I. INTRODUCTION

These Rules and Regulations form the basis by which the Parsippany Soccer Club Inc. establishes and maintains its intramural soccer program in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.

The objective of the Parsippany Soccer Club Inc. (PSC) is to develop, promote, and govern the game of soccer within the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. In accomplishing this objective, all PSC officials, coaches, players and parents should be guided by the principle of "let the kids have fun", and shall place the development of the game and players above all other considerations consistent with prudent financial, legal, and constitutional constraints.

A. Regulations

PSC is affiliated with the New Jersey State Youth Soccer Association (NJSYSA), the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), and in the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).

All rules, laws, and regulations listed below shall be followed and hereby incorporated into the bylaws.

1. PSC Constitution

2. PSC Rules and Regulations

3. PSC Board of Directors decision ("The Board")

4. FIFA Soccer Laws

5. USSF/New Jersey State Youth Soccer Association

The order of precedent, in case of conflict, is that shown above. In the case of conflict between the PSC Constitution and any law of the affiliated association of which the Club is a member, the President shall convene a General Meeting to either change the constitution or to terminate our affiliation. With regard to the intramural program. PSC decisions take precedence over all laws except the PSC Constitution.

The Board is the final arbitrator in interpreting these rules, and can modify them by formal action. The Board also retains oversight and review authority over all PSC officer actions described by these rules.

B. Game Laws

The following game laws shall apply as appropriate to intramural games:

Division III 
    a. FIFA Laws
    b. PSC Regulations

Division IV
    a. FIFA Laws
    b. PSC Regulations

Division V
    a. FIFA Laws
    b. PSC Regulations

Division VI
    a. FIFA Laws
    b. PSC Regulations
    c. No offside calls

Division VII
    a. PSC Regulations
    b. Unlimited substitutions not interfering with play
    c. No offside calls
    d. One coach per team allowed on the field during play for instructional purposes

IV. MEMBERSHIP

A. Age Groupings

Divisional age groupings are defined below. Groupings may be modified by FIFA and other governing bodies and as interpreted and approved by the Parsippany Soccer Club Board of Directors.

Division III: Grades 7, 8; 9

Division IV: Grades 5 & 6

Division V: Grades 3 & 4

Division VI: Grades 1& 2

Division VII: Grades: Pre K &  K

No player may play lower than his/her age level unless he/she is physically or mentally challenged. A written request to do so must be submitted by the parent or guardian to the Division Director, Registrar or Vice President-Divisions at the time of registration. A Doctor’s release may also be requested by the Board. The Board of Directors will act on the recommendation of the Vice President-Divisions. The Board of Directors’ decision is final.

No child may play higher than his/her grade level in the intramural program.

B. Eligibility

Any child who is desirous of playing soccer, and who registers at the required time, who is not disqualified for reasons of health, age, or club discipline shall be given the opportunity to play in the intramural program.

V. REGISTRATION

A. Purpose

Registration is the process of identifying the players for each season beginning August 1. Registration consists of a signed liability disclaimer from the parent/guardian, a copy of the child’s birth certificate, and the payment of the applicable fee

B. Timing

The PSC season extends from August 1 through July 31 of the following year. Registration for the season will be conducted no later than May. In all cases, registration after the designated registration times may be subject to a waiting list.

C. Funding

The Board of Directors shall set the annual registration fees. The budget must be approved by the General Membership.

PSC solicits businesses to sponsor the PSC to help defray expenses and keep registration fees low. Sponsors may be recognized by having names on the jerseys of intramural teams.

PSC may also hold an annual fund raising event requesting member/player participation.

D. Refunds

Refunds shall be made in full if the player drops from the team prior to playing in the first scheduled game, subject to the player returning his/her uniform and any other property. If a player is dropped from any team for disciplinary reasons, no refund shall be made.

E. Team Assignments

It is the PSC policy to establish intramural teams upon the players’ school (Township schools, St. Peter’s, St. Christopher’s). Players too young to attend school are grouped into teams of children who will attend the Township elementary school (regardless if they may go to parochial schools).

All children registered during the regular registration will be assigned a number. The numbers will start with one (1) on the first night of registration and run consecutively through the close of registration regardless of the child’s age or school. Using registration sequence numbers; lowest to highest until a roster is full will form teams for a school

With sufficient registration, each school should have at least one complete team in each division. Where possible, "combined" teams will be formed from geographically compatible schools. Other teams will be formed depending upon volunteers available.

The Registrar has the authority to modify this procedure based upon availability of volunteers, and as necessary to maintain balanced team rosters. The Registrar shall consult with the President and the Vice President-Divisions if any modification is required.

VI. EQUIPMENT

A. Shoes and Jerseys

Molded multi-studded soccer cleats are recommended. Street shoes will not allowed. Shorts are recommended and shin guards are mandatory. Goalies must wear a different colored jersey and may wear long pants. The uniform provided by the Club must be visibly worn by each player.

B. Illegal or Dangerous Apparel

During the pre game inspection, the referee shall examine footwear and check that each player is wearing shin guards, and disqualify:

1. Metal cleats of any kind

2. Sharp or badly worn cleats, or those which are longer than ¾", or less than 1/2" diameter at any point.

3. Any cleats, which have unnaturally, sharp projections.

4. The referee will direct the removal of any dangerous apparel, defined as:

        Jewelry (rings, earrings, etc.)

        Watches

        Caps with sharp or extra stiff peaks

        Metal clips or sweatbands

        Medallions

        Splints

        Plaster casts

5. Long pants or any street apparel is disallowed for wear by field players.

6. Sweat suits are discouraged, but may be allowed during severe weather conditions

7. Kneepads are not permitted for field players since they may restrict circulation to the lower leg area.

C. Eyeglasses

The referee shall assure that only safety glasses properly secured with a strap are worn.

D. Protective Padding

Only the goalkeeper may wear knee or elbow pads in addition to the regular uniform. It is recommended that male goalkeepers also wear athletic supporters with a plastic cup to avoid injur

E. Game Ball

Game Balls must be of leather or other approved material. Division Ill must use a regulation size 5 ball. Divisions IV, V, VI must use a regulation size 4 ball. Division VII must use a regulation size 3 ball.

VII. RULES OF PLAY

A. Teams

Teams for Divisions III, and IV, shall be comprised of no more than 18 players. Division V teams are comprised of no more than 14 players. Division VI teams shall be comprised of no more than 11 players and Division 7 teams shall be comprised of no more than 14 players.

Division Ill, and IV games shall be conducted in accordance with FIFA laws (11 to a side, including goalkeeper). Division V games shall be conducted with 8 to side (including goalkeeper). Division VI games shall be conducted with 6 players to each side, (no goalkeeper). Division VII games shall be conducted with 4 players to each side, (no goalkeeper).

A minimum of 3 players is required in Division VII to play a game. A minimum of 4 players is required in Division VI to play a game. A minimum of 5 players is required to play a game in Division V. A minimum of 7 players is required to play a game in Divisions IV and III.

Special indoor rules shall apply during the winter season if gym time is available.

B. Fields

Division lll and IV, games will be played on a regulation field (see FIFA Laws). Games for Division V, VI and VII shall be played on a field no larger than 50 yards by 70 yards. The Vice President-Divisions, in consultation with the Director of Fields, shall approve each field for appropriate size. It is recognized that "small" field sizes will vary.

For "small" fields, goals shall be approximately 16’ wide by 6’ high. Although goal size may vary, both goals at each field should be the same size. The penalty kicks shall be taken 8 yards from the center of the goal line. Division VII goals will be no more than 12’ wide by 6’ high.

C. Playing Time

Division VII 4-10 minute quarters, 5 minute rest between halves

Division VI 4-12 minute quarters, 5 minute rest between halves

Division V 2-30 minute halves, 5 minute rest between halves

Division IV 2-35 minute halves, 5 minute rest between halves

Division III 2-40 minute halves, 5 minute rest between halves.

The referee keeps official playing time. Allowance may be made in total time to account for injuries, deliberate delays in play by a team, or for any other reason the referee feels is warranted. Each player must play a minimum of one-half of each game, provided he/she regularly attends practices and games.

D. Substitutions

Substitution during the first halt is governed by the "Half Game Requirement" (See VIII B2a). In the second half, substitutions can only be made under the following conditions (always at the discretion of the referee):

    a. Your throw-in

    b. Goal kick by either team

    c. Injury

    d. After a goal has been scored

    e. Half time

    f. Replacement of a player who has just been given a caution

Substitutions may not be made on the following:

    a. Drop ball

    b. Corner kick

    c. Free kick (direct or indirect)

    d. Ejection

In the case of injury, if one opponent substitutes, the other opponent may also substitute. All substitutions must be made with the permission of the referee, and the player being substituted for must leave the field before the replacement enters the field. Division VII may substitute at any time, without regard to time outs, as long as play is not affected. Goalie substitution may be made with proper notification to the referee at halftime. In the event of injury, or with the permission of the referee.

E. Postponements

The Division Director may postpone or cancel a game after consulting with the coaches involved at the time.

F. Procedure in Case of Bad Weather

The Vice President-Divisions may postpone a game in the case of bad weather or unsafe field conditions. He/she must then notify the Division Director. Play is encouraged unless the weather is very bad. Both teams must show up for a scheduled game at the scheduled time, regardless of the weather, unless they have been notified by the Division Director or his/her representative. Once at the field, the referee in consultation with both coaches may postpone a game. The referee must stop the game during electrical storms or thunder and seek proper shelter for the players.

G. Makeup of Postponed Game

During the regular season, the Division Director may schedule postponed games. League games supersede all other games or practices. Coaches may reschedule a game with the permission of their Division Director.

H. Starting Time

I. Protests

Since no intramural standings are maintained, protests have no meaning and will not be entertained. Any suggestions, questions, comments, or problems can be brought to the Division Director’s attention.

J. Referee’s Absence

If no referee appears, coaches shall designate someone to referee, or referee the game themselves, alternating at half time.

K. Team Responsibilities

Both teams are responsible for the following:

1. Making sure goals are properly anchored; and installing before the first game, and removal, after the last game, of corner flags and nets.
2. Providing the game ball of specified divisional size properly inflated, and insuring that a suitable ball is available.
3. Removing debris from the field before and after the game.
4. In Division VII and VI teams will be on opposite sides of the field with each team’s parents staying on the same sideline as their team. In Division V, IV, and III teams will be on the same sideline and all parents will be on the opposite side of the field. No parent is allowed to stand near or behind each goal.
5.  

VIII. OFFICIALS

A. Team Officials

Each intramural team should have a coach designated by the PSC. Each team is encouraged to have a team parent to coordinate team activities, make telephone calls, maintain uniforms, rosters and equipment.

Each team must notify the appropriate Division Director whether the Coach or Assistant Coach should be called to represent the team.

B. Coaches

1. Selection

Coaches in the intramural program shall be assigned from the list of volunteers received during registration or by solicitation of the Division Director, or the Vice President-Divisions.

2. Coach Responsibilities

Each coach will appoint a team parent to attend the annual team parent association meeting.

The coach from each team shall supply one parent as linesman for each game. The lineman’s duties are to signal the referee when the ball is completely over the lines and to be available for consultation with the referee if the referee elects to do so. The coach is encouraged to introduce himself to the referee and the coach representing the other team. The home team coach should contact the visiting team coach prior to the game.

The game is for the players and should always remain that way. However, instruction from the sideline by the team coach which is deemed. constructive by the referee can be allowed. The referee is the sole judge and jury during the course of a match and has wide latitude in interpreting the rules in the best interest of the players. Abuse and unruly conduct by coaches and spectators of the players will not be allowed. The referee can and should interpret and explain rules during the match to the players. Let the players play, have fun, and learn. This is the best way to promote youth soccer. Coaches shall not argue calls with referees. This is not a competitive program. Any suggestions or comments on referee actions should be given to the Director of Referee’s as well as the Division Director.

a. Half Game Requirement

1. Coaches must insure each child plays a minimum of one half game, provided the child attends practices and games on a reasonably regular basis.
2. Coaches must allow players to play several positions during the course of the season and, in the case of a completely unbalanced game, play his/her more inexperienced players, subject to the "half a game" requirement. Runaway games and creation of "stars" are not in keeping with the objectives of the PSC and should be avoided at all times.
3. At the midpoint of the first half mandatory substitution shall take place in all games. Those players who have not yet played must be inserted at this point. Free substitution is permitted in the second half. Prior to this, substitution is allowed only in the case of injury, or when it is in the interest of the players well being.

b. Scoring

Runaway games are not keeping with PSC objectives. A maximum seven (7) goal-scoring differential will be observed. Any exceptions will be reported to the Division Director.

c. Post Game Hand Shake

Following each game, members and representatives of each team shall shake hands in the middle of the field, to promote good sportsmanship. Poor sportsmanship will result in disciplinary action, such as a game suspension against the coach and/or player. The Coach is responsible for the conduct of his players during the handshake

d. Medical Release

The Coach must have a fully completed Medical Release form including all team members. This form should be with the Coach at all practices and games. A copy must be forwarded to the Division Director.

e. Kid’s Safe Program

A volunteer’s disclosure statement must be completed by all coaches and assistants and returned to the Division Director.

f. Coaches Certification Course

All coaches and assistant coaches are required to take a certification course in accordance with PSC policy.

4. Tips for Coaches

• Be aware of your full responsibilities to the Club, township, players, parents, administrators, and the sport.
• You hold a position demanding much trust and leadership, requiring patience and understanding, one where respect must be earned.
• Show an enthusiasm to acquire knowledge to be found in books, films, clinics, and open minded discussion. The Division Director, upon request, will assist you with seminars and clinics.
• Set high standards of sportsmanship, fair play, teamwork, and promptness.
• Be consistent in your philosophies and attitude toward the game and people, especially parents and referees before, during, and after the ga
• Establish a good working relationship with the team parents who can undertake much of the organization and transportation to practices and games. Coaches should appoint Parent volunteers such as Team Managers, Team Parents and Coaches Assistants. Increased participation helps build a cohesive team. The Coach is responsible for providing the parents with a copy of the PSC rules concerning parents responsibilities. The Division Director should be contacted if assistance is required.
• Be humble in victory and understanding in defeat.
• Be aware of the dangers of over coaching and over demanding. "Let the kids have fun", is philosophy.
• As a general rule, praise after victory and encourage after defeat.
• You play a vital role in the physical and mental development of the players. Make sure you obtain adequate knowledge concerning both subjects.  Under your guidance, they are learning to make decisions, accept responsibilities, overcome fears, disappointments, and weaknesses, take initiative, acquire understanding and skill, appreciate discipline and respect authority.
• It is strongly recommended that Coaches refrain from using tobacco products during games and practices.

4. Welfare of the Player

The referee may at his option call an official time out at any time for reasons of injury or player welfare. It is the responsibility of the referee to enforce the laws of the game, and those aspects of these rules designated as his/her responsibility.

Each team shall have access to a first aid kit at each game, and is encouraged to provide drinking water, as well as ice for the use of the players.

A. Assistants

Coaches are recommended to have assistants to provide additional instruction at practices, especially for younger players (Divisions V, VI, and VII).

The game is on unless canceled by the Division Director. The Director of Referees will contact the referees about any canceled games.

C. Parents / Players Responsibilities

Every registered player in the Parsippany Soccer Club is entitled to benefit from its services and organized activities. In return, each player must assume certain responsibilities towards his/her team coach, and the Township.

1. Each player owes his/her team members regular, punctual, and conscientious attendance at all scheduled games and practice sessions.
2. Each player further owes that team his/her very best efforts during practices as well as games.
3. Experienced players should not be critical or impatient with less experienced team members, but try to be helpful and understanding.
4. Players should try to inform the coaches, as soon as possible, whenever they will be unable to attend a game or scheduled practice session.
5. Coaches should be informed before the beginning of a game or practice if a player must leave early.
6. The parents and players must bear in mind that they represent the Parsippany Soccer Club Inc. and must not discredit the dub, their Township, their team, or themselves by undisciplined or unsportsmanslike conduct before, during, and after games and practice sessions.
7. Parents must notify the Coach concerning health problems and/or recent injuries prior to a practice session or actual game.
8. Parents are responsible to notify the coach of any serious illness or injury and must obtain a written Doctor’s release prior to the player being allowed to participate in any on field activities

   IX. VIOLATIONS AND MISCONDUCT

In the intramural program, any team official may be reprimanded or dismissed for unsportsmanlike conduct, failure to follow Club rules, or other severe infractions. The Division Director shall recommend such action to the Vice President-Divisions who may refer this case to the Evaluation Committee for further review and action. A dismissed official may appeal to the Vice President-Divisions who, together with the non-affected Division Directors will act on the appeal. The Vice President-Divisions will report such actions to the Board. The dismissed official may also make an appeal directly to the Board.

If a player receives a caution or yellow card, that player will be sent off the field until the next legal substitution.

A player or coach issued a red card may be asked to appear before the Evaluation Committee and must sit out not only the remainder of the game in progress, but a minimum of the next scheduled game.