Global League of Champions 2024/2025

Rules and Regulations

1. General League Rules

1.1 Player Eligibility

• Men’s Open Division (15yrs +): Players must be 15 years of age or older by the start of the season.
• Men’s Over 30 Division: Players must be 30 years of age or older by the start of the season.
• Men’s Over 40 Division: Players must be 40 years of age or older by the start of the season.
• Men’s Over 50 Division: Players must be 50 years of age or older by the start of the season.
• Women’s Open Division: Players must be 15 years of age or older by the start of the season.
• Coed A, B, C: Players must be 18 years of age or older by the start of the season.
  • Coed A: Competitive division, advanced skill level.
  • Coed B: Intermediate division, moderate skill level.
  • Coed C: Recreational division, beginner skill level.

1.2 Team Composition

• Roster Size: Teams must have a minimum of 11 players and a maximum of 18 players registered.
• Coed Divisions: Must have at least 3 female players on the field at all times.

1.3 Player Registration

• All players must be registered with the league and provide proof of age and identification.
• Players can only register and play for one team per division.
• Transfer between teams within the same division is allowed until mid-season, provided the player has not participated in more than 3 games.

2. Match Regulations

2.1 Match Duration

• Men’s and Women’s Divisions: Each match consists of two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime break.
• Coed Divisions: Each match consists of two 40-minute halves with a 10-minute halftime break.
• Overtime: In knockout stages, if a match is tied at the end of regular time, two 15-minute halves of extra time will be played, followed by penalty kicks if necessary.

2.2 Substitutions

• Unlimited substitutions are allowed, with no limit on the number of entries and exits, but they must be made during a stoppage in play and with the referee’s approval.
• In Coed divisions, substitutions must maintain the gender ratio on the field.

2.3 Scoring System

• Win: 3 points
• Draw: 1 point
• Loss: 0 points

2.4 Tiebreaker Rules

If teams are tied on points at the end of the season:

• Goal difference
• Goals scored
• Head-to-head results
• Fair play (fewest red/yellow cards)
• A coin toss or playoff game (as determined by the league).

3. Conduct and Discipline

3.1 Yellow and Red Cards

• Yellow Card: Warning. Two yellow cards in a single match equal a red card.
• Red Card: Ejection from the match and a one-match suspension.
• Accumulation of 3 yellow cards over the season results in a one-match suspension.

3.2 Player Conduct

• Abusive language, violence, and unsporting behavior will result in disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the league.
• All players, coaches, and spectators are expected to adhere to the league’s Code of Conduct.

4. Match Logistics

4.1 Uniforms

• All teams must wear matching uniforms with numbered jerseys. Goalkeepers must wear a different color.
• Shin guards are mandatory for all players.

4.2 Referees

• The league will provide referees for all matches. The referee’s decision is final.

4.3 Field Setup

• Matches will be played on regulation-sized fields as per FIFA standards.
• The home team is responsible for ensuring the field is properly marked and equipped with corner flags and goals with nets.

5. League Structure

5.1 Regular Season

• Each team will play every other team in their division at least once.
• The top teams will advance to the playoffs based on the point system.

5.2 Playoffs

• The playoffs will consist of knockout rounds leading to the final.
• In the event of a draw, the match will go to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout.

6. Health and Safety

6.1 Injuries

• In the event of an injury, the match will be paused until the player is safely removed from the field.
• Teams are encouraged to have a first aid kit and ensure that someone on the team is trained in basic first aid.

6.2 Weather Conditions

• Matches may be postponed or canceled due to extreme weather conditions. The league will reschedule postponed matches.

7. Miscellaneous

7.1 Protests

• Any protests regarding the match must be submitted in writing to the league administration within 24 hours of the match conclusion.

7.2 Fees

• Team registration fees must be paid in full before the season starts. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.

These rules are intended to ensure a fair and competitive environment for all participants in the Global League of Champions for the 2024/2025 season.