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.  

Teams

• Players must wear:

  • Shorts, socks, shin guards, soccer shoes, and a numbered jersey

• Each team fields 7 players, including a goalkeeper

  • Goalkeepers may wear a designated goalie shirt

• A minimum of 5 players is required to start a game

• All players must be registered in the BMSA program

• Equal playing time is required for all players, regardless of skill level

• Teams will switch ends at halftime

Substitutions

Substitutions are allowed under the following conditions:

• During a stoppage in play

• In the event of an injury

• At the coach’s request, with referee approval

Substitution timing and expectations should be agreed upon by both coaches and the referee before the game begins.

Game Play

• Unless otherwise stated, FIFA rules apply

• Games consist of two 25-minute halves

  • Halftime break: 5–10 minutes

Monday Schedule

• 20–30 minute practice starting at 6:15 PM

• Game begins immediately after (no later than 6:45 PM)

General Rules

• The referee determines which team starts with possession

• The home team (listed second on the schedule) chooses which end to defend

• Ball size: Size 4

• Offside rule does not apply

Throw-ins

• Players are given a second attempt if the first throw-in is incorrect

Fouls & Free Kicks

The following actions result in a free kick awarded to the opposing team:

• Kicking or attempting to kick

• Tripping or attempting to trip

• Jumping at or charging an opponent

• Striking or attempting to strike

• Holding or pushing

• Deliberate handball (except by the goalkeeper within their penalty area)

• Tackling an opponent and making contact before the ball

If a foul occurs inside the penalty area, a penalty kick is awarded.

• Spitting results in immediate removal from the game

Free Kick Rules

• All free kicks are indirect, except:

  • Intentional fouls inside the 12-yard box (penalty kick)

• If a goalkeeper handles the ball outside the 12-yard box:

  • An indirect free kick is awarded at the spot of the infraction

• Back pass rule (U8 only):

  • No free kick is awarded if a goalkeeper handles a ball passed back by a teammate

Goalkeeping & Restarts

• Goalkeepers must wear a different colored shirt or pinnie

Goal Kicks

• May be taken from anywhere within the goal area (before the 5-yard line)

• Opponents must remain outside the 12-yard box

• The ball must leave the 12-yard box before being touched again

Field & Sideline Rules

• No parents are allowed on the field

• Players and coaches sit on one side of the field

• Spectators must sit on the opposite side, at least 1–2 yards from the sideline

• No one may stand behind the net

Conduct & Sportsmanship

• Teams will participate in handshakes before the game begins

• Coaches, parents, and spectators must:

  • Show respect for referees and players

  • Avoid criticism of officials

  • Encourage positive behavior from players

• All participants must follow the BMSA Code of Conduct

This program focuses on development, teamwork, and enjoyment—thank you for helping create a respectful and supportive soccer environment.