2002 Fall Season Rule Changes for INTER-REGIONAL Play

1.    There will be Free Substitutions again allowed in U16 and U19 level play for all inter-regional games in Area D. Teams traveling outside of Area D must adhere to the host Area/Region rule.

2.    The Free Substitution Rule will be, "at ANY natural stoppage of play either team can request a substitution. It is up to the game Referee (not the assistant referees on the lines) to decide if s/he will allow the substitution". This is not a protest able decision by coaches.

        Note: Advice to referee's: You do not have to allow the substitution if in your opinion it is designed merely to  stop the flow of an attack in progress or will unduly affect your game management. It is suggested that you do not allow substitutions if you have less than 1 minute left in a half.

3.    Cautioning of Players during inter-regional Play. There is NO MANDATORY REMOVAL OF PLAYERS AT ANY AGE LIMIT IF CAUTIONED. The referee can request the coach remove the player if in his/her opinion they need to leave because of actions or attitude. This is a cooling off period and the coach can substitute or play short at the coach's discretion. The player should remain off the field for a recommended two (2) minute minimum period of time. Re-entry is at the normal substitution rules. [coaches should be aware that if a Referee "asks" for a player to cool off it is in the best interests of the team, otherwise the Referee may have to remove the player by use of Misconduct powers and the would be hurtful to the Game, the Team and the spirit of AYSO.

4.    Players at the U10 level or below should never be shown cards, however they may still be cautioned, the coach should be informed so that s/he can decide whether to remove the player or not. Under 6 and Under 8 generally do not interplay, but if so then follow the under 10 rule.

        Remember: coaches cannot be carded but only warned (same as cautioning a player/substitute) or asked to leave (this is called a dismissal).