The U8 DL will use the same rules as the 7 vs. 7 teams use in CPL.
We play two 25 minute halves, but if coaches/players do not get onto the fields quickly enough, referees will need to shorten games in order to start each game on the hour. Halftime should be 5 minutes or less.
Goal Kicks may be taken from anywhere inside of the penalty area.
The U8DL does not keep scores or standings. No need to report scores. Only exception will be in tournament play. Teams are invited to participate in the recommended tournament, but they don't have to participate.
Size 4 Ball
Referees need to call all pushing, tripping and kicking fouls to keep the players safe and to help them learn the rules.
Referees are encouraged to explain calls to players when needed
Referees are encouraged to be more lenient on making non-physical calls at the beginning of each season
Examples at the start of the season would be: Don't call handling the ball on keepers when they are just outside the penalty area. Allow players to try a throw-in twice if the first one was done wrong. Don't call every foul throw-in if it is going to cause long stoppages or constant stoppages to the game.
Coaches are responsible for coaching the teams. No need for referees or parents to coach the players
The league does not reschedule games that are cancelled.
Parents are encouraged to support all players for good effort
If there is poor weather that makes the game unsafe such as lightning, thunder, lightning within ten miles, heavy rain, etc..., the game is cancelled not delayed and cancelled games are not rescheduled.
If games need to be cancelled for the whole day due to field conditions or any other reason, there will an email sent out as soon as that would be determined by the host club.
Referees are paid $18 by each team, therefore they receive $36 per game/hour