Culpeper Soccer Association Referees

As of March 2011- Applies to CSA matches only!

The FIFA Laws of the Game govern our matches with the following additions and modifications:

1. Unlimited substitutions by either team on any stoppage except free kicks (D or I) and corner kicks. Coaches may immediately substitute for a player who has just received a yellow card or for an injured player (play must be stopped).
2. Coaches may add player for 5+ goal difference (add one at 5, add another at 6, remove as score difference drops below 5 or 6). Usually just U-8, but applies to all. 11 players max.

** U8 ONLY ** The following FIFA modifications that apply to CSA U8 games only ** U8 ONLY **

Law 8 - The Start and Restart of Play: Conform to FIFA, with the exception of the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct: Conform to FIFA with the exception that all fouls shall result in a direct free kick. The referee must explain ALL infringements to the offending player. No cards shown for misconduct.

Repeated fouls or misconduct can be handled by removing the offending player from play for a period of time to calm down or receive individual instruction from his/her coach/assistant coach/parent helper regarding correction of the repetitive foul/misconduct.

Law 13 - Free Kicks: Conform to FIFA with the exceptions that all kicks are direct and all opponents are at least four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.

Law 14 - The Penalty Kick: No PKs, instead a DFK from the spot of the infraction.

Law 16 - The Goal Kick: The goal kick should be taken anywhere within the goal area. Opposing players must be outside the goal area AND at least four (4) yards away from the ball until it is in play. It is suggested that if necessary that opponents are in their own half of the field until the ball is in play.

Law 17 - The Corner Kick: Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents remain at least four (4) yards from the ball until it is in play.

In addition:

1. Goaltending is not permitted
2. The only rule on goaltending is that a defensive player may not remain in the goal area (the single painted box around the goal) continuously.
3. The guideline on goaltending is that a defensive player must react and respond to an advancing attack, not retreat to cover the goal. Put another way, the defensive player should play as if there were a goalkeeper in place behind him or her.
4. There is no official sanction or discipline for goaltending. Speak with the coach to get the behavior to stop. Avoid coaching the players yourself.
5. Coaches sometimes get wrapped up in coaching and fail to recognize that their position is intimidating or obstructing the players (standing next to goal, leaning on goal, in the traffic lanes). Kindly ask the coach to keep clear