RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT

In consideration of being allowed to participate in the event or activity referenced above, I acknowledge, appreciate, and agree that:
1) The risk of injury from the activities involved in this program is significant, including the potential for permanent paralysis and death, and while particular rules, equipment, and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious injury does exist; and,
2) I KNOWINGLY AND FREELY ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS, both known and unknown, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES or others, and assume full responsibility for my participation; and,
3) I willingly agree to comply with the stated and customary terms and conditions for participation. If, however, I observe any unusual significant hazard during my presence or participation, I will remove myself from participation and bring such to the attention of the nearest official immediately; and,
4) I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and next of kin, HEREBY RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS the Releasees, their officers, officials, agents, and/or employees, other participants, sponsoring agencies, sponsors, advertisers, and if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event ("RELEASEES"), WITH RESPECT TO ANY AND ALL INJURY, DISABILITY, DEATH, or loss or damage to person or property, WHETHER ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
5) In consideration of being allowed to participate in any way in the program, related events, and activities, I the undersigned, acknowledge, appreciate, and agree that: I am aware there are risks to me of exposure to directly or indirectly arising out of, contributed to, by, or resulting from an outbreak of any and all communicable disease, including but not limited to, the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and/or any mutation or variation thereof.
6)We reserve the right to cancel or postpone any program or activity due to inclement weather or low enrollment. There is no refund for classes or leagues canceled due to inclement weather. Players may call to schedule a make up class for another date/time the class is offered. League games will try to be rescheduled whenever possible. If any league games are unable to be rescheduled they will be marked as a tie. There are no refunds due to injury.
A 15% service fee will be imposed for all returned checks and could result in refusal of future participation. A service fee will be applied to all refunds and withdrawals with the exception of those due to medical/illness or when player is unable to participate due to level of play in any class.
a. Every team must have a team contact register over the age of 18 register their team at least 7 days prior to the start of the league and must have a credit card on file to hold their team spot. The credit card will not be charge unless there is a remaining team balance at the end of the session.
b. All teams must pay the remaining balance with one check, cash or credit card payment.
c. The team contact is responsible for any balance due for the team.
d. If a teams registration fees are not paid according to schedule, the team may be prohibited from playing or dropped from the league, without a refund.
e. If any player or teams check is returned, that player or team will be responsible for a $8.00 returned check charge in addition to the amount of the original check.
7) I hereby grant The Sports Emporium/De Pere Select Soccer Inc, and their agents the absolute right and permission to use photographic portraits, pictures, digital images or videotapes of My Child, or in which My Child may be included in whole or part, or reproductions thereof in color or otherwise for any lawful purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to use in any publication or on their websites, without payment or any other consideration. I hereby waive any right that I may have to inspect and/or approve the finished product or the copy that may be used in connection therewith, wherein My Childs likeness appears, or the use to which it may be applied. I hereby release, discharge, and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the The Sports Emporium/De Pere Select Soccer Inc, and their agents from all claims, demands, and causes of action that I or My Child have or may have by reason of this authorization or use of My Childs photographic portraits, pictures, digital images or videotapes, including any liability by virtue of any blurring, distortion, alteration, optical illusion, or use in composite form, whether intentional or otherwise, that may occur or be produced in the taking of said images or videotapes, or in processing tending towards the completion of the finished product, including publication on the internet, in brochures, or any other advertisements or promotional materials. I represent that I am at least eighteen (18) years of age and am fully competent to sign this Release.
I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and next of kin, HEREBY RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS THE (Sports Emporium), its officers, officials, agents and/or employees, other participants, sponsors, advertisers, and, if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event (RELEASEES), from any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any ILLNESS, INJURY, DISABILITY OR DEATH I may suffer, WHETHER ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT, FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND SIGN IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT.

Refund cancellation policy

We reserve the right to cancel or postpone any program or activity due to inclement weather or low enrollment. There is no refund for classes or leagues canceled/missed due to inclement weather, sickness, vacation or other situations outside of the Sports Emporium's control. Players may call to schedule a make up class for another date/time the class is offered. League games will try to be rescheduled whenever possible. If any league games are unable to be rescheduled they will be marked as a tie.
A 15% service fee will be imposed for all returned checks and could result in refusal of future participation. A service fee will be applied to all refunds and withdrawals with the exception of those due to medical/illness or when player is unable to participate due to level of play in any class.
a. Every team must have a team contact register over the age of 18 register their team at least 7 days prior to the start of the league and must have a credit card on file to hold their team spot. The credit card will not be charge unless there is a remaining team balance at the end of the session.
b. All teams must pay the remaining balance with one check, cash or credit card payment.
c. The team contact is responsible for any balance due for the team.
d. If a team's registration fees are not paid according to schedule, the team may be prohibited from playing or dropped from the league, without a refund.
e. If any player's or team's check is returned, that player or team will be responsible for a $8.00 returned check charge in addition to the amount of the original check.

birthday party waiver / cancellation policy

Waiver: Each rental representative must read and sign the waiver form. Signatures on the registration form signify each person has read, understands, and abides by the information and is responsible for all individuals associated with their party. There are risks associated with player and coach participation in leagues, instruction, camps and tournaments and their related activities. I release, waive, discharge and covenant not to sue the Sports Emporium/DePere Select Soccer Club, Inc., its employees or representatives, sponsors, referees and land owners from all action, suits or demands whatsoever in law or equity of demand, loss or damage on account of injury, including death, caused in whole or part by perceived or determined negligence.
CANCELLATION POLICY: A MINIMUM OF 72 HOURS NOTICE IS REQUIRED FOR ALL CANCELLATIONS
PAYMENTS ARE NON- REFUNDABLE IF THE MINIMUM 72 HOURS IS NOT GIVEN.

alcohol policy

Beer is sold at the Sports Emporium. You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. All individuals appearing under the age of 27 MUST have identification to purchase alcohol. Carry ins and outs are NOT allowed. In addition, any individuals found drinking non Sports Emporium sold alcoholic beverages on the premises, shall have such beverages confiscated and will be asked to leave the facility immediately.

NO LOITERING IN PARKING LOT!!

Soccer Rules 2024-2025

2024-2025

Sports Emporium

Soccer Rulebook

Welcome to the Sports Emporium. We have written this rulebook to provide a basis for good competition and a safe, enjoyable experience for all players. We appreciate your input, if you have comments, additions or corrections, please tell or email Sports Emporium management. The following explanations of some common terms are general, not technical; they are intended to be helpful to players, coaches and parents.

Boarding is pushing, charging, or crowding an opponent into the perimeter wall. What might be a legal shoulder charge in the middle of the field may be boarding if it runs an opponent into the wall.

Dead Ball refers to the situation when the ball is out of bounds or out of play due to a stoppage of any kind.

Delay of Game is called when a player or team is deliberately trying to slow down the progress of the game. Holding the ball after a goal and kicking away the ball after a foul are examples of delay of game.

Double Touch is the violation that occurs when a player taking a kickoff or other restart, plays the ball a second time before it is touched by another player (teammate or opponent). You cannot double touch the ball on a kickoff or restart (including goalkeeper throw in) even if it hits the wall or referee before it comes back to you.

A Hand Ball is a foul that is called when a player intentionally hits the ball with his hand or arm or when it is unintentional but causes a direct advantage for said player. A player may not deliberately carry, strike, or propel the ball with his hand or arm. (Except the goalkeeper inside his own arch). If a hand ball occurs in the goalkeepers arch a penalty kick will be awarded.

Misconduct is any inappropriate behavior by a player, coach, or spectator (on or off the field) as determined by the referee or facility staff. Examples of misconduct include but are not limited to: door- slamming, board- kicking or inappropriate remarks toward any player, coach, spectator, referee, facility staff, or even a teammate.

Obstruction is impeding the progress of an opponent when not being able to play the ball yourself. You are obstructing if you run between your opponent and the ball or use your body as an obstacle but cannot play the ball yourself.

Shadowing the Goalkeeper is a foul that occurs when a player follows the opposing goalkeeper around inside his arch and obstructs the goalkeeper from the play. There is usually physical contact towards the goalkeeper.

Shielding is a legal play where a player protects the ball from an opponent using his body. Shielding is not a foul and is not obstruction. To be legally shielding a player must be within playing distance of the ball and be eligible to play the ball. A player who is not eligible or moves out of playing distance of the ball is guilty of obstruction.

Violent Conduct is physical force that injures or abuses any individual or arena property. Violent Conduct is also any verbally or physically threatening action towards any individual.

Policies and Procedures

A1. PLAYER REGISTRATION

A1-1 Waivers

All players must sign a waiver of liability form. If a participant is under the age of eighteen, a parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver. A team using a player who did not complete a waiver prior to playing will forfeit that game.

A1-2 Player Eligibility

A youth player may play in a youth age group older than he is eligible for, but never in a younger age group. USSF birth date guild lines will be used when determining player eligibility.
Players must be 18 years of age or older to play in any of our adult leagues.
Persons with physical or mental impairments of a serious nature that may put themselves or others at risk will be restricted from play. Pregnancy and heart problems are conditions that put persons at risk.
The Sports Emporium staff may restrict advanced players from playing in certain leagues.

Sports Emporium Age Group Matrix

In accordance with the new US Youth Soccer Initiative, birth-year registration calendars will now align with the start of the calendar year and run from January to December, rather than August to July as it had previously. The initiative will align registration with the international standard.

How to determine the birth year used for a competition: Birth year registration should be based on the year in which the season ends. For example, if a season begins in the fall of 2018 and ends in the summer of 2019 (ex: 2018-19 season), the players would be registered based on their age in the year 2019. Competitions that take place in a single year (ex: fall of 2018 only) should use that year to determine birth year. To simplify determining the age group, just subtract the birth year from the year the season ends.

Year Season Ends – Birth Year = Age Group:

2018-2019 (Season) – 2003 (Birth Year) = U16 (Age Group)
2022-2023 (Season) – 2016 (Birth Year) = U7 (Age Group)
2018 (Season) – 2012 (Birth Year) = U6 (Age Group)

Please use the matrix below to line up your child's birth year, which will show the specific age group for a given season.

Season	2017-18	2018-19	2019-20	2020-21	2021-22	2022-23	2023-24	2024-25
Birth Year
2020								U5
2019							U5	U6
2018						U5	U6	U7
2017					U5	U6	U7	U8
2016				U5	U6	U7	U8	U9
2015			U5	U6	U7	U8	U9	U10
2014		U5	U6	U7	U8	U9	U10	U11
2013	U5	U6	U7	U8	U9	U10	U11	U12
2012	U6	U7	U8	U9	U10	U11	U12	U13
2011	U7	U8	U9	U10	U11	U12	U13	U14
2010	U8	U9	U10	U11	U12	U13	U14	U15
2009	U9	U10	U11	U12	U13	U14	U15	U16
2008	U10	U11	U12	U13	U14	U15	U16	U17
2007	U11	U12	U13	U14	U15	U16	U17	U18
2006	U12	U13	U14	U15	U16	U17	U18	U19
2005	U13	U14	U15	U16	U17	U18	U19
2004	U14	U15	U16	U17	U18	U19
2003	U15	U16	U17	U18	U19
2002	U16	U17	U18	U19
2001	U17	U18	U19
2000	U18	U19
1999	U19

A2. TEAM REGISTRATION

A2-1 Roster Restrictions

The maximum number of players per roster is unlimited, but you may only have up to twelve players at each game. A minimum of four players are needed to begin the game on the South Field and a minimum of 5 players are needed to begin play on the North Field in order for the game to count without a forfeit.
All leagues (besides Women’s League) will play 7v7 on the larger field and 6v6 on the smaller field when possible.
High school leagues must be rostered as follows:

U17 players and older have to play Varsity. Anyone U16 and younger can play up in the Varsity league.

Substitutes:
1. Teams needing substitutes may have anyone during the first 2 games of the season that has signed a waiver. Beginning with the third game, the rosters must be finalized.

South Field Substitute Player Rule
1. Teams having 6 or fewer players for any game may add up to 3 guest players from any team registered in that league. Teams may not have more than 3 substitutes from another team(s).
2. Once a team’s player count reaches 5 only 2 substitutes are allowed to finish the game. Once a team’s player count reaches 6, only 1 substitute is allowed to finish the game. Once a team’s player count reaches 7, no substitutes are allowed to finish the game.

North Field Substitute Player Rule
1. Teams having 7 or fewer players for any game may add up to 3 guest players from any team registered in that league. Teams may not have more than 3 substitutes from another team(s).
2. Once a team’s player count reaches 6 only 2 substitutes are allowed to finish the game. Once a team’s player count reaches 7, only 1 substitute is allowed to finish the game. Once a team’s player count reaches 8, no substitutes are allowed to finish the game.

A2-2 Next Season Registration

Teams currently playing in any league will have the first priority to re-register by placing a deposit before the deadline set. The deposit in non-refundable and will go towards your balance due.

A3. PAYMENT

A3-1 Team Deposits/Payment Schedule

Every team must have a team contact register over the age of 18 register their team at least 7 days prior to the start of the league and must have a credit card on file to hold their team spot. The credit card will not be charge unless there is a remaining team balance at the end of the session.
All teams must pay the remaining balance with one check, cash or credit card payment.
The team contact is responsible for any balance due for the team.
If a team’s registration fees are not paid according to schedule, the team may be prohibited from playing or dropped from the league, without a refund.
If any player’s or team’s check is returned, that player or team will be responsible for a $8.00 returned check charge in addition to the amount of the original check.

A4. LEAGUES

A4-1 Schedules and League Formats

Leagues usually run eight to twelve weeks. If there are enough teams, a league may be broken into two or more divisions. Formats for a league may change from session to session, depending on the number of teams in a league. Schedules are available for each player on a team and may also be viewed online at www.sportsemporiumgb.com. The home team is the second team listed on the league schedule.

A4-2 Scoring

1 point for goals scored inside the 2pt line.
1 point for goals scored from the 2pt line and beyond if touched by another player other than the goalie inside the 2pt line area.
2 points for goals scored from the 2pt line and beyond if untouched by another player or touched by the goalie. If any part of the ball is on or behind the two point line it will be considered 2pt shot.
1 player will be added to the team having 5 or more points less than the other team until such time as the point differential is less than 5 points.

A4-3 Standings and Tiebreakers

Standings can be found on line at www.sportsemporiumgb.com.

Tiebreakers proceed in this order:

If two or more teams are tied, the head to head results (win/loss record of the game(s) between the tied teams) determines the winner.
If two or more teams are still tied, the head to head goal differential between the tied teams determines the winner.
If two or more teams are still tied, the winner is the team with the fewest goals scored against them in all games.

A4-4 Forfeits

A team will forfeit if there are not at least four players ready to play on the South Field and at least 5 players on the North Field, at the start of the game. A team will forfeit if they lose enough players in the course of a game that they are unable to meet the required minimum of players.

A team will forfeit if a player on the team has deliberately broken any rules regarding registration or eligibility, or a team causes a game to be terminated.

Forfeits are recorded in the standings as a 1-0 score. Double forfeits are recorded as 0 points for each team.

If a team deliberately forfeits two games in a season or decides to drop out of a league, they may be replaced, and no refund given. A team that continually has even one forfeit in successive sessions may not be allowed to register again. Any game which is suspended at or after half time is final.

A4-5 Reschedules

If your team has a scheduling request, make sure it is on your Team Registration Form before the league schedule is made, and we will try hard to accommodate. After the schedule is made, a reschedule is only possible if there is an available time slot. A reschedule fee may be assessed because of the amount owed to the referee.

A4-6 Awards

The winner of each youth league will receive a Sports Emporium t-shirt or if you are an adult team, a $50 credit towards their next season. A player must play in at least three games to get a t-shirt.

A5. GAME PLAY

A5-1 Laws of the Game

There are NO sliding tackles.
1. Goalies may NOT slide Goalies feet first into a player with the ball. TEAMS will only be warned once. Subsequent sliding tackles can result in 2 minute penalties with NO substitution.
2. One elbow or knee touching the floor while attempting to make contact with the ball will result in a slide tackle foul.
3. A “dangerous play” violation will result in an indirect free kick.

The side and ceiling nets are out of bounds.
Players using foul language are to be removed from the playing field and the offending team may be required to play short. Referees must strictly enforce this rule at all times and especially when children are present.
Two Hand Rule states: Under no circumstance shall players be allowed to place both hands on the wall simultaneously while playing or attempting to play the ball. Players must be in control while playing near the boards.

Exception: If a player has been pushed into the boards, they may catch themselves.

THE CREASE – defined as the area between the boards and the broken white line. We want to minimize the risk of injury for all players and will limit the amount and type of contact in this area.

While in this area:

Calls will be made similar to basketball rules.
A defensive player MUST be facing the offensive player in this area for any legal contact.
The offensive player may NOT push through a defensive player that has established position.
Neither player may place a hand on the board to gain leverage.

If a player from the opposing team intentionally obstructs the goalkeeper or prevents or hinders him from releasing the ball into play, the offending player receives a time penalty for unsportsmanlike behavior.

A6. DISCIPLINE

A6-1 Referee

A referee has the option to use any or all of the following as a result of violent conduct, repeated fouls, intent to injure, dissent or any other act committed that is against the laws of the game or the spirit of fair sportsmanship by any player or players, on or off the field.

A minor Two-Minute Penalty may be issued that, results in the temporary ejection of a player or players with the penalized team able to substitute said player(s).
A major Two-Minute Penalty may be issued that, results in the temporary ejection of player(s) with the penalized team playing short for two minutes. (Spitting on the field is prohibited and will result in an immediate Major Two Minute Penalty. The Second offense will result in an immediate ejection from the game)
A permanent ejection may be issued that results in the ejection of said player(s) for the remainder of the game and the penalized team will play a player short for the remainder of the game.
A one game, two game or session ejection for a Major Penalty followed by additional infractions.

The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play and interpretation of the rules are final. The referee may change a decision prior to restart, upon his own reconsideration.

A6-2 Red Card Suspension

The referee or management has the right to eject a player, coach or spectator before, during or after the game. That person must leave the property immediately (possible tournament or two leagues exception). If an ejected player(s) fails to leave the premises, the game will be terminated, and the victory awarded to the opposing team. If, after receiving a red card misconduct continues, additional red cards may be issued.

If a player, coach or spectator is issued a red card, he is ejected for a minimum of the remainder of that game. The length of the red card suspension will be determined by management.

A6-3 Fouls

Fouls include tripping, kicking, holding, pushing, charging violently, charging away from the ball, jumping at, handling the ball, obstruction, and dangerous play. Examples of dangerous play include high kicks, playing the ball while sitting or lying on the ground, while placing a hand on the ground, or attempting to kick the ball when held by the goalkeeper.

A7. PLAYER’S EQUIPMENT

A7-1 Jewelry, Footwear and Headwear

-All team members must be in the same color uniform. Any player not in the same color uniform top will be ineligible to play. In addition, all players should have a white color top at each game to use as an alternate uniform color if needed.

-No jewelry or watches are allowed. (Only acceptable jewelry will be piercings that cannot be removed)

-Required equipment for indoor soccer is shoes and shin-guards. Outdoor grass cleats are allowed. (NO METAL ON THE CLEATS) Turf shoes are fine if they have more than twenty cleats.

No hats are allowed.

A7-2 Braces and Casts

Knee braces must be inspected and approved by the referee prior to the start of the game. Only hand or arm casts are allowed. Casts must be padded and must be inspected and approved by the referee prior to the start of the game.

A7-3 Injuries

The referee shall send any player off the field that requires treatment for injury or blood (regardless of whether the blood is his own or another’s or is on his body or uniform). For treatments of blood, the player must obtain the referee’s approval before he may re-enter the field.

Play shall stop when the referee decides;

an injury is critical
the injured player’s location is likely to interfere with play, or
the injured player’s team has control of the ball

During all league games the clock is continuous and will not be stopped due to injury unless determined necessary by staff.

Adult Flag Footbal Rules 2024-2025

Sports Emporium

INDOOR ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL RULES & REGULATIONS

A legal throw is considered to be overhand, side arm or when your arm is parallel to the ground and you push the ball forward.

A forward throw may not occur past the line of scrimmage. A player is considered behind the line of scrimmage if any part of their body is still on or behind the line.

MOTION ALONG THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE IS PERMITTED. THE OFFENSIVE PLAYER(S) CANNOT MAKE A MOVE TOWARD THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE UNTIL THE BALL IS SNAPPED. MORE THAN ONE PERSON IS ALLOWED TO BE IN MOTION AT A TIME.
THE DOTTED LINES AROUND THE FIELD ARE THE OUT-OF-BOUNDS. THIS IS UNTIL YOU REACH THE END ZONE AND THE OUT-OF-BOUNDS EXTENDS TO THE WALL.

To have a completed pass and/or interception, a receiver/defender must have one foot in bounds. In the case of the end zone, the receiver/defender must have control of the ball before making contact with the wall. If contact with the wall occurs and the receiver has not established control of the ball, the pass is incomplete. Within the goal mouth to have a completed pass and/or interception in the endzone the receiver must have at least one foot in bounds and control of the ball before crossing into the goal.

FLAGS MUST BE KEPT AT THE SIDE OF THE OFFENSIVE PLAYER AT THE SNAP OF THE BALL. (Failure to do so will result in a penalty. If the flags shift during the play, there is no penalty.)
SHIRTS MUST REMAINED TUCKED IN FOR ALL OFFENSIVE PLAYERS.

Defensive players are not responsible for shirts torn or grabbed. This rule is for your safety.

NO FOUL LANGUAGE IS ALLOWED ON THE FIELD. YOU WILL RECEIVE ONE WARNING AND THEN BE ASKED TO LEAVE THE FIELD.
IN THE CASE OF A TURNOVER ON DOWNS, THE BALL GOES TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FIELD.
NO BLOCKING IS ALLOWED. AN OFFENSIVE PLAYER CAN STAND LIKE A STATUE ON ANY PART OF THE FIELD AND THE PERSON WITH THE BALL CAN RUN AROUND THEM TO ELUDE THE DEFENDER. THE BLOCKER CANNOT MOVE ONCE THEIR POSITION HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED.

In other words, an offensive player cannot run up to a defender and stand in their way. They must establish a position on the field before the person with the ball comes into that area of the field.

ON DEFENSE, A PLAYER (S) IS PERMITTED TO RUSH FROM 7 YARDS OFF THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE. IN THE CASE OF A DIRECT HAND-OFF, THE RUSH MAY COME FROM THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE OR ANYWHERE ELSE ON THE FIELD.
IN THE CASE OF A FAKE HANDOFF ANY DEFENDER MAY CROSS THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE TO DEFEND THE RUNNER, BUT MAY NOT IMPEDE THE QUARTERBACK UNLESS HE RETURNS TO THE DESIGNATED RUSH AREA BEFORE RUSHING AGAIN.
IF A RUSHER CROSSES THE DESIGNATED RUSH AREA BEFORE THE BALL IS SNAPPED, THEY MUST RETURN TO THE DESIGNATED RUSH AREA AND CONTINUE. IF A PLAYER CONTINUES TO RUSH, THEY WILL BE OFF-SIDES AND IT WILL BE A 5 YARD PENALTY.
A RUSHER CAN JUMP STRAIGHT UP IN THE AIR TO DEFLECT A PASS WHILE IN FRONT OF THE QUARTERBACK. A RUSHER CANNOT COME FROM BEHIND THE QUARTERBACK AND GO AFTER THE ARM OR THE BALL. THIS IS CONSIDERED UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS
COMMON PENALTIES:

Offensive Pass Interference;

Loss of down

Defensive Pass Interference; Ball is placed at the spot of the foul & automatic first down

Offensive Flag Guarding; The ball will be placed at the point of infraction.

Defensive Off-Sides: Replay of down

Offensive Off-Sides; Loss of down

Offensive Rusher Interference; Loss of down

Offensive Charging; Dead ball spot of the foul

Unnecessary Roughness Defense; Automatic first down

Unnecessary Roughness Offense; Loss of down

Illegal Pick Play Offense; Loss of down

PENALTY DESCRIPTIONS:

ALL PENALTIES ARE TO THE DISCRETION OF THE REFEREE

Offensive Pass Interference: The offensive player cannot extend their arm to create separation from the defender. An offensive player is allowed to bring up their forearm level to the ground and no higher than chest high to cushion any contact with the defender. The offensive player, however, is not allowed to extend the forearm more than 10 inches from their body. (It is a judgment call by the referee)

Defensive Pass Interference: The defensive player cannot extend their arm to create separation from the receiver or keep the receiver from their route. A defensive player is allowed to bring up their forearm level to the ground and no higher than chest high to cushion any contact with the receiver. The defensive player, however, is not allowed to extend the forearm more than 10 inches from their body. (It is a judgment call by the referee.) Defensive Pass Interference also includes holding a receiver, making contact before the ball is to the receiver, AND face guarding.

NOTE: A defender has just as much right to the ball as the receiver. If contact is made while both players are going for the ball it is up to the discretion of the referee to decide whether the contact was illegal.

Offensive Flag Guarding: An offensive player cannot impede a defender from pulling their flag. If a motion of the arm or hand is made to keep the defender from the flag the play will be called dead and the ball placed at the spot of the foul. An offensive player’s running style is not taken into consideration. It is the referee’s discretion to decide if the defender was kept from pulling the flag.

Offensive Charging: The Defensive player has a right to their space, the offensive player must make and attempt to spin/move around the defender. If the defensive player slides or moves into the path of the offensive player, no call will be made. If the offensive player initiates contact or runs into the stationary defensive player who has already established their position on the field, the play will be called dead and the ball will be placed at the spot of the foul.

Offensive Rusher Interference: It is the responsibility of the Offensive Player to get out of the path of the on-coming rusher. The offensive player snapping the ball does not have to move after the snap.

Unnecessary Roughness: This is a no contact league. It is understood that incidental contact will occur on the field. If, in the eyes of the referee, a player maliciously goes after another player a 5-yard penalty will be enforced. Competition is part of the game and tempers can flare at any time. If one player purposely goes after another and makes unnecessary contact the penalty will be called and the player may be thrown out of the game.

Illegal Offensive Pick Play: It is the responsibility of the offensive player to give the defender enough space on the field to cover the receiver. They may not intentionally obstruct the defender from defending the offensive player. It will be up to the referee’s discretion to determine if the contact is intentional or unintentional. Intentional contact will result in an offensive penalty and loss of down.

Unsportsmanlike-like Conduct: If, in the opinion of the referee, a player uses malicious intent to go after another player or taunts another player causing a fight to ensue, the player will automatically be ejected.

If in the opinion of the referee a player demonstrates disrespect for the other team or referee, that player may be ejected or penalized for 2 minutes during which time his team will play short.

Tiebreakers proceed in this order:

If two or more teams are tied, the head to head results (win/loss record of the game(s) between the tied teams) determine the winner.
If two or more teams are still tied, the winner is the team with the fewest points scored against them in all games.
If two or more teams are still tied, the point differential for all the games between the tied teams determines the winner.

Policies and Procedures

A1. PLAYER REGISTRATION

A1-1 Waivers

All players must sign a waiver of liability form. If a participant is under the age of eighteen, a parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver. A team using a player who did not complete a waiver prior to playing will forfeit that game.

A1-2 Player Eligibility

A youth player may play in a youth age group older than he is eligible for, but never in a younger age group.
Players must be 18 years of age or older to play in any of our adult leagues.
Persons with physical or mental impairments of a serious nature that may put themselves or others at risk will be restricted from play. Pregnancy and heart problems are conditions that put persons at risk.
The Sports Emporium staff may restrict advanced players from playing in certain leagues.

A2. TEAM REGISTRATION

A2-1 Roster Restrictions

The maximum number of players per roster is unlimited, but you may only have up to twelve players at each game. A minimum of four players are needed to begin the game and for the game to count without forfeit.
U12 and U14 leagues will play 7v7 on the larger field and 6v6 on the smaller field. Older leagues will play 6v6 on both fields.
Substitutes:
Teams needing substitutes may have anyone during the first 2 games of the season that has signed a waiver. Beginning with the third game, the rosters must be finalized.
Teams having 6 or fewer players for any game may add up to 2 guest players from any team registered in that league. Teams may not have more than 2 substitutes from another team(s).
Once a team’s player count reaches 7, only 1 substitute is allowed to finish the game. Once a team’s player count reaches 8, no substitutes are allowed to finish the game.

A2-2 Next Season Registration

Teams currently playing in any league will have the first priority to re-register by placing a deposit before the deadline set. The deposit in non-refundable and will go towards your balance due.

A3. PAYMENT

A3-1 Team Deposits/Payment Schedule

Every team must have a team contact register over the age of 18 register their team at least 7 days prior to the start of the league and must have a credit card on file to hold their team spot. The credit card will not be charge unless there is a remaining team balance at the end of the session.
All teams must pay the remaining balance with one check, cash or credit card payment.
The team contact is responsible for any balance due for the team.
If a team’s registration fees are not paid according to schedule, the team may be prohibited from playing or dropped from the league, without a refund.
If any player’s or team’s check is returned, that player or team will be responsible for a $8.00 returned check charge in addition to the amount of the original check.

A4. LEAGUES

A4-1 Schedules and League Formats

Leagues usually run six to eight weeks. If there are enough teams, a league may be broken into two or more divisions. Formats for a league may change from session to session, depending on the number of teams in a league. Schedules are available for each player on a team and may also be viewed online at www.sportsemporiumgb.com. The home team is the second team listed on the league schedule.

A4-4 Forfeits

A team will forfeit if there are not at least four players ready to play at the start of the game. A team will forfeit if they lose enough players in the course of a game that they are unable to field four eligible players.

A team will forfeit if a player on the team has deliberately broken any rules regarding registration or eligibility, or a team causes a game to be terminated.

Forfeits are recorded in the standings as a 1-0 score. Double forfeits are recorded as 0 points for each team.

If a team deliberately forfeits two games in a season or decides to drop out of a league, they may be replaced and no refund given. A team that continually has even one forfeit in successive sessions may not be allowed to register again. Any game which is suspended at or after half time is final.

A4-5 Reschedules

If your team has a scheduling request, make sure it is on your Team Registration Form before the league schedule is made, and we will try hard to accommodate. After the schedule is made, a reschedule is only possible if there is an available time slot. A reschedule fee may be assessed because of the amount owed to the referee.

A4-6 Awards

The winner of each regular season league will receive a $50 credit towards their next season. The winner of each league playoff will receive a $50 credit towards their next season as well.

A6. DISCIPLINE

A6-1 Referee

A referee has the option to use any or all of the following as a result of violent conduct, repeated fouls, intent to injure, dissent or any other act committed that is against the laws of the game or the spirit of fair sportsmanship by any player or players, on or off the field.

A minor Two-Minute Penalty may be issued that, results in the temporary ejection of a player or players with the penalized team able to substitute said player(s).
A major Two-Minute Penalty may be issued that, results in the temporary ejection of player(s) with the penalized team playing short for two minutes.
A permanent ejection may be issued that results in the ejection of said player(s) for the remainder of the game and the penalized team will play a player short for the remainder of the game.
A one game, two game or session ejection for a Major Penalty followed by additional infractions.

The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play and interpretation of the rules are final. The referee may change a decision prior to restart, upon his own reconsideration.

A7. PLAYER’S EQUIPMENT

A7-1 Jewelry, Footwear and Headwear

No jewelry or watches are allowed.

Required equipment for indoor soccer is shoes and shin-guards. Outdoor grass cleats are allowed. (NO METAL ON THE CLEATS) Turf shoes are fine if they have more than twenty cleats.

No hats are allowed.

A7-2 Braces and Casts

Knee braces must be inspected and approved by the referee prior to the start of the game. Only hand or arm casts are allowed. Casts must be padded and must be inspected and approved by the referee prior to the start of the game.

A7-3 Injuries

The referee shall send any player off the field that requires treatment for injury or blood (regardless of whether the blood is his own or another’s or is on his body or uniform). For treatments of blood, the player must obtain the referee’s approval before he may re-enter the field.

Play shall stop when the referee decides;

an injury is critical
the injured player’s location is likely to interfere with play, or
the injured player’s team has control of the ball

During all league games the clock is continuous and will not be stopped due to injury unless determined necessary by staff.

Youth Flag Football Rules 2024-2025

Sports Emporium

Indoor Youth Flag Football Rules & Regulations

A legal throw is considered to be overhand, side arm or when your arm is parallel to the ground and you push the ball forward.

A forward throw may not occur past the line of scrimmage. A player is considered behind the line of scrimmage if any part of their body is still on or behind the line.

Motion along the line of scrimmage is permitted. The offensive player(s) cannot make a move toward the line of scrimmage until the ball is snapped. More than one person can be in motion at a time.
The dotted lines around the field are the out-of-bounds. This is until you reach the end zone and the out-of-bounds extends to the wall.

To have a completed pass and/or interception, a receiver/defender must have one foot in bounds. In the case of the end zone, the receiver/defender must have control of the ball before contacting the wall. If contact with the wall occurs and the receiver has not established control of the ball, the pass is incomplete. Within the goal mouth to have a completed pass and/or interception in the endzone the receiver must have at least one foot in bounds and control of the ball before crossing into the goal.

Flags must be kept at the side of the offensive player at the snap of the ball. (failure to do so will result in a penalty. If the flags shift during the play, there is no penalty.)
Shirts must remain tucked in for all offensive players.

Defensive players are not responsible for shirts torn or grabbed. This rule is for your safety.

No foul language is allowed on the field. You will receive one warning and then be asked to leave the field.
In the case of a turnover on downs, the ball goes to the other side of the field.
Blocking is allowed, all blocking must occur below the neck and above the waist. Any illegal block will result in an unnecessary roughing flag and loss of down for the offensive team.
On defense, a player (s) is permitted to rush from 7 yards off the line of scrimmage. In the case of a direct hand-off, the rush may come from the line of scrimmage or anywhere else on the field.
If a rusher crosses the designated rush area before the ball is handed off they will be considered off sides and a free play will continue with the option by the offensive to replay the down if wanted.
A rusher can jump straight up in the air to deflect a pass while in front of the quarterback. A rusher cannot come from behind the quarterback and go after the arm or the ball. This is considered unnecessary roughness.
All offensive penalties result in loss of down.
All defensive penalties are a replay of the down. In the case of pass interference or unnecessary roughness, there will be a replay of down and an automatic first down. The offense has the option to decline.
Common penalties:

Offensive pass interference; loss of down

Defensive pass interference; automatic first down

Offensive flag guarding: the ball will be placed at the point of infraction.

Defensive off-sides: Replay of down

Offensive offsides; loss of down

Offensive rusher interference; loss of down

Offensive charging; dead ball spot of the foul

Unnecessary roughness defense; Automatic first down

Unnecessary roughness offense; loss of down

Illegal pick play offense; loss of down

Penalty descriptions:

All penalties are to the discretion of the referee.

Offensive pass interference: the offensive player cannot extend their arm to create separation from the defender. An offensive player can bring up their forearm level to the ground and no higher than chest high to cushion any contact with the defender. The offensive player, however, is not allowed to extend the forearm more than 10 inches from their body. (it is a judgment call by the referee)

Defensive pass interference: the defensive player cannot extend their arm to create separation from the receiver or keep the receiver from their route. A defensive player can bring up their forearm level to the ground and no higher than chest high to cushion any contact with the receiver. The defensive player, however, is not allowed to extend the forearm more than 10 inches from their body. (it is a judgment call by the referee.) Defensive pass interference also includes holding a receiver, making contact before the ball is to the receiver, and face guarding.

Note: a defender has just as much right to the ball as the receiver. If contact is made while both players are going for the ball it is up to the discretion of the referee to decide whether the contact was illegal.

Offensive flag guarding: an offensive player cannot impede a defender from pulling their flag. If a motion of the arm or hand is made to keep the defender from the flag the play will be called dead, and the ball placed at the spot of the foul. An offensive player’s running style is not taken into consideration. It is the referee’s discretion to decide if the defender was kept from pulling the flag.

Offensive charging: the defensive player has a right to their space; the offensive player must make and attempt to spin/move around the defender. If the defensive player slides or moves into the path of the offensive player, no call will be made. If the offensive player initiates contact or runs into the stationary defensive player who has already established their position on the field, the play will be called dead, and the ball will be placed at the spot of the foul.

Unnecessary roughness: It is understood that incidental contact will occur on the field. If, in the eyes of the referee, a player maliciously goes after another player a 5-yard penalty will be enforced. Competition is part of the game and tempers can flare at any time. If one player purposely goes after another and makes unnecessary contact the penalty will be called, and the player may be thrown out of the game.

Illegal offensive pick play: it is the responsibility of the offensive player to give the defender enough space on the field to cover the receiver. They may not intentionally obstruct the defender from defending the offensive player. It will be up to the referee’s discretion to determine if the contact is intentional or unintentional. Intentional contact will result in an offensive penalty and loss of down.

Unsportsmanlike-like conduct: if, in the opinion of the referee, a player uses malicious intent to go after another player or taunts another player causing a fight to ensue, the player will automatically be ejected.

If in the opinion of the referee a player demonstrates disrespect for the other team or referee, that player may be ejected or penalized for 2 minutes during which time his team will play short.

Tiebreakers proceed in this order:

If two or more teams are tied, the head-to-head results (win/loss record of the game(s) between the tied teams) determine the winner.
If two or more teams are still tied, the winner is the team with the fewest points scored against them in all games.
If two or more teams are still tied, the point differential for all the games between the tied teams determines the winner.

Policies and procedures

A1. Player registration

A1-1 waivers

All players must sign a waiver of liability form. If a participant is under the age of eighteen, a parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver. A team using a player who did not complete a waiver prior to playing will forfeit that game.

A1-2 player eligibility

A youth player may play in a youth age group older than he is eligible for, but never in a younger age group.
Persons with physical or mental impairments of a serious nature that may put themselves or others at risk will be restricted from play. Pregnancy and heart problems are conditions that put persons at risk.
The sports emporium staff may restrict advanced players from playing in certain leagues.

A2. Team Awards

The winner of each regular season league will receive a championship T-shirt. Players must play at least three games to get a t-shirt.

A3. Player’s equipment

A3-1 Jewelry, Footwear, and headwear

No jewelry or watches are allowed.

Outdoor grass cleats are allowed. (no metal on the cleats) turf shoes are fine if they have more than twenty cleats.

no hats are allowed.

A3-2 braces and casts

Knee braces must be inspected and approved by the referee prior to the start of the game. Only hand or arm casts are allowed. Casts must be padded and must be inspected and approved by the referee prior to the start of the game.

A4 injuries

The referee shall send any player off the field that requires treatment for injury or blood (regardless of whether the blood is his own or another’s or is on his body or uniform). For treatments of blood, the player must obtain the referee’s approval before he may re-enter the field.

play shall stop when the referee decides;

An injury is critical
The injured player’s location is likely to interfere with play, or
The injured player’s team has control of the ball

During all league games the clock is continuous and will not be stopped due to injury unless determined necessary by staff.

NONPROFIT 501 C3

Policies & Rules

Sports Emporium

rules

RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT

Refund cancellation policy

birthday party waiver / cancellation policy

alcohol policy

Soccer Rules 2024-2025

Adult Flag Footbal Rules 2024-2025

Youth Flag Football Rules 2024-2025

Offensive pass interference; loss of down

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