Welcome to the 7th Encinitas Cup, presented by Express Soccer Club and Adidas, held on November 15-16, 2025, played on fields in beautiful Encinitas.

Registration is open to recreational teams from U8 (second grade) - U14 (7th/8th grade). All teams are guaranteed three games minimum.

Fees are $450 for 7v7/9v9/11v11 age groups.

Registration Deadline is November 1, 2025.

Congratulations to the following champions and finalists of the 2024 Encinitas Cup!

RULES:

A. Tournament rules shall be governed by: The rules of the tournament are modified FIFA rules as shown in the SoCal Handbook.

B. Games: Games will consist of 2 halves. 

1. U8 - U10 = 25 minute halves
2. U12 - U14 = 30 minute halves
3. Referees will comply with the SoCal Rules.
4. Substitutions may be made at any stoppage (dead ball) only with the permission of the referee.
5. Semi-Final and Final games that end in a tie will go directly to Shots From the Mark. .
6. Running clock for all games

C. Players

1. Only recreational players shall be eligible to play in the tournament.
2. All players are required to wear shin guards during play.
3. Absolutely no jewelry, including rings, chains, watches, hair clips, bobby pins, earrings, bracelets, or rubber bracelets, may be worn while participating in any SOCAL games. Only Medical Alert Warning Bracelets may be worn and shall be taped to secure them to the player's body. 
4. No orthopedic (hard) casts, air splints, or metal splints may be worn. Players will be allowed to play in a soft cast at the discretion of the referee.
5. No player may compete in more than one team.

D. General Requirements

1. Coaches (including assistant coaches giving instructions) and substitute players must remain within the area ten yards on each side of the half line during the game. All other spectators must stay outside this area.
2. The home team has the choice of side, and the visiting team has the kickoff. 
3. Teams must be on opposite sides of the field. 
4. The home team must provide a suitable game ball.
5. The home team is responsible for changing to an alternate color jersey in the event of a conflict.

E. Scoring, Gaming, and Playoffs

1. Team standings from pool play will be determined by a 10-point system:

   • 6 points/win

   • 3 points/tie

   • 1 point/shutout, including 0-0 ties

   • 1 point/goal (maximum 3 goals/game)

   • 0 points/loss

   • Minus 1 point/red card issued to player or coach

   • Forfeit = 1-0

2. Ties in standings from pool play will be resolved as follows:

   • Head-to-head

   • Goals against

   • Goals for

   • Goal differential

   • Penalty kicks

F. Conduct and Disciplinary Actions

1. Coaches are responsible for their players, parents, and fans. Everyone must behave respectfully. Anyone smoking, using alcohol or drugs, yelling profanities, or acting inappropriately will be asked to leave. Field Marshals and referees have the final say. Non-compliance or repeated issues may lead to team disqualification.
2. An ejected coach must leave the field immediately and sit out the next game. The team will receive a 1-point deduction. If no other team administrator is available, the game will be forfeited with a 1-0 score awarded to the opponent.
3. If a player receives a red card during a game, he or she will have to sit out the next scheduled game. In case of violent conduct or serious foul play, the Tournament Committee will determine the severity of the suspension.

G. Protests

1. No protests will be accepted. The referee's decision is final.
2. The referee's judgment regarding laws of the game, field condition, and players' equipment cannot be challenged, and his/her decision is final.

H. Unexpected Circumstances

1. The Tournament Director will resolve any issues not covered under the above rules.

I. Refunds & Cancellations

1. Weather: Play will continue in rain unless the referee deems the field unsafe. In case of inclement weather or unsuitable field conditions, games may be shortened, go to shots from the mark, or be canceled. No refunds or reimbursements will be given for cancellations or forfeitures.
2. No refunds for weather-related cancellations. Full refunds for withdrawals before November 1st. Partial refunds if the tournament is canceled for reasons beyond control.

J. Additional Information

1. Please supply your own team tent and bench.