TOURNAMENT RULES
All games shall be played in accordance with the FIFA Laws, USYSA and GYSA Youth modifications except as specifically superseded by these rules.

SUBSTITUTIONS:
Unlimited substitutions may be made, with the referee’s consent, at the following times:

1. Prior to your team’s throw-in. If the team in possession opts to substitute and the opposing team has players at the halfway line waiting to substitute, the opposing team may also substitute.
2. Prior to a goal kick by either team.
3. After a goal is scored by either team.
4. At half-time.
5. If the game is stopped for an injury either team may substitute any number of players (with the referee’s acknowledgment).
6. At the time of a yellow card infraction.
7. There are no requirements for minimum playing time for each player.

NOTE: Since the tournament will attempt to stay on schedule, the referee shall take note of any obvious delays caused by a team during substitution. The players on the side must enter the field at the halfway line. Players leaving the match may exit by the closest touch line or goal line. The game will be immediately restarted.

LENGTH OF GAME/BALL SIZE

Age groups below are as designated by current USYSA policy for the 2008-09 seasonal year.

NOTE: Games may be shortened by the tournament committee to maintain the schedule.

CONDUCT:
Players sent off and/or coaches removed from a game are automatically suspended from their team’s next tournament game. Players sent off or coaches removed for fighting will not be allowed to return to the tournament. Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their spectators. Coaches cannot be carded, but they can be asked to leave.

WATER BREAKS:
If weather conditions make it necessary to have water breaks during the game, time lost during these breaks must be added on at the end of the half provided the game will end before the next scheduled starting time.

PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT:
In general, Law IV of FIFA laws applies.

1. All screw in studs will be ruled on at the field by the referee for safe play.
2. When the color of jerseys is similar or identical, the designated home team will change colors. The referee shall be the final authority regarding the need to change.
3. With the exception of the goalkeeper, all players must have uniforms with individual numbers on the shirt. The goalkeepers’ shirts shall be easily distinguishable from all other players and from the referee.
4. No plastic or metal jewelry of any kind (excluding protective eyeglasses) may be worn.
5. Shin guards are required for all players.
6. Players wearing casts will not be allowed to play.

GENERAL:

1. All judgement decisions of the referee are final and binding.
2. The Tournament Committee, and all sponsors and organizers, will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by any team or club if the tournament is cancelled in whole or part, nor will any refunds by given.
3. The Tournament Committee reserves the right to decide on all matters pertaining to the tournament and its judgement is final.
4. Official State YSA rosters, player identification/registration cards, and permits to travel must be presented at tournament registration. Rosters must be originals or State YSA approved copies with an original official State YSA stamp or embossed certification on the roster.

PROTESTS:
No protests are allowed.