Men’s Open Soccer Rules

Teams must have a minimum of 7 players and a maximum of 11 players on the field at any time.
One player must be designated as the goalkeeper.
A minimum of 7 players is required to begin the match to avoid a forfeit.

Unlimited substitutions are allowed during the game.
Substitutions can be made at any stoppage with the referee’s permission.
Substitutions must take place at the halfway line, and the substitute can only enter the field once the exiting player has fully left the field.

Halves: The game consists of two halves, each lasting 45 minutes.
Halftime: There is a 10-minute halftime break.
Overtime: In playoff matches, two 10-minute overtime periods will be played if there is a tie. If the tie persists, the match will be decided by a penalty shootout.
Regular Season Matches: Can end in a tie during the regular season.

Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is permitted. However, reckless or dangerous slide tackles that endanger player safety will result in a yellow card or red card, depending on the severity.
Yellow and Red Cards:
- Yellow Card: A yellow card is a warning. A player receiving two yellow cards in a match will be shown a red card and sent off.
- Red Card: A red card results in immediate ejection from the game. The player is suspended for the next match. The team plays with one player down for the remainder of the match.

A goal is awarded when the entire ball crosses the goal line between the goalposts and under the crossbar.
Each goal counts as 1 point, regardless of who scores.

Free Kicks: All free kicks are either direct or indirect, depending on the infraction. The referee will indicate which type of kick is awarded.
Penalty Kicks: Penalty kicks are taken from 12 yards in accordance with standard FIFA rules.
Throw-ins: Must be taken with both feet on the ground and both hands on the ball. The throw must be delivered from behind the head.

Shin guards are mandatory for all players.
Teams must wear matching jerseys with numbers.
The goalkeeper must wear a jersey that distinguishes them from the other players and referees.

Sportsmanship: Players must show respect for opponents, teammates, and referees at all times. Unsportsmanlike behavior will be dealt with strictly and may result in yellow or red cards.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Including verbal abuse, dissent towards referees, and aggressive play, will be penalized. Repeat offenders may face additional disciplinary action from the league.

Teams qualify for the playoffs based on their regular-season standings.
Tiebreakers include head-to-head results, goal difference, and total goals scored.

A team that does not have the minimum number of players (7) at the start of the game will forfeit the match. The forfeit score will be recorded as a 3-0 loss for the team that cannot field enough players.

The referee’s decision is final during the match. All complaints or protests must be filed with the league’s arbitration board, which has 48 hours to review and respond to the incident.