7v7 Soccer Rules
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules FIELD OF PLAY
The field of play is 80 yards by 40 yards. The penalty area extends 15 yards from the goal line. There are no offsides.
PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTIONS 1.) PLAYERS A game is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than seven players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A game may not start if either team consists of fewer than five players at scheduled game time. Each player must have a valid Mercer Bear Card or valid Government photo ID. 2.) SUBSTITUTION PROCEDURE To replace a player by a substitute, the following conditions must be observed: a.) The referee is informed before any proposed substitution is made b.) A substitute only enters the field of play after the player being replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee c.) If a team is shorthanded to begin the game, and a substitute arrives, the substitute may enter on a dead ball with the permission of the referee. 3.) CHANGING THE GOALKEEPER Any of the players may change positions with the goalkeeper, provided that: a.) The referee is informed before the change is made b.) The change is made during a stoppage in the match for a goal kick, after a goal, throw-in, or an injury
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 4.) INFRINGEMENTS/SANCTIONS If a substitute enters the field of play without the referee’s permission: a.) Play is stopped, the substitute is cautioned and shown a yellow card, and required to leave the field of play b.) Play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place it was located when play was stopped
PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT 1.) SAFETY A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is dangerous to him/herself or another player (including any king of jewelry, metal cleats, headwear, sunglasses, knee braces with exposed hard material , or other equipment determined to be a risk Goalkeepers may wear hats with a soft, bendable bill 2.) SHINGUARDS Shinguards are required and must be made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic, or similar substances); provide a reasonable degree of protection 3.) JERSEYS Each player on a team must wear a jersey of the same shade and color Each goalkeeper must wear colors, which distinguish him or her from the other players on both teams 4.) INFRINGEMENT/SANCTIONS For any infringement of this rule, a player is sent off immediately with no substitution to correct the equipment problem A player is disqualified and cannot return if caught wearing metal cleats If a player who has been previously sent off to correct their equipment returns with improper equipment again, player will be cautioned (unsporting yellow card) and sent off to correct equipment. 5.) BALL The legality of the ball is at the discretion of the referee
THE REFEREE 1.) AUTHORITY OF THE REFEREE Each match is controlled by two referees, who have full authority to enforce the rules of the game 2.) POWERS AND DUTIES Acts as a timekeeper and keeps a record of the match Stops the match if, in his/her opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he/she is removed from the field of play
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules
Allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player, in his/her opinion, not seriously injured Allows play to continue when the team against which an offense has been committed, will benefit from such an advantage and penalize the original offense if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time Takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending-off offences. He/she is not obliged to take this action immediately, but must do so when the ball next goes out of play
DURATION OF THE MATCH 1.) PERIODS OF PLAY The match last 2 equal halves of 20 minutes (running time) The half-time interval must not exceed 5 minutes 2.) ALLOWANCE FOR TIME LOST The clock does not stop for the entire 20 minutes, however at the end of each half, allowances is made for all time lost through a.) Substitution(s) b.) Assessment of injury to players c.) Wasting time d.) Any other cause The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee 3.) PENALTY KICK If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half is extended until the penalty kick is completed 4.) OVERTIME PERIOD Regular season games will end in a tie after regulation In the playoffs, a 10 minute, sudden death, overtime period will be played if the game ends in a tie after regulation A coin toss for options will proceed the overtime period If the game is still tied after the overtime period, there will be a penalty kick shootout
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 5.) PENALTY KICK SHOOTOUT Five of the players from each team who were on the field at the end of the overtime period will alternate penalty kicks until a winner is determined A coin toss for options will proceed the overtime period The referee will choose which end the penalty kicks will be taken from If after the five players have gone and the score is still tied, the remaining eligible players who were on the field at the end of the overtime period will partake in a sudden death shootout No eligible player may kick twice until all eligible players have kicked once A goalkeeper may be substituted for any of the eligible players. All players must remain in the center circle
START AND RESTART OF PLAY 1.) PRELIMINARIES A coin toss is administered and the winning team will decide which goal it will attack in the first half of the match The other team takes the kick-off to start the match The winning team will take the kick-off to start the second half of the match In the second half, the teams will change ends and attack the opposite goals 2.) KICK-OFF A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play: a.) At the start of the match b.) After a goal has been scored c.) At the start of the second half of the match A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off 3.) PROCEDURE All players are in their own half of the field The ball is stationary on the center mark The referee gives the signal The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward The kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player After a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team 4.) INFRINGEMENTS/SANCTIONS If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player: a.) An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred For any other infringements of the kick-off procedure, the kick-off is re-taken
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 5.) DROPPED BALL A dropped ball is a way of restarting the match after a temporary stoppage which becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any reason not mentioned elsewhere in the rules (most of the time this will be the way to restart after an injury) 6.) SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES A free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own goal area is taken from any point within the goal area An indirect free kick awarded to the attacking team in its opponents’ goal area is taken from the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred
BALL: IN & OUT OF PLAY 1.) BALL OUT OF PLAY The ball is out of play when a.) The whole ball has crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the ground or in the air b.) Play has been stopped by the referee 2.) BALL IN PLAY The ball is in play at all other times, including when: a.) The ball rebounds from a goalpost or crossbar and remains in the field of play b.) The ball rebounds from the referee when they are on the field of play
SCORING 1.) GOAL SCORED A goal is scored when the whole ball passes over the goal line, between the goal posts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the rules has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal Mercy Rule: 7 goal differential at any moment in the 2nd half
FOULS AND MISCONDUCT 1.) DIRECT FREE KICK
A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following offenses in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force: a.) Kicks or attempts to kick an opponent b.) Trips or attempts to trip an opponent c.) Jumps at an opponent d.) Charges an opponent e.) Strikes or attempts to strike an opponent f.) Pushes an opponent
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules g.) Holds an opponent h.) Handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his own penalty area) i.) Slide Tackling
A direct free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.
2.) PENALTY KICK
A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above offenses is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play.
3.) INDIRECT FREE KICK
An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following offenses: a.) Takes more than six seconds while controlling the ball with his hands before releasing it from his possession b.) Touches the ball again with his hands after it has been released from his possession and has not touched any other player c.) Touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him by a team-mate. A player may head, chest, or knee the ball to the goalkeeper, but may not use a trick to circumvent this rule d.) Touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly from a throwin taken by a team-mate e.) Wastes time The goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the ball by touching it with any part of his hand or arms. Possession of the ball includes the goalkeeper deliberately parrying the ball, but does not include the circumstances where, in the opinion of the referee, the ball rebounds accidentally from the goalkeeper, for example after he has made a save. The goalkeeper is considered to be guilty of time-wasting if he holds the ball in his hands or arms for more than 5-6 seconds. An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee: a.) Plays in a dangerous manner b.) Impedes the progress of an opponent c.) Prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands d.) Commits any other action for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a player e.) Slides for the ball with no opposing players in the immediate vicinity The indirect free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 4.) DISCLIPLINARY SANCTIONS A.) Cautionable Violations A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following offenses: a.) Unsportsmanlike conduct b.) Shows dissent by word or action c.) Persistently infringes the rules d.) Delays the restart of play e.) Fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick or free kick f.) Enters or re-enters the field of play without the referee’s permission g.) Deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission h.) Taking a dive in a pretended foul, or faking an injury i.) Slide Tackling
A player that is cautioned must leave the field and be substituted for, if available. The player may only return on a normal substitution.
B.) Sending-Off Violations A player is sent off and shown the red card if he commits any of the following seven offences: a.) Is guilty of serious foul play b.) Is guilty of violent conduct c.) Spits at an opponent or any other person d.) Denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick e.) Uses excessive offensive, insulting, or abusive language and/or gestures f.) Receives a second caution in the same match g.) Excessive or unnecessary force used while slide tackling Additionally, if a player denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area), they are disqualified. A player that is red carded may not be substituted for A red card that isn’t unsporting is not considered an ejection
FREE KICKS 1.) TYPES OF FREE KICKS
Free kicks are either direct or indirect. For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken and the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player.
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 2.) DIRECT FREE KICKS
If a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal is awarded. If a direct free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
3.) INDIRECT FREE KICKS
A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another player on either team before it enters the goal. If an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal kick is awarded. If an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
4.) PROCEDURE Direct or indirect free kick inside the penalty area for the defending team: a.) All opponents are at least (10 yds) from the ball b.) All opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play c.) The ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area d.) A free kick awarded in the goal area is taken from any point inside that area Indirect free kick inside the penalty area to the attacking team: a.) All opponents are at least (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play, unless they are on their own goal line between the goalposts 5.) INFRINGEMENTS
If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than the required distance, the kick is retaken If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own penalty area, the ball is not kicked directly into play, the kick is retaken If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
PENALTY KICKS 1.) DEFINITION A penalty kick is awarded against a team which commits an offense in which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty area and whiles the ball is in play. A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick. Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of periods of extra time. 2.) POSITION OF THE BALL & PLAYERS
The ball is placed on the penalty mark, 12 yards from the goal line. The player taking the penalty kick is properly identified. The defending goalkeeper remains on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts until the ball has been kicked
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules
The players other than the kicker are located, inside the field of play, outside the penalty area, behind the penalty mark, and at least (10 yds) from the penalty mark
3.) PROCEDURE
The player taking the penalty kicks the ball forward. He/she does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time has been extended at half-time or full time to allow a penalty kick to be taken or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the goalposts and under the crossbar the ball touches either or both of the goalposts and/or the crossbar, and/or the goalkeeper
4.) INFRINGEMENT/SANCTIONS
If the referee gives the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and, before the ball is in play, one of the following situations occurs: a.) The goalkeeper infringes the rules: If the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken b.) A teammate of the player taking the kick enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within (10 yds) of the penalty mark: If the ball enters the goal, a goal is retaken. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is not retaken. If the ball rebounds from the goalkeeper, the crossbar or the goal post and is touched by this player, the referee stops play and restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team c.) A teammate of the goalkeeper enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within (10 yds) of the penalty mark: If the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken If, after the penalty kick has been taken: a.) The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
THROW-IN 1.) DEFINITION A throw-in is a method of restarting play. A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in. A throw-in is awarded when the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, either on the ground or in the air from the point where it crossed the touch line. 2.) PROCEDURE
At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower: a.) Faces the field of play b.) Has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touch line
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules
c.) Uses both hands d.) Delivers the ball from behind and over his head e.) Must have both feet touching the ground when ball leaves their hands The thrower may not touch the ball again until it has touched another player. The ball is in play immediately it enters the field of play. If an opponent unfairly distracts or impedes the thrower, he/she is cautioned for unsporting behavior and shown the yellow card For any infringement of this rule, the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team
GOAL KICKS 1.) DEFINITION A goal kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the opposing team. A goal kick is awarded when the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the attacking team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored. 2.) PROCEDURE
The ball is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player of the defending team Opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play The kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player The ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area
3.) INFRINGEMENT/SANCTIONS
If the ball is not kicked directly into play beyond the penalty area, the kick is retaken If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player, a direct free kick (indirect if the kicker is the goalkeeper.) is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. A penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area, except if by the goalkeeper. For any other infringement of this rule, the kick is retaken.
CORNER KICKS 1.) DEFINITION A corner kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the opposing team. A corner kick is awarded when the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the defending team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored.
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 2.) PROCEDURE
The ball is placed inside the nearest corner arc Opponents remain at least (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play The ball is kicked by a player of the attacking team The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves The kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player
CO-REC MODIFICATIONS
A game is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eight players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. The ratio of males to females must be one of the following: 4:4, 4:3, 3:3, 4:2. If a Penalty Kick is awarded, it must be taken by a player of the same gender as the offended player. Thus, if a female is the offended player; her PK is worth two points. If there is a PK awarded for a violation (non-foul, hand balls, etc.) a male must take the kick. If a game is still tied after the sudden death overtime, it will be followed by a penalty kick shootout. Five of the players from each team who were on the field at the end of the overtime period will alternate penalty kicks until a winner is determined. TEAMS MUST ALTERNATE MALE/FEMALE. At no point can two players of the same gender kick back to back. Mercy Rule for Co-Rec: 9 goal differential at any moment in the 2nd half.
The field of play is 80 yards by 40 yards. The penalty area extends 15 yards from the goal line. There are no offsides.
PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTIONS 1.) PLAYERS A game is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than seven players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A game may not start if either team consists of fewer than five players at scheduled game time. Each player must have a valid Mercer Bear Card or valid Government photo ID. 2.) SUBSTITUTION PROCEDURE To replace a player by a substitute, the following conditions must be observed: a.) The referee is informed before any proposed substitution is made b.) A substitute only enters the field of play after the player being replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee c.) If a team is shorthanded to begin the game, and a substitute arrives, the substitute may enter on a dead ball with the permission of the referee. 3.) CHANGING THE GOALKEEPER Any of the players may change positions with the goalkeeper, provided that: a.) The referee is informed before the change is made b.) The change is made during a stoppage in the match for a goal kick, after a goal, throw-in, or an injury
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 4.) INFRINGEMENTS/SANCTIONS If a substitute enters the field of play without the referee’s permission: a.) Play is stopped, the substitute is cautioned and shown a yellow card, and required to leave the field of play b.) Play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place it was located when play was stopped
PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT 1.) SAFETY A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is dangerous to him/herself or another player (including any king of jewelry, metal cleats, headwear, sunglasses, knee braces with exposed hard material , or other equipment determined to be a risk Goalkeepers may wear hats with a soft, bendable bill 2.) SHINGUARDS Shinguards are required and must be made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic, or similar substances); provide a reasonable degree of protection 3.) JERSEYS Each player on a team must wear a jersey of the same shade and color Each goalkeeper must wear colors, which distinguish him or her from the other players on both teams 4.) INFRINGEMENT/SANCTIONS For any infringement of this rule, a player is sent off immediately with no substitution to correct the equipment problem A player is disqualified and cannot return if caught wearing metal cleats If a player who has been previously sent off to correct their equipment returns with improper equipment again, player will be cautioned (unsporting yellow card) and sent off to correct equipment. 5.) BALL The legality of the ball is at the discretion of the referee
THE REFEREE 1.) AUTHORITY OF THE REFEREE Each match is controlled by two referees, who have full authority to enforce the rules of the game 2.) POWERS AND DUTIES Acts as a timekeeper and keeps a record of the match Stops the match if, in his/her opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he/she is removed from the field of play
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules
Allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player, in his/her opinion, not seriously injured Allows play to continue when the team against which an offense has been committed, will benefit from such an advantage and penalize the original offense if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time Takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending-off offences. He/she is not obliged to take this action immediately, but must do so when the ball next goes out of play
DURATION OF THE MATCH 1.) PERIODS OF PLAY The match last 2 equal halves of 20 minutes (running time) The half-time interval must not exceed 5 minutes 2.) ALLOWANCE FOR TIME LOST The clock does not stop for the entire 20 minutes, however at the end of each half, allowances is made for all time lost through a.) Substitution(s) b.) Assessment of injury to players c.) Wasting time d.) Any other cause The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee 3.) PENALTY KICK If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half is extended until the penalty kick is completed 4.) OVERTIME PERIOD Regular season games will end in a tie after regulation In the playoffs, a 10 minute, sudden death, overtime period will be played if the game ends in a tie after regulation A coin toss for options will proceed the overtime period If the game is still tied after the overtime period, there will be a penalty kick shootout
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 5.) PENALTY KICK SHOOTOUT Five of the players from each team who were on the field at the end of the overtime period will alternate penalty kicks until a winner is determined A coin toss for options will proceed the overtime period The referee will choose which end the penalty kicks will be taken from If after the five players have gone and the score is still tied, the remaining eligible players who were on the field at the end of the overtime period will partake in a sudden death shootout No eligible player may kick twice until all eligible players have kicked once A goalkeeper may be substituted for any of the eligible players. All players must remain in the center circle
START AND RESTART OF PLAY 1.) PRELIMINARIES A coin toss is administered and the winning team will decide which goal it will attack in the first half of the match The other team takes the kick-off to start the match The winning team will take the kick-off to start the second half of the match In the second half, the teams will change ends and attack the opposite goals 2.) KICK-OFF A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play: a.) At the start of the match b.) After a goal has been scored c.) At the start of the second half of the match A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off 3.) PROCEDURE All players are in their own half of the field The ball is stationary on the center mark The referee gives the signal The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward The kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player After a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team 4.) INFRINGEMENTS/SANCTIONS If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player: a.) An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred For any other infringements of the kick-off procedure, the kick-off is re-taken
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 5.) DROPPED BALL A dropped ball is a way of restarting the match after a temporary stoppage which becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any reason not mentioned elsewhere in the rules (most of the time this will be the way to restart after an injury) 6.) SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES A free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own goal area is taken from any point within the goal area An indirect free kick awarded to the attacking team in its opponents’ goal area is taken from the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred
BALL: IN & OUT OF PLAY 1.) BALL OUT OF PLAY The ball is out of play when a.) The whole ball has crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the ground or in the air b.) Play has been stopped by the referee 2.) BALL IN PLAY The ball is in play at all other times, including when: a.) The ball rebounds from a goalpost or crossbar and remains in the field of play b.) The ball rebounds from the referee when they are on the field of play
SCORING 1.) GOAL SCORED A goal is scored when the whole ball passes over the goal line, between the goal posts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the rules has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal Mercy Rule: 7 goal differential at any moment in the 2nd half
FOULS AND MISCONDUCT 1.) DIRECT FREE KICK
A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following offenses in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force: a.) Kicks or attempts to kick an opponent b.) Trips or attempts to trip an opponent c.) Jumps at an opponent d.) Charges an opponent e.) Strikes or attempts to strike an opponent f.) Pushes an opponent
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules g.) Holds an opponent h.) Handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his own penalty area) i.) Slide Tackling
A direct free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.
2.) PENALTY KICK
A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above offenses is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play.
3.) INDIRECT FREE KICK
An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following offenses: a.) Takes more than six seconds while controlling the ball with his hands before releasing it from his possession b.) Touches the ball again with his hands after it has been released from his possession and has not touched any other player c.) Touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him by a team-mate. A player may head, chest, or knee the ball to the goalkeeper, but may not use a trick to circumvent this rule d.) Touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly from a throwin taken by a team-mate e.) Wastes time The goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the ball by touching it with any part of his hand or arms. Possession of the ball includes the goalkeeper deliberately parrying the ball, but does not include the circumstances where, in the opinion of the referee, the ball rebounds accidentally from the goalkeeper, for example after he has made a save. The goalkeeper is considered to be guilty of time-wasting if he holds the ball in his hands or arms for more than 5-6 seconds. An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee: a.) Plays in a dangerous manner b.) Impedes the progress of an opponent c.) Prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands d.) Commits any other action for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a player e.) Slides for the ball with no opposing players in the immediate vicinity The indirect free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 4.) DISCLIPLINARY SANCTIONS A.) Cautionable Violations A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following offenses: a.) Unsportsmanlike conduct b.) Shows dissent by word or action c.) Persistently infringes the rules d.) Delays the restart of play e.) Fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick or free kick f.) Enters or re-enters the field of play without the referee’s permission g.) Deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission h.) Taking a dive in a pretended foul, or faking an injury i.) Slide Tackling
A player that is cautioned must leave the field and be substituted for, if available. The player may only return on a normal substitution.
B.) Sending-Off Violations A player is sent off and shown the red card if he commits any of the following seven offences: a.) Is guilty of serious foul play b.) Is guilty of violent conduct c.) Spits at an opponent or any other person d.) Denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick e.) Uses excessive offensive, insulting, or abusive language and/or gestures f.) Receives a second caution in the same match g.) Excessive or unnecessary force used while slide tackling Additionally, if a player denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area), they are disqualified. A player that is red carded may not be substituted for A red card that isn’t unsporting is not considered an ejection
FREE KICKS 1.) TYPES OF FREE KICKS
Free kicks are either direct or indirect. For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken and the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player.
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 2.) DIRECT FREE KICKS
If a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal is awarded. If a direct free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
3.) INDIRECT FREE KICKS
A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another player on either team before it enters the goal. If an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal kick is awarded. If an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
4.) PROCEDURE Direct or indirect free kick inside the penalty area for the defending team: a.) All opponents are at least (10 yds) from the ball b.) All opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play c.) The ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area d.) A free kick awarded in the goal area is taken from any point inside that area Indirect free kick inside the penalty area to the attacking team: a.) All opponents are at least (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play, unless they are on their own goal line between the goalposts 5.) INFRINGEMENTS
If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than the required distance, the kick is retaken If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own penalty area, the ball is not kicked directly into play, the kick is retaken If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
PENALTY KICKS 1.) DEFINITION A penalty kick is awarded against a team which commits an offense in which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty area and whiles the ball is in play. A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick. Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of periods of extra time. 2.) POSITION OF THE BALL & PLAYERS
The ball is placed on the penalty mark, 12 yards from the goal line. The player taking the penalty kick is properly identified. The defending goalkeeper remains on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts until the ball has been kicked
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules
The players other than the kicker are located, inside the field of play, outside the penalty area, behind the penalty mark, and at least (10 yds) from the penalty mark
3.) PROCEDURE
The player taking the penalty kicks the ball forward. He/she does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time has been extended at half-time or full time to allow a penalty kick to be taken or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the goalposts and under the crossbar the ball touches either or both of the goalposts and/or the crossbar, and/or the goalkeeper
4.) INFRINGEMENT/SANCTIONS
If the referee gives the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and, before the ball is in play, one of the following situations occurs: a.) The goalkeeper infringes the rules: If the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken b.) A teammate of the player taking the kick enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within (10 yds) of the penalty mark: If the ball enters the goal, a goal is retaken. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is not retaken. If the ball rebounds from the goalkeeper, the crossbar or the goal post and is touched by this player, the referee stops play and restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team c.) A teammate of the goalkeeper enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within (10 yds) of the penalty mark: If the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded. If the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken If, after the penalty kick has been taken: a.) The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
THROW-IN 1.) DEFINITION A throw-in is a method of restarting play. A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in. A throw-in is awarded when the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, either on the ground or in the air from the point where it crossed the touch line. 2.) PROCEDURE
At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower: a.) Faces the field of play b.) Has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touch line
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules
c.) Uses both hands d.) Delivers the ball from behind and over his head e.) Must have both feet touching the ground when ball leaves their hands The thrower may not touch the ball again until it has touched another player. The ball is in play immediately it enters the field of play. If an opponent unfairly distracts or impedes the thrower, he/she is cautioned for unsporting behavior and shown the yellow card For any infringement of this rule, the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team
GOAL KICKS 1.) DEFINITION A goal kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the opposing team. A goal kick is awarded when the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the attacking team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored. 2.) PROCEDURE
The ball is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player of the defending team Opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play The kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player The ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area
3.) INFRINGEMENT/SANCTIONS
If the ball is not kicked directly into play beyond the penalty area, the kick is retaken If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player, a direct free kick (indirect if the kicker is the goalkeeper.) is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. A penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area, except if by the goalkeeper. For any other infringement of this rule, the kick is retaken.
CORNER KICKS 1.) DEFINITION A corner kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the opposing team. A corner kick is awarded when the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the defending team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored.
Mercer University Intramural Sports: 7v7 Soccer Rules 2.) PROCEDURE
The ball is placed inside the nearest corner arc Opponents remain at least (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play The ball is kicked by a player of the attacking team The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves The kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player
CO-REC MODIFICATIONS
A game is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eight players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. The ratio of males to females must be one of the following: 4:4, 4:3, 3:3, 4:2. If a Penalty Kick is awarded, it must be taken by a player of the same gender as the offended player. Thus, if a female is the offended player; her PK is worth two points. If there is a PK awarded for a violation (non-foul, hand balls, etc.) a male must take the kick. If a game is still tied after the sudden death overtime, it will be followed by a penalty kick shootout. Five of the players from each team who were on the field at the end of the overtime period will alternate penalty kicks until a winner is determined. TEAMS MUST ALTERNATE MALE/FEMALE. At no point can two players of the same gender kick back to back. Mercy Rule for Co-Rec: 9 goal differential at any moment in the 2nd half.
