Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Wilmington Hammerheads
Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC
Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Rules and Guidelines
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC (WHYFC) is a non-profit North Carolina Corporation organized to promote and administer the operation of a participation youth recreational soccer division, academy soccer division, classic soccer division, and an outreach division. WHYFC is run through the collaboration of a Board of Directors, paid staff, and both professional and volunteer coaches. WHYFC is a member of U.S. Youth Soccer (USYSA) and North Carolina Youth Soccer Association (NCYSA). The goal of WHYFC is to offer every player the opportunity to participate and play soccer at his or her own level of competition. Teams are provided in a recreational division, academy division, and classic division. Emphasis is placed on the development of soccer skills, participation and enjoying the game of soccer. While team standings are not kept, as win-loss records are not emphasized, as the program puts soccer skill development, participation, and enjoyment of the game of soccer first.
Rule 1: Organization Section A – Playing Season The soccer year runs from September to May of any given year. 1. Fall 2. Spring
Early September to Beginning of November Beginning of March to Middle of May
Section B – Age Classifications Division U4 U5 U6 U7 U8 U9 U10 U11 U12 U13/U14 U18
Age Composition 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15-18
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 1. The club offers a coed program from U4 to U6 and separate boys and girls divisions thereafter. Team assignments are made by districts of the county and by age. 2. Age classification for the fall and spring season will be determined by the child’s birth year. Playing down out of a player’s age classification is not allowed. 3. WHYFC subscribes to the USYSA seasonal year starting August 1st of any given year and ending July 31st of the following year or on July 31st of any subsequent year as necessary for the purposes of team formation as well as establishment of age classifications. a. Proof of age is required at the time of registration unless previously provided. b. The club has the option to vary age groups in order to form teams and divisions annually. Rule 2: Team Formation Section A – Registration of Players 1. The Recreation Director will plan and conduct player registration prior to each season and will establish the dates for closing registration and initiation of the team formation process. Recreation registration forms will be accepted until the close of registration date as set by the Recreation Director, at which point players may be waitlisted but are not guaranteed a place on a team. 2. Registration fees are due at the time of registration. 3. A team’s official roster shall consist of the players allocated to that specific team. a. Coaches will receive team rosters at the Coaches Meeting or upon completion and approval of Risk Management (Please refer to Rule 10 Number 4). 4. Returning players for the spring season will be assigned to the team on which he/she played in the immediately previous (fall) season taking in to consideration any/all registration guidelines regarding time of registration. If a player requests to be reassigned to another team, allocation of player may take place at the discretion of the Recreation Director. 5. Players moving up in age classification and first time players will be allocated to teams based on geographic location of residence within the age group. a. If players would like to be allocated based on a location other than that of the residence (i.e. parent or guardian place of work, other family member, etc.), please make the request on the form at the time of registration. 6. In the fall, the majority of players that register within the designated registration period will be allocated to the team they were on in the previous spring season. A player who did not participate in the spring season will be assigned as a new player. 7. Players will be placed in age divisions by birth year. Playing out of age classification is not allowed unless approved at the discretion of the Recreation Director. 8. Players who register after the close of registration will be assigned to teams at the discretion of the Recreation Director. 9. Special requests which do not conform to these formation guidelines must have the approval of the Recreation Director, the coach involved, and are only to be granted for serious reasons.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 3: Practices and Field Usage Practices are limited to a maximum of two (2) per week prior to and during the playing season and may not exceed a total of three (3) hours per week. Suspected violations of the rule should be reported in writing to the WHYFC office and Recreation Director at the earliest possible time. Section A – Practice Field Assignment Policy 1. In order to arrange to use a New Hanover County (NHC) Public School field for practice, that field must be contracted to WHYFC by NHC Schools and the NHC Parks Department. All requests for practice locations MUST go through the Recreation Director and the Program Director for WHYFC. 2. WHYFC will assign practice times and locations by first come basis and on availability of fields. 3. You must have authorization to use that particular facility on the days and times that you have specified. This authorization is binding between you, WHYFC, NHC Schools, and the NHC Parks Department. Violators of the authorization requirements could cause forfeiture of privileges and facility usage. a. Some facilities are under the jurisdiction of the County Parks Department, which WHYFC will be scheduling at some of these facilities as well. The same authorization will apply. 4. Once assigned a date and time, you cannot deviate from your assigned time or date. In the likelihood that you do need to change the date, time, or location of your practice, please contact the Recreation Director. Although we cannot guarantee that your assigned practice can be changed, we will do what we can to accommodate your team. 5. The authorization you receive from WHYFC is valid only for the duration of the current soccer season. Practice assignments will be made at the beginning of each fall and spring season. 6. You are requested and required to cooperate with other coaches and teams. Limited facilities and common courtesy demands it. We (WHYFC) will not tolerate what would be deemed uncivil or unsportsmanlike conduct. 7. Be advised that School sponsored activities have precedent over WHYFC activities on school property. Most school activities conclude by 6:00p.m. 8. Hugh McRae Athletic Complex, behind Hoggard Stadium, is not open to practice sessions per the NHC Parks Department. 9. Coaches must ensure that all players have left the practice site prior to departing. Do not leave players unsupervised after practice. 10. WHYFC contracts with the county agencies to provide access to facilities for the purpose of soccer practice. While there are other facilities in the county available, WHYFC utilizes a portion as outlined by NHC Schools and NHC Parks. Section B – School Activities and Safety 1.
Hoggard High School Varsity and Junior Varsity sports use the Hugh McRae Athletic Complex in the fall and the spring. As mentioned previously (please see Rule 3, Section A, Number 7), these teams take precedence over WHYFC teams. This also applies at all middle school fields. 2. Two (2) teams or more will practice on one field at the same time sharing facilities.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 3. Goals are anchored by sand bags for safety. Recreational, Academy, or Classic teams must have sandbags on their goals when in use. The number of sandbags per goal can be followed as: • 1 sandbag for 3 v 3, 5 v 5, 7 v 7 or 9 v 9 • 2 sandbags for 11 v 11 If there are no sandbags at your field, please notify the Recreation Director to remedy this problem. Unauthorized relocation of goals is a serious violation of equipment safety. 4. Players are not to hang, chin up, or climb on goals in any fashion. Players must not move or help move goals at any time. Such actions are dangerous and could lead to serious injury. Players who do such prior to or during a match may be ejected from the match in the same fashion as a red card. If such actions occur after a match, players may be ejected from the team’s next match in the same fashion as a red card. Rule 4: Player Eligibility 1. A player who meets the age requirements in Rule 1, is properly registered and assigned to a team according to the provisions of Rule 2 is considered an eligible player if playing on the team to which he/she is assigned. a. By this and only this method may a player be placed on a recreational team in the program. Players thus registered and accepted into the division in this manner are considered to be recreational players. Suspected violations should be reported in writing to the Recreation Director. 2. Players who are registered with the program but participate with a team they are neither rostered nor assigned to by the Recreation Director shall be considered ineligible. 3. Players actively rostered to Classic teams are ineligible to participate in the Recreation Program. Section A – Classic Players 1. Classic players are players who have tried out for and have been actively rostered to a classic soccer team playing in the NCYSA Select/Classic Division. 2. Players rostered to classic teams may not participate in the Recreation Program. 3. Players who are dropped from academy or classic rosters may play in the Recreation Program but may not be rerostered on another classic team. a. Players who drop from academy or classic rosters to play in the Recreation Program are still required to register under the same protocols as listed previously (Please see Rule 2, Section A). 4. Players who participate in the Recreation Program and are picked up on an academy or classic roster will not be able to continue in the recreational division. Section B – Players Participating on School Teams 1. Middle School players are players rostered to a middle school team and play for their school. Middle School players may participate in the recreational program if they are not rostered for an academy or classic team. 2. Junior Varsity players rostered to a high school junior varsity team and play a fall or spring season for their school. Junior Varsity players may participate in the Recreation Program if they are not actively rostered to an academy or classic team.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 3. Varsity players are players rostered to a high school varsity team and play a fall or spring season for their school. Varsity players may participate in the Recreation Program during their varsity high school season – boys in the fall, girls in the spring. Rule 5: Uniforms 1. Shin guards are mandatory to play in a match and will be checked by officials. They must provide ample coverage to the shin and must be worn under the socks 2. Teams will be required to wear the jerseys furnished by the club. No player will be allowed to participate if his or her jersey has been altered. 3. Shorts are required to be worn by all players. 4. No jewelry is allowed to be worn during games, including studs or earrings. Rule 6: Participation of Players All Players are required to play one quarter of each game. Equal time should be allotted to each player at the recreation level. 1. In the U10 and younger age groups, no player shall play an entire game in goal. Any child playing goalie in these divisions must play at least one quarter in another field position. This rule applies to both regular season games and tournament games. All age groups will adhere to United States Soccer Federation (USSF) rules. 2. Any player who receives a red card or a coach that is ejected must sit out the next regularly scheduled match. The player may be seated on the bench with his/her team in street clothes. The referee and opposing coach should be advised why the player is not participating. Additional game sit outs may be issued by WHYFC Directors after reviewing the ejection. 3. Upon ejection, the coach must immediately leave the field and must be out of sight and sound of the match. The coach may return to the next regularly scheduled match but he/she may only watch from a distance and can neither coach nor advise the team in any manner. Penalty: Disciplinary action, which may include forfeiture of any games in which a violation occurs, to be determined by the appropriate division and/or the WHYFC Board of Directors under the provisions of Rule 11. Rule 7: Sportsmanship and Conduct Section A – Unsporting Conduct Unsporting conduct by spectators, referees, coaches, or players directed at spectators, referees, coaches, or players is strictly forbidden and will not be tolerated. Coaches are responsible and may be held accountable for the conduct of team parents and fans and are expected to assist the referee in his/her efforts to control the game. The referee has the right to eject any coach or player or to terminate the game for reasons of unsporting conduct. This is applicable before, during, and after games. Section B – Suspension or Discipline of Coaches or Players 6
Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 1. A coach or player may be suspended or disciplined according to these rules and procedures. 2. All cautions and ejections of a coach or player during a match will be reported by the referee to WHYFC Referee Assignor who shall in turn report to the WHYFC office with his/her recommendations. 3. The club may suspend a coach or a player from participation for the following offenses: a. Striking and/or directing derogatory remarks toward a coach, player, spectator, or WHYFC official before, during, or after a game. Minimum suspension is 3 games. Assault can also result in criminal action. b. Striking and/or directing derogatory remarks toward a referee or other official of the game before, during, or after a game. Minimum suspension is 3 games. Assault on referees can also result in criminal action and further action by U.S. Soccer. c. Any individual who may receive two (2) or more ejections from games in one season – Minimum suspension of 3 games, Maximum suspension of 3 months (until such time as the WHYFC Recreation Director can meet and decide on a course of action dependent on information and evidence surrounding the incident). d. Recruiting of players for a specific team or allowing an ineligible/unregistered player to participate in any WHYFC or USYSA sanctioned soccer match – Minimum suspension of 6 months, Maximum suspension of 1 year. Rule 8: Scheduled Games Games will be played as scheduled unless cancelled, postponed, terminated, or rescheduled as set forth in these rules. In the event of rain or poor weather conditions, the decision to play will be made by the Recreation Director or a club official. In the absence of the Recreation Director or a club official, the decision will be made jointly between the referee and the coaches. Any determination by a majority of three will stand. (Example: two voting to postpone the match vs. one who votes to play). Rule 9: Rules of the Game Section A – Official Playing Rules 1. Games shall be officiated according to the rules and guidelines of FIFA and the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), and North Carolina Youth Soccer Association (NCYSA), providing there is no WHYFC rule to the contrary. WHYFC rules shall supersede rules by any other organization or publication. 2. Changes to the WHYFC rules of competition or these General Rules require the review and approval of the WHYFC Board of Directors. Section B – Approved Changes 1. This section is not intended to be a complete embodiment of WHYFC amendments to Federation rules. The Board of Directors may approve amendments to the rules at their discretion. 2. Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules
Section C – Divisions of Play U4 Division No Scores or standings are kept, nor forfeits. The minimum required players (3) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
Three players No Goalkeeper Playing time: 4-6 minute quarters Ball: Size 3 Field Size: 25-30 yards long x 20 yards wide Goal Size: 4ft high x 6ft wide No referees Total field time one hour or whenever the kids decide it’s time for the end of game snacks Parent/Coach facilitators are allowed on the field to assist the players during the games Participation medals are awarded in the Fall and trophies in the Spring Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
U5/U6 Divisions No Scores or standings are kept, nor forfeits. The minimum required players (3) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
U5: Three Players U6: Four Players No Goalkeeper Playing time: 6 minute quarters Ball: Size 3 Field Size: 25-30 yards long x 20 yards wide Goal Size: 4ft high x 6ft wide No referees No direct kicks except corner kicks No offside will be called No goals can be scored directly from the kickoff Parent/Coach facilitators are allowed on the field to assist the players during the games Participation medals are awarded in the Fall and trophies in the Spring Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules
U7/U8 Divisions No Scores or standings are kept, nor forfeits. The minimum required players (3) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Five players No Goalkeeper Playing time: 10 minute quarters Ball: Size 3 Field Size: 40-50 yards long x 30 yards wide Goal Size: 4 ½ft high x 9ft wide No referees No direct kicks except corner kicks No offside will be called No goals can be scored directly from the kickoff Coaches are allowed on the field for instructional purposes only Participation medals are awarded in the Fall and trophies in the Spring Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
U9/U10 Divisions The minimum required players (5) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Seven players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 12 minute quarters Ball: Size 4 Field Size: 55-65 yards long x 45-55 yards wide Goal Size: 6ft high x 18ft wide Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper cannot play the entire match in goal. They must play one quarter on the field. This includes regular season and tournament games. 8. Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules U11-U12 Divisions The minimum required players (7) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Nine players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 30 minute halves Ball: Size 4 Field Size: 75-85 yards long x 50-60 yards wide Goal Size: 7ft high x 21ft wide Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper may play the entire match in the goal, though it is encouraged to rotate goalkeepers Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U11-U12 age groups There will be offside for this age group
U13-U15 Divisions - Boys The minimum required players (7) must be present for the match to start. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Nine players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 30 minute halves Ball: Size 5 Field Size: 75-85 yards long x 50-60 yards wide Goal Size: 7ft high x 21ft wide 3 Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper may play the entire match in the goal, though it is encouraged to rotate goalkeepers There will be offside for this age group
U13-U15 Divisions - Girls The minimum required players (9) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Eleven players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 30 minute halves Ball: Size 5 Field Size: 90-100 yards long x 65-70 yards wide Goal Size: 8ft high x 24ft long 3 Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper may play the entire match in the goal, though it is encouraged to rotate goalkeepers There will be offside for this age group
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 10: Coaches 1. Coaches shall be responsible for compliance with the rules set forth herein, and with the rules of the Unites States Soccer Federation, by their teams, the members thereof, and those associated with the team. 2. No coaching will be allowed from the opposing sideline or behind the goals by either a coach or any other person. 3. U9-U18: Team bench areas will be on the opposite side of the field from parents and spectators. 4. Parent/Coach facilitators, as well as volunteers, are required to complete NCYSA Risk Management Application. Once approved, Parent/Coach facilitators can begin communication with team and players.
Rule 11: Appeals and Protests Section A – General 1. Appeals or protests pertaining to the interpretation and enforcement of these General Rules must be made in writing within 48 hours of the incident in question and addressed to the Recreation Director or WHYFC Office. 2. No protests concerning referees’ interpretations of rules of play will be considered. Section B – Consideration of Appeals and Protests 1. Appeals and protests pertaining to the interpretation and enforcement of the General Rules made by a coach, referee, parent, guardian, or an official of WHYFC, will be decided by the Discipline and Appeals Committee. 2. Unless otherwise stated, the protests and appeals process will follow a process as stated in the WHYFC Discipline and Appeals Manual. This process is described in a separate document. 3. All appeals that the aggrieved person wishes to have reviewed by the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall be addressed to Recreation Director. The Recreation Director shall make available all documentation regarding the appeal to the person(s) involved. 4. If necessary, the Recreation Director will request a special meeting of the Discipline and Appeals Committee for the presentation of said appeal. 5. The appeals meeting will be a closed meeting. 6. The decision of the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall be put in writing and filed with the WHYFC Office Manager. 7. The process of appeals is not a court of law and no attorney and/or character witnesses will be allowed. Rule 12: Awards 1. The manner of trophies and other awards shall be determined by the Recreation Director. 2. No regular season awards or trophies will be presented in the Recreation Program for teams U9 and older. 3. Players in the U4, U5, U6, U7, and U8 age groups will all receive participation awards at the end of each season, as these are non-competitive groups.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 13: Referees Referee teams will be assigned in either a one-man (U8-U10) or a three-man system (U11-U15), a referee and two assistant referees. There are no referees in the U4 through U8 Divisions. Section A – Certification All referees who officiate scheduled WHYFC matches must be certified by the USSF. Section B – Assignment 1. Referees will be assigned to officiate scheduled WHYFC games by the Referee Assignor appointed by WHYFC. In the event that the scheduled referee does not report for a match, any certified WHYFC referee may officiate the game. In the event that no certified referee is available, the game will be rescheduled. 2. In the event that either or both of the scheduled line assistant referees are not present, the referee may choose club linesmen for each side and the game may proceed. Club linesmen will only call out of bounds. They will not call offside or infractions of the law of the game. Section C – Score Reporting and Booking Referees are required to report in writing or online, by the end of the play date, to the WHYFC Office and Referee Assignor: 1. The score, including the name of the teams, and 2. Any discipline action taken including the administration of cautions and ejections to players and coaches. 3. At the end of the match the coach should verify and sign the score sheet (please check the reported score). This is not to be confrontational. Questions and appeals should be directed through the established procedure. Section D – General Information WHYFC strives to improve the quality and therefore the enjoyment of the game for players, spectators, coaches, and officials. 1. Matches are expected to start on time. The only delay to a match start should be failure of a team to show on time, hence a forfeit, or weather-related delay, but not failure of the referee team to show. 2. Prior to a match, the referees are to do the following: a. Inspect the player’s equipment and insure all players comply with the Laws of the Game as defined by WHYFC, USSF, and FIFA. b. Explain to the team captains at the coin toss your expectations and issue any pre-match instructions. c. Restart the match after the half on time.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Section E – Referee Uniform Requirements 1. WHYFC plays soccer by the Laws of the Game as defined by FIFA and the USSF. We require that the players meet certain dress requirements prior to participating in a match – shin guards, socks pulled up, no jewelry, etc. 2. Referees are required to wear an approved referee kit as defined by the USRA, USSF, and FIFA, as well as, wear the kit properly. 3. WHYFC expects each referee to follow the listed uniform requirements to be considered a properly outfitted referee and a proper representative of WHYFC, the USSF, and FIFA to the players, coaches, and spectators. Prior to stepping onto the field for a match, referees are required to be uniformed as follows: a. Warm Weather Conditions prior to and during the match i. Socks are pulled up ii. Shorts are to be worn at the waist and not sagged iii. Jersey is to be tucked in and the USSF patch displayed properly b. Cold Weather Conditions prior to and during the match i. Socks are pulled up ii. Shorts are to be worn at the waist and not sagged. Long solid black pants may be worn in lieu of shorts; they are to be worn at the waist. iii. Jersey is to be tucked in and the USSF patch displayed properly. A black turtle neck may be worn under the jersey. iv. Black gloves may be worn and a black baseball cap if deemed necessary. c. Inclement Weather Conditions prior to and during the match i. In the event of rain, jackets or other necessary garments may be worn over the uniform as long as they do not interfere with the referee’s ability to call the match. ii. A black baseball cap may be worn. Section F – General Endnotes 1. Referees are paid by WHYFC to officiate the soccer matches. Referees contract their services to WHYFC, they are not employees of WHYFC. It is the duty of the referees to report the game score and that they worked the game online in the Arbiter System. This is the pay sheet. 2. Assessment and Evaluation System for referees. The purpose of the system is to assist the referee in improving his performance on the pitch to enable him to become a high quality official. The assessment system will follow the current NCSRA system. 3. The assessment system will not be used to “weed out” poor officials, but rather to give all officials a chance to improve.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 14: Team Standings 1. The goal of WHYFC is to offer every player the opportunity to participate and play soccer at his or her own level of competition. Emphasis is placed on the development of soccer skills, participation and enjoying the game of soccer. While team standings are not kept, win-loss records are not emphasized, as the program puts soccer skill development, participation, and enjoyment of the game of soccer first.
***Please Note: Intentionally running up scores against opponents is highly discouraged and may be looked upon as unfair and unsporting play. Scores are recorded with a 5 goal difference only.
Section C – Number of Games in one Season 1. The Recreation Director will determine the number of games played in one season. Matches or games for the season are scheduled on a computer. The computer program utilized makes random selections within each age group for the regular season. 2. Before said schedule is finalized, the Recreation Director will send out a prelim schedule as a courtesy for coaches to request any schedule changes. Coaches will only have a certain amount of time to make those requests. Once that time period has passed, the final schedule will be posted, at which time no more requests will be taken. 3. Schedules produced are final and teams are expected to complete the schedule as presented.
Standards of Conduct Code of Conduct for Players • • • • • • • • •
Play the game for the games sake. Be generous when you win. Be graceful when you lose. Always be fair – no matter what the cost. Obey the laws of the game. Work for the good of your team. Accept the decisions of the officials with good grace. Believe in the honesty of your opponents. Conduct yourself with honor and dignity.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Code of Conduct for Referees • • • • • • • • • •
Always maintain the utmost respect for the game of soccer. Conduct yourself honorably at all times and maintain dignity of your position. Always honor a contractual obligation. Endeavor to attend local meetings and clinics so as to know the Laws of the Game and their proper interpretation. Always strive to achieve maximum teamwork with the fellow referees and assistant referees. Be loyal to fellow referees and assistant referees, and never knowingly promote criticism of them. Be in good physical condition so as to be in the right place at the right time. Control the players effectively by being courteous and considerate without sacrificing firmness. Do your utmost to assist fellow officials to better themselves and their work. o To not make statements about any game except to clarify and interpret the Laws of the Game. Consider it a privilege to be a part of the United States Soccer Federation and strive to make your actions reflect credit upon the organization and its affiliates.
Code of Conduct for Parents • • • • • • • • • •
Respect the property and equipment used at any sports facility, both home and away. Encourage good sportsmanship through your actions, by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game or practice. Promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire to win. Provide support for coaches and officials working with the athletes to provide a positive experience for all. Demand a drug, alcohol, and tobacco free environment for your athlete, and agree to assist by refraining from use at all WHYFC events, home or away. Remember the game is for the athletes and not for the parents. Demand your athlete treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, gender, or ability. Treat all players, coaches, and officials with dignity and respect in language, attitude, behavior, and mannerisms regardless of race, creed, color, gender, or ability. Inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of your athlete or the safety of others. Inform the coach, within a reasonable amount of time, of any absence from a game or practice your athlete might incur due to sickness, planned vacation, or any other reason.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Code of Conduct for Coaches • • • • • • • • • • • •
Soccer is the player’s game. The main concern of coaches is the overall development, welfare, enjoyment, and safety of their players. Coaches bear responsibility for teaching their players to strive for success while playing fairly, observing the laws of the game and highest levels of sportsmanship. Coaches shall treat officials with respect and dignity, and shall teach their players to do the same. Our opponents are to be treated with respect. Coaches will model such respect for opponents and expect their players to do likewise. In both victory and defeat, the behavior of a coach shall model grace, dignity, and composure. Coaches shall adhere to the highest standards and the regulation of the institutions they represent: clubs, schools, sponsoring organizations and sports governing bodies. Coaches have a responsibility to promote the interests of soccer, including treating media with courtesy, honesty, and respect. Coaches shall model inclusive behavior, actively supporting cultural diversity while opposing all types of discrimination, including but not limited to, racism and sexism, at all levels of soccer. Coaches are responsible for taking an active role in education about prevention and treatment of drug, alcohol, and tobacco abuse, both in their own lives and in the lives of their players. Coaches shall refrain from all manner of personal abuse and harassment of others, whether verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual, and shall oppose such abuse and harassment at all levels of soccer. Coaches shall respect the declared affiliations of all players, and shall adhere to all guidelines and regulations on recruiting established by the governing bodies having oversight of their teams and leagues. Coaches shall seek to honor those who uphold the highest standards and principles of soccer and shall use appropriate protocol to opposed and eliminate all behavior that brings disrepute to the sport – violence, abuse, dishonesty, disrespect, and violations of the laws of the game and rules of governing competition.
Disciplinary Action Failure to abide by the aforementioned rules and guidelines, may subject you to disciplinary action. This action could include, but not limited to the following: • •
Verbal warning and removal from the fields Written warning and suspension o Parental/Coach/Player/Referee practice and game suspension o Parental/Coach/Player/Referee season suspension o Parental/Coach/Player/Referee disbarment
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Rules and Guidelines
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC (WHYFC) is a non-profit North Carolina Corporation organized to promote and administer the operation of a participation youth recreational soccer division, academy soccer division, classic soccer division, and an outreach division. WHYFC is run through the collaboration of a Board of Directors, paid staff, and both professional and volunteer coaches. WHYFC is a member of U.S. Youth Soccer (USYSA) and North Carolina Youth Soccer Association (NCYSA). The goal of WHYFC is to offer every player the opportunity to participate and play soccer at his or her own level of competition. Teams are provided in a recreational division, academy division, and classic division. Emphasis is placed on the development of soccer skills, participation and enjoying the game of soccer. While team standings are not kept, as win-loss records are not emphasized, as the program puts soccer skill development, participation, and enjoyment of the game of soccer first.
Rule 1: Organization Section A – Playing Season The soccer year runs from September to May of any given year. 1. Fall 2. Spring
Early September to Beginning of November Beginning of March to Middle of May
Section B – Age Classifications Division U4 U5 U6 U7 U8 U9 U10 U11 U12 U13/U14 U18
Age Composition 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15-18
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 1. The club offers a coed program from U4 to U6 and separate boys and girls divisions thereafter. Team assignments are made by districts of the county and by age. 2. Age classification for the fall and spring season will be determined by the child’s birth year. Playing down out of a player’s age classification is not allowed. 3. WHYFC subscribes to the USYSA seasonal year starting August 1st of any given year and ending July 31st of the following year or on July 31st of any subsequent year as necessary for the purposes of team formation as well as establishment of age classifications. a. Proof of age is required at the time of registration unless previously provided. b. The club has the option to vary age groups in order to form teams and divisions annually. Rule 2: Team Formation Section A – Registration of Players 1. The Recreation Director will plan and conduct player registration prior to each season and will establish the dates for closing registration and initiation of the team formation process. Recreation registration forms will be accepted until the close of registration date as set by the Recreation Director, at which point players may be waitlisted but are not guaranteed a place on a team. 2. Registration fees are due at the time of registration. 3. A team’s official roster shall consist of the players allocated to that specific team. a. Coaches will receive team rosters at the Coaches Meeting or upon completion and approval of Risk Management (Please refer to Rule 10 Number 4). 4. Returning players for the spring season will be assigned to the team on which he/she played in the immediately previous (fall) season taking in to consideration any/all registration guidelines regarding time of registration. If a player requests to be reassigned to another team, allocation of player may take place at the discretion of the Recreation Director. 5. Players moving up in age classification and first time players will be allocated to teams based on geographic location of residence within the age group. a. If players would like to be allocated based on a location other than that of the residence (i.e. parent or guardian place of work, other family member, etc.), please make the request on the form at the time of registration. 6. In the fall, the majority of players that register within the designated registration period will be allocated to the team they were on in the previous spring season. A player who did not participate in the spring season will be assigned as a new player. 7. Players will be placed in age divisions by birth year. Playing out of age classification is not allowed unless approved at the discretion of the Recreation Director. 8. Players who register after the close of registration will be assigned to teams at the discretion of the Recreation Director. 9. Special requests which do not conform to these formation guidelines must have the approval of the Recreation Director, the coach involved, and are only to be granted for serious reasons.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 3: Practices and Field Usage Practices are limited to a maximum of two (2) per week prior to and during the playing season and may not exceed a total of three (3) hours per week. Suspected violations of the rule should be reported in writing to the WHYFC office and Recreation Director at the earliest possible time. Section A – Practice Field Assignment Policy 1. In order to arrange to use a New Hanover County (NHC) Public School field for practice, that field must be contracted to WHYFC by NHC Schools and the NHC Parks Department. All requests for practice locations MUST go through the Recreation Director and the Program Director for WHYFC. 2. WHYFC will assign practice times and locations by first come basis and on availability of fields. 3. You must have authorization to use that particular facility on the days and times that you have specified. This authorization is binding between you, WHYFC, NHC Schools, and the NHC Parks Department. Violators of the authorization requirements could cause forfeiture of privileges and facility usage. a. Some facilities are under the jurisdiction of the County Parks Department, which WHYFC will be scheduling at some of these facilities as well. The same authorization will apply. 4. Once assigned a date and time, you cannot deviate from your assigned time or date. In the likelihood that you do need to change the date, time, or location of your practice, please contact the Recreation Director. Although we cannot guarantee that your assigned practice can be changed, we will do what we can to accommodate your team. 5. The authorization you receive from WHYFC is valid only for the duration of the current soccer season. Practice assignments will be made at the beginning of each fall and spring season. 6. You are requested and required to cooperate with other coaches and teams. Limited facilities and common courtesy demands it. We (WHYFC) will not tolerate what would be deemed uncivil or unsportsmanlike conduct. 7. Be advised that School sponsored activities have precedent over WHYFC activities on school property. Most school activities conclude by 6:00p.m. 8. Hugh McRae Athletic Complex, behind Hoggard Stadium, is not open to practice sessions per the NHC Parks Department. 9. Coaches must ensure that all players have left the practice site prior to departing. Do not leave players unsupervised after practice. 10. WHYFC contracts with the county agencies to provide access to facilities for the purpose of soccer practice. While there are other facilities in the county available, WHYFC utilizes a portion as outlined by NHC Schools and NHC Parks. Section B – School Activities and Safety 1.
Hoggard High School Varsity and Junior Varsity sports use the Hugh McRae Athletic Complex in the fall and the spring. As mentioned previously (please see Rule 3, Section A, Number 7), these teams take precedence over WHYFC teams. This also applies at all middle school fields. 2. Two (2) teams or more will practice on one field at the same time sharing facilities.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 3. Goals are anchored by sand bags for safety. Recreational, Academy, or Classic teams must have sandbags on their goals when in use. The number of sandbags per goal can be followed as: • 1 sandbag for 3 v 3, 5 v 5, 7 v 7 or 9 v 9 • 2 sandbags for 11 v 11 If there are no sandbags at your field, please notify the Recreation Director to remedy this problem. Unauthorized relocation of goals is a serious violation of equipment safety. 4. Players are not to hang, chin up, or climb on goals in any fashion. Players must not move or help move goals at any time. Such actions are dangerous and could lead to serious injury. Players who do such prior to or during a match may be ejected from the match in the same fashion as a red card. If such actions occur after a match, players may be ejected from the team’s next match in the same fashion as a red card. Rule 4: Player Eligibility 1. A player who meets the age requirements in Rule 1, is properly registered and assigned to a team according to the provisions of Rule 2 is considered an eligible player if playing on the team to which he/she is assigned. a. By this and only this method may a player be placed on a recreational team in the program. Players thus registered and accepted into the division in this manner are considered to be recreational players. Suspected violations should be reported in writing to the Recreation Director. 2. Players who are registered with the program but participate with a team they are neither rostered nor assigned to by the Recreation Director shall be considered ineligible. 3. Players actively rostered to Classic teams are ineligible to participate in the Recreation Program. Section A – Classic Players 1. Classic players are players who have tried out for and have been actively rostered to a classic soccer team playing in the NCYSA Select/Classic Division. 2. Players rostered to classic teams may not participate in the Recreation Program. 3. Players who are dropped from academy or classic rosters may play in the Recreation Program but may not be rerostered on another classic team. a. Players who drop from academy or classic rosters to play in the Recreation Program are still required to register under the same protocols as listed previously (Please see Rule 2, Section A). 4. Players who participate in the Recreation Program and are picked up on an academy or classic roster will not be able to continue in the recreational division. Section B – Players Participating on School Teams 1. Middle School players are players rostered to a middle school team and play for their school. Middle School players may participate in the recreational program if they are not rostered for an academy or classic team. 2. Junior Varsity players rostered to a high school junior varsity team and play a fall or spring season for their school. Junior Varsity players may participate in the Recreation Program if they are not actively rostered to an academy or classic team.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 3. Varsity players are players rostered to a high school varsity team and play a fall or spring season for their school. Varsity players may participate in the Recreation Program during their varsity high school season – boys in the fall, girls in the spring. Rule 5: Uniforms 1. Shin guards are mandatory to play in a match and will be checked by officials. They must provide ample coverage to the shin and must be worn under the socks 2. Teams will be required to wear the jerseys furnished by the club. No player will be allowed to participate if his or her jersey has been altered. 3. Shorts are required to be worn by all players. 4. No jewelry is allowed to be worn during games, including studs or earrings. Rule 6: Participation of Players All Players are required to play one quarter of each game. Equal time should be allotted to each player at the recreation level. 1. In the U10 and younger age groups, no player shall play an entire game in goal. Any child playing goalie in these divisions must play at least one quarter in another field position. This rule applies to both regular season games and tournament games. All age groups will adhere to United States Soccer Federation (USSF) rules. 2. Any player who receives a red card or a coach that is ejected must sit out the next regularly scheduled match. The player may be seated on the bench with his/her team in street clothes. The referee and opposing coach should be advised why the player is not participating. Additional game sit outs may be issued by WHYFC Directors after reviewing the ejection. 3. Upon ejection, the coach must immediately leave the field and must be out of sight and sound of the match. The coach may return to the next regularly scheduled match but he/she may only watch from a distance and can neither coach nor advise the team in any manner. Penalty: Disciplinary action, which may include forfeiture of any games in which a violation occurs, to be determined by the appropriate division and/or the WHYFC Board of Directors under the provisions of Rule 11. Rule 7: Sportsmanship and Conduct Section A – Unsporting Conduct Unsporting conduct by spectators, referees, coaches, or players directed at spectators, referees, coaches, or players is strictly forbidden and will not be tolerated. Coaches are responsible and may be held accountable for the conduct of team parents and fans and are expected to assist the referee in his/her efforts to control the game. The referee has the right to eject any coach or player or to terminate the game for reasons of unsporting conduct. This is applicable before, during, and after games. Section B – Suspension or Discipline of Coaches or Players 6
Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules 1. A coach or player may be suspended or disciplined according to these rules and procedures. 2. All cautions and ejections of a coach or player during a match will be reported by the referee to WHYFC Referee Assignor who shall in turn report to the WHYFC office with his/her recommendations. 3. The club may suspend a coach or a player from participation for the following offenses: a. Striking and/or directing derogatory remarks toward a coach, player, spectator, or WHYFC official before, during, or after a game. Minimum suspension is 3 games. Assault can also result in criminal action. b. Striking and/or directing derogatory remarks toward a referee or other official of the game before, during, or after a game. Minimum suspension is 3 games. Assault on referees can also result in criminal action and further action by U.S. Soccer. c. Any individual who may receive two (2) or more ejections from games in one season – Minimum suspension of 3 games, Maximum suspension of 3 months (until such time as the WHYFC Recreation Director can meet and decide on a course of action dependent on information and evidence surrounding the incident). d. Recruiting of players for a specific team or allowing an ineligible/unregistered player to participate in any WHYFC or USYSA sanctioned soccer match – Minimum suspension of 6 months, Maximum suspension of 1 year. Rule 8: Scheduled Games Games will be played as scheduled unless cancelled, postponed, terminated, or rescheduled as set forth in these rules. In the event of rain or poor weather conditions, the decision to play will be made by the Recreation Director or a club official. In the absence of the Recreation Director or a club official, the decision will be made jointly between the referee and the coaches. Any determination by a majority of three will stand. (Example: two voting to postpone the match vs. one who votes to play). Rule 9: Rules of the Game Section A – Official Playing Rules 1. Games shall be officiated according to the rules and guidelines of FIFA and the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), and North Carolina Youth Soccer Association (NCYSA), providing there is no WHYFC rule to the contrary. WHYFC rules shall supersede rules by any other organization or publication. 2. Changes to the WHYFC rules of competition or these General Rules require the review and approval of the WHYFC Board of Directors. Section B – Approved Changes 1. This section is not intended to be a complete embodiment of WHYFC amendments to Federation rules. The Board of Directors may approve amendments to the rules at their discretion. 2. Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules
Section C – Divisions of Play U4 Division No Scores or standings are kept, nor forfeits. The minimum required players (3) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
Three players No Goalkeeper Playing time: 4-6 minute quarters Ball: Size 3 Field Size: 25-30 yards long x 20 yards wide Goal Size: 4ft high x 6ft wide No referees Total field time one hour or whenever the kids decide it’s time for the end of game snacks Parent/Coach facilitators are allowed on the field to assist the players during the games Participation medals are awarded in the Fall and trophies in the Spring Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
U5/U6 Divisions No Scores or standings are kept, nor forfeits. The minimum required players (3) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
U5: Three Players U6: Four Players No Goalkeeper Playing time: 6 minute quarters Ball: Size 3 Field Size: 25-30 yards long x 20 yards wide Goal Size: 4ft high x 6ft wide No referees No direct kicks except corner kicks No offside will be called No goals can be scored directly from the kickoff Parent/Coach facilitators are allowed on the field to assist the players during the games Participation medals are awarded in the Fall and trophies in the Spring Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules
U7/U8 Divisions No Scores or standings are kept, nor forfeits. The minimum required players (3) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Five players No Goalkeeper Playing time: 10 minute quarters Ball: Size 3 Field Size: 40-50 yards long x 30 yards wide Goal Size: 4 ½ft high x 9ft wide No referees No direct kicks except corner kicks No offside will be called No goals can be scored directly from the kickoff Coaches are allowed on the field for instructional purposes only Participation medals are awarded in the Fall and trophies in the Spring Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
U9/U10 Divisions The minimum required players (5) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Seven players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 12 minute quarters Ball: Size 4 Field Size: 55-65 yards long x 45-55 yards wide Goal Size: 6ft high x 18ft wide Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper cannot play the entire match in goal. They must play one quarter on the field. This includes regular season and tournament games. 8. Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U9-U12 age groups
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules U11-U12 Divisions The minimum required players (7) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Nine players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 30 minute halves Ball: Size 4 Field Size: 75-85 yards long x 50-60 yards wide Goal Size: 7ft high x 21ft wide Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper may play the entire match in the goal, though it is encouraged to rotate goalkeepers Slide tackling is prohibited in the U4-U8 age groups and strongly discouraged in the U11-U12 age groups There will be offside for this age group
U13-U15 Divisions - Boys The minimum required players (7) must be present for the match to start. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Nine players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 30 minute halves Ball: Size 5 Field Size: 75-85 yards long x 50-60 yards wide Goal Size: 7ft high x 21ft wide 3 Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper may play the entire match in the goal, though it is encouraged to rotate goalkeepers There will be offside for this age group
U13-U15 Divisions - Girls The minimum required players (9) must be present for the match to start. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Eleven players including a goalkeeper Playing time: 30 minute halves Ball: Size 5 Field Size: 90-100 yards long x 65-70 yards wide Goal Size: 8ft high x 24ft long 3 Referees will call direct and indirect kicks, including penalty kicks The goalkeeper may play the entire match in the goal, though it is encouraged to rotate goalkeepers There will be offside for this age group
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 10: Coaches 1. Coaches shall be responsible for compliance with the rules set forth herein, and with the rules of the Unites States Soccer Federation, by their teams, the members thereof, and those associated with the team. 2. No coaching will be allowed from the opposing sideline or behind the goals by either a coach or any other person. 3. U9-U18: Team bench areas will be on the opposite side of the field from parents and spectators. 4. Parent/Coach facilitators, as well as volunteers, are required to complete NCYSA Risk Management Application. Once approved, Parent/Coach facilitators can begin communication with team and players.
Rule 11: Appeals and Protests Section A – General 1. Appeals or protests pertaining to the interpretation and enforcement of these General Rules must be made in writing within 48 hours of the incident in question and addressed to the Recreation Director or WHYFC Office. 2. No protests concerning referees’ interpretations of rules of play will be considered. Section B – Consideration of Appeals and Protests 1. Appeals and protests pertaining to the interpretation and enforcement of the General Rules made by a coach, referee, parent, guardian, or an official of WHYFC, will be decided by the Discipline and Appeals Committee. 2. Unless otherwise stated, the protests and appeals process will follow a process as stated in the WHYFC Discipline and Appeals Manual. This process is described in a separate document. 3. All appeals that the aggrieved person wishes to have reviewed by the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall be addressed to Recreation Director. The Recreation Director shall make available all documentation regarding the appeal to the person(s) involved. 4. If necessary, the Recreation Director will request a special meeting of the Discipline and Appeals Committee for the presentation of said appeal. 5. The appeals meeting will be a closed meeting. 6. The decision of the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall be put in writing and filed with the WHYFC Office Manager. 7. The process of appeals is not a court of law and no attorney and/or character witnesses will be allowed. Rule 12: Awards 1. The manner of trophies and other awards shall be determined by the Recreation Director. 2. No regular season awards or trophies will be presented in the Recreation Program for teams U9 and older. 3. Players in the U4, U5, U6, U7, and U8 age groups will all receive participation awards at the end of each season, as these are non-competitive groups.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 13: Referees Referee teams will be assigned in either a one-man (U8-U10) or a three-man system (U11-U15), a referee and two assistant referees. There are no referees in the U4 through U8 Divisions. Section A – Certification All referees who officiate scheduled WHYFC matches must be certified by the USSF. Section B – Assignment 1. Referees will be assigned to officiate scheduled WHYFC games by the Referee Assignor appointed by WHYFC. In the event that the scheduled referee does not report for a match, any certified WHYFC referee may officiate the game. In the event that no certified referee is available, the game will be rescheduled. 2. In the event that either or both of the scheduled line assistant referees are not present, the referee may choose club linesmen for each side and the game may proceed. Club linesmen will only call out of bounds. They will not call offside or infractions of the law of the game. Section C – Score Reporting and Booking Referees are required to report in writing or online, by the end of the play date, to the WHYFC Office and Referee Assignor: 1. The score, including the name of the teams, and 2. Any discipline action taken including the administration of cautions and ejections to players and coaches. 3. At the end of the match the coach should verify and sign the score sheet (please check the reported score). This is not to be confrontational. Questions and appeals should be directed through the established procedure. Section D – General Information WHYFC strives to improve the quality and therefore the enjoyment of the game for players, spectators, coaches, and officials. 1. Matches are expected to start on time. The only delay to a match start should be failure of a team to show on time, hence a forfeit, or weather-related delay, but not failure of the referee team to show. 2. Prior to a match, the referees are to do the following: a. Inspect the player’s equipment and insure all players comply with the Laws of the Game as defined by WHYFC, USSF, and FIFA. b. Explain to the team captains at the coin toss your expectations and issue any pre-match instructions. c. Restart the match after the half on time.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Section E – Referee Uniform Requirements 1. WHYFC plays soccer by the Laws of the Game as defined by FIFA and the USSF. We require that the players meet certain dress requirements prior to participating in a match – shin guards, socks pulled up, no jewelry, etc. 2. Referees are required to wear an approved referee kit as defined by the USRA, USSF, and FIFA, as well as, wear the kit properly. 3. WHYFC expects each referee to follow the listed uniform requirements to be considered a properly outfitted referee and a proper representative of WHYFC, the USSF, and FIFA to the players, coaches, and spectators. Prior to stepping onto the field for a match, referees are required to be uniformed as follows: a. Warm Weather Conditions prior to and during the match i. Socks are pulled up ii. Shorts are to be worn at the waist and not sagged iii. Jersey is to be tucked in and the USSF patch displayed properly b. Cold Weather Conditions prior to and during the match i. Socks are pulled up ii. Shorts are to be worn at the waist and not sagged. Long solid black pants may be worn in lieu of shorts; they are to be worn at the waist. iii. Jersey is to be tucked in and the USSF patch displayed properly. A black turtle neck may be worn under the jersey. iv. Black gloves may be worn and a black baseball cap if deemed necessary. c. Inclement Weather Conditions prior to and during the match i. In the event of rain, jackets or other necessary garments may be worn over the uniform as long as they do not interfere with the referee’s ability to call the match. ii. A black baseball cap may be worn. Section F – General Endnotes 1. Referees are paid by WHYFC to officiate the soccer matches. Referees contract their services to WHYFC, they are not employees of WHYFC. It is the duty of the referees to report the game score and that they worked the game online in the Arbiter System. This is the pay sheet. 2. Assessment and Evaluation System for referees. The purpose of the system is to assist the referee in improving his performance on the pitch to enable him to become a high quality official. The assessment system will follow the current NCSRA system. 3. The assessment system will not be used to “weed out” poor officials, but rather to give all officials a chance to improve.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Rule 14: Team Standings 1. The goal of WHYFC is to offer every player the opportunity to participate and play soccer at his or her own level of competition. Emphasis is placed on the development of soccer skills, participation and enjoying the game of soccer. While team standings are not kept, win-loss records are not emphasized, as the program puts soccer skill development, participation, and enjoyment of the game of soccer first.
***Please Note: Intentionally running up scores against opponents is highly discouraged and may be looked upon as unfair and unsporting play. Scores are recorded with a 5 goal difference only.
Section C – Number of Games in one Season 1. The Recreation Director will determine the number of games played in one season. Matches or games for the season are scheduled on a computer. The computer program utilized makes random selections within each age group for the regular season. 2. Before said schedule is finalized, the Recreation Director will send out a prelim schedule as a courtesy for coaches to request any schedule changes. Coaches will only have a certain amount of time to make those requests. Once that time period has passed, the final schedule will be posted, at which time no more requests will be taken. 3. Schedules produced are final and teams are expected to complete the schedule as presented.
Standards of Conduct Code of Conduct for Players • • • • • • • • •
Play the game for the games sake. Be generous when you win. Be graceful when you lose. Always be fair – no matter what the cost. Obey the laws of the game. Work for the good of your team. Accept the decisions of the officials with good grace. Believe in the honesty of your opponents. Conduct yourself with honor and dignity.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Code of Conduct for Referees • • • • • • • • • •
Always maintain the utmost respect for the game of soccer. Conduct yourself honorably at all times and maintain dignity of your position. Always honor a contractual obligation. Endeavor to attend local meetings and clinics so as to know the Laws of the Game and their proper interpretation. Always strive to achieve maximum teamwork with the fellow referees and assistant referees. Be loyal to fellow referees and assistant referees, and never knowingly promote criticism of them. Be in good physical condition so as to be in the right place at the right time. Control the players effectively by being courteous and considerate without sacrificing firmness. Do your utmost to assist fellow officials to better themselves and their work. o To not make statements about any game except to clarify and interpret the Laws of the Game. Consider it a privilege to be a part of the United States Soccer Federation and strive to make your actions reflect credit upon the organization and its affiliates.
Code of Conduct for Parents • • • • • • • • • •
Respect the property and equipment used at any sports facility, both home and away. Encourage good sportsmanship through your actions, by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game or practice. Promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire to win. Provide support for coaches and officials working with the athletes to provide a positive experience for all. Demand a drug, alcohol, and tobacco free environment for your athlete, and agree to assist by refraining from use at all WHYFC events, home or away. Remember the game is for the athletes and not for the parents. Demand your athlete treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, gender, or ability. Treat all players, coaches, and officials with dignity and respect in language, attitude, behavior, and mannerisms regardless of race, creed, color, gender, or ability. Inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of your athlete or the safety of others. Inform the coach, within a reasonable amount of time, of any absence from a game or practice your athlete might incur due to sickness, planned vacation, or any other reason.
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Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC Recreation Program General Rules Code of Conduct for Coaches • • • • • • • • • • • •
Soccer is the player’s game. The main concern of coaches is the overall development, welfare, enjoyment, and safety of their players. Coaches bear responsibility for teaching their players to strive for success while playing fairly, observing the laws of the game and highest levels of sportsmanship. Coaches shall treat officials with respect and dignity, and shall teach their players to do the same. Our opponents are to be treated with respect. Coaches will model such respect for opponents and expect their players to do likewise. In both victory and defeat, the behavior of a coach shall model grace, dignity, and composure. Coaches shall adhere to the highest standards and the regulation of the institutions they represent: clubs, schools, sponsoring organizations and sports governing bodies. Coaches have a responsibility to promote the interests of soccer, including treating media with courtesy, honesty, and respect. Coaches shall model inclusive behavior, actively supporting cultural diversity while opposing all types of discrimination, including but not limited to, racism and sexism, at all levels of soccer. Coaches are responsible for taking an active role in education about prevention and treatment of drug, alcohol, and tobacco abuse, both in their own lives and in the lives of their players. Coaches shall refrain from all manner of personal abuse and harassment of others, whether verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual, and shall oppose such abuse and harassment at all levels of soccer. Coaches shall respect the declared affiliations of all players, and shall adhere to all guidelines and regulations on recruiting established by the governing bodies having oversight of their teams and leagues. Coaches shall seek to honor those who uphold the highest standards and principles of soccer and shall use appropriate protocol to opposed and eliminate all behavior that brings disrepute to the sport – violence, abuse, dishonesty, disrespect, and violations of the laws of the game and rules of governing competition.
Disciplinary Action Failure to abide by the aforementioned rules and guidelines, may subject you to disciplinary action. This action could include, but not limited to the following: • •
Verbal warning and removal from the fields Written warning and suspension o Parental/Coach/Player/Referee practice and game suspension o Parental/Coach/Player/Referee season suspension o Parental/Coach/Player/Referee disbarment
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