The details that keep things running smoothly, game play, rules, and eligibility. A little structure so everyone can just show up and enjoy the game.
Player Eligibility
The RSCSL is a senior soccer league for male players over 35 and female players over 25. Ages are determined by the player’s age on December 31st of the season year, for example a player who turns 35/25 by December 31st 2022 is eligible for the 2022 season.
A male player under 35 but over 30 can be accepted into the league if they only play as a goalkeeper.
Due to the evolution of the league some age exceptions have been made in past seasons. Responding to player feedback the league now intends to minimize these exceptions.
The RSCSL does reserve the right to adjust these age requirements should there be a need for more players to fill each roster.
All players in the substitute pool must also meet the age requirements.
Equipment
Teams will be issued jerseys.
All though not required teams are encouraged to coordinate short and sock colors. We recommend the sock color be the same as the shirt.
Consistent and distinguishable sock color is preferred by referees – it helps them to make better calls. We encourage teams to all wear the same color shorts and socks.
Shinguards are required. A player taking the field without shinguards will be asked to leave the field by the referee. They cannot return until properly equipped. A substitute can replace the exiting player.
Goalkeepers should wear jerseys that are sufficiently different to both teams.
Game Rules
Teams will be issued jerseys.
All though not required teams are encouraged to coordinate short and sock colors. We recommend the sock color be the same as the shirt.
Consistent and distinguishable sock color is preferred by referees – it helps them to make better calls. We encourage teams to all wear the same color shorts and socks.
Shinguards are required. A player taking the field without shinguards will be asked to leave the field by the referee. They cannot return until properly equipped. A substitute can replace the exiting player.
Goalkeepers should wear jerseys that are sufficiently different to both teams.
No slide tackling
A slide tackle is penalized with a direct free-kick.
Repeated slide tackling by a player can lead to disciplinary action by the referee.
A slide tackle in the penalty area will result in a penalty kick.
Player Count
Maximum of 6 male players can be on the playing at anyone time, this includes the goalkeeper. If a female is in goal, 6 male players can be on the outfield.
Male players cannot tackle female players in control of the ball except within the final “defensive” 18 yard zone of the field (a line stretching across the top of the penalty box to both touchlines).
6 Feet of Space For Women
Male players should back off 6 feet from the female player when she has control. See interpretation below.
A direct free kick is awarded for tackling a female or encroaching within 6 feet.
Repeated violation of this rule is a cardable offense.
Interpretation of 6ft Rule:
This rule is open to much interpretation, and has caused disputes on and off the field!
The intention of this rule is to encourage less experienced female players to participate in the league and feel protected from those male players who from time-to-time forget that this is primarily a recreational environment rather than a hyper-competitive one. For the league to thrive, it is vital less experienced female players participate.
It is recommended that male players interpret the rule with its spirit in mind. By backing off and not pushing the limits of the law or creating “grey” areas, players can leave the referee with no call to make. Now that makes it easy!
Control means where the referee believes the player has reasonable ability to pass, shoot or dribble the ball.
If a female with the ball moves toward a male, he must make a reasonable effort to move aside. If he simply blocks her progress, a foul can be called.
Male players can track a female with the ball until they reach the 18 yard line where they can make a legitimate challenge. They must remain the required 6ft away until they reach the line, encroachment can be deemed a foul by the referee.
Male players can back off to 6ft behind the 18 yard line and then make a challenge when the female enters the 18 yard zone.
If they are in any doubt, referees are recommended to make the call in favor of the female player.
If a female player is fouled in the attacking half of the field, the resulting free kick MUST be taken by a female player, including penalty kicks.
Free Kicks
Free kicks awarded in the defensive half of the field can be taken by any gender.
Free kicks or penalty kicks awarded for a hand ball can be taken by either gender.
Unlimited Substitutions
Unlimited substitutions can be made during stoppages (Goal kicks, throw-ins, injuries, free kicks, kick-offs, corners).
See below for rules governing player discipline.