Standards of Play

ENY Inter League – U12 Standards of Play | Sanctioned by ENYYSA

Game Format

  • Players: 8 field players + 1 goalkeeper (9v9)

  • Maximum Game Day Roster: 18 players

  • Minimum Players to Start: 6 players

  • Ball Size: Size 4

  • Match Duration: 2 x 35 minutes

Field & Equipment Standards

  • Goal Size: Minimum 6 x 18 ft to 7 x 21 ft

  • USSF Recommended Minimum and Maximum Field Dimensions (yards):

    • Length: 70–80 yards

    • Width: 45–55 yards

AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Requirement

  • The Home Team is responsible for having an AED on site for all home matches

  • The AED location must be confirmed with the referee prior to kickoff

  • The AED must be accessible, visible, and functional for the duration of the match

  • Failure to comply may result in delayed kickoff, match abandonment, or disciplinary action in accordance with ENYYSA and U.S. Soccer safety policies

Team & Parent Placement (Sideline Management)

  • Teams and coaches must be positioned on one sideline only

  • Parents and spectators must be positioned on the opposite sideline, directly across from the teams

  • No spectators are permitted behind goals or along end lines

  • Coaches are responsible for maintaining sideline compliance at all times

Expected Team & Parent Behavior

  • All players, coaches, parents, and spectators must demonstrate respectful and sportsmanlike behavior

  • Dissent, verbal abuse, harassment, or intimidation toward referees, players, coaches, or league officials will not be tolerated

ENYYSA Zero Tolerance Policy

  • The ENY Inter League enforces the ENYYSA Zero Tolerance Policy on Misconduct Toward Referees, aligned with U.S. Soccer Policy 531-9

  • Violations may result in removal from the field, suspensions, fines, and further disciplinary action

  • Clubs and coaches are responsible for educating parents and spectators prior to match day

  • ENYYSA Zero Tolerance Policy (2025):
    https://www.enysoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/223/2025/02/ZTPolicy2025.pdf

Match Day Requirements

  • Printed Match Day Team Rosters with Photo ID are mandatory for all games

  • Two physical hard copies must be brought to every match and exchanged with the opponent and referee prior to kickoff

  • Digital rosters are not permitted

  • Only players and coaches listed on the printed roster may be present on the team sideline

  • Referee fee payment must be made on match day prior to kickoff unless otherwise instructed by the home league

  • Teams must arrive early to allow time for check-in, roster exchange, referee payment, field setup, and AED confirmation

  • Proper uniforms and equipment must comply with the USSF Laws of the Game

  • Referees have the authority to delay, suspend, or terminate a match if match day, safety, payment, or behavior requirements are not met

Referee Fees

  • Total Fee: $80

  • Split: $40 per team

Game Changes

  • All game change requests must follow the Home League’s official Game Change Policy