⚽ Belmont Minor Soccer Association Mini Soccer - Rules of the Game

The Belmont Minor Soccer Association (BMSA) would like to remind parents, coaches, and players of the importance of fair play, patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement during every soccer game. 

🟢 The Teams

1. Required Equipment: Shorts, socks, shin guards, and team shirt. (No soccer cleats allowed.)

2. Each team will consist of 7 players on the field, including one goalkeeper.

3. A team must have a minimum of 5 players to begin a game.

4. All players must be registered in the BMSA Under 6 soccer program.

5. All players must receive equal playing time (and sitting time).

6. Substitutions are allowed at any time.

7. Teams will switch ends at halftime.

🔵 The Play

1. Games consist of two 15-minute halves with a 5–10 minute halftime break.

   • Extra water breaks may be taken in hot weather at the coaches’ discretion.

2. Each evening begins with a 15-minute practice at 6:30 p.m., immediately followed by the game.

   • Games should begin no later than 6:50 p.m.

3. The home team (listed second on the schedule) chooses which end to defend. Coaches will start the game.

4. Coaches will referee the game, while encouraging all players.

5. All games and practices will use a Size 3 ball.

6. Throw-ins: One retake allowed if the first attempt is incorrect (e.g., foot fault).

7. Penalty and corner kicks are awarded at the coaches’ discretion.

8. If a player commits any of the following, coaches will stop play and remind them about fair play:

   • Kicking or attempting to kick

   • Tripping or attempting to trip

   • Jumping at

   • Charging

   • Striking or attempting to strike

   • Holding

   • Pushing

   • Deliberate handball (except goalkeeper inside own penalty area)

   • Spitting is not tolerated — coaches will stop play and discuss the behavior with the player and parent.

9. The goalkeeper must wear a different colored shirt or pinnie.

🟡 Conduct

1. Handshakes between teams will take place before the game begins.

2. Players, coaches, parents, and spectators must not criticize the game at any time and are expected to encourage positive behavior from all participants.