ASC Club Rules and Regulations

PREAMBLE

The rules and regulations of the Ancaster Soccer Club (ASC) shall govern the Club’s soccer program. ASC rules may require adjustment at any time as they could be subject to the higher jurisdiction of the rules and regulations for FIFA, the Ontario Soccer Association, the Hamilton and District Soccer Association, South Region Soccer League and the West Wentworth Interlocking Soccer League.

Furthermore, Ancaster soccer teams are subject to rules and regulations approved for tournament play by the Ontario Soccer Association.

The following ASC rules and regulations may not cover all possible circumstances that arise. Therefore, the Board of Directors remains responsible for making decisions on unique matters. The Board may be guided by rules, regulations and administrative policy of the governing soccer bodies in such instances.

The Board of Directors has approved the following rules and regulations on March 4, 2002

This soccer club received its charter incorporation without share capital under the name: “The Ancaster Soccer Club Inc.” on August 12, 1985.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. The Executive

2. The Annual General Meeting

3. Quorums And Meetings

4. Coaching Eligibility

5. Registrations

6. Team Drafting And Balancing

7. Team And Coaching Responsibilities

8. Farm Team System For Player Call Up

9. Rules Of Play

10. Overtime And Shootout Regulations

11. Protests And Discipline

12. Referees

13. Administration

13.1 Soccer Day Cup Com#14petitions

13.2 Communications

13.3 Organization

14. Tournaments

15. ASC Mini Soccer Rules

16. Rep Rules

17. Bad Weather

18. Player Injury

SECTION 1: THE EXECUTIVE

1.0 The Executive shall be elected every year at the Annual General Meeting held in late October.

1.1 The Executive shall consist of 11 members as listed below:

President

Vice President of Mini

Vice President of Youth

Vice President of Competitive

Treasurer

Director of Fields & Scheduling

Director of Equipment

Director of Officiating

Director of Publicity & Promotions

Director of Sponsorship

Director of Tournaments

1.2 Any vacancies at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting will remain vacant. Any interested parties coming forth after the Annul General Meeting may make application to the President to fill a vacancy. Any such candidate must be present at the newly elected Board of Directors to accept the nomination presented by the President.

1.3 Any Director resigning prior to the end of their term of office can be replaced or left vacant until the next Annual General Meeting. If replaced, only the balance of the term can be awarded.

1.4 Any adult member in “good standing” with the Club may run for a vacant position. An adult is considered any person who has reached the age of majority or eighteen (18) years of age as of the date of the Annual General Meeting. In addition only those adult members who are residents of the former Town of Ancaster and have participated in some form with the Club are eligible.

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SECTION 2: THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

2.0 The A.G.M. shall be held on the last Wednesday of October of each calendar year.

2.1 In the event that the A.G.M. falls on a Wednesday that coincides with Halloween the A.G.M. shall be moved ahead by one (1) week.

2.2 The purpose of the A.G.M. is to dissolve the old Board of Directors, approve the financial statements of the club, individual Director’s Reports and to elect the new Board of Directors.

2.3 No “new” business is conducted at the A.G.M. Comments and/or concerns from the membership can be directed or expressed to the individual Directors.

2.4 All adult members are entitled to cast a vote or voice themselves at the A.G.M. In all voting matters all “ Adult” members are entitled to vote except the President and/or Chairman who shall only cast a vote in the event of a tie.

2.5 All Directors whose term of office finishes at the A.G.M. must notify the President within 30 days of the A.G.M. of his/her intentions to run for a position on the New Board of Directors.

2.6 Such Nominations for a Board position are to be submitted in writing to the Ancaster Soccer Club postal address 7 days prior to the Annual General Meeting in order to be included in the list of candidates for Board positions for the ensuring year.

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SECTION 3: QUORUMS AND MEETINGS

3.0 The Executive shall meet on a monthly basis as called by the President.

3.1 The Executive shall meet on or near the first Wednesday of each month to conduct the Business of the Cub.

3.2 In order to conduct business pertaining to the Club’s operations 50% of the elected “Officials” must be present at all times in order to have a quorum.

3.3 All members of the Executive shall have the right to one (1) vote on all matters except for the President and /or Chairman who shall only vote on matters when a tie vote has occurred.

3.4 Any member of the Club who wishes to address certain issues, concerns or wishes to file a grievance or appeal may do so by requesting in writing to “Appear Before” the Board of Directors. Written correspondence must be received within 48 hours of the next regularly scheduled Directors Meeting.

3.5 No decision shall be rendered in the presence of members who appear before the Executive and any decision made by the Executive shall be given in writing to the member with in 48 hours after the decision is made. All decisions are final.

3.6 Any meetings held by the Executive outside of the normal monthly meeting as noted in Section 3.2 shall be deemed as an “Emergency Meeting or Special Meeting”.

3.7 The Executive in order to provide a smoother pace of operations shall be permitted to conduct business by electronic communication but in all cases a majority of no less than 50% of the elected officials is required.

3.8 All information and business conducted that pertains to individuals and or personal information of individuals shall be declared Private & Confidential. The Club Executive holds the distribution or reproduction of sensitive material, board minutes, team ratings or personal information of players/parents in “Trust”.

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SECTION 4: COACHING ELIGIBILITY

4.0 All applications to coach a House League or Select team for the current playing season must all be approved by the Executive.

4.1 All coaches are required to take an approved training course as provided by the Club and /or O.S.A.

4.2 Any cost incurred by a coach to upgrade “certifications” shall be refunded by the Club and re-paid to the coach upon applying to coach for the following season.

4.3 Coaching availability is based on first come first serve basis but the Executive has the right to select the more qualified coach if need be. There is no expressed right that once approved as a coach this year that will guarantee you the right to coach the following year.

4.4 All coaches are required to fill out an approved A.Y.S.C. coach’s application form completely in order to be accepted for the current season.

4.5 All coaches are required to sign and acknowledge the “Individual Trust Clause” at the bottom of the application form.

4.6 Any coach who violates the “Individual Trust Clause” by any degree whether minor or not shall be removed from their coaching capacities immediately and or not be permitted to coach for the club in any capacity in future years.

4.7 The Executive will investigate on behalf of the players/parents in the event that this Trust is broken. Verbal and written statements will be used to determine the authenticity of the complaints.

4.8 Not with standing, the Individual Trust Clause shall include all Game Officials or Referee’s under the direction of the club.

4.9 All Coaches shall be provided with a coaches jersey, free clinics and training manual as provided by the Club Head Coach.

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SECTION 5: REGISTRATIONS

5.0 The ASC Board of Directors is charged with the responsibility of establishing the registration timetable, fee structure, deadlines and any other related registration matter.

5.1 A player will not be registered unless proof of age (i.e. birth certificate, passport etc) is provided at the time of registration. If a birth certificate was provided for the 2001 soccer season in Ancaster, then it will not be required again.

5.2 All fees must be paid in full at registration and an administration charge of $25.00 will be charged for NSF cheques.

5.3 The Club’s refund policy is as follows:

A) If a refund is requested before May 1st, a $25.00 administration charge will apply. The balance is refundable.

B) No refund will be given after May 1st. If there are extenuating circumstances, as request in writing must be submitted to the Club. The Board will review any such request and make the final decision.

C) The Club reserves the right to refund the registration fee in full and de-register a player where a team cannot be formed due to lack of numbers.

5.4 Only players registered with the club may play on ASC teams.

5.5 No player may play for ASC if he/she is registered in any other recreational or competitive soccer team or club. (Except for in-house select teams)

5.6 OSA cut-off dates will be used for determining age groups (December 31). ASC utilizes the two-year age groupings consistent with other recreational clubs in Hamilton District and the West Wentworth Interlocking Soccer League.

5.7 Players may not play down in age levels because of OSA regulations and insurance considerations.

5.8 Players may not play up in age levels unless rare and exceptional circumstances exist at the sole discretion of the Club and does not take away a playing position from someone else.

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SECTION 6: TEAM DRAFTING AND BALANCING

6.0 The objective of a draft is to ensure that balanced teams are selected so that the best competition occurs.

6.1 A convenor of a division shall not coach nor have a child playing in that division.

6.2 There will be no more than two coaches assigned and registered per team.

6.3 A rating system dividing the players into categories according to their skills will be established. Players will be assigned to teams through the computer drafting process by their age and rating.

6.4 In co-ed divisions (mini), boys and girls will be distributed evenly.

6.5 When all players are assigned, the team number will be drawn from a “hat”.

6.6 The children of the coach and assistant coach will be traded so that they are together. The sponsor’s own child will also be traded to the correct team. Any such trade must ensure that they players traded are the same age group and rating.

6.7 A sponsor’s request to sponsor a particular child other than his/her own child may be honoured if undue advantage isn’t gained.

6.8 Coaches are required to submit ratings for their players on a prescribed form provided by the Club. This is usually requested near the end of the season and before the playoffs.

6.9 The Club will provide for the convenors a written administrative procedure to be followed during drafts. A director of the Board may attend or be requested to attend any draft meetings.

6.10 The President of the Club shall review all final team rosters prior to distribution of team rosters to the coaches.

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SECTION 7: TEAM AND COACHING RESPONSIBILITIES

7.0 The Home Team is responsible for providing a game ball. Both teams will provide corner pylons or flags, nets and linesman’s flags.

7.1 Both teams are required to be at the venue and ready to begin play for the official kick-off time prescribed in the schedule. A fifteen (15) minute grace period is allowed before the game is awarded to the team in attendance. Coaches are asked to report such an incident to the convenor.

7.2 Coaches and assistants are required to coach from one sideline only and are not to coach beyond their team bench. Lines will mark the team bench. Failing which it is defined as the radius of the centre circle where an actual bench does not exist. Team benches are to be on opposite sides of the field.

7.3 For ASC purposes, seven (7) players plus 1 goal tender of the original team constitutes a team bringing the required total to eight (8) players.

7.4 Coaches must ensure their teams show up for games (see section 12.9).

7.5 The Club will provide a coach’s package to all coaches prior to the start of the season. Coaches are strongly urged to attend coaches training and meetings at the start of each season. This provides an opportunity to ask questions and understand club and league rules and regulations.

7.6 Coaches are required to complete and submit a game roster sheet to the referee prior to the start of the game for all age levels except mini soccer.

7.7 Coaches are not to play any individual whose name does not appear on the official team list provided by the club. A coach found playing an unregistered individual would be immediately removed from the team.

7.8 Only the club registrar will do notification of late registrations.

7.9 Coaches are required to practice with their team no lesser than the number of regular season games. All practices shall be carried out on their opposite playing nights as approved by The Board of Directors. Practising on Weekends is not permitted unless the Coach has been given written approval from the Club Executive and no less than 80% of the parents of said team agree.

7.10 Coaches must practice on and use fields that are approved by the Board of Directors.

7.11 For the purposes of the Mini division, all green spaces (parks or parkettes) owned by the Town of Ancaster/City of Hamilton or any open mini field at Smith Park, Village Green and/or Community Centre that are available for use are deemed approved.

7.12 For the purpose of the Youth Division, practicing on open green space owned by the town of Ancaster/City of Hamilton is not permitted. Only green space or available fields at Ancaster Senior Public, Ancaster High School, Ancaster Community Centre, and Golf Links are allowed. The use of private property is not permitted.

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SECTION 8: FARM TEAM SYSTEM FOR PLAYER CALL UP

8.0 Each team/coach will be assigned a farm team from the age group below his/her own wherever possible with the same coloured shirt. The coach may only call up from the assigned farm team, unless otherwise advised by the convenor and or club official.

8.1 Where there are not enough teams below, the convenors will issue a list of players to the coaches who may then use this for call-ups. This list will be balanced for fairness. Each coach is required to call up only from his/her own list.

8.2 A coach may call up a maximum of three (3) players from any one game the total players to a maximum equal to his/her original roster allocation. The Mini Division roster is 14, Youth Division roster is 16 and all W.W.I.S.L. team rosters are 18.

8.3 Any player called up must be played for at minimum one half of the game as per ASC policy.

8.4 When a coach calls up from the farm team, the following procedure must be followed:

A) The requesting coach will call the farm team coach as early as possible to indicate the details of the request and to seek advice and names of potential call-up players.

B) The requesting coach should then contact the parent or player (if in the older levels). Should the parent or player not feel comfortable with the call-up, try someone else.

C) A farm team coach should know which players have agreed to and are ready for possible call-up action.

8.5 Any difficulty in finding players should be discussed with the convenor for resolution.

8.6 Misuse of farm team call-up regulations may result in possible forfeiture of the affected game(s) or other disciplinary action. These matters will be referred by the convenor to the Club Discipline Committee where warranted.

8.7 No call-ups can be used during playoffs or Soccer Day games.

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SECTION 9: RULES OF PLAY

9.0 Rules of play are governed by FIFA rules. Notwithstanding FIFA, the Club will abide by other regulations and administrative policies as determined by authorised soccer bodies including the Ontario Soccer Association, Hamilton & District Soccer Association and the West Wentworth Interlocking Soccer League.

9.1 Duration of games and size of balls for ASC purposes:

U3 & U4 Super Tyke consecutive 30 min practice - 24 minute game (4-6 minute quarters) # 3 Ball

*5 and under 40 minute practice (on separate day) - 40 minute game (4-10 minute quarters) # 3 Ball

7 and under 48 minute game (4-12 minute quarters) # 3 Ball

9 and under 60 minute game (4-15 minute quarters) # 4 Ball

11 and under 60 minute game (2-30 minute halves) # 4 Ball

*13 and under 70 minute game (2-35 minute halves) # 5 Ball

*15 and under 80 minute game (2-40 minute halves) # 5 Ball

*17 and under 90 minute game (2-45 minute halves) # 5 Ball

*19 and under 90 minute game (2-45 minute halves) # 5 Ball

Women Open 90 minute game (2-45 minute halves) # 5 Ball

*denotes matching ball size and time limit to W.W.I.S.L.

There will be a 1-minute break between quarters for Mini Soccer and a 5-minute break between halves.

The changes to 9.2 have been made to coincide with the West Wentworth Interlock Soccer League Rules.

9.2 Substitutions in all age groups may be made with the Referee’s approval during the following stoppage of play:

Ø At ones own goal kick

Ø After a goal is scored

Ø At the beginning of the 2nd half

Ø At the beginning of the 1st and 2nd overtime periods

Ø For an injured player with the Referee’s consent

Ø At a throw-in with the Referee’s consent

Ø Interlocking rules or tournament play rules may differ. Be aware of the rule differences if these apply to you.

9.3 Mini-Soccer rules see section 11.

9.4 ASC requires that ALL PLAYERS play a MINIMUM of ONE HALF of each game subject to injury. This applies as well to overtime. The hope is that players will receive more than 50% playing time.

9.5 EXPECTATION CLAUSE: It is the expectation of the club that all of the Coaching Staff will commit themselves into the development of his/her team and by doing so will contribute countless hours of their personal time. Based on this, Section 9.4 can only be enforced or intervened by the Club on behalf of the player/parents if the Player is also prepared to contribute and give the same in return to the coaching staff. Lateness for practices and games plus lack of effort are key examples. In all cases a players playing time can only be reduced and cannot be eliminated. This applies to Under 13 or higher House League teams & W.W.I.S.L. teams.

9.6 In the event a Referee fails to show to officiate the game, both Coaches will share the duties and officiate 50% of the game. If agreed upon a parent may be selected to officiate the game. Games will not be rescheduled due to a Referee not showing.

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SECTION 10: OVERTIME AND SHOOT-OUT REGULATIONS

10.0 A winning score is required for all playoff games, Soccer Day games (unless it is a fun or exhibition game) and where first place is being decided in an extra game.

10.1 Where overtime applies, the teams will be given a 5-minute rest period before starting overtime play. There will be two 5-minute periods. Teams will switch goals at the overtime half. This is NOT sudden death and both halves must be completed.

10.2 Where there is a tie after overtime has been completed, penalty kicks will determine the winners as follows:

A) Each team selects 5 players to take kicks and a goalkeeper.

B) A goalkeeper may also take a penalty kick.

C) Players not on the field at the end of overtime may not take penalty kicks.

D) A coin toss will determine who kicks first.

E) Kicks will be taken alternatively. The team scoring the most goals after the first five are the winners.

F) If the teams are still tied, each team will take single kicks until one-team scores and the other misses.

G) Players may not take a second kick until all players on the team have kicked. The only exception is if one team has already gone through all its players, then the other team may also start at the beginning of its roster again. Example: Team A has 14 players whereas Team B has 15 players. Team B then only needs to use 14 kickers as well.

H) Coaches and players are required to follow the referee’s instructions during the penalty kicks.

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SECTION 11: PROTESTS AND DISCIPLINE

11.0 Protests are to be discussed with the divisional convenor and the coaches’ convenor within 24 hours of the match. The convenors will attempt to resolve the matter. The decision should be made and communicated to the affected parties as soon as possible after the protest is received.

11.1 If unsatisfied, a written protest may then be made to the Board directly. This must be submitted within 5 days after the decision in 7.1 above is made.

11.2 The Club’s Board or Executive Committee will review the matter, make a Decision and communicate this to the affected parties. This will be final and binding.

11.3 Protests based on referee’s decisions will not be accepted. Concerns about Refereeing may be communicated to the Head Referee (Director of Officiating).

11.4 The Club’s discipline committee shall deal with all disciplinary matters.

11.5 Where a serious matter has arisen, a coach or player may be requested to appear before a Disciplinary Committee. This may include carding infractions, use of non-registered players etc. Should an individual not appear when requested, the matter may be dealt with in absentia and further penalty might be levied.

11.6 Carding infractions will be dealt with in accordance with the OSA Constitutions and Administrative Guide.

11.7 A coach who suspends any player for disciplinary purposes must report the matter to the Chairman of the Discipline Committee at least 5 days before the game(s) for which the suspension applies.

11.8 The following penalties apply in the instances cited:

A) Where illegal call-ups occur during the regular season and it is a first offence, the coach (es) will receive a warning. On a second occurrence during the regular season, any points gained in that game are forfeited and the discipline committee may evoke additional sanctions.

B) Any coach or team using unregistered players or call-ups from an equivalent or older age group will forfeit the game plus a 4-point deduction in the standings and the offending coach may be suspended for up to one year as determined by the Discipline Committee.

C) Coaches will be held responsible for informing players and spectators that players may be subject to strict disciplinary measures up to and including ejection form the Club without refund if parents cause disturbances.

D) A coach found to be abusive of a referee may be suspended up to 4 games.

E) Where a call up occurs during a playoff or Soccer Day game, the game will be forfeited and the Disciplinary Committee may evoke additional sanctions.

11.9 Any decision of the Discipline Committee is final and binding but may be subject to an appeal to the appropriate body of the Hamilton & District Soccer Association.

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SECTION 12: REFEREES

12.0 The Club will select, train and pay all referees.

12.1 The Director of Officiating or a Board designate will assign referees to games.

12.2 The minimum age for referees is 14 years of age as of Jan 1st, 2002. 14 year old Referee’s may only Referee in the mini division, under 9.

12.3 The Executive approves the annual fee structure. The fee structure will be consistent with Clubs in the District and is in keeping with their age level.

12.4 If a referee is absent, the home team coach is responsible for selecting a referee upon agreement with the visiting team’s coach. The person selected should have previous refereeing or coaching experience. Coaches may wish to each referee one half in the event of no other qualified person. Coaches are to report absent referees to the Director of Officiating.

12.5 Referees are to be paid if the game has to be called or cancelled due to weather or default.

12.6 Referees will request that each coach assign a lines person and provide a flag.

12.7 The club will not accept abuse of the referee by coaches, players or spectators. A referee will submit a written report of any such incident as prescribed by the Club and its governing bodies.

12.8 The referee has the responsibility for determining if a game is to be played or cancelled.

12.9 An authorized Club official (President, Vice President or Director of Officiating) may cancel a game in the event of the referee’s absence.

12.10 Any person wishing to Referee for the Ancaster Youth Soccer Club must be registered with the Ontario Soccer Association and must be a member in good standing with all Annual dues paid.

12.11 Any person wishing to Referee for the Ancaster Youth Soccer Club who is not registered with the Ontario Soccer Association must attend a Referee’s clinic to be held in May.

12.12 The Director of Officiating is a designated representative of the Board of Directors of the Ancaster Soccer Club and is not entitled to remunerating, unless approved by the Board of Directors.

12.13 All Referees’ shall be residents of the Town of Ancaster if possible, but the Chief Referee shall have the right to extend the Application parameters to outside the town of Ancaster if he/she feels necessary.

12.14 All Referees’ must submit a Referee’s game sheet in order to be paid.

12.15 All Referees’ must obtain game sheets prior to the start of any game and return all game sheets to the coaches at the end of every game.

12.16 The Ancaster Soccer Club shall provide all Referees with an ASC referee shirt, game sheets, warning cards, copy of coaches’ packages and whistles.

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SECTION 13: ADMINISTRATION

SUBSECTION 13.1 SOCCER DAY CUP COMPETITIONS
13.1.1 Soccer Day in Ancaster will be the Saturday following Labour Day. The alternative, in case of bad weather is the second Saturday after Labour Day.

13.1.2 The Club will prepare and distribute a separate Soccer Day and playoff schedule.

13.1.3 The Board will decide, based on team numbers and available time as to how to organize Soccer Day.

13.1.4 Each team will have the opportunity to play in at least one game on Soccer Day. Duration of the games may be altered so that players do not play excessive amounts of times.

13.1.5 Under 5 & 7 games are fun games only. Under 9 through 13 will compete for the Soccer Day Cup Round Championship.

13.1.6 The Club reserves the right to schedule earlier starting times for playoff games leading up to Soccer Day.

13.1.7 Soccer Day is played in accordance to a O.S.A. Cup Round format in which the play off schedule is randomly drawn in May preceding the Regular Season. The play off schedule will be provided to all coaches prior to the start of the season. The final four teams will play in the championship games on Soccer day and the balance of the teams will play fun games only. No regular season standings are held in any division.

13.1.8 The President and Vice Presidents of each the Mini and Youth Division shall carry out the Soccer Day Cup Round schedule.

SUBSECTION 13.2 COMMUNICATIONS

13.2.1 Coaches are required to call their parents and players within the first 10 days of May. The season starts the Tuesday after Victoria Day.

13.2.2 Coaches will communicate through their divisional convenors or soccer office on all matters.

13.2.3 Photo Day shall take place during the second week of June or after the Ancaster Heritage Day festivities. Team Photo Schedules will be distributed through the divisional convenors or soccer office.

SUBSECTION 13.3 ORGANIZATION

13.3.1 Coaches are to provide players with a team list that includes names, addresses and phone numbers for all players and coaches. As well, a schedule of games and practices, their location and maps if required.

13.3.2 Well organized practices with variety and some fun activity such as scrimmages will be very successful. Convenors and other more experienced coaches should be consulted for assistance. Attendance at coaches training sessions is highly recommended.

13.3.3 The coach, early in the season, will establish an understanding with the players and parents regarding goals and expectations for the season. The Club encourages Coaches to get all parents involved on a rotational basis to include refreshments, set up and tear down before and after games.

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SECTION 14: TOURNAMENTS (ALL STAR)

14.0 ASC encourages to the formation of Select Teams/All Star Teams for all age divisions from 9 & under and up. Only one team per age division and gender is permitted unless approved by The Board Of Directors.

14.1 A.Y.S.C. will pay the required entry fee for two (2) tournaments for each select team to a maximum of $500.00 per team. Each team will be given a free entry into the Ancaster Heritage Day Tournament. The tournaments selected must be at the appropriate classification and sanctioned. The V.P. of Competitive will assist all select coaches with all necessary details.

14.2 A.Y.S.C. shall provide tournament jerseys and a travel bag for all players. There is an additional cost to the players for participation in the Select Program. The Board of Directors prior to the start of the season shall determine this fee.

14.3 All coaches and assistant coaches or any person or persons in the capacity to coach or train players on a Select Team must meet the necessary Level of Training as prescribed by the O.S.A.

14.4 Coaching staff will be recruited prior to the start of the season, after which time notification by letter or flyer must be distributed by the Select Coach to all teams within that age division, soliciting players to “Try Out” for the team. All players are eligible to try out for the team.

14.5 A minimum of three (3) try out practices must be held in order to determine the final roster.

14.6 All Select teams will practice weekly at an approved location and time as set out by the club.

14.7 The maximum number of players on an U9 team is 14 players. On all other age divisions the maximum is 16 players.

14.8 In order to provide and equal and fair opportunity for all players to benefit from the Select Program ALL PLAYERS SHALL BE GUARANTEED AND AVERAGE MINIMUM PLAYING TIME OF 25% FOR ALL TOURNAMENTS. It is the hope that all players be given the opportunity to play more than 50% or more of any game.

14.9 EXPECTATION CLAUSE: It is the expectation of the club that all of the Coaching Staff will commit themselves into the development of his/her team and by doing so will contribute countless hours of their personal time. Based on this, Section 14.8 can only be enforced or intervened by the Club on behalf of the player/parents if the Player is also prepared to contribute and give the same in return to the coaching staff. Lateness for practices and games plus lack of effort are key examples. In all cases a players playing time can only be reduced and cannot be eliminated.

14.10 Coaches are approved on a yearly basis and are granted the right to have a team. Team performance and player development will be reviewed in addition to letters of complaint and /or praise of the individual coaching staff.

14.11 The Select/all Star coach approved for this season shall be provided by the club with a listing of all players who’s previous season rating was a B+ or A rating.

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SECTION 15: ASC MINI SOCCER RULES

15.0 Mini-soccer rules apply to the designated age groups as determined by the club and are governed by ASC rules except as noted in Section 11.

15.1 The maximum number of players on the field at one time is seven. Five dressed players on the field is the minimum number in order for the game to proceed.

15.2 Game duration, please see section 5.2.

15.3 Substitution except for injury is only allowed at the start of the quarter except for the Under 9 teams where a referee is provided by the club and then the normal substitution rules shall apply.

15.4 No referees are used for Under 5 or Under 7 games. One coach for each team may go out onto the field to help instruct players without interfering with the play.

15.5 Referees are used in all Under 9 & 11 games. One coach for each team in the Under 9 division ONLY may go out onto the field to help instruct players without interfering with the play. The coach may be sent off the field for interference with the play by the referee. The divisional convenor will establish the time of the season when the coaches will no longer be permitted to enter the field during play. This is usually the 1st of July.

15.6 No offside rule will apply on mini size fields except in the Under 9 Division where in the opinion of the Referee an undo advantage exists.

15.7 Goals may not be scored from within the six- yard circle/box. If this occurs, the defending team will be awarded a goal kick from within their goal area. An offensive player may dribble through the defensive goal area but will have to score from outside.

15.8 In Under 5 and Under 7 where referees are not provided, coaches will award penalty kicks for violent behaviour and handballs in the goal area only.

15.9 Players are required to give a minimum distance of 8 yards at any point during any kicks.

15.10 All rules that pertain to a regulation size penalty box shall apply to the Mini-Pitch 9- yard box, with the exception that the 6-yard box is still a protected zone for the Goalkeeper and a non-score zone for the offensive players.

15.11 The penalty spot shall be deemed at the 9-yard box and all players shall provide a 8 yard distance from the kicker.

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SECTION 16: REP RULES

16.0 A Rep player will not be registered unless proof of age (ie: birth certificate, passport etc.) is provided at the time of registration. Photocopies will be allowed.

16.1 All players registering to try out for the Rep Program and are requesting a spot reserved in house league, these players must be released prior to March 15th of the current year. Players requesting such must pay the House League Fee during regular registration.

16.2 The A.Y.S.C. Board of Directors shall set the Rep Program fees and such fees shall be determined and calculated on the previous years expenses to operate the program. The Club shall provide under the budget process a subsidy from House League to aid in the development of the Rep Program. This subsidy shall reduce on a yearly basis.

16.3 O.S.A. cut off dates will be used for determining age groups (December 31). The A.Y.S.C. Rep Program uses a 1-year age grouping consistent with the H.D.S.A. and S.R.S.L.

16.4 All fees must be received by the club office or registrar and paid in full on or before March 15th. All those registered for House League and Rep must be released by this date as well.

16.5 All players shall play in their own age division if at all possible. Each team is entitled to accept a maximum of three (3) under age players from the immediate lower age division. No exceptions will be granted. This coincides with current O.S.A. rules and regulations.

16.6 Effective for the 2002 playing season all coaches or anyone in the capacity to coach and is making application to coach must play their child within the appropriate age division.

16.7 A.Y.S.C. shall determine, provide and approve the style and colour of all Rep Uniforms. The use of the A.Y.S.C. logo is restricted and the Board of Directors prior to the purchase or application process must approve the use of such logos. Failure to comply will result in the coaching staff and players to be in “bad standing”.

16.8 All teams are required to provide the Club a reserve fund of $500.00. Which must be paid on or before July 1st, 2002. This fee may be paid through fund raising endeavours or through team sponsorship.

16.9 Any Rep sponsor wishing to have advertising rights on the Home & Away jerseys must forward their Application Form, Logo and $500.00 to the Club no later than February 15. Single or Multiple sponsors are permitted. Any additional screen-printing or add-ons after the February cut off date can only be done with prior permission of the Club. The cost of any add-ons shall rest with the individual team.

16.10 All Rep players who have been selected, registered and have paid monies to the Club can no longer be removed from the team roster.

16.11 After the commencement of the season, coaches wishing to call up players due to a shortage of players being away may do so. Only those players registered in a lower age division with the A.Y.S.C. are eligible. The following rules must be adhered to:

A) The V.P. of Competitive must be contacted first.

B) The House League/Rep Coach must be contacted and give permission for the use of his/her player.

C) The parents of the player are advised and give consent.

D) The request cannot interfere with regular season play.

E) The maximum number of times a player may be called up is three (3) times.

16.12 All Coaches, Assistant Coaches or any person or persons in the capacity to coach or train players on any given team must meet the necessary Level of Training as set out by the H.D.S.A. Proof of certification is required on an annual basis. Each team is entitled to have a maximum of three (3) coaching staff members (Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Manager and / or Trainer).

16.13 The recruitment of players out of the House League program after March 15th of the current year is not permitted.

16.14 In order to provide equal and fair opportunity for all players to benefit from the Rep Program ALL PLAYERS SHALL BE GUARANTEED TO PLAY IN EVERY GAME WITH AN AVERAGE MINIMUM PLAYING TIME OF 25% OR MORE OF ALL REGULAR SEASON GAMES, PLAY OFF GAMES AND TOURNAMENTS. It is the expectation that coaches will play their players more than the minimum playing time.

16.15 EXPECTATION CLAUSE: It is the expectation of the club that all of the Coaching Staff will commit themselves into the development of his/her team and by doing so will contribute countless hours of their personal time. Based on this, Section 16.14 can only be enforced or intervened by the Club on behalf of the player/parents if the Player is also prepared to contribute and give the same in return to the coaching staff. Lateness for practices and games plus lack of effort are key examples. In all cases a players playing time can only be reduced and cannot be eliminated.

16.16 ALL PLAYERS AND COACHING STAFF ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL FINES LEVIED AGAINST THEM. Failure to pay the fees promptly to the A.Y.S.C. and or failure to pay such fines, the teams shall be deemed in “Bad Standing”.

16.17 FINAL REP TEAM ROSTERS must be submitted to the A.Y.S.C. Soccer Office on or before March 15th. This is to ensure that any player who has been cut from a Rep Team and who has also registered in House League, be placed back in the House League Division before House League Drafts are done.

16.18 Applications for NEW and EXISTING coaches, applications will be received from September 1 to December 15 of this year for the next years playing season. All applicants must provide the following documentation in order to be accepted for the following season:

A) A.Y.S.C. Application Form.

B) Copy of their Level 3 Senior Certification Certificate.

C) Letter of Confirmation of Sponsorship

D) Police Search

E) Letters of recommendations (not related to self or soccer)

16.19 All Competitive team Head Coaches and Assistant coaches are expected to fulfill the necessary level of certification as required by the OSA or league mandate.  OSA Child, Youth and Senior levels or higher shall be the responsibility and sole cost of the coaches.

16.20 Applications are accepted only if the information provided in section 16.19 is included with the application form. In the event that an age division is being challenged than a committee shall be struck consisting of three (3) Head Coaches, two (2) Directors of the A.Y.S.C. Executive and or approved substitutes.

16.21 Any team who has deemed as being in “Bad Standing” shall not be permitted to participate in the following seasons competitive program. A team is considered all coaching Staff and players. Under extreme circumstances the Club Executive has the right to remove any team at any time from the Competitive program regardless if the season has commenced.

16.22 In order to provide an equal opportunity and preserve the uniqueness of the former Town of Ancaster all Competitive Teams shall consist of no less than 50% of the players who reside within the Former Town of Ancaster and or who have played for the A.Y.S.C. in the past season.

16.23 In all cases, in the absence of any rule no assumptions should be made and all A.Y.S.C. rules take precedent.

16.24 The cost of tournaments, gymnasium space for pre-season practicing, clinics and tryouts are the sole responsibility of each team.

16.25 The A.Y.S.C. Executive recommends the following time line to establish teams for the following season.

A) September (Current season) - Fill out application & necessary documentation.

B) Oct/Nov. (Current Season) - Recruitment and Try Outs- Outdoors.

C) December (Current Season) - Formulate team and indoor training.

D) January to March (Playing Season) - Join Indoor League or indoor training.

E) April (Playing Season) - Rent Ivor Winne Stadium 4 hours/week for 4 weeks.

F) May (Playing Season) - Outdoor training.

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SECTION 17: BAD WEATHER

17.0 In the event of rain, all games will kick off at their regular scheduled time. Games are not cancelled or re-scheduled due to rain. If AFTER THE START OF THE GAME a storm front fast approaches the park and THUNDER can be heard in the distance the game is cancelled. If AFTER THE START OF THE GAME LIGHTENING CAN BE SEEN, the game is cancelled.

17.1 A game will be deemed as played if over 60% of the total time game has been played. The score at this time shall be recorded.

17.2 PLAYERS ARE TO REPORT TO THE FIELD READY TO PLAY AT THE SCHEDULED KICK OFF TIME. GAMES CAN ONLY BE CANCELLED BY THE REFEREE AND BOTH COACHES AT KICK OFF TIME. If time permits games will be re-scheduled.

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SECTION 18: PLAYER INJURY

18.0 All coaches and assistant coaches are required to notify the soccer office, President, Vice-President of their Division, and the Director of Fields within 24 Hours of any player who is injured during a game. This includes any player who cannot return for an extended period of time.