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HYSA Guidelines for Referees

 

The goal of the Hammonton Youth Soccer Association (HYSA) Recreational League is to provide a fun recreational soccer environment for children in grades 1 thru 8. We seek to develop soccer players… not only in terms of their soccer skills, but also in terms of their self-esteem and self-confidence. Players should learn to be competitive and try hard, and also learn to win and lose with good sportsmanship.

We want to ensure that our Recreational League games are fair, positive and enjoyable experiences for all of the children and adults involved. A soccer game should be friendly and unifying - a spirited social and athletic occasion for players, coaches, referees and spectators.

In keeping with those goals, we have provided the following guidelines for all Recreational League Referees:

Division
Number of Players
Ball Size
Game Length
PeeWee
7 vs 7
#3
10 minute quarters, 5 minute half-time interval,
2 minute intervals after each quarter
MiniNovice
8 vs 8
#4
12 minute quarters, 5 minute half-time interval,
2 minute intervals after each quarter
Novice
8 vs 8
#4
12 minute quarters, 5 minute half-time interval,
2 minute intervals after each quarter
Senior
8 vs 8
#5
12 minute quarters, 5 minute half-time interval,
2 minute intervals after each quarter
  • In the PeeWee Division, allow two chances for a player to make a proper throw-in, only blatant offsides (goalhanging) should be called, and there are no Penalty kicks... award a Direct or Indirect kick as deemed appropriate.
  • In the MiniNovice Division, allow two chances for a player to make a proper throw-in.
  • Except as noted in the chart above, FIFA rules apply in all other cases.
  • Spectators are to be the opposite touchline from the teams, and at least 3 feet from the touchline. No coaches, players or spectators are allowed to stand at the goal lines.
  • Players without the proper uniform and equipment are not allowed to participate.
  • Get to the fields 15 minutes before game time. If you are late, an HYSA Board Member will begin the game, and you will not be paid for that game. Start the games ON TIME.
  • The home team is responsible for providing each game ball.
  • Time should be stopped only for major injuries or lengthy interuptions of play. No more than one minute of stoppage time may be added at the end of the game.
  • During the game, keep up with the flow of play, and be involved, courteous and confident in your play-calling.
  • USE YOUR WHISTLE. Blow your whistle LOUDLY and make your calls LOUDLY and CLEARLY so that the players, coaches and spectators know the call.
  • USE YOUR CARDS. Caution players with a yellow card for inappropriate play. A Cautioned player must be immediately substituted for, and cannot come back into play until that team's next opportunity for substitution.
  • KEEP THE GAME MOVING. Direct players to get the ball or retrieve it yourself.
  • PROTECT THE PLAYERS -- especially the goalkeeper. Slide tackling is not permitted at the PeeWee and MiniNovice age level. Use the "dangerous play" call whenever appropriate.
  • After the game, return the game ball to the home team, and usher the players to the sideline to congratulate each other, so that the next game can begin immediately.
  • After your final game, turn all of your Score Cards to the appropriate box located at the Concession Stand.
  • Encourage and enforce HYSA's philosophies -- everyone plays, positive coaching and good sportsmanship. Always remember that the game is for the players.
  • Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches and spectators. Seek assistance and guidance from an HYSA Board Member.
  • Contact the HYSA Referee Coordinator, Robin Guyer (704-8120), for game assignments and any requested changes to the referee's schedule. Robin will coordinate all changes. Please do not make your own arrangements.

No alcoholic beverages of any kind are allowed at youth sporting events.

Support the League's efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sporting activities.