Outdoor League 2026 Rules/Regulations

LUSC Soccer – Spring 2026 Outdoor League Rules

League Philosophy

LUSC Soccer emphasizes player development, participation, and enjoyment over winning or losing. All rules are designed to support a positive youth soccer environment.

Playing Time

  • Every child must play a minimum of 5 minutes per game.

  • Playing time is at the coach’s discretion, except in the following cases:

    • Game shortened for any reason

    • Player injury

    • Player discipline for missed practices

    • Player not following team rules

Substitutions

  • Substitutions are allowed only at the halfway line.

  • Coaches must notify the official before substitutions.

  • Missed or repeated practice issues must be reported before kickoff.

Game Delays & Postponements

  • Games postponed due to weather may require 1–2 make-up games.

  • If a game is stopped due to weather after halftime, the score stands as final.

Forfeits & Penalties

Failure to comply with participation rules may result in:

  • 1st offense: Suspension for one game

  • 2nd offense: Suspension for the remainder of the season

Sideline Rules

  • Only 1 head coach and 1 assistant coach allowed on the sideline.

  • All sidelines must be cleaned by the team occupying them after the game.

  • Head coach is responsible for sideline behavior.

Protests

  • Protests must be submitted in writing.

  • $100 protest fee (non-refundable).

  • Protests must include:

    • Description of the play and ruling

    • Rule reference and explanation

  • Decisions by league directors are final.

  • Referee judgment calls cannot be protested.

Uniforms & Equipment

  • LUSC provides the official uniform.

  • Players must wear the full uniform.

  • Players provide their own:

    • Shorts

    • Shin guards

    • Cleats

  • No jewelry once play has started.

  • Earrings only allowed if newly pierced and approved by referee.

Prohibited Equipment

  • Hard casts or braces (no exceptions)

  • Equipment designed to increase height or reach

  • Dangerous or confusing items as determined by referee

Allowed Equipment

  • Soft headbands (max 2 inches wide)

  • Hair control bands

  • Headwear for religious reasons (if safe)

Goalkeeper Rules

  • Goalkeeper may:

    • Pick up the ball inside the penalty area

    • Punt, drop kick, or throw the ball

  • Goalkeeper may not delay play unnecessarily.

Final Authority

  • LUSC Soccer reserves the right to amend rules as needed.

  • League Director decisions are final.

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