South Suffolk Youth League
Constitution and Rules
2011-12
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
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South Suffolk Youth League – Management Commitee
Chairman
Tony Ledieu
U8 Rep
Adrian Moye
Vice Chairman
Peter Phillips
U9 Rep
Ian Booth
Life Vice President
John Beecroft
U10 Rep
Chris Whitley
Life Vice President
Roger Clarke
U11 Rep
Clive Pack
Life Vice President
Colin Richards
U12 Rep
Jim Durrance
Life Vice President
Alan Scrutton
U13 Rep
Duncan Coldwell
Treasurer
Jim Haddow
U14 Rep
Paul Smith
U15 Rep
Terry Fryatt
Stuart Payne
Secretary
Registration Secretary
Tony King
U16 Rep
Welfare Officer
Loretta Greenacre
U18
Referees Appointment
Secretary
Stuart Payne
League Email Address
Nic Cutting
ssyl@hotmail.co.uk
Suffolk County FA Contacts
Football Governance contacts
County C.E.O
Football Services Manager
Phil Knight
phil.knight@suffolkfa.com
(01449) 776317
Jairo Marin
jairo.marin@suffolkfa.com
(01449) 776319
Football Development contacts
Football Administrator
Tom Fairbrother
tom.fairbrother@suffolkfa.com (01449) 776318
Football Development Officer
Phil Woolnough phil.woolnough@suffolkfa.com (01449) 776311
County Development Manager
Chris Walsh
Football Development Administrator
Ben Marshall
ben.marshall @suffolkfa.com (01449) 776315
Sue Wells
Suzanne.wells@suffolkfa.com (01449) 776314
Girls & Women's Football Development Officer
chris.walsh@suffolkfa.com
(01449) 776313
Referee contacts
Referees Secretary
Tony Trevers
tony.trevers@suffolkfa.com
(01206) 851579
Referees Development Officer
Steve Tanner
steve.tanner@suffolkfa.com
(01449) 776310
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South Suffolk Youth League – Constitution and Rules
___________________________________________________________________
Note:
Statements in Italics are guidance notes inserted by the Competition Management Committee.
All Managers should be familiar with the FA Laws of the Game for Mini-soccer and 11 a side soccer referenced in
these Competition Rules.
NOMENCLATURE AND CONSTITUTION
1. (A) This Competition shall be designated the South Suffolk Youth League /Cup and shall consist of not more than
75 Clubs approved by the sanctioning authority..
All such Member Clubs must be affiliated to an affiliated County Football Association and their names and particulars
shall be returned annually by the appointed date on the Form “D” to the Suffolk County Football Association. The area
covered by the Competition Membership shall be a 30 mile radius of Ipswich Town Centre.
This Competition shall apply annually for sanction to the Suffolk Football Association and the constituent teams of
Member Clubs may be grouped in divisions, each not exceeding 12 in number .
Member Clubs shall not enter any of their teams playing in the Competition in any other Competitions (with the
exception of F.A. and County F.A. Competitions) except with the written consent of the Management Committee of the
Competition.
This Competition and its Clubs shall support eh FA’s Respect programme. As such it recognises that everyone in
football has a collective responsibility to create a fair, safe and enjoyable environment in which the game can take
place. A Respect League values the courtesy and fairness by opposing players, club officials and spectators. The
League and its Clubs will seek to play fixtures in a fair, competitive but not antagonistic environment.
The competition will provide 11-a-side football for players who have attained the age of 10 as at midnight 31st August
in a playing season (from Under 12’s to Under 18’s) and Mini-Soccer for players who have attained the age of 6 years
but not the age of 12 years as at midnight on 31st August in a playing season (Under 8’s to 11’s). 9 x 9 may be
provided for players who have attained the age of 10 as at midnight on 31 st August.
Other formats of youth football as authorised from time to time by the FA are also permitted.
(B) At the Annual General Meeting or a Special General Meeting called for the purpose, a majority of the delegates
present shall have power to decide or adjust the compilation of the divisions at their discretion. When necessary this
Rule shall take precedence over Rule 12.
(C) All Member Clubs shall have signed up to the FA Respect Campaign.
ENTRY FEE, SUBSCRIPTION, DEPOSIT
2.(A) Applications by Clubs for admission to this Competition or the entry of an additional team(s) must be made in
writing to the Secretary and must be accompanied by an Entry Fee of £40 (£25 for Under 8’s) per team which shall be
returned in the event of non-election.
At the discretion of a majority of the accredited voting members present applications, of which due notice has been
given, may be received at the Annual General Meeting or a Special General Meeting. The Entry Fee shall apply.
When Rule 12(B) is applied and a team seeks a transfer or is compulsorily transferred to another division no Entry Fee
shall be payable.
(B) The Annual Subscription shall be £40 per Team playing 11-a-side football and £40 (£25 for Under 8’s) per Team
playing Mini-Soccer payable on or before the 31st May in each year.
(C) Each Club shall, within 7 days of election, pay a Deposit of £50 which shall be returnable to Clubs on leaving the
Competition provided they have fulfilled their fixtures and complied with all orders of the Management Committee.
(D) A Club shall not participate in this Competition until the Entry Fee, Annual Subscription and Deposit have been
paid.
(E) Clubs must advise annually to the Secretary in writing by 31st July of its Suffolk County Football Association
affiliation number for the forthcoming Season, failing which they shall be fined £20. Clubs must advise the Secretary in
writing, or on the prescribed form, of details of its Headquarters, Officers and any other information required by the
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Competition.
(F) A team shall not participate in this Competition until:
 the Annual Subscription has been paid,
 the Suffolk County Football Association Affiliation number confirmed,
 the Secretary has received a fully completed team registration form (no later than 31st May).
 the Registration Secretary has received fully completed player registration list for ALL individual team players (no
later than 31st August)
(Note: to raise the standards within the Competition it is remains a desirable requirement for Managers to complete the
FA Level 1 Coaching course. Copies of relevant Coaching Certificates should be held by Club/team Secretary for
viewing if requested by the Competition Committee.
(G) All Clubs/teams must have in place a formal Constitution and have fully elected officers to discharge the
responsibilities of the Club/team. The Competition reserves the right to request evidence to prove the existence of an
appropriate management structure. Failure to comply with this request will result in club/team being suspended from
any participation in the Competition until Management Committee are presented with information that clearly
demonstrates that this situation has been resolved.
OFFICERS
3. The Officers of the Competition shall be the President, Vice-Presidents, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Treasurer,
Secretary, Registration Secretary, Referees Secretary Welfare Officer and Age Group Representatives to be elected
annually at the Annual General Meeting. (N.B. Auditors are not Officers).
MANAGEMENT, NOMINATION, ELECTION
4.(A) The Competition shall be governed in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of The Football Association by
a Management Committee comprised of the Officers and Associate members who shall be elected at the Annual
General Meeting. All Participants shall abide by The Football Association Regulations for Safeguarding Children as
determined by The Association from time to time.
(B) Retiring Officers shall be eligible to become candidates for re-election without nomination. All other candidates for
election as Officers or Members of the Management Committee shall be nominated to the Secretary in writing, signed
by the Secretaries of two Member Clubs, not later than 31st May in each year. Names of the candidates for election
shall be circulated with the notice of the Annual General Meeting. In the event of there being no nomination in
accordance with the foregoing for any office, nominations may be received at the Annual General Meeting
(C) The Management Committee shall meet. At least quarterly.
On receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds of the Members of the Management Committee the Secretary shall
convene a meeting of the Committee.
(D) Except where otherwise mentioned all communications shall be addressed to the Secretary who shall conduct the
correspondence of the Competition and keep a record of its proceedings.
(E) All communications received from Clubs must be conducted through their nominated Officers.
POWERS OF MANAGEMENT
5.(A)The Management Committee appoint sub-committees and delegate such of their powers as they deem
necessary. The Management Committee shall have power to deal only with matters within the Competition and not for
any matters of misconduct that are under the jurisdiction of the Football Association or affiliated Association
(B) Subject to the permission of the Suffolk County Football Association having been obtained the Management
Committee may order a match or matches to be played each season, the proceeds to be devoted to the funds of the
Competition and, if necessary, may call upon each Club (including any Club which may have withdrawn during the
season) to contribute equally such sums as may be necessary to meet any deficiency at the end of the season. (See
Rule 6(e)).
(C) Each Member of the Management Committee shall have the right to attend and vote at all Management
Committee Meetings and have one vote thereat, but no Member shall be allowed to vote on any matters directly
appertaining to such Member or to the Club so represented. (This shall apply to the procedure of any sub-committee).
In the event of the voting being equal on any matter, the Chairman shall have a second or casting vote.
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(D) The Management Committee shall have powers to apply, act upon and enforce the Rules of the Competition and
shall also have jurisdiction over all matters affecting the Competition, including any not provided for in the Rules. With
the exception of Rules 5(i), 6(H), 10 (a), 11 and 19 for any breaches of Rule a formal written charge must be issued.
The respondent shall be given seven days from the date of notice to reply to the charge and be given the opportunity
to:(i) Accept or deny the charge,
(ii) Submit in writing a case of mitigation, or
(iii) Put their case before the Management Committee.
All breaches of the Laws of the Game, Rules and Regulations of the Football Association shall be dealt with in
accordance with F.A. Rules by the appropriate Association.
With the exception of Clubs playing at Step 7 of the Football Pyramid and the FA Women’s Premier League, the
maximum fine permitted for any breach of a Competition rule is £250 and when setting any fine, the Competition must
ensure that the penalty is proportional to the offence, taking into account any mitigating circumstances.
(E) All decisions of the Management Committee shall be binding subject to the right of appeal to the Board of Appeal
in accordance with Rule 16.
Decisions of the Management Committee must be notified in writing to those concerned within 7 days.
(F) 50% Members of the Management Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business of the
Management Committee and 50% Members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business by any subcommittee of the Competition.
(G) The Management Committee, as it may deem necessary, shall have power to fill in an acting capacity, any
vacancies that may occur amongst their number.
(H) A Club having failed to comply with an order or instruction of the Management Committee, or failing to satisfactorily
attend to the business and/or the correspondence of the Competition, shall be liable to be fined or otherwise penalised
at the discretion of the Management Committee.
(I) All fines and charges shall be paid within 14 days of the date of posting of the written notification.
Any Club failing to do so will be fined a maximum of £50. Further failure to pay the fine, including the additional sum,
within 14days will result in fixtures being withdrawn until such time as the outstanding payments are settled
(J) A member of the Management Committee appointed by the Competition to attend a meeting or match may have
any expenses incurred refunded by the Competition.
(K) The Management Committee shall have the power to fill any vacancy that may occur in the membership of the
Competition between the Annual General or Special General Meeting called to decide the constitution and the
commencement of the Competition season.
(L) No participant under the age of 18 can be fined.
(M) Leagues who organise Mini Soccer for teams playing U7 and U8 football may not, with the exception of Rules 6,
10a, 11d, 14 and 19 fine clubs for breaches of League Rules.
(N) The business of the Competition as determined by the Management Committee may be transacted by electronic
mail or facsimile
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
6. (A) The Annual General Meeting shall be held not later than 30 th June in each year. At this meeting the following
business shall be transacted provided that at least 50% Members are present and entitled to vote:(i) To receive and confirm the Minutes of the preceding Annual General Meeting.
(ii) To consider any business arising therefrom.
(iii) To receive and adopt the Annual Report, Balance Sheet and Statement of Accounts.
(iv) Election of Clubs to fill vacancies (as recommended by the Management Committee).
(v) Constitution of the Competition for ensuing season.
(vi) Election of Officers and Management Committee.
(vii) Appointment of Auditors.
(viii) Alteration of Rules, if any (of which notice has been given).
(ix) Fix the date for the commencement and kick off times applicable to the Competition.
(x) Other business of which due notice shall have been given and accepted as being relevant to an Annual General
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Meeting.
(B) A copy of the duly verified Balance Sheet, Statement of Accounts and Agenda shall be forwarded to each Club at
least fourteen days prior to the meeting, and to the Suffolk County Football Association.
(C) A signed copy of the duly verified Balance Sheet and Statement of Accounts shall be sent to the Suffolk County
Football Association within fourteen days of its adoption by the Annual General Meeting.
(D) Each Full Member Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to an Annual General Meeting. Each Club
shall be entitled to one vote only. Not less than 14 days notice shall be given of any Meeting.
(n.b. Delegates will be entitled to cast votes relating to issues that impact all age groups – Club delegates should be
briefed by their team officials on issues they want addressed before attending the AGM or any other Special
Competition meetings.)
(E) Clubs who have withdrawn their Membership of the Competition during the season being concluded or who are not
continuing Membership shall be entitled to attend but shall vote only on matters relating to the season being
concluded. This provision will not apply to Clubs expelled in accordance with Rule 17.
(F) All voting shall be conducted by a show of voting cards unless a ballot be demanded by at least 80% of the
delegates qualified to vote or the Chairman so decides.
(G) No individual shall be entitled to vote on behalf of more than one Full Member .
(H) Any continuing Member Club failing to be represented at the Annual General Meeting without satisfactory reason
being given shall be fined £10.
(I) Officers and Management Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at an Annual General Meeting.
(J) New teams entering the Competition will automatically be placed in the lowest Division. If a new team is
considered to be exceptionally strong then, with agreement of majority of managers in the appropriate age group, the
team may be placed in a higher Division.
AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED
7. The Chairman and the Secretary of each Club shall complete and sign the following agreement which shall be
deposited with the Competition together with the Application for Membership for the coming season, or upon indicating
that the Club intends to compete.
"We, A,_____ _____________of _________________________(Chairman) and
B________________________of _________________________(Secretary) of the
_________________________________Football Club have been provided with a copy of the Rules and Regulations
of the South Suffolk Youth League and do hereby agree for and on behalf of the said Club, if elected or accepted into
Membership, to conform to those Rules and Regulations and to accept, abide by and implement the decisions of the
Management Committee of the Competition, subject to the right of appeal in accordance with Rule 16."
Any alteration of the Chairman and /or Secretary on the above Agreement must be notified to the Suffolk County
Football Association to which the Club is affiliated and to the Secretary of the Competition.
(Note: The spaces above are intended for the inclusion of the signatures and addresses of officers and members).
QUALIFICATION OF PLAYERS
8. (A) Contract players, as defined in Football Association Rules, are not permitted in this Competition.
A contract Player may only play for the Club that holds his contract.
It is the responsibility of each Club to ensure that any Player signing a registration form for the that Club has, where
necessary, the required International Transfer Certificate. Clearance is required for any Player aged 12 and over
crossing borders, including Wales, Scotland and Ireland.
No player registered with a F.A. Premier League or Football League Academy will be permitted to play in this
competition. A Player registered with a Centre of Excellence may only play in this Competition subject to the
Regulations of the Programme for Excellence.
(B) A registered youth playing member of a Club is one who, being in all other respects eligible, has Signed a fully and
correctly completed Competition registration form in ink, Countersigned by his /her parent or guardian and by an
Officer of the Club, and who has been registered with the (Registrations) Secretary 7 days prior to playing and whose
completed registration counterfoil has been received by the Club prior to playing. The registration document must
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incorporate any known serious medical conditions of the player and emergency contact details of the player’s parents
or guardians. These details must be available at matches and training events the player attends within the
management of the Club or Competition.
The qualification dates for the competition shall be as follows:
Mini-Soccer
To play in a KO Cup game or a game where points are awarded, or results published, a player must have achieved
the age of 8 on or before 31st August.
Under 8 – the player must be under the age of 8 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 9 – the player must be under the age of 9 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 10 – the player must be under the age of 10 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 11 – the player must be under the age of 11 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
In accordance with the foregoing qualifications a player in the above age ranges must not play in a match where any
other player is older or younger by 2 years or more.
Youth Football
Under 12 – the player must be under the age of 12 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 13 – the player must be under the age of 13 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 14 – the player must be under the age of 14 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 15 – the player must be under the age of 15 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 16 – the player must be under the age of 16 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
Under 18 – the player must be under the age of 18 as at midnight on 31st August in the playing season.
In accordance with the foregoing qualifications a player under the age of 15 as at midnight on 31 st August in the
playing season must not play in a match where any other player is older or younger by 2 years or more.
(The above qualification dates are subject to the provisions contained in FA Rule C.4(a)(v) and (vi).
(C) Not applicable to this Competition
(D) A player having taken part in matches for any Club affiliated to any County Football Association shall not be
allowed to join, be transferred to, or sign for a Club in the Competition without first proving to the officials of the
intended Club that the player has discharged all reasonable financial liabilities to the previous Club or Clubs, and a
Club official may not accept such player's signature without first ascertaining whether such claims have been
discharged to the satisfaction of the Club, or Clubs, for which the player last played.
(E) Registration forms shall be obtained from the Registrations Secretary (no fee)
(F) The Management Committee shall decide all registration disputes.
In the event of a player signing a registration form or having a registration submitted for more than one Club priority of
registration shall decide for which Club the player shall be registered. The (Registrations) Secretary shall notify the
Club last applying to register the player of the fact of the previous registration.
(G) It shall be deemed misconduct for a player to:(i) Play for more than one Club in the Competition in the same season without first being transferred.
(ii) Having signed for one Club in the Competition, sign for another Club in the Competition in that season except for
the purpose of a transfer.
(iii) Submit a signed registration form for registration that the player had wilfully neglected to accurately or fully
complete.
(H)
(i) The Management Committee shall have power to accept the registration of any player.
(ii) The Management Committee shall have power to refuse, cancel or suspend the registration of any player
who has been charged and found guilty of registration irregularities. (Subject to Rule 16).
(iii) The Management Committee shall have power to make application to refuse or cancel the registration of any
player charged and found guilty of undesirable conduct (subject to Rule 16) subject to the right of appeal to the FA or
the relevant County Football Association. Undesirable conduct shall mean an incident of repeated conduct, which may
deter a participant from being involved in this Competition. Application should be made to the parent County of the
Club the player is registered with.
(Note: Action under Clause (iii) shall not be taken against a player for misconduct until the matter has been dealt with
by the appropriate Association, and then only in cases of the player bringing the Competition into disrepute and will in
any case be subject to an Appeal to the Football Association.) For the purpose of this Rule, bringing the competition
into disrepute can only be considered where the player has received in excess of 112 days’ suspension, or 10
matches in match based discipline, in a period of two years or less from the date of the first offence.
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(I) Subject to The Football Association Rules dealing with players without a written contract when a player desires a
transfer, the Club the player wishes to transfer to shall submit a transfer form to the Registrations Secretary
accompanied by a fee of £10. Such transfer shall be referred by the Registrations Secretary to the Club for which the
player is registered. Should this Club object to the transfer it should state its objections in writing to the Registrations
Secretary and to the player concerned within seven days of receipt of the transfer form. Upon receipt of the Club's
consent, or upon its failure to give written objection within seven days, the Registrations Secretary may, on behalf of
the Management Committee, transfer the player who shall be deemed eligible to play for the new Club from such date
or 7 days after receipt of such transfer.
In the event of an objection to a transfer the matter shall be referred to the Management Committee for a decision.
(J) A player may not be registered for a Club nor transferred to another Club in the Competition after 1 st March except
by special permission of the Management Committee.
(K) A Club shall keep a list of the players it registers and a record of the games in which they have played, and shall
produce such records upon demand by the Management Committee.
In the event a Club has more than one team in an age group, each team must be clearly identifiable but not
designated “A” or “B” or 1st or 2nd. In such cases, players will be registered for one team only. A player so
registered will be allowed to play for his Club in a younger or older age group within the provisions of Rule 8 (B).
(L) A register containing the names of all players registered for each Club, with the date of registration, shall be kept
by the Registrations Secretary and shall be open to the inspection of any duly appointed Member Club representative
at all Management Committee meetings or at other times mutually arranged. Registrations are valid for one Season
only.
(M) A player shall not be eligible to play for a team in any special championship, promotion or relegation deciding
match (as specified in Rule 12(A)) unless the player has played 10 games for that team in this Competition in the
current season.
(N) Not applicable to this Competition.
(O- i) Any team playing an unregistered or otherwise ineligible player or players shall have the points gained in the
match deducted from its total and may be fined (Max £15 per player) and/or otherwise dealt with at the discretion of
the Management Committee. (n.b. The match will be declared 0-0 draw)
(ii) In addition the team may have 3 points deducted from its total at the discretion of the Management Committee and
may be dealt with in any further manner which is thought to be fit.
(iii) The Management Committee may, at its discretion, award the points available in the match in question to the
opponents, subject to the match not being ordered to be replayed.
(The following Clause applies to Competitions involving players in full-time secondary education):(P) (i) Priority must be given at all times to school and school organisations activities.This is not applicable to
under17/18 football.
(ii) The availability of children must be cleared with the Head Teachers.
(iii) Children under 15 shall not play in a team involving players who are more than 2 years older.
(Q) A player who has played for a team in a Higher Age Group 4 times or more shall not in that season be eligible to
play in a lower Division Competition except by permission of the Management Committee.
(Note: For players under the age of 18 the provisions contained in Football Association Rules will apply.)
`
CLUB COLOURS. CLUB NAME
9. (A) Every Club must register the colour of its shirts and shorts with the Secretary by 31 August who shall decide as
to their suitability. (n.b. applies to home and away kits)
Goalkeepers must wear colours which distinguish them from other players and the referee.
No player, including the goalkeeper, shall be permitted to wear black or very dark shirts.
Any team not being able to play in its normal colours as registered with the Competition shall notify the colours in
which they will play to its opponents at least 7 days before the match.
If, in the opinion of the referee, two Clubs have the same or similar colours, the away team shall make the change.
Any team not having a change of colours or delaying the kick-off by not having a change shall be fined £10.
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The Secretary of the Competition may request shirts to be submitted if complaints are received as to lack of
distinguishing colours, and the Management Committee may refuse to permit any shirts or shorts as they think fit.
Shirts must be numbered.
(B) Any Club wishing to change its name and/or colours must obtain permission from its affiliated County Football
Association and from the Management Committee.
PLAYING SEASON (CONDITIONS OF PLAY, TIMES OF KICK-OFF. POSTPONEMENTS. SUBSTITUTES)
10.(A) The Annual General Meeting shall determine the commencement of the season in accordance with Football
Association Rules. Original fixtures arranged by the Secretary, or at a meeting specially convened for that purpose, to
be held no later than 31st August, must not be arranged for a date later than seven days preceding the concluding date
determined by the Annual General Meeting.
Fixtures are deemed to be accepted unless objections are received by the Secretary within fourteen days of their
issue.
Any Club failing to be represented at a fixture meeting or otherwise infringing this Rule shall be liable for a fine of £10.
(B) All matches shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game as determined by the International Football
Association Board or, for Mini-Soccer, the Laws of Mini-Soccer as set down by The Football Association.
Clubs must take all reasonable precautions to keep their grounds in a playable condition. All matches shall be played
on pitches deemed suitable by the Management Committee. If through any fault of the home team a match has to be
replayed, the Management Committee shall have power to order the venue to be changed.
The Management Committee shall have power to decide whether a pitch and/or facilities are suitable for matches in
the Competition and to order the Club concerned to play its fixtures on another ground.
All matches shall have a duration as set out below unless a shorter time (the minimum time for any game will not be
less than 20 minutes each half for players in the under 14 age group and below and 25 minutes each half for all other
age groups) is mutually arranged by the two Clubs in consultation with the referee prior to the commencement of the
match, and in any event shall be of equal halves.
For Mini-Soccer – The duration of play shall be as follows: Under 8’s - 15 minutes each half, Under 9’s and
10’s - 20 minutes each half and under 11’s - 25 minutes each half. The maximum playing time in any one day Under 8’s - 40 minutes, Under 9’s and 10’s - 60 minutes.
When a player either starts an A team game or plays half a game or more he becomes ineligible to play for the
B team on the same day.
In accordance to Rule 10(E) A teams should consist of the best available qualified team.
The ONLY exception to this being if a team turns up with 12 or 13 players – only in these circumstances may
an A team outfield player, play in goal or the A team goalkeeper may play outfield – The maximum playing
times above still apply.
This will mean that a team turning up with 12 players will play with 6 players for half of the B game.
Upon a team turning up with 11 players or less – the B team match is forfeited (Result recorded as 0 – 0 Win).
For Youth football – The duration of play shall be as follows unless it is mutually agreed by all parties to reduce the
time. For under 11 and under 12, 30 minutes each half; for under 13, 14, 35 minutes each half and under 15 and
under 16, 40 minutes each half; under 17 and under 18, 45 minutes each half.
The minimum time for any game will not be less than 20 minutes each half for players in the under 14 age group and
below and 25 minutes each half for all other age groups.
No player participating in an under 17 division or lower age group shall be permitted to play more than one game or, in
the event the competition allows the playing of a double-header, ie: two separate matches, 100 minutes per day in this
Competition.
The times of kick-off shall be fixed by the A.G.M. or the Management Committee. Any Club failing to commence at the
appointed time may be fined a sum not exceeding £10 or be otherwise dealt with as the Management Committee may
determine.
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The kick-off time for all matches is 10:30 am.
Referees must order matches to commence at the appointed time and must report all late starts to the Competition.
The home team must provide at least two footballs fit for play and the referee shall make a report to the Competition if
the footballs are unsuitable. The size of football to be used: For Mini-Soccer, size 3 for players in the under 7 and 8
age categories; size 4 for under 9's and 10s. For youth football – size 4 for those playing under 11, 12, 13 and 14 age
groups; size 5 for all other age groups. Goal nets must be used.
(C) Except by permission of the Management Committee all matches must be played on the dates originally fixed but
priority shall be given to The Football Association and all relevant County Association Cup Competitions. All other
matches must be considered secondary. Clubs may mutually agree to bring forward a match with the consent of the
Fixtures Secretary.
In the case of a revised fixture date, the Clubs must be given by the Competition 5 days clear notice of the match
(unless otherwise mutually agreed).
(D) The Secretary (or other relevant Match Official) of the home Club must give notice by telephone of full particulars
of the location of, and access to, the ground and time of kick-off to the match officials and the Secretary (or other
relevant Match Official) of the opposing Club at least 4 clear days prior to the playing of the match. The away Club
shall seek such particulars.
Any Club failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable to a fine of £10.
(E) In the event of a club playing in any match with less than 9/6 players they may be fined £10 for each missing
player. A minimum of 9 players (6 players for Mini-Soccer) will constitute a team for a Competition match.
F) Home and away matches shall be played. In the event of a Club failing to keep its engagement the Management
Committee shall have power to inflict a fine, deduct points from the defaulting Club, award the points to the opponents,
order the defaulting Club to pay any expenses incurred by the opponents or otherwise deal with them except the
award of goals. Not withstanding the foregoing home and away provision, the Management Committee shall have
power to order a match to be played on a neutral ground or on the opponent's ground if they are satisfied that such
action is warranted by the circumstances.
Any Club with more than one team in the Competition shall always fulfill its fixture, within the Competition, in the
following order of precedence:- First Team, Reserve Team, A Team. Clubs in breach of this requirement shall be
fined a sum not exceeding £15 or otherwise dealt with by the Management Committee.
Any club unable to fulfil a fixture must, without delay, give notice to the Fixtures Secretary, the Competition Referees
Appointments Secretary, the Secretary of the opposing Club and the match officials. Any Club failing to comply shall
be dealt with by the Management Committee who may inflict a fine.
In the event of a match not being played or abandoned owing to causes over which neither Club has control, it shall be
played in its entirety on a date to be mutually agreed by the two Clubs and approved by the Management Committee.
Failing such agreement and notification to the Fixtures Secretary within 14 days the Management Committee shall
have power to order the match to be played on a named date or on or before a given date.
The Management Committee shall review all matches abandoned in cases where it is consequent upon the conduct of
either or both teams. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and does no injustice to either Club, the
Management Committee shall be empowered to order the score at the time of the abandonment to stand. In all cases
where the Management Committee are satisfied that a match was abandoned owing to the conduct of one team or its
Club member(s) they shall be empowered to award the points for the match to the opponent. In cases where a match
has been abandoned owing to the conduct of both teams or their Club member(s), the Management Committee shall
rule all points for the match as void. No fine(s) can be applied by the Management Committee for an abandoned
match
Note: Teams may cancel 2 games per season (any further cancellation will result in the team instigating the
cancellation forfeiting the game).Cancellation requests must be sent to the Secretary (by post or email only) and will
be considered up to Midnight on the Sunday preceding the game (or 7 days where applicable). Clubs to inform their
opponents that a Cancellation request has been made (it is not up to the opponents to agree a cancellation). The
Secretary to contact team making the request to notify them whether the request has been approved. Club to inform
their opponents of the outcome of the request. The onus is with the Club to fulfil all fixtures as scheduled. Cancellation
Requests should be a last resort and secretaries may be challenged to the validity of the cancellation and be
requested to provide evidence of claim. Clubs will be asked what has been done about attempting to play the game
including utilising players from other Age Groups within Club (within Rule 8b). Clubs abusing the Cancellation Process
will be subject to a disrepute charge being brought against them.
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(G) A Club may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game use 7 substitute players in any match in
this Competition who may be selected from 7 players. (Under 18’s only 3 from 5)
For Mini-Soccer – any number of substitutions may be used at any time with the permission of the Referee. Entry onto
the field of play will only be allowed during a stoppage in play. A player who has been replaced may return to the play
as a substitute for another player. A Team must not have a squad greater than double the size of its team in an age
group.
For Youth Football – for teams in the under 16 age group and below, a player who has been substituted himself
becomes a substitute and may replace another player at any time subject to the substitution being carried out in
accordance with Law 3 of the Laws of Association Football.
The referee shall be informed of the names of all players and substitutes not later than 10 minutes before the start of
the match.
A player who has been selected, appointed or named as a substitute before the start of the match but does not
actually play in the game shall not be considered to have been a player in that game within the meaning of Rule 8 of
this Competition.
(H) The half time interval shall be of a minimum of 10 minutes duration, but it shall not exceed fifteen minutes The
half time interval may only be altered with the consent of the referee.
(I) Respect : Member clubs have two main responsibilities around the Codes:
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To ensure everyone within the club, whatever their role, has read, agreed and accepted their relevant
Code - and understood the actions which could be taken if Codes are broken.
To deal fairly and consistently with anyone who breaks 'their' Code
Charter Standard Clubs should already have their own club Codes of Conduct, so we would recommend
that Charter Standard Clubs look at the Respect Codes and see if there is anything missing from these.
They may want to replace the previous codes with the new Respect ones, or they may want to add some
of the lines from the Respect Codes to these.
REPORTING RESULTS
11. (A) Teams to enter the following details onto Full Time within 3 days (18:00 Tuesday)
Players Starting Game (forename(s) and surname)
Players appearing as Substitute
Goals Scored by Players
Referees Mark
Fair Play Score (out of 15)
Paper Team Sheet must be completed with signatures obtained by Referee and both Clubs.
The Opposition to retain Copy of Team Sheet for Verification purposes.
Failure to do so will incur a fine of £10 or the Club being dealt with as the Management Committee decide.
Note- The referee shall be provided with Team Sheets not later than 10 minutes before the start of the match.
Note- (From 10 G above) - The referee shall be informed of the names of all players and substitutes (copy of Team
Sheet) not later than 10 minutes before the start of the match.
In the absence of duplicate sheets the opposition must be provided with a copy of team sheet (including participation)
at the end of the game.
(B) The Home Club shall text (or enter the result of each match) to The FA Fulltime Website by 19:00 on the day of the
Match (or by 19:00 following day for midweek games). A fine of £10 may be imposed for a breach of this Rule.
(C) The match result notification, correctly complete, shall be signed by a responsible member of the Club. Failure to
do so will result in a fine of £10
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(D) Leagues are permitted to collect, but not publish results for fixtures they organise for U7 and U8 Mini Soccer. They
may require a Club to confirm that a set fixture has been played. A maximum fine of £5 may be imposed for a breach
of this Rule.
DETERMINING CHAMPIONSHIP
12. (A) Team rankings within the Competition will be decided by points with 3 points to be awarded for a win and 1
point for a drawn match. The teams gaining the highest number of points in their respective Divisions at the conclusion
shall be adjudged the winners. Matches must not be played for double points. In Mini Soccer points can only be
awarded for Under 9 (& above) Competitions.
In the event of two or more teams being equal on points team rankings may be decided in any one or more of the
following ways:(i) goal difference
(ii) goals scored
(iii) deciding match(es) played under conditions determined by the Management Committee.
(B) Automatic promotion and relegation shall be applied for the first 2 and last 2 teams in each Division except as
provided for hereunder, subject to the provisions of Rule 1(b).
(i) Should one or more teams withdraw from any one Division after the fixtures have commenced an equal number of
teams to those withdrawing in that Division shall not be automatically relegated.
(ii) Vacancies occurring after the conclusion of the season may be filled on any of the following ways:
(a) retention of otherwise relegated team(s)
(b) additional promotion of the next ranked team(s) from the Division below
(c) election
(d) as decided by Management Committee
(C) In the event of a team not completing 90% of its fixtures for the season all points obtained by or recorded against
such defaulting team shall be expunged from the Competition table.
Note - The league will allow 2 games to be forfeited before applying this rule.
REFEREES
13. (A) Registered Referees (and Assistant Referees where approved by the FA or County FA) for all matches shall
be appointed in a manner approved by the Management Committee and by the sanctioning Association(s).
(B) In the event of the non-appearance of the appointed Referee and where there are no officially appointed Assistant
Referees, or where the competition has been unable to appoint a Referee, the Clubs shall agree upon a Referee. A
Referee thus agreed upon shall, for that game, have the full powers, status and authority of a registered Referee.
(C) The Management Committee may, if they consider it desirable, or upon application by the two competing Clubs,
appoint Assistant Referees, if available, to any match. Where Assistant Referees are not appointed each Team shall
provide a Club Assistant Referee. Failure to do so will result in a fine of £10 being imposed on the defaulting Club.
(D) The appointed Referee shall have power to decide as to the fitness of the ground in all matches and the decision
shall be final.
(E) Match Officials appointed under this Rule shall be entitled to charge standard class Public Transport expenses or
private car expenses (32 pence per mile), in accordance with the Rules of the Suffolk County Football Association,
together with the following match fees; Referee fees £15.00 (including Mini-Soccer inclusive of A & B game),
Registered Referees appointed by the Management Committee as Assistant Referees £10.00. The Home Club shall
pay the Officials their fees and expenses immediately after the match.
(F) In the event of a match not being played because of circumstances over which the Clubs have no control, the
Match Officials, if present, shall be entitled to half fee plus expenses. Where a match is not played owing to one Club
being in default, that Club shall be ordered to pay the Officials, if they attend the ground, their full fee and expenses.
(G) A Referee not keeping his or her engagement, and failing to give a satisfactory explanation as to their nonappearance, may be reported to the Association with which he or she is registered.
(H) Each Club shall, in a manner prescribed from time to time by The Football Association, award marks to the
Referee for each match and the name of the Referee and the marks awarded shall be submitted to the Competition on
the prescribed Form provided. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable to be fined or dealt with as the
Management Committee shall determine.
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(I) The Competition shall keep a record of the markings and on the form provided by the prescribed date each
season, shall submit a summary to the Football Association/County Football Association.
(J) Home & Away teams should ensure that any person nominated as the Assistant Referee for a match is at least 16
years of age and has basic knowledge of the FA Rules of the Game. (Younger people may be used if they have FA
Refereeing qualifications).
(K) Neutral Referees shall be appointed for Cup Semi-Finals.
(L) Anyone acting as an Assistant Referee, whether they be fully qualified or not, shall be deemed to be a match
official and have all the powers and responsibilities normally associated with Assistant Referees in accordance with
the Laws of the Game.
(M) Referees and Assistant Referees shall be supplied, each Season, with a copy of the Competition Rules free of
charge. (However all Club/Team officials should ensure that the appointed Referee is familiar with the Competition
Rules BEFORE kick-off)
CONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP OR WITHDRAWAL OF A CLUB
14.(A) After 31st December in the current Season a Club intending, or having a provisional intention, to withdraw a
team from the Competition on completion of its fixtures and fulfilment of all other obligations to the Competition must
notify the Secretary in writing by 31st May each Season or be liable to a fine not exceeding £50.
All Clubs wishing to remain in membership of the Competition for the following Season must confirm their intention to
do so, in writing, to the Secretary by 31st May.
(B) A Club shall not be allowed to withdraw any or all of its teams from the Competition after the arrangement of
fixtures for the following Season. Any Club infringing this Rule shall be liable to a fine not exceeding £30 per team and
shall also be liable for its share of any call which may be made under Rule 5(B).
(C) The Membership for the coming season having been decided at the Annual General Meeting held not later than
30th June the Competition shall have the right, irrespective of other provisions in this Rule, to refuse to permit a Club
to withdraw its team(s) in order to join another Competition and may hold the Club to its engagements
(D) In the event of a Member Club which is an un-incorporated association withdrawing and/or disbanding it shall be
immediately liable to discharge all its financial and other obligations to the Competition.
In the event that any such obligation remains un-discharged after a period of twenty-one (21) days then such
obligation shall be met by the then current Club Members, excluding those under the statutory school leaving age.
Until a Member’s pro rata obligation is discharged in full the Member shall not be allowed to participate in the
Competition, which may apply to the Club’s Parent County Association for a suspension order.
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PROTESTS AND COMPLAINTS
15. A - i) All questions of eligibility, qualifications of players or interpretations of the Rules shall be referred to the
Management Committee.
(ii) Objections relevant to the dimensions of the pitch, goals, flag posts or other facilities of the venue will not be
entertained by the Management Committee unless a protest is lodged with the Referee before the commencement of
the match. Any Club lodging such protest and not proceeding with it shall be deemed guilty of a breach of this Rule
and shall be dealt with by the Management Committee.
(B) Except in cases where the Management Committee decide that there are special circumstances, protests and
complaints (which must contain full particulars of the grounds upon which they are founded) must be lodged in
duplicate with the Secretary within 7 days (excluding Sundays) of the match or occurrence to which they refer. A
protest or complaint shall not be withdrawn except by permission of the Management Committee. A Member of the
Management Committee who is a member of any Club involved shall not be present (except as a witness or
representative of his Club) when such protest or complaint is being determined.
(C) Any dispute occurring between Clubs in the Competition shall be referred for determination by the Management
Committee whose decision shall be binding upon all parties subject to Rule 16.
(D) No protest of whatever kind shall be considered by the Management Committee unless the complaining Club shall
have deposited with the Secretary a sum of £10. This may be forfeited in whole or in part in the event of the
complaining or protesting Club losing its case. The Competition shall have power to order the defaulting Club or the
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
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Club making a losing or frivolous protest or complaint to pay the expenses of the enquiry or to order that the costs to
be shared by the parties.
(E) All parties to a protest or complaint must
Receive a copy of the submission and must be afforded an opportunity to make a statement at least 7 days prior to the
protest or complaint being heard.
(i) All parties must have received 14 days notice of the hearing should they be instructed to attend.
(ii) Should a Club elect to state its case in person then they should forward a deposit of £25 and indicate such when
forwarding the written response.
When dealing with a protest or complaint the Management Committee shall take into consideration the possession by
the protesting or complaining Club of any information which, if properly used, might have avoided the protest or
complaint.
BOARD OF APPEAL
16. Within 14 days of the posting of written notification of any decision of the Management Committee or the
Competition, a Club, Official or Player against whom action is taken may appeal against such decision by lodging
particulars in duplicate with the Secretary of the Suffolk Football Association, including a fee of £25 for adjudication of
a Board of Appeal. The grounds of appeal shall be in accordance with FA Rules. The Board of Appeal may order the
appeal fee to be forfeited and shall decide by whom the costs of the appeal shall be borne. The decision of the Board
of Appeal is final and binding on all parties concerned.
No appeal can be lodged against a decision taken at an Annual or Special General Meeting unless this is on the
ground of unconstitutional conduct.
EXCLUSION OF CLUB OR TEAMS & MISCONDUCT OF CLUBS, OFFICIALS OR PLAYERS
17.(A) At the Annual General Meeting, or Special General Meeting called for the purpose in accordance with the
provisions of Rule 19, Notice of Motion having been duly circulated on the Agenda, the accredited delegates present
shall have the power to exclude any Club or Team from further membership which must be supported by (more than)
two-thirds (⅔) of those present and voting. Voting on this point shall be conducted by ballot.
(B) At the Annual General Meeting, or at a Special General Meeting called for the purpose, in accordance with the
provisions of Rule 19, the accredited delegates present shall have the power to exclude from further participation in
the Competition any Club or team of a Club whose conduct has, in their opinion, been undesirable, which must be
supported by (more than) two-thirds (2/3rds) of those present and voting. Voting on this point shall be conducted by
ballot. A Club whose conduct is the subject of the vote being taken shall be excluded from voting.
(C) Any official or member of a Club proved guilty of either a breach of Rule, other than field offences, or of inducing or
attempting to induce a player or players of another Club in the Competition to join them shall be liable to expulsion or
such penalty as a Annual General Meeting or Management Committee may decide, and their Club shall also be liable
to expulsion in accordance with the provisions of Clauses (A) and (B) of this Rule.
(D) Any Club or Team failing to complete 90% of its fixtures in any season shall (unless the conditions are beyond
their control, or the accredited delegates present at the Annual General Meeting or a Special General Meeting decide
otherwise by a majority of two-thirds of the votes cast) be debarred from membership the following season.
TROPHY (LEGAL OWNERS, CONDITIONS OF TAKING OVER, AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED. AWARDS)
18.(A) If a Competition be discontinued for any reason a trophy or any other presentation shall be returned to the
Donor if the conditions attached to it so provide or, if not, dealt with as the sanctioning Association may decide. At the
close of each Competition awards shall be made to the winners and runners-up if the funds of the Competition permit.
The following agreement shall be signed on behalf of the winners of the Cup or Trophy:"We, (Chairman), Name _____ ______________________
Signed __________________________
and (Secretary), Name _____ _______________________
Signed ___________________________
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of _______________________________ Football Club
As members of and representing the Club, having been declared winners of the following Cup(s) and (or) Trophy(s)
_____________________________
_____________________________
and it having been delivered to us by the Competition, do hereby on behalf of the Club jointly and severally agree to
return the Cup or Trophy to the Competition Secretary on or before 31 st.March. All trophies shall be engraved with
Season and Club / Team Name
A fine of £25 will be imposed for a breach of this Rule.
If the Cup or Trophy is lost or damaged whilst under our care we agree to refund to the Competition the amount of its
current value or the cost of its thorough repair.”
(C) At the close of each Competition awards shall be made to the winners and runners-up if the funds of the
Competition permit.
SPECIAL GENERAL MEETINGS
19.Upon receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds of the Clubs in membership the Secretary shall call a Special
General Meeting.
The Management Committee may call a Special General Meeting at any time.
At least 7 days notice shall be given of either meeting under this Rule, together with an agenda of the business to be
transacted at such meeting.
Each Full Member Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to all Special General Meetings. Each Club shall
be entitled to one vote only, as will members of the Management Committee.
Any continuing Member Club failing to be represented at a Special General Meeting without satisfactory reason being
given may be fined £10
Officers and Management Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at all Special General Meetings.
ALTERATION TO RULES
20. Alterations for which consent has been given by the sanctioning Association shall be made to these Rules only at
the Annual General Meeting or at a Special General Meeting specially convened for the purpose called in accordance
with Rule 19. Any alteration made during the playing season to the Rule relating to the qualification of players shall
not take effect until the following season.
Notice of proposed alterations to be considered at the Annual General Meeting shall be submitted to the Secretary by
31st March in each year. The proposals, together with any proposals by the Management Committee, shall be
circulated to the Clubs by 30th April and any amendments thereto shall be submitted to the Secretary by 31st May. The
proposals and proposed amendments thereto shall be circulated to Clubs with the notice of the Annual General
Meeting. A proposal to change a Rule shall be carried if a majority of those present and entitled to vote are in favour.
A copy of the proposed alterations to Rules to be considered at the Annual General Meeting or Special General
Meeting shall be submitted to the sanctioning Football Association 14 days prior to the date of the meeting.
FINANCE
21.(A) The Management Committee shall determine with which bank or other financial institution the funds of the
Competition will be lodged.
(B) All expenditure in excess of £100 shall be approved by the Management Committee. Cheques shall be signed by
at least two Officers nominated by the Management Committee.
(C) The financial year of the Competition will end on 31st May.
(D) The books, or a certified balance sheet, of a Competition shall be prepared and shall be verified annually by some
suitable person(s) who shall be appointed at the Annual General Meeting.
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CHILD PROTECTION
22. (A) Any act, statement, conduct or other matter which harms a child or children, or poses or may pose a risk of
harm to a child or children, shall constitute behaviour which is improper and brings the game into disrepute.
(B) In these Regulations the expression "Offence" shall mean any one or more of the offences contained in Schedule
1 to the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 and any other criminal offence which reasonably causes The
Association to believe that the person accused of the offence poses or may pose a risk of harm to a child or children.
(C) Upon receipt by The Association of:
(i) notification that an individual has been charged with an Offence; or
(iI) notification that an individual is the subject of an investigation by the Police, Social Services or any other authority
relating to an Offence; or
(iii) any other information which causes The Association reasonably to believe that a person poses or may pose a
risk of harm to a child or children then. The Association shall have the power to order that the individual be suspended
from all or any specific football activity for such period and on such terms and conditions as it thinks fit.
(D) In reaching its determination as to whether an order under Regulation 3 should be made The Association shall
give consideration, inter alia, to the following factors:
(i) whether a child is or children are or may be at risk of harm;
(ii) whether the matters are of a serious nature;
(iii) whether an order is necessary or desirable to allow the conduct of any investigation by The Association or any
other authority or body to proceed unimpeded.
(E) The period of an order referred to in 3 above shall not be capable of lasting beyond the date upon which any
charge under the Rules of The Association or any Offence is decided or brought to an end.
(F) Where an order is imposed on an individual under regulation 3 above, The Association shall bring and conclude
any proceedings under the Rules of The Association against the person relating to the matters as soon as reasonably
practicable.
(G) Where a person is convicted, or is made the subject of a caution in respect of an Offence,
that shall constitute a breach of the Rules of The Association and The Association shall have the power to order the
suspension of the person from all or any specific football activity for such a period (including indefinitely) and on such
terms and conditions as it thinks fit.
(H) For the purposes of these Regulations, The Association shall act through its Council or any
committee or sub-committee thereof, including the Board.
(I) Notification in writing of an order referred to above shall be given to the person concerned
and/or any club with which he is associated as soon as reasonably practicable.
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Appendix 1
Additional Mini Soccer Guidance Notes
Note: ALL Managers/Referees should be familiar with the FA Standard Laws of Mini-Soccer some of which are
included in this appendix to highlight specific guidance notes.
1. Teams
Minimum squad of 14 players, split into 7 a side A and B teams. Each team having more than one player nominated
as goalkeeper to ensure they can fulfil their fixtures in the event of absence of nominated player due to illness, injury
or any other reason.
2. Safety
Players must wear suitable football boots or football trainers to provide the correct protection. Shin guards are
mandatory. No player should wear earrings, rings, chains or watches during the match. Managers are expected to
ensure if earrings or rings cannot be removed that they are taped up to the satisfaction of the referee. This is in
accordance with the Laws of Association Football.
The player’s safety should be a priority to all Managers, Coaches, Referees and Parents.
Each team should provide a suitably qualified First Aid person with a First Aid Kit for all of their games irrespective of
Competition, Cup, Vase or Friendly matches. Failure to comply with this rule may result in fine of £10.
3. Field of Play
Where possible the dimensions of the pitch should adhere to the dimensions stipulated in the FA Standard Laws of
Mini-soccer (see LAW1 below). However, the Competition recognises that, in certain circumstances, it is not possible
to meet the standard dimensions, especially having different size pitches for U7/U8s. Minor variations are acceptable
(including using same size pitch for U8 to U11) but teams that cannot meet the stated standards must notify their age
group representative before the start of the season to agree any proposed variations. Where possible the field of play
will have an extra dashed line at the sides to keep the spectators back. Only the Managers/ Coaches and Team
Appointed Linesman are allowed to go in this area. All Managers/ Coaches are expected to keep the area along the
side line clear to enable the Linesman to have a clear view of the play, for throw-ins to be taken properly and ensure
all spectators can watch the game.
FA Mini-soccer LAW 1. Playing Area
Please see the F.A. Rule book for a diagram of the Playing Area.
Recommended Size of Pitch
Under 9-11’s
Under 8s
Width
Metres
Yards
Metres
Yards
Min. 27.45
Min. 30
Min. 18.30
Min. 20
Max. 36.60
Max. 40
Max. 27.45
Max. 30
Length
Min. 45.75
Min. 50
Min. 27.45
Min. 30
Max .54.90
Max. 60
Max. 45.75
Max. 50
Penalty Area
Length 9.15m - 10 yards
Width 16.47m - 18 yards
Penalty Mark
The penalty mark is 7.32m (8 yards) from the Goal Line opposite the Centre of the Goal.
Halfway Line
The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line. The centre mark is indicated at the mid-point of the
halfway line.
LAW 1. Goal Size
The distance between the posts is 3.6m (12ft) and the distance between the lower edge of the cross bar and the
ground is 1.88m (6ft).
Warning
In view of a number of accidents that have occurred, it is necessary to ensure that portable goals of any size
are either pinned or weighted to prevent them from toppling forward.
4. Duration of play – Injury time and re-start following a stoppage.
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Injury time will be added up to a maximum of 2 minutes per half for all age groups unless a more serious injury
occurs. All Managers and Coaches are encouraged to enforce fair play if another player is injured (Players should be
encouraged by the Manager or Coach to put the ball out of play as soon as possible). Likewise both teams are
encouraged to return the ball into play in the true spirit of the game. In the event that a referee has to stop play with
the ball in play then the game should be re-started with a drop ball. The Referee should encourage one of the players
involved to return the ball to the opposing goalkeeper or send the ball out of play which ever is considered reasonable
from the point at which the game has stopped.
5. Additional Guidance on Rules of Play
The team winning the toss of a coin will have choice of ends. Cup extra time – the game will be started again with the
toss of a coin the team winning the toss has choice of ends.
Substitutions will take place when the ball is out of play and only with agreement of Referee.
The Competition is aware that it is not always possible to appoint a qualified Referee therefore we have included
LAW12 of the FA Laws of Mini-soccer below to highlight the situations where free kicks should be awarded.
FA Mini-soccer LAW 12. Fouls and Misconduct
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In Mini Soccer all free kicks are direct.
A free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following offences in a manner considered
to be careless, reckless or using excessive force:
Kicks or attempts to kick an opponent
Trips or attempts to trip an opponent
Jumps at an opponent
Charges an opponent
Strikes or attempts to strike an opponent
Pushes an opponent
A free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following offences:
Tackles an opponent to gain possession of the ball, making contact with the opponent before touching the ball
Holds an opponent
Spits at an opponent
Handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his/her own penalty area)
Plays in a dangerous manner
Impedes the progress of an opponent
Prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his/her hands
Commits any other offence, not previously mentioned in Law 12, for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a
player
Penalty Kick
A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above offences is committed by a player inside his/her own penalty area,
irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play.
A free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the goalkeeper:
Takes more than 6 seconds to release the ball from his/her hands
Touches the ball again with his/her hands after it has been released from his/her possession and has not touched any
other player
Touches the ball with his/her hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him/her by a team mate
Touches the ball with his/her hands after he/she has received it directly from a throw in taken by a team mate
For all of these offences, the free kick should be taken from the penalty area line, parallel with the goal line, at the
nearest point to the offence.
Additional guidance from the Competition.
Referees should common sense when applying the 6 sec rule i.e. ensure sufficient warning is given of consistent
infringement before applying the rule.
All throw-ins from the sidelines will be taken as normal (over arm). Where a foul throw occurs, the throw in should be
given to the opposing team - however Referees for younger age group games (U8 to U10) should consider allowing
the same player to take the throw in again explaining to them why their first attempt was considered to be a foul throw.
Players will be expected to take the throw from where the referee considers the ball left the field of play. The referee
will instruct the player to move back to the correct place if they encroach too far. Persistent encroachment will be
penalised and the throw awarded to the opposition.
Corners will be taken as normal from within the area marked at the corner flag. All defending players must be 4.5
metres back from the corner mark.
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In the event of a penalty, no players apart from the goalkeeper and the penalty taker are allowed in the area before the
penalty is taken. If a player encroaches, the referee’s discretion is final as to whether a retake is required. The
goalkeeper must stay on his line, but is allowed to move along his line prior to the penalty kick being taken.
There will be no off sides.
There is to be minimal bodily contact. A direct free kick will be rewarded against any player who, in the opinion of the
referee, infringes this rule.
Players forming a wall when free kick has been awarded must be 4.5 metres back from the ball. They can jump up
when the ball is about to be kicked. Any encroachment, in the opinion of the referee, may result in the free kick being
retaken.
Any deliberate time wasting may result in a direct free kick to the opposition. This will only follow after 2 warnings by
the referee for the same offence, not over the whole match length.
The Competition is aware that in the majority of cases it is not possible to appoint a fully qualified Referee and
managers/Parent have to take on this role. However, the person appointed to referee the game assumes the same
authority/responsibility as a qualified Referee. Guidance on the role of the Referee is provided below with the extract
from the FA Laws of Mini-soccer.
FA Mini-soccer LAW 5. Referee













The Authority of the Referee
Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the
match to which they have been appointed.
Powers and Duties
The Referee:
Enforces the Laws of the Game
Controls the match in co-operation with the assistant referees / time keeper
Ensures that the ball meets the requirements of Law 2
Ensures that the players_ equipment meets the requirements of Law 4
Stops, suspends or terminates the match, at their discretion, for any infringements of the Laws
Stops, suspends or terminates the match because of outside interference of any kind
Stops the match if, in their opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that they are removed from the field of
play
Ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the field of play
Allows play to continue when the team against which an offence has been committed will benefit from such an
advantage and penalises the original offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time
Takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and/or sending-off offences.
Takes action against team officials who fail to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and may, at their
discretion, expel them from the field of play and its immediate surrounds
Ensures that no unauthorised persons enter the field of play
Restarts the match after it has been stopped
Decisions of the Referee
The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final.
The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is incorrect or, at his/her discretion provided that play has
not restarted.
Further guidance from the Competition.
Referees should give verbal warning (backed up by yellow card if available) to any player they feel has committed a
cautionable offence - see notes below from FA Laws of Mini-soccer. If not using a Yellow card the Referee should
ensure that the player’s Manager/Coach is aware that a caution has been issued. In the event that a player commits
an offence which in Rules of Play equates to a Sending Off offence - see notes below from FA Laws of Mini-soccer the Referee should request that the Manager removes the player from the field of play. If for any reason the Manager
refuses to remove the player then the Referee may use the Red card to indicate that he/she is sending off the player.
The Manager of the player must remove the offending player from the pitch immediately when requested to do so by
the Referee or when the Referee shows the player a Red Card. The Manager will be allowed to put on a substitute
player but the player who has been given a Red Card or asked to leave the pitch by the Referee cannot take any
further part in either the A or B team games. If no substitute is available then the offending player’s team must
continue the game with the reduce number of players. If a player is substituted under these circumstances then the
Referee must put in a report to the Competition Age group Representative within 48 hours of the match. This report
will then be sent on to the FA who will consider appropriate disciplinary action.
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 19
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Cautionable Offences
A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he/she commits any of the following seven offences:
Is guilty of unsporting behaviour
Shows dissent by word or action
Persistently infringes the Laws of the Game
Delays the restart of play
Fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick or free kick
Enters or re-enters the field of play without the referee’s permission
Deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission
Sending Off Offences
A player is sent off and shown the red card if he/she commits any of the following seven offences:
Is guilty of serious foul play
Is guilty of violent conduct
Spits at an opponent or any other person
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/her own penalty area)
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
Uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures
Receives a second caution in the same match
To encourage sportsmanship, all team Managers and Coaches are requested to train their players to kick the ball out
of play to allow assistance to a player if the Referee does not stop play. In this situation the team who restart play are
encouraged to return the ball to the opposition as a gesture of Sportsmanship.
All Referees are encouraged to enforce fair play at all times in the true spirit of the game. The Referee should stop
play immediately for any apparent serious injuries or possible head injuries. Play will be restarted in the appropriate
way decided by the Referee.
6. Conduct
The Competition has adopted the FA Standard Code of Conduct for Managers, Coaches, Supporters and Players.
This Code of Conduct will be used as the basis for any disciplinary action taken by the Competition against individuals,
teams or clubs. All Clubs are encouraged to have their own Code of Conduct and to ensure that Managers, Coaches,
Supporters and players are aware of the need to follow the Code.
The Managers/Coaches role in enforcing the Code of Contact and the Laws of the Game is particularly important in
Mini-soccer when no qualified Referee is available to take control of a game. Managers must support whoever is
appointed to act as the Referee.
Any offence that is considered to be a breach of the Code of Conduct or Laws of the Game, whether by a player,
Manager or Supporter, should be reported, in writing, to the respective Competition Age Group Representative within
48 hours of the match. The incident (if a breach of the Laws of the Game) will then be reported to the FA who will
investigate and take appropriate action.
Apart from the players on the field of play, the only people authorised to go onto the field of play during a game are the
Coaches, Managers or substitute/s when requested by the Referee. In certain circumstance such as serious injury,
medical staff or parents may be requested to enter the field of play. All Managers are responsible for ensuring that all
people involved with their respective club must keep off the field of play and behind the line marked (Respect Barrier)
at the side of the pitch.
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 20
Appendix 2.
CUP COMPETITION RULES
 The competition shall be conducted as the Management Committee determines.
All teams will be automatically entered into the Cup Competition for the Age Group in which they play there League
Games.
Teams not wishing to participate in the Cup Competition must notify the League Secretary before 31 st July.
Teams not wishing to participate in the Plate Competition must notify the League Secretary within 14 Days of being
knocked out of the Cup.
Any Club infringing this Rule shall be dealt with at the discretion of the management Committee.

All players shall be bona-fide members of the Club they represent and shall be registered with the SSYL for that
Club and shall have played for their Club during the current season in recognised competition.

In the Semi –finals and Final ties, a player shall have played for the Club he/she represents in 4 or more SSYL or
Cup Competition games during the current season, except by special permission of the Management Committee.

A player shall not play for more than one team in the Age Group competition in same season.

Any Club playing an ineligible player shall be dealt with at the discretion of the management Committee.

If the Club is struck out of the Competition, the tie shall be awarded to their opposition.

A Club may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game use 7 substitute players in any match
in this Competition who may be selected from 7 players. (Under 18’s only 3 from 5). The names must be given to the
match Referee before the commencement of the game.

In all rounds, Clubs shall wear nominated first team choice colours. The away team shall change in the event of a
clash, except in the Semi-final and Final ties if the Competition, when colours of the competing teams are the same or
similar, BOTH TEAMS SHALL CHANGE COLOURS to the satisfaction of the Competition and the Match Official.

The draw for the various rounds to be made in the presence of 3 members of the Management Committee or
independent witnesses.

The Management Committee shall fix the dates for each round and the location of the Finals.

All ties must be played on or before the date specified.

All 11 a side games shall be of not more than the times below nor less than 50 mins (25 mins each way) duration.

There will be no replays, where a tie is drawn at the end of normal time, extra-time shall be played. If at the
completion of extra time the tie is drawn then the tie will be decide by way of a penalty shoot-out in accordance with
guidelines laid down by the Football Association (5 penalties per side and then if equal, on a straight knock out basis)

Kick –off times shall be as per rule 10 of the Competition Standard Code of rules.

In Finals and Semi-Finals the fees for the Match Officials shall be equally defrayed by the two competing clubs.

The Final tie shall be d-staged by the Competition who shall take all receipts.

If at any age-group, the competition is run on a Competition basis instead of knock out, then the playing times for
the Competition stages will be those set out below

In the semi–finals & finals of each age group the competing teams shall provide one Match ball.

Location of the semi-final will be determined by the draw i.e. the first team drawn will have home advantage.

Mini-Soccer – Once a player has participated in a Cup game for the A Team he becomes ineligible to play in the
B team Plate Games for the remainder of the competition.

Mini-Soccer - where an A and B team are scheduled to play at different venues. Both teams will play at the A
team venue.
Playing times
U9/U10
20 minutes each way 5 mins extra time each way
U11
25 minutes each way 5 mins extra time each way
U12
30 Minutes each way 10 minutes extra time each way.
U13/ U14
35 minutes each way 10 minutes extra time each way
U15/U16
40 minutes each way 10 minutes extra time each way
U18
45 minutes each way 15 minutes extra time each way
The half time interval shall be of a minimum of 10 minutes duration, but it shall not exceed 15 minutes The half time
interval may only be altered with the consent of the referee.
With the foregoing exceptions the Standard Code of rules for the SSYL and if necessary the SFA shall wherever
applicable govern this Competition.
Sixteen trophies/medals shall be awarded to each team as winner and runners (for mini-soccer this will be 10 per team
i.e. 7 plus 3 substitutes). Extra trophies/medals can be ordered from the Secretary at the expense of the club. Clubs
failing to notify Secretary of reduction in requirements for trophies/medals shall be liable for the cost of the excess
trophies/medals.
Rule 11 shall apply fro Reporting of Results for all rounds including Semi-Final and Final Match Results.
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 21
Appendix 3.
Guide to Marking
The mark awarded by a club must be based on the referee’s overall performance, It is most important
that the mark is awarded fairly and not based upon isolated incidents or previous games. The
referee’s performance should be determined by the table below which should act as a guide for the
overall mark which should fall within the mark range for each standard of performance.
Mark Range
91-100
81-90
Comment
The referee was extremely accurate in decision making and very
successfully controlled the game using management and
communication skills to create an environment of fair play, adding real
value to the game.
The referee was very accurate in decision making and successfully
controlled the game using management and communication skills to
create an environment of fair play.
71 - 80
The referee was accurate in decision making and controlled the game
well, communicating with the players, making a positive contribution
towards fair play.
61-70
The referee was reasonably accurate in decision making, controlled
the game quite well and communicated with players, establishing a
reasonable degree of fair play.
51-60
The referee had some shortcomings in the level of accuracy of
decision making and control, with only limited success in
communicating with the players resulting in variable fair play.
,50
and below
The referee had significant shortcomings in the level of accuracy of
decision making and control with poor communication with the players
which resulted in low levels of fair play
Notes

Using a scale of up to 100 allows greater flexibility for clubs to distinguish between different
refereeing performances more accurately.

A mark within each mark range can be given to reflect the referee’s performance e.g. a mark of 79
indicates a somewhat better performance than a mark of 71.

A mark between 71 and 80 represents the standard of refereeing expected.

When a mark of 50 or less is awarded, an explanation must be provided to the League or Competition by completing
the appropriate box on the marking form. It must include comments which could help improve the referee’s future
performances. Even where a referee has significant shortcomings there will have been some positive aspects which
should be given credit; extremely low marks (below 20) should be very rare.
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 22
Appendix 3(cont)
How to Decide on the Referee’s Mark
The following questions focus on the key areas of a referee’s performance. They are intended as
an “aide memoire”, are not necessarily comprehensive and need not be answered individually. It
is, however, worth considering them before committing yourself to a mark for the referee.

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

CONTROL AND DECISION MAKING
How well did the referee control the game?
Were the players’ actions recognised correctly?
Were the Laws applied correctly?
Were all incidents dealt with efficiently/effectively?
Were all the appropriate sanctions applied correctly?
Was the referee always within reasonable distance of incidents?
Was the referee well positioned to make critical decisions, especially in and around the penalty area?
Did the referee understand the players’ positional intentions and keep out of the way accordingly?
Did the referee demonstrate alertness and concentration throughout the game?
Did the referee apply the use of the advantage to suit the mood and temperature of the game?
Was the referee aware of the players’ attitude to advantage?
Did the referee use the assistants effectively?
Did the officials work as a team, and did the referee lead and manage them to the benefit of the game?
COMMUNICATION AND PLAYER MANAGEMENT
How well did the referee communicate with the players during the game?
Did the referee’s level of involvement/profile suit this particular game?
Did the referee understand the players’ problems on the day – e.g. difficult ground/weather conditions?
Did the referee respond to the changing pattern of play/mood of players?
Did the referee demonstrate empathy for the game, allowing it to develop in accordance with the tempo of the game?
Was the referee pro-active in controlling of the game?
Was the referee’s authority asserted firmly without being officious
Was the referee confident and quick thinking?
Did the referee appear unflustered and unhurried when making critical decisions?
Did the referee permit undue questioning of decisions?
Did the referee deal effectively with players crowding around after decisions/incidents?
Was effective player management in evidence?
Was the referee’s body language confident and open at all times?
Did the pace of the game, the crowd or player pressure affect the referee negatively?
Final Thoughts

Always try to be objective when marking. You may not obtain the most objective view by marking
immediately after the game.

Judge the performance over the whole game. Don’t be too influenced by one particular incident.
Don’t mark the referee down unfairly because your team was unlucky and lost the game or some disciplinary action
was taken against your players.

Appendix 3(cont)
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 23
Club / Team (Age Group) ____
Date
Competition
Home Club
Away Club
Referee
Referee’s Performance
Please tick
appropriate box
Disappointin
g
Reasonable
Good
Excellent
a) Overall control
b) Overall decision
making
c) Communication
and
player
management
Mark out of 100
/100
Additional comments (Continue overleaf if necessary)
If any area is marked “disappointing,” or the mark awarded is 50 or less, detailed, constructive comments which
could help improve the referee’s future performances are required.
Name (please print)
Position held in club
Signature
PLEASE RETURN TO WITH TEAM SHEET
AS APPROPRIATE WITHIN 48 HOURS OF THE MATCH
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 24
Appendix 4
SOUTH SUFFOLK YOUTH LEAGUE
Fair Play Markings ........
To be awarded out of 5 for the following Categories :A. Players
B. Managers and Coaches
C. Parents and Spectators
n.b. All markings of 1 or 2 to be accompanied by written explanation.
Marks Out of 5
Very Good
5
Good
4
Average
3
Poor
2
Very Poor
1
Conduct Code Guidelines for Managers, Coaches, Players, Parents & Spectators.
DO
 Study and stick to the Laws of the game at all
times.
 Play to the whistle unless someone is badly
injured in which case put the ball out of play.
 Practice & improve your techniques to beat
your opponents by skilful NOT unfair methods.
 Play to win AND enjoy yourself, AND take
winning modestly and defeat graciously.
 When playing or watching, praise skilful play
by players of both teams.
 Set good standards for others to follow. Be
on time and polite




DON’T
 Argue with the Referee or Assistant referees.
 Attempt to ‘referee’ the game by appealing for
throw-ins, free-kicks etc.
 Lose your self control & retaliate.
 Forget to retire 10 yards (or required
distance) when a free kick is awarded against
your side.
 Criticise or use offensive language at other
players, officials or spectators.
 Leave changing rooms or pitches in a mess
(HOME or AWAY)
Young People can expect adults to........
give help, encouragement & support
give them examples of excellent behaviour
praise effort and performance of both teams
leave coaching to managers & coaches!




NOT embarrass them when watching
help them understand the rules
look for positive things to praise or keep quiet
display patience & consistency
Young People can expect that adults do not........
 ignore children who need help/first aid
 unduly criticise match officials in public
 attempt to coach or manipulate the players
while they are playing
 use any jargon or dictate tactics
 argue, swear, become violent or use sarcasm
 ridicule or shout at a player for making a
mistake or losing.
In the case of Misconduct ........
Any team / club, who does not comply with the above code risks bringing their club into disrepute and could
be subject to a misconduct procedure.
All Markings of 1 or 2 to be reviewed – immediate action may be taken at the discretion of the Management
Committee.
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 25
Appendix 4 (cont)
GUIDELINES FOR FAIR PLAY SCORING
-
Players mark out of 5
-Was there undue swearing ?
Was there questioning of referees decisions ?
Was there a late tackle ?
If the ball was put out of play for an injury, did they play in back to you ?
Was there any yellow or red cards ?
Was the team very physical ?
Did they give away a lot of free kicks ?
Did the team take the game seriously or were they arrogant ?
Did the team accept the result ?
Did they shake hands after the game and acknowledge the opposition’s game ?
-
Managers/ Spectators mark out of 5
Did they make you feel welcome ?
Did they show you/explain the facilities ?
Did they single out any player for criticism ?
Did they openly criticise their team ?
What was their attitude like ?
Did they swear ?
Did they question referees (or assistant referee’s) decisions ?
Did they have control over their players ?
Did they have control over their spectators ?
Did they accept the result ?
Did they shake hands after the game and acknowledge the opposition’s game ?
-
Parents / Supporters mark out of 5
Did they make you feel welcome ?
Were they well behaved ?
Did they encourage the players ?
Did they make any unfavourable comments about your own players ?
Did any supporter get angry ?
Did they question referees (or assistant referee’s) decisions ?
Did they swear ?
Did they interfere with play ?
Did they stand the required distance away from the pitch and away from the goals?
Was there any chanting that could cause offence ?
Did they accept the result ?
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Page 26
Appendix 5
Summary of Fines & Fees for 2011-12
Rule
No.
2b
2b
2c
2e
6h
8g
8l
9a
10b
10d
10f
11a
11b
13c
13e
13e
13e
Description
Team Registration Fee (Friendly
Leagues)
Team Registration Fee (Rest)
Deposit to enter League
Failure to provide Suffolk FA Affiliation
No. to League by 31st July
Non attendance at AGM
Player Transfer
Playing ineligible Player
KO delayed due to kit Clash (away
team)
Failure to KO at appointed time
Failure to provide Match details by
Telephone 4 clear days from Match
Unfulfilled Fixture
Late / incomplete Team Sheet
Failure to submit result onto Fulltime
Website by 19:00
Failure to provide Assistant Referee
15d
Match Official Expenses
Referee Fee
Appointed Assistant Referee Fee
Withdrawal of Team within playing
Season
Protest for Consideration by
Management Committee
16
18
19
Appeal to Suffolk Fa
Failure to Return Trophy by 31st March
Non attendence at AGM / EGM
14a
SSYL Constitution and Rules Version XIII - July 2011
Existing
£25
£40
£50
£20
£10
£10
Max £15 (per player)
£10
£10
£10
£15
£10
£10
£10
As per Suffolk FA
Handbook
£15
£10
£30
£10
As per Suffolk FA
Handbook
£25
£10
Page 27