A. Tournament rules shall be governed by:

1. The rules of the tournament are modified FIFA rules as shown in the SoCal Handbook.

B. Games

1. Games will consist of 2 halves. (U7 U10 = 25 minute halves / U12 = 30 minute halves). 

2. Referees will comply with the SoCal Rules.

3. Substitutions may be made at any stoppage (dead ball) only with the permission of the referee.

4. Semi-Final and Final games that end in a tie will go directly to Shots From the Mark. .

5. 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. The referee will decide if a player with casts is ineligible or will be allowed to play in the tournament.

4. 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. Teams must be on opposite sides of the field. The home team must provide a suitable game ball.

3. 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.