Question:
I cant find a web site that includes the modified rules for youth soccer – e.g. substitutions – generally unlimited; allow one for one on a caution but unlimited when a player is injured etc. Everyone I ask for the modified rules in writing asks me to talk with a senior referee, however, I have to believe that somewhere they are listed.Can you help?
USSF answer (April 2, 2007):
The U. S. Youth Soccer policy manual provides:
Rule 301. RULES OF PLAY
Section 1. Except as provided by USYSA or its State Associations, the FIFA “Laws of the Game” apply to all competitions sponsored by USYSA. Players under 10 years of age may play soccer in accordance with the rules of USYSA’s Development Player Program–Modified Playing Rules for Under 10, Under 8, and Under 6.//snip//Rule 302. SUBSTITUTIONS
Section 1. Except as provided by USYSA or its State Associations, substitutions shall be unlimited except where specified otherwise in the rules and regulations for a special competition.Section 2. Substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee, at any stoppage in play.
Some special competitions do run slightly different rules, as provided in the policy manual. For specifics on local competitions, consult with the competition authority. Following the rules of the competition will rarely get the referee in trouble.
