)
570.2 All matches of 09U age group teams and above shall have a 10-minute half-time interval. All
other age groups shall have a 5-minute half-time interval.
580.
LAW #8: THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY
580.1 If a team cannot field the required minimum number of players within 15 minutes after the
scheduled kick-off time, that team will forfeit the game. In the event that neither team is able to
field the required minimum number of players, then both teams will forfeit the game.
580.1a For extenuating circumstances, the appropriate program Committee shall have the right
to waive this rule.
23
590.
LAW #9: THE BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY -- No Modifications
600.
610.
LAW #10: DETERMINING THE OUTCOME OF A MATCH – No Modifications
LAW #11: OFFSIDE
610.1.
08U and below: There is no offside.
620.
LAW #12: FOULS AND MISCONDUCT – No Modifications
630.
LAW #13: FREE KICKS
630.1 04U to 08U: All free kicks will be indirect.
640.
LAW #14: THE PENALTY KICK
640.1 04U to 08U: No penalty kicks are to be taken during games.
650.
LAW #15: THE THROW-IN
650.1 04U to 08U: A second throw-in must be allowed if the player makes an improper throw-in on the
initial attempt. The second throw-in takes place after the game official explains the proper
method.
660.
LAW #16: THE GOAL KICK – No Modifications
670.
LAW #17: THE CORNER KICK
670.1 04U to 06U: Throw-ins may be taken in place of corner kicks. If corner kicks are used, the
opponents must be three (3) yards away from the ball.
670.2 08U: Opponents must be six (6) yards away from the ball.
700.
Sportsmanship
710.
Conduct
710.1
All that is dishonorable and unsporting is particularly and expressly condemned.
710.1a All persons in authority will conduct themselves in a manner that will not contribute to the
delinquency of minors.
710.1b Georgia Soccer encourages moral and social responsibility.
710.2
Any player, team official, or parent guilty of such violations will be subject to disciplinary action by
their respective member affiliates or by Georgia Soccer or by both.
710.3
Rules of conduct to be adhered to by participants at all Youth Soccer events are:
710.3a Offensive, insulting, and abusive language will not be tolerated, either on field of play or
in field's general area.
710.3b Unsporting conduct will not be tolerated.
710.3c Respect for referee, either on field or in field's general area, must be shown by all.
710.3d Punctuality by both teams and referee must be practiced out of courtesy for others.
710.3e Dangerous play must not be taught or encouraged. All players must be taught to "play
the ball" and not the "man".
24
710.3f
Proper respect for opposing teams and spectators must be exhibited by all.
710.3g Alcoholic beverages will not be permitted in the general area of the field.
Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their players, team representatives and spectators.
710.4
710.5
Physical violence, foul and abusive language, harassment of players or referees WILL NOT BE
TOLERATED.
710.6
The use of noise-making or amplifying devices is PROHIBITED.
710.7
Such conduct will be reported by the referee even in situations where cards were not awarded.
720.
Match Terminations, Suspensions, Forfeits, and Reschedules
720.1.
Games played short time as a result of any weather-related conditions or other conditions
affecting the field of play shall be considered completed if at least one full half of play has been
completed. All other games shall be replayed in their entirety providing neither team is at fault.
720.2
Should one of the teams be adjudged at fault by the D&P Committee, it shall be at the discretion
of the Division Committee as to whether the game is to be replayed or declared a termination.
Terminated games carry a four-point penalty assessment.
720.3
Coaches who feel that their players are receiving an excessive number of cards, or that the
referee has lost control of the match, are cautioned against using these reasons to justify
removing their team from play.
720.4
If a coach removes his team from the field of play without proper justification, his team will forfeit
the match and the coach will be suspended from his team's next match. Further D&P action may
result.
720.5
Teams that do not show for scheduled games (i.e., failure to notify the opposing team within
seven days of the scheduled match) will be charged with a forfeit at the discretion of the playing
division committee. Should the game be rescheduled, at the discretion of the playing division
committee, the cost of the referees for the reschedule shall be borne by the team that was
responsible for the match not being played. The referee fees must be paid to the home
association prior to the game being rescheduled. If the game cannot be rescheduled, the team
that failed to show for the original match must pay the referee fees for the missed match directly
to the home member affiliate.
720.5a In the event that neither team is able to field the required minimum number of players,
then both teams will show a 0-4 (forfeit) loss.
720.6
Forfeits and Reschedules
720.6a
Games, once scheduled, will be played as scheduled except in extreme extenuating
circumstances and cannot be changed until approved by the Division Committee or its
representative. Teams involved in reschedules must present a game day lineup sheet
that indicates the correct rescheduled date of the game.
720.6b
All reschedules that include a change of date will be completed by October 15
th
during
the Fall season and April 1
s
t during the Spring Season. The only exceptions will be
weather related, unplayable fields or lack of referees. Any game canceled due to failure
to provide referees will result in the away team becoming the home team for the
rescheduled games.
720.6c
Once a game assignment has been published on the scheduling website, all changes
must be agreed to by both teams involved and submitted to the Age Group Coordinator.
25
720.6d Rainouts or unplayable field conditions will be determined by the referee at the field or the
official of each home member affiliate. In cases where games are canceled by the
member affiliate official or referee, a staff member of the Home Team shall notify a staff
member of the Opposing Team of the canceled game.
720.6e Both teams shall agree to a reschedule date, time, and field within 7 days of the agreed
date to cancel the game, and shall report to the AGC for website update.
720.6f The Division Committee shall set the date if the two opposing team officials cannot
mutually agree on an acceptable date.
720.6g
The Division Committee will resolve any disputes or conflicts regarding scheduled or
rescheduled games.
720.6h
Both teams involved in every forfeit will file a report with the appropriate Division
Director. A team that forfeits three (3) or more games in a playing season will be
prohibited from participating in that seasonal year’s State Cup or any other Georgia
Soccer hosted youth state championship tournament. A team that forfeits three (3) or
more games in a playing season will be denied travel permission for out-of-state
competition for a period of one year from the date of the last forfeit. Additional sanctions
may include but are not limited to the following: warning, coach suspension, additional
tournament play restrictions, team advancement restrictions, coach dismissal and team
suspension.
720.6i
Any team that forfeits a game due to travelling distances will forfeit all games against that
particular team during the playing season.
720.6j Penalty points acquired will accrue and will be applied to the standing’s points at the end
of the season.
730.
Misconduct
730.1
Referees must submit written reports of all game misconduct, with the exception of players
cautioned, directly to Georgia Soccer electronically–or postmarked–within 48 hours after the
game.
730.1a Failure to file a referee report will result in the recession of any red card that is not
accounted for in a report.
730.1b Referees and their assignors will be subject to the following penalties for failure to file a
misconduct report:
1. First time in a season – letter of education.
2. Second time – warning.
3. Third time – Ethics & Grievance hearing for both assignor and referee.
730.1c Clubs who have referees who fail to file three game reports in a season that are assigned
by that club assignor will be subject to a $100 fine for each occurrence.
730.1d A team official shall submit an electronic incident report to the Georgia Soccer D&P
Committee – Youth regarding all game misconduct issues within 48 hours of the game.
730.2
Games forfeited and then played as scrimmage games will not count for the game suspension(s).
730.3
All outdoor suspensions apply to outdoor, and all indoor suspensions apply to indoor.
730.4
Any team with an ineligible player or team official who participates in a game shall forfeit each
game in which the ineligible person takes part. The coach may be suspended from all Georgia
Soccer Youth participation for up to 1 year. The D&P committee has the right to add additional
sanctions. Findings of ineligibility and the sanctions levied by the Select, Recreation, D&P, and
E&G Committees are not subject to time restrictions. A protest is not required for the D&P
Committee to act on issues of player or team official eligibility.
26
731.
Coach Misconduct
731.1 Any coach dismissed from a game shall be automatically suspended from the next game
scheduled and played under US Youth Soccer affiliation and competition. The coach shall not be
present at the field or in the parking lot or any adjacent area to the field of play.
731.1a Any coach dismissed for using racial or ethnic slurs or offensive language that includes
derogatory comments about gender, sexual orientation, physical ability or religion shall
serve a minimum of a two-game suspension. The Georgia Soccer – Youth Discipline and
Protest Committee retains the right to increase the suspension.
731.2
Any coach dismissed by the referee from a game must immediately leave sight and sound of the
field and cannot return to the field of play until the referee crew has left the field after the
completion of the game.
731.3
Failure to leave sight and sound after a dismissal may result in the game being terminated by the
referee. Coaches are not permitted to have any contact with players, team management or other
coaches during the course of the game from which they are dismissed.
731.4
Once dismissed from the game, coaches may not approach the referee crew during or after the
match.
731.5
As Academy teams may play multiple games in a given day, all suspensions for Academy
coaches shall be day specific for that age group, not game specific for that age group.
731.6
Game suspension(s) will apply to the team for which the coach received the dismissal.
731.7
Any incident of referee abuse or assault reported by the referee must be considered by the
Georgia Soccer D & P Committee - Youth before that coach will be allowed to coach at a
regularly-scheduled game.
731.8
In the event the team is disbanded or has played its last game, the sanction will be served at the
next game coached by this individual accordingly.
731.9
When a coach is dismissed for a second time for the same team (equivalent to a second red
card) in a seasonal year, he is suspended until the Discipline & Protest Committee receives an
application for a hearing from the suspended coach, holds such hearing with the coach present,
and approves the coach's reinstatement.
731.9a When a coach has been reinstated after the second dismissal, coach must request a
reinstatement for each additional dismissal in that seasonal year. Coach may receive
additional sanctions.
731.10
Any coach who coaches subsequent games without serving the mandatory suspension will be
deemed an ineligible coach and will cause any games in which he coaches to be forfeited.
731.10a Also, a coach will be indefinitely suspended until the Discipline & Protest Committee
receives an application for a hearing from the suspended coach, holds such a hearing
with the coach present, and approves the coach's reinstatement.
731.10b Standings will be adjusted accordingly, as if the team decided to forfeit.
731.10c Points, if appropriate, accrue.
731.11 Failure to adhere to the above rules in section 731 (Coach Misconduct) may result in additional
sanctions being imposed upon the coach by the Georgia Soccer – Youth Discipline and Protest
Committee.
731.12 If the team or coach would like to request an exception to the above rules in section 731 (Coach
Misconduct), the request must be submitted and approved by the Georgia Soccer – Youth D&P
Committee.
732.
Player Misconduct
732.1 Any player sent off during a game shall be automatically suspended from the next game
27
732.1
Scheduled on a subsequent weekend of the team in which he/she is rostered and played
under US Youth Soccer affiliation and competition. If the player receives a red card on
Saturday and is scheduled to play the next day, Sunday, the player has the option to sit the
game and use to serve towards any suspension, as long as noted on the game card by the
referee. Player is also ineligible for participation in the Georgia Soccer Youth Club Pass
System until the suspension is served. Player is ineligible for guest play participation until
the suspension is served.
732.1
a A player who plays up one or more age groups in the fall and received a red card on the
last game played, and who wishes to dual roster in the spring because his/her primary
team does not play a spring season, may serve the D&P suspension with the secondary
team in the spring.
732.2
b Any player sent off for using racial or ethnic slurs or offensive language that includes
derogatory comments about gender, sexual orientation, physical ability or religion shall
serve a minimum of a two-game suspension. The Georgia Soccer – Youth Discipline and
Protest Committee retains the right to increase the suspension.
732.3
A player who is sent off may remain on the bench for the remainder of the game provided he/she
causes no disruption to the game. Only if the player causes a disruption is he/she to be removed from
sight and sound of the game and may not return until the referee crew has left. In such an event a team
official or parent must escort the player from the game.
732.3 In the event the team is disbanded or has played its last game, the sanction will be served at the
next game(s) to be played accordingly.
732.4
During the suspension, the player must be present at each game, dressed in street clothes and
sitting on the player’s bench throughout the game.
732.5 Players serving a suspension shall be identified on the game day lineup sheet with an “SUS”, an
“R,” or an indication by the referee showing the suspended player’s ineligibility. Any indication of
ineligibility marked by the referee must be marked on both teams’ game day lineup sheets. The player
serving a suspension must be included as one of the maximum number of players allowed on the game
day lineup sheet, not as an additional name.
732.6 The referee shall acknowledge the player serving his/her suspension by signing next to the name.
The referee should also, as a courtesy, notify the opposing team.
732.7 As Academy teams may play multiple games in a given day, all suspensions for Academy players
shall be day specific for that age group, not game specific for that age group.
732.8 Any player who plays subsequent games without serving the mandatory suspension will be
deemed an ineligible player, and will cause any games in which he plays to be forfeited.
732.8a Standings will be adjusted accordingly, as if the team decided to forfeit.
732.8b Points, if appropriate, accrue.
732.9 Any player receiving 4 cautions in a playing season will sit out the next scheduled and played
game for the team that he/she is rostered to under US Youth Soccer affiliation and competition. Player is
ineligible for participation in the Georgia Soccer Youth Club Pass System until the suspension is served.
Failure to serve the mandatory suspension will result in a forfeiture of any and all games played while the
player was ineligible. Additional sanctions to the player or the coach may be assessed by the D&P
Committee if deemed appropriate after a hearing.
732.9a In addition, the player shall sit out the next scheduled and played game when 2 more
cautions are received. The player will then sit out the next scheduled and played game
each time an additional caution is received. Player is ineligible for participation in the
Georgia Soccer Youth Club Pass System until the suspension is served.
732.9b Sanctions for yellow card accumulations end when seasonal play has been completed.
Sanctions do not carry over into the next seasonal year.
732.10 Two yellow cards received in the same match by a player will count as zero (0) cautions for the
purpose of this rule and as a red card as per rules 740 and 760.
28
732.11 When a player receives a third red card in a seasonal year, he is suspended until such time as he
arranges for a hearing and appears before the Georgia Soccer Discipline & Protest Committee - Youth to
hear cause for reinstatement.
732.11a When a player has been reinstated after the third red card in a seasonal year, player
must request reinstatement for each additional send off in that seasonal year. Player
may receive additional sanctions.
732.12 If the team or team official would like to request an exception to the above rules in section 732
(Player Misconduct), the request must be submitted and approved by the Georgia Soccer – Youth D&P
Committee.
733.
Parent and Spectator Misconduct
733.1 Misconduct of parents and spectators will be handled by the Georgia Soccer – Youth D&P
Committee using the same standards of conduct and behavior and sanctions as those used with players,
coaches or administrators.
733.2
Parents, spectators are not allowed to verbally question, address or critique (criticize) any game
official’s judgment during or after the match.
*
The first instance that any Parent/Spectator violates this rule the game official will ask the appropriate
coach to address the situation.
*
If there is a second instance, a second warning will be given to the coach.
*
If there is a third instance, the game official will ask the coach to remove the offending
Parent/Spectator(s).
*
If the parent/spectator is using “offensive vulgar language” at any game official during or after the match,
that parent/spectator will be instantly removed on the first instance.
*
If the offending Parent/Spectator(s) refuse to leave the coach will be dismissed.
*
If the offending Team coach refuses to address the parents when asked by the official, the coach will be
dismissed.
*
Any further instance by parents/spectators the game will be terminated
733.3 Any parent or spectator removed from a game shall be automatically suspended from the next
game scheduled and played under US Youth Soccer affiliation and competition. The parent or spectator
shall not be present at the field or in the parking lot or any adjacent area to the field of play.
733.4 Any parent or spectator removed from a game must immediately leave sight and sound of the field
and cannot return to the field of play until the referee crew has left the field after the completion of the
game.
733.5 Failure to leave sight and sound after a removal may result in the game being terminated by the
referee. Parents and Spectators are not permitted to have any contact with players, team management or
other coaches during the course of the game from which they are removed.
733.6 Once removed from the game, parents and spectators may not approach the referee crew during
or after the match.
740.
Misconduct -- Penalties for Players, Team Officials, Teams and Member Affiliates
[Athena, Classic, GPL, 12U Competitive Academy, and RIAS Programs]
740.1 Misconduct by players, team officials, teams, and member affiliates during regular season games
will result in the deduction of points from the standings, if used, as follows:
740.1a Player caution (yellow card)
0 points
740.1b Player send-off (red card)
2 points
740.1c Team official send-off (red card)
3 points
29
740.1d Game termination (team responsible)
4 points
740.1e Game forfeiture
4 points
All forfeits shall result in a score of 4-0 against the team being penalized.
740.1f
Missing jersey numbers
1 point per game if not corrected within 72 hours
740.1g If at the end of the playing season, a team has 5 disciplinary penalty points or less, no
deductions will be charged to the team.
740.1h
No team will be assessed more than 5 penalty points in one match.
740.1i Penalty points from forfeiture and missing jersey numbers are not subject to 740.1h
above and are assessed to the team regardless of other penalty point accumulations.
740.2
The Division Committee will be responsible for verifying all game incidents and adjusting the
standing points accordingly.
740.2a Member Affiliate Presidents will be notified in writing of any team in their member affiliate
with a penalty points accumulation of 8 points.
740.3
If a team receives 10 penalty points during a season, the member affiliate is fined $250.00 and
the coach is suspended until such time that a Discipline & Protest hearing is held and cause for
re-instatement is heard.
740.4
If a team receives 13 penalty points during a season, the team is suspended until an in-person
hearing takes place, within 14 days of the accrual of 13 penalty points, where the suspended
team may argue why suspension is not warranted.
740.4a After the team’s suspension and the in-person hearing, the coach may be subject to
additional sanctions for that specific team within Georgia Soccer youth programs.
740.4b The member affiliate is placed on probation for one year and fined $500.00.
740.5
Players transferring to another team carry accrued penalty points with them to the new team for
the remainder of the playing season. However, even if a player with penalty points transfers, all
penalty points assessed to the team during that player’s participation remain with the first team as
well. When using a Georgia Soccer Youth Club Pass Player, penalty points accrued during the
game remain with that team as well.
750.
Georgia State Cup Competition (Athena, Classic, and GPL)
750.1
Any member suspended under provisions of Georgia Soccer or the respective committee shall be
suspended from Georgia Soccer State Cup Competition - Youth.
Any team that forfeits three (3) matches during the Fall or Spring playing season shall be
suspended from Georgia Soccer State Cup Competition - Youth.
750.2
750.3
The players and coach(es) of the suspended team shall also be suspended from Georgia Soccer
State Cup Competition – Youth except in extenuating circumstances.
750.4
Red Cards that are received during a National Championship Series (NCS) event such as State
Cup require a standard one-game suspension that will apply only to the next NCS scheduled
game.
760.
Discipline and Protest (D&P) and Ethics and Grievance (E&G), and Appeals
760.1 All questions as to discipline, protests, appeals, or grievances will be directed in writing as
appropriate to the Georgia Soccer Adjudication Committee(s) –Youth.
30
.
760.2
All protests must be submitted electronically, postmarked (metered mail not accepted), or hand-
delivered by1:00 p.m. Friday of the week following the alleged incident, and accompanied by the
appropriate protest fee. The protest fee is refundable if the protest is upheld.
760.3
Appeals must be submitted in writing within 10 days after the receipt of notice of adverse decision
of protest.
760.4
The Ethics and Grievance Committee will accept grievances within 30 days of the occurrence.
Grievances do not require submittal fees.
760.4a Ethics and Grievance Sanctions: If a coach, team official, member affiliate official, player,
or parent of a player is found guilty of an ethics or grievance violation, sanctions may
include, but are not limited to, the following: a warning, a fine, community service,
suspension of the guilty party, tournament play restrictions, team advancement
restrictions, or recommendation to the Georgia Soccer Board of Directors that the
member affiliate be placed in bad standing.
760.5
The Georgia Soccer Discipline and Protest Committee - Youth will meet regularly during the
playing season.
760.5a The State Referee Committee (SRC) will compose a group of at least four senior
referees to act as rules interpreters for Discipline and Protest hearings. The D&P Chair
will contact the SRC when an under-18 referee will be involved in a D&P hearing so the
SRC can offer assistance.
760.5b The D&P Committee shall make decisions regarding protests and forward those
decisions to the Playing Division with its recommendations for sanctions based upon its
findings.
760. 6
The D & P Committee will notify the appropriate member affiliate President of any matters to be
considered. Fines and Fees approved by general membership:
Protest Fee
Appeal Fee
$100.00
$150.00
Fines:
1.
Underage official (per occurrence after 3rd reported violation)
$
50.00
2.
Unregistered official (per occurrence)
$
10.00
3.
Improperly postponed game
$
10.00
4.
Team forfeiting match as no-show
$100.00
5.
Academy team no-show (per scheduled league or district match)
$100.00
760.6a Discipline and Protest Sanctions: If a coach, team representative, player, or spectator is
found guilty of a disciplinary issue, sanctions may include, but are not limited to the
following: a warning or suspension of the guilty party.
31
800.
Glossary
810.
Georgia Soccer Club Pass System – Process that allows a player to play up in age group and/or up in
competitive level within the same member affiliate.
820.
Select -- Programs that do allow tryouts.
830.
Playing Season -- The period of time, Spring or Fall, during which league games are played.
840.
Recreational -- Programs that do not allow tryouts.
850.
Player Registration – Execution (via electronic or manual means) of an intent to play the sport and the
paying of fees (as defined by the affiliate member) with a registered member affiliate of Georgia Soccer or
member affiliate of a State Association of US Youth Soccer.
860.
Release -- Member affiliate-authorized removal of a player from a team roster, which puts the player in
inactive status. The player’s player pass must be returned to the member affiliate office upon the release.
In order to be returned to active status during the same seasonal year, the player must go back to his/her
original member affiliate and re-register or initiate a transfer request with that member affiliate.
860.1 A player may be involuntarily removed from a roster by a coach or club for one of the following
reasons:
860.1a Player has violated US Youth Soccer Association’s rules or state disciplinary rules.
860.1b Player has moved beyond a reasonable travel distance.
860.1c Player is injured in such a manner that he/she will be unable to participate for the
remainder of the season.
860.1d Player has abandoned team (i.e. been absent without excuse for four or more weeks).
860.2 To request an involuntary release, the coach must submit a written request to the member affiliate’s
registrar.
870.
Roster -- The Georgia Soccer official list of youth players registered to an individual team.
870.1 Rostered Player – A registered youth player that has been assigned by the member affiliate to a
team and appears on an official Georgia Soccer roster.
880.
Seasonal Year -- September 1 to August 31
890.
Team official – an individual properly registered and listed on a team’s official state roster or an adult 18
years old or older who assumes the duties and responsibilities of a team on game day.
900.
Transfer -- Georgia Soccer authorized movement of a rostered youth player during the current seasonal
year onto another roster.
900.1 Intra-affiliate Transfer – Georgia Soccer authorized youth player movement from one member
affiliate roster to another roster within the same member affiliate. This transfer is processed by the
member affiliate’s Registrar in the ADG system.
900.2 Inter affiliate Transfer – Georgia Soccer authorized youth player movement from one member
affiliate roster to another member affiliate roster.
910.
Transfer Process – The process used to track player movement from one youth team/member affiliate to
32
another youth team/member affiliate. All transfers are processed electronically in the ADG system. A
second Select player transfer (Select team to Select team) during the seasonal year requires approval by
the Georgia Soccer State Registrar before final acceptance by the receiving member affiliate. The
process may be initiated by the player’s parent/guardian or by a member affiliate administrator. The
releasing member affiliate must respond to a transfer request within 7 business days or Georgia Soccer
may take authority to review the transfer request.
910.1
Primary team is that designation given to a player’s first team, when a true 14U player is dual
registered. A player must give consideration to his primary team’s games and functions, and a
player may only participate in state cup play with his primary team.
920.
Unauthorized recruiting is defined as any contact with a signed player or parents of a signed player
except as permitted in these Rules.
930.
Active Status – a youth player is considered to be on active status if he/she is rostered to a team that is
registered with Georgia Soccer for the current seasonal year.
940.
Inactive Status – a player is considered to be inactive if he/she executes a release from a team and
remains inactive until he/she transfers to another team or registers for the next seasonal year.
950.
Ineligible player – a player who is not authorized to participate. This includes but is not limited to: players
not on the official state roster; players who are handwritten on the game day lineup sheet; members of
another team’s roster (except where allowed to Club Pass or Dual Roster); overage players; and players
who have yet to serve suspensions for red cards or accumulated yellow cards.
