IMPORTANT

By purchasing a registration through the league website or via a team leader, you are acknowledging your agreement with all the following rules, and no refunds will be provided.

 

MATCH VENUE

All fixtures will be conducted at the Matias Almeyda Training Center.

 

RULES ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Prior to joining a team, please thoroughly read and understand the rules.

 

AGE LIMIT

Participants must be between the ages of 15 and 39.

 

Basic/Standard Rules

The following standard rules apply:

• Corner kicks

• Firm Ground Cleats

• Offsides

• Throw-ins

• 45-minute halves

• 15-minute rest period between halves

• Direct and indirect free kicks

• Slide tackles

• Unlimited substitutions

• Three substitution windows per half (unlimited subs)

• Decisions made at the referee's discretion

• Fines apply

• VAR (Video Assistant Referee)

 

VAR Rule

For VAR (Video Assistant Referee), each team is granted one VAR challenge per half of the match, and only the coach or the team captain has the authority to initiate such a challenge. Match officials retain the prerogative to utilize VAR at their discretion when making crucial decisions. Players are strictly prohibited from approaching the referee during the review process, as it may result in an automatic yellow card, as determined by the official's judgment. It is crucial for club staff and players to understand that overturning an initial decision requires compelling video evidence to substantiate the necessity for such a reversal.

 

Number of Players

Each match is played 11 vs. 11, with no more than 11 players from each team on the pitch, including one goalkeeper.

Failure to Show Up Sanctions

The game clock starts running at the set fixture time. Teams need at least 7 players on the field for the game to commence. If a team fails to have 7 players on the field after 10 minutes, one goal will be sanctioned against them; after 15 minutes, another goal will be awarded against them; and after 20 minutes, a 3-0 forfeit will be declared. On-pitch forfeits can result in a $250 fine. Failure to pay the fine will lead to a 3-point deduction and a potential league ban.

Forfeits

Teams that forfeit a game will incur a 3-0 loss. Teams are not allowed to forfeit within 24 hours prior to the scheduled fixture. Teams that forfeit without providing 24-hour notice may face point deductions and a monetary fine of up to $100. Teams that fail to pay the fine before their next game will not be permitted to play, incurring an additional $100 fine along with a 3-0 forfeit.

 

Safety

Players must not use equipment or wear anything that poses a danger to themselves or others, including any form of jewelry. Digital watches or watches of any kind are not permitted.

Basic Equipment

Players must wear the following compulsory equipment:

• Team-issued jersey, with matching sleeve color for undergarments

• Shorts, with matching undershorts or tights

• Stockings, with matching tape if applied externally

• Shinguards are mandatory.

 

Colors

Both teams must wear distinguishable colors for jerseys, while referees and goalkeepers must wear distinct colors. The jersey color must be different from the other players.

Equipment Infringements and Sanctions

If a player violates equipment rules, the referee may instruct them to leave the field of play to correct their equipment. The player may return only when the ball is out of play or with the referee's permission.

 

Authority of the Referee

Each match is under the control of the referee, who has full authority to enforce the laws of the game.

 

Authority of the Volt League Staff

On Sundays, league staff members will assist in enforcing equipment and spatial rules, ensuring players sit in their designated areas, and checking referee fees and fines. Staff members do not interfere with in-game decisions made by the referee.

Powers and Duties of the Referee

 

The referee:

• Enforces the Laws of the Game

• Ensures the ball used meets requirements

• Checks that players' equipment meets requirements

• Acts as timekeeper and records the match

• Stops, suspends, or abandons the match for infringements or outside interference

• Stops the match if a player is seriously injured and ensures their removal

• Allows play to continue if a player is slightly injured

• Takes disciplinary action against players for cautionable and sending-off offenses

 

Indirect/Direct Free Kicks

The type of free kick is determined at the referee's discretion.

 

Goals

Goals can be scored from anywhere on the field by any player, including the goalkeeper. Goals from throw-ins are not allowed unless the ball first touches a player from either team.

Red/Yellow Cards

• A direct red card results in a one-game ban and a $35 fine.

• Two yellow cards result in a $50 fine or a one-game ban.

• Accumulating four yellow cards leads to a $35 fine and a one-game ban.

• One yellow card results in a $5 fine.

 

Throw-In Procedure

• Players must keep both feet on the ground.

• The ball must be released when it is over the head.

 

Free Kicks

Free kicks are awarded at the referee's discretion, with a minimum of 10 yards of space for the free kick taker.

Players Who Stop Showing Up

Players who miss more than four games (except Volt Cup games) are not entitled to retain their spot in the league. After missing four games, the team leader/organizer can replace the player. Missing four games can result in a league ban. Injured players must turn in their kit to the team leader to avoid affecting the absence record.

 

Transfer Market Window

The transfer window opens on week 6 and closes at the end of week 7 of the league. During this period, teams can add or trade players. Only three new players can be added to each team. If a team faces injuries or player departures, a maximum of four new players can be added during the transfer window. The cost to add players is $185.

 

Roster Capacity

Teams can have a maximum of 26 players in their squad, with 16 players needed for a team to be considered complete.

 

Offside Position

Being in an offside position is not an offense. A player is considered in an offside position if any part of their head, body, or feet is nearer to the opponents' goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent. The hands and arms are not considered.

 

Offside Offense

An offside offense occurs when a player in an offside position becomes involved in active play by interfering with the play, challenging an opponent, or gaining an advantage. It is at the referee's discretion.

 

Live Games

All players must adhere to the protocols during live games and follow staff directions.

 

Racism/Hate

Racism of any kind is strictly prohibited and will result in a permanent ban. Hate speech over social media may lead to a $60 ban or a permanent ban. Insults during live games are not tolerated and may result in a 2-3 game ban. Insults directed at staff members during the game or on social media may lead to a $75 fine or 

or a permanent ban. Fights will be investigated, and players involved may face fines and permanent bans.

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No Refunds

No refunds will be provided to injured players, banned players, or players who choose to quit.

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