Updated: 10/05/06
South Bay Adult Soccer League (also know as SBASL) is a recreational and amateur soccer league situated in Silicon Valley, California. SBASL was established in 1975 and currently has 200 registered teams. SBASL strives to promote the game of soccer in the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship. Further, it is our desire to develop and provide competition among the players, teams and clubs while growing the overall interest in adult soccer around the bay area.
By participating in league games and activities players are agreeing to abide by the rules set forth and are further agreeing to accept any disciplinary action as deemed necessary by the league director or disciplinary committee whether in the form of suspension, fines or ejection from the league. Player's participation in the activities of the South Bay Adult Soccer League is at their own risk, and is not covered in any way for personal liability by the league. South Bay Adult Soccer League is not responsible for any incurred injuries.
All individual players must be members of the league to participate in league games. However, for the purpose of recruitment and extra players for teams short of a full squad at game time, each team will be allowed 3 guest players per game.
All players/members must be at least eighteen (18) years of age. Membership is annual and will expire for ALL members on the first day of April every year. The annual fee for membership will be determined by the league director and the league advisors. Membership cycles annually on March 31st. Membership will be prorated quarterly, full membership from April though June, ¾ from July though September, ½ from October though December and ¼ from January though February.
Players assigned on a regular team must be members of the league. Teams can have as many league members assigned to their team as they choose. However, only 26 players/members can be assigned to a team per season. The maximum number of players a team can bring to a game is 18 for all men's leagues and 22 for Co-Ed.
A team roster is to be provided at the beginning of a season. Players can be added throughout the season until 26 total players are on the roster. Once a full roster of 26 players has been reached only 3 roster changes will be allowed for add/drop. There is no charge for add/drop.
League members can join up to 4 teams within the South Bay Adult Soccer League. A membership card will be provided for EACH team for no additional fee/cost. League members can play as guest players on other teams without joining that team but count against the team's maximum number of 3 guest players per team.
Team managers are advised to keep membership cards with them. Individuals can carry their membership cards but should be advised that they CANNOT play if they fail to provide their card at game time, unless they play as a guest player.
Every team is allowed 3 guest players per game for the purpose of recruitment and "sub" players for teams short of a full squad at game time. Guest players MUST provide at game time a league membership card or valid driver's license, passport or Government Issue identification. If the Identification provided does not have a photo of the player and their date of birth they can not play. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Guest Player Fine and penalty: A team playing a non-member guest player(s) that receive Red Card is responsible to pay for their red card fine before the start of their next game and the team will lose ONE point from their accumulative total points.
Official FIFA rules shall cover all situations except for the following:
The game will start if each team has at least seven (7) players; eleven (11) players constitute a full team. No game can continue if either one or both teams have less than seven (7) players due to ejections, injuries, or other events. A team with less than seven (7) players forfeits the game and losses 1-0.
Games shall be divided into two (2) forty-five (45) minute halves. Five (5) minutes between halves. No added time will be applied to games for injury or stoppage. Additionally, no added time will be applied for teams that arrive late or request a delayed start while waiting for players to arrive.
Games start on time. Teams not ready to start their game 10 minutes past kick-off time must receive the referee and opposing team managers approval for continued delay of start or forfeit the game. Opposing managers have the right to receive the forfeit win.
Any time a game is stopped because of darkness, rain or other weather conditions, field conditions, fights or based on the referees' decision to stop the game for the safety of the players, spectators or themselves the game score is considered final.
A match is considered official once the first half has been completed. Games stopped after the first half due to any of the above listed conditions of will not receive a refund, credit or make-up game.
Unlimited substitutions are allowed during the course of a game. A player may enter and leave as often as desired. Players entering and exiting the field MUST do so from their half of the field. They must first be recognized by the referees. Player substitution can happen simultaneously, meaning one can run off while the other is running on. If the exiting player interferes with the play they will be yellow carded and the other team will be awarded a free kick. Substitutions are allowed during any stoppage of play. This includes:
Yellow cards are awarded under normal FIFA rules. Players awarded yellow cards ARE EXPECTED to graciously accept the booking regardless of whether or not they agree with the call. Players that dispute their card or show dissention toward the referee will be immediately red carded.
Yellow Card Cool-off: Players that receive a yellow card for any reason MUST sub with any eligible player from their team for 15 minutes. If there are no available substitutes the team must play short for 15 minutes. This rule applies to all players on the field including the goal keeper.
Red Cards are awarded under normal FIFA Rules. Any player receiving a red card or two yellows within a match equaling a red will be ejected from the game. The player cannot be substituted, and the team must play short. Red carded player(s) are suspended for one week of play and must abide to the following:
Zero Tolerance for fighting: The league enforces a Zero Tolerance rule for fighting. Any player(s) fighting before, during or after a match can be awarded a "Zero Tolerance Red Card." Any player given this card will be fined a minimum of $50.00 maximum $200.00 depending on the severity of the situation and the final ruling from the League Discipline committee. The discipline committee will also rule on length of suspension. Teams will be held accountable for any of their players, fans or spectators involved in a fight. They will further be held responsible for paying any fines or serving any penalties assessed by the discipline committee.
Games will be declared a forfeit loss under (but not limited too) the following circumstances:
If a team forfeits two (2) or more games during the course of a season, the league has the right to drop the team without refund or credit.
If a team is going to voluntarily forfeit a game, regardless of the situation; a (72) hour notice is required. A $50.00 fine will be imposed on any team that fails to provide 72 hours notice of forfeit or is a "no-show" on game day. The fine must be paid before the next game.
Forfeited games that receive a score are considered official matches regardless of whether or not teams even showed up to the field. No refund, credit or "make-up" game will be provided for forfeit matches.
Teams are allowed, yet highly discouraged, to postpone games once within a current season. Both teams must agree to the postponement and both teams must be willing to accept possible double game bookings within the same day or week during the make up schedule. Teams scheduled on turf fields should take note that approval for a postponed turf field or division games ARE NOT guaranteed to be rescheduled on a turf fields. No refunds of turf field fees will be provided to either team for games that are postponed and rescheduled on grass fields.
The following is a list of the criteria that must be met to be approved for a postponement:
There are some sub-leagues within the league or divisions within a specific league that have unique rules that apply to them:
Teams are allowed 3 ID checks per game. I.D. check requests MUST be made prior to the start of the game or at half time. Post game, you must appeal. No team is allowed any extra players after the start of the second half. Teams that sub in new players that have not checked in with the referee BEFORE the start of the second half forfeit their game.
Team Division Placement:Teams will be placed in divisions based on the level of experience and participation in the league. League advisors will try to maintain parity within the divisions. A team winning its division WILL be moved up to the next division the following season. A team that finishes its division at the bottom will be moved down into the next lower division.
All decisions made by the referees assigned to South Bay Adult Soccer League matches are final. SBASL contracts USSF, AYSO and other qualified referees. They are given annual reviews and are subject to Referee Coordinator, League director and manager evaluations.
If there is a problem with the referees that officiate South Bay Adult Soccer League games comments must be made to the league office or the referee coordinator only. Make NO attempt to dispute calls with the officials during the game, during the half, or after the game. No appeals will be accepted pertaining to decisions by the referees through the league office. (See appeals)
Referee abuse will not be tolerated. No player or manager should ever touch the referee in a manner that the referee might find aggressive. Referee abuse is also defined as verbal statements or physical approach that implies or threatens the physical harm of a referee or the referee's property or equipment. Verbal threats are remarks that carry the implied or direct threat of physical harm; such as "I'll get you after the game" or "You won't get out of here in one piece" these shall be deemed referee abuse and the offending individual is subject from a season to a full year suspension from SBASL games. Verbally abusive statements; such as "Are you blind?" or "Are your crazy?" are also considered abusive and the offending player will be yellow carded on the first offence and red carded on the second.
Bottom Line: DO NOT challenge the referees for their management of or ability to call the game. Referees call the shots; players must accept them as called.
Any calls in question must be directed through the team manager or the captain. When questioning a call during a match ONLY the manager or captain can request explanation of the call. Referees MUST NOT be questioned during the half or after the game. Individuals that do so will be fined $50 and suspended for two weeks. If a team has a dispute of a referee call, question about a call or request for interpretation of FIFA or League rules they must send an email to the league director. The purpose will be strictly for educational means. (For that of the referees, the league and the team) No decision will be overturned.
Once every year the league will recruit 5 team managers, from every sub-league, to sit on the league Discipline Committee. This committee will oversee the disciplinary action of other teams and players within the league who break league rules or the laws of the game. This committee will review red card reports and other action items that require discipline of a team or individual player. The committee members will remain anonymous and will recuse themselves from decisions that directly affect their team.
The following is a guide for all teams. This is an outline of what should take place during the normal course of a match. This is an "ideal" scenario and not always practical. However, every effort should be made to complete the steps provided for managers.
Pre-Game: All players should arrive to their field 25 to 30 minutes before kick off time as it allows time for all players to warm up and inspect the field. It also allows time to set up goals and or goal nets, place corner flags and get any referee instructions. The first team to arrive has first choice of side to set up on. Teams should set up on opposite sides of the field. There is no added time; therefore, teams are highly encouraged to arrive early for their match.
Manager instructions:
10 Minutes before kick off: All players are required to proceed to the center circle for membership card and equipment inspection once called by the referees. Teams are required to turn in their game roster. Failure to provide a league authorized game roster before kick off is subject to a forfeit loss. Blank paper, card board boxes, trash, are unacceptable. Please use the roster provided by the league to avoid a forfiet lost. Rosters can be found here.
Manager instructions:
Half time: All players should return to their team's bench. Players who are going to sub in can warm up on the field if they choose. The referees are NOT to be bothered under any circumstances. (They get a break too) Any issues should be raised by the manager or team captain before the kick of the second half.
Post Game: Teams are encouraged to show good sportsmanship and congratulate the other team post game. Immediately following, the players should check with the referees to see if the goals need to be taken down and locked up. All players and managers are required to help store goals away or pick up any trash on or around the field. Teams that fail to clean up after themselves may not be invited back for future seasons.
Appeals/Protest: Teams are allowed to appeal or protest a game if they believe another team is in violation of league or FIFA rules. A game CANNOT be appealed or protested based on any calls made by the referees.
Acceptable Protest Example: An Over-35 team notices during the last ten minutes of a match that their opposing team is playing someone who appears to be underage. Following the game the manager asked the referee to check the players ID. The player states he/she will have to get it but never returns.
Unacceptable Protest Example: A team is winning their match 2-1 and in the last 5 minutes the referee calls a hand ball in the 18 yard box and awards a penalty to the opposing team. The call seems clearly wrong, even the other team doesn't seem sure about it but takes the kick and ties the game 2-2.
Every team in the league is required to follow the Uniform and Team Equipment requirements:
REQUIRED:
Uniforms: All teams must have matching colored jerseys (except goalkeepers) with 8 inch numbers to participate in league games.
Cleats and Shin Guards: All players must wear soccer shoes and shin guards in order to play. No exceptions without prior written approval from the league director.
Goal Net: One goal net must be provided by all teams. Teams who fail to bring a net to a game must expect a forfeit.
Corner Flags: A set of two (2) corner flags must be provided by all teams. Teams that play on turf (synthetic) fields must provide "weighted" corner flags. Teams that fail to provide corner flags start their games one goal down.
Game Ball: All teams are to bring one game ball to their match.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
Pennies: Teams that do not have multiple jerseys' (home and away colors) or reversible jerseys should invest in 11 pennies. They are $2.00 each and well worth the cost. Teams can not play "skins."
First Aid Kit: A very useful item to have in your team kit.
All Individuals attending South Bay Adult Soccer League games must comply with all municipal ordinances at the field and surrounding areas. Your cooperation will ensure our continued ability to rent the fields.
Managers/Captains: The manager or Captain shall be the official representative of his or her team. They are responsible for the team conduct in accordance with good sportsmanship; these league rules, the official FIFA rules, and the laws of the game. Thus, they are also responsible to see that the players on their team are familiar with the league rules. They are considered to be the financial liaison between their team and the league. Any league fees, past due bills or fines (ie. Red cards) are ultimately the responsibility of the team manager to collect from his or her team.
Managers/Captains and Players are fully responsible for any family, friends or spectators that accompany them to the field.
A manager may be suspended for an unlimited number of games for not controlling his team, or for using an ineligible player. The league will determine other suspension periods, if not covered specifically herein, as appropriate.
Players: All players must read and comply with the league rules. Each player must have a membership card. Players must also read and comply with the release of liability and sign any release of liability forms provided to play in the league.
Players are responsible for fair, sportsmanlike and polite behavior at all time while participating in SBASL activities. Absolutely NO FIGHTING will be tolerated. Foul, vile or vulgar language will not be used on the field either toward any other player, including your own team mates, the referees or even yourself. Referees are instructed to card offenders. Referee abuse will not be tolerated.
No smoking or consumption of alcoholic beverages is allowed at the field.
The following is a quick guide to all the possible fines or disciplinary items found in league rules. This league reserves the right to alter these fines or disciplinary actions based on specific circumstances or based on ruling of the disciplinary committee.
| Offense | Discipline | Paid By |
|---|---|---|
| Guest Player Red Card | Red Card and $30 fine plus a 1 point reduction | Team |
| 12 players on the field | Yellow | Player |
| Any Yellow Card | Yellow | Player |
| Any Normal Red Card | Red Card and $30 fine | Player/Team |
| Zero Tolerance Red Card | Red Card, $50 to $200 fine, and 1 point reduction | Player/Team |
| Less than 72 notice of forfeit | $50 Fine | Team |
| No Show for game | $50 Fine | Team |
| Playing underage player | Forfeit game | Team |
| Playing suspended player | Forfeit game | Team |
| Player 6 or fewer players | Forfeit game | Team |
| Color conflict (home team) | Forfeit game | Team |
| CO-ED slide tackling | Yellow Card | Team |
| Questioning of Referees Calls (half time or post game) | Red Card and $50.00 fine two week suspension | Player/Team |
| No Goal Net | Forfeit game | Team |
| No Corner flags | Start game one goal down | Team |
| Stopping the game | Forfeit game | Team |
| Playing an unchecked player | Forfeit game | Team |
The point system is as follows:
In the event of a tie in the group standings at the end of the season, the tire breakers are as follows: