Men’s Over 40 Soccer Rules

Teams must have a minimum of 7 players and a maximum of 11 players on the field at any time.
All players must be 40 years of age or older. Exceptions for younger players may be made for goalkeepers, but they must be at least 35 years old.
One player must be designated as the goalkeeper.
A minimum of 7 players is required to begin the match to avoid a forfeit.

Substitutions are unlimited and can be made at any stoppage with the referee’s permission.
Substitutions must take place at the halfway line and be approved by the referee before entering the field.

Halves: The game consists of two halves, each lasting 45 minutes.
Halftime: There is a 10-minute halftime break.
Overtime: If a playoff game ends in a tie, it will proceed to two 5-minute overtime periods. If still tied, a penalty shootout will determine the winner.

Slide Tackling: Slide tackling is permitted in the Men’s Over 40 division. However, reckless or dangerous slide tackles that endanger the safety of players will result in a yellow card or red card, depending on the severity.
Yellow and Red Cards:
- Yellow Card: A yellow card warns the player. A second yellow card in the same match results in a red card, and the player is sent off.
- Red Card: A red card results in immediate ejection from the game, and the player will be suspended for the next match.

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

Free Kicks: All free kicks are either direct or indirect, depending on the nature of the foul. The referee will indicate which type of kick is awarded.
Penalty Kicks: Follow standard FIFA rules and are taken from 12 yards.
Throw-ins: Must be taken with both feet on the ground and both hands on the ball, as per standard FIFA guidelines.

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

Sportsmanship: All players are expected to display high levels of sportsmanship. Any unsportsmanlike conduct, such as arguing with referees or opponents, will be penalized.
Unsportsmanlike Behavior: Including but not limited to aggressive fouls, dissent towards referees, and disrespect towards opponents. Such actions may result in a yellow or red card and further disciplinary actions.

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

A team that cannot field at least 7 players by the scheduled start time will forfeit the match, with the final score recorded as a 3-0 loss.

The referee’s decision is final. Any post-match disputes should be addressed to the league’s arbitration board, which will resolve the matter within 48 hours.