We play as close to the IFAB Laws of the Game as possible, with a few local modifications for safety, fairness, and game flow.
The goal is simple: reduce arguments, keep the game moving, and make sure everyone stays safe.
IFAB laws except…
No slide tackles. Slide tackles are not allowed in any situation.
No tactical fouls. Intentional fouls to stop an attack, prevent a breakaway, slow the game down, or gain an unfair advantage are not allowed.
No overly aggressive play. Hard, reckless, or dangerous play will not be tolerated. This includes unnecessary body contact, late challenges, pushing through players, or playing in a way that puts others at risk.
Players who repeatedly play too aggressively may be asked to sit out or leave the game.
If your play makes the game less safe, less fair, or less enjoyable for everyone else, you may be asked to sit out.
There are no referees, so players are expected to call their own fouls, handballs, and out-of-bounds plays honestly.
If you foul someone, call it on yourself.
If a call is disputed, keep it simple: talk briefly, be fair, and move on. The priority is keeping the game moving, not winning an argument.
We do not play with normal offside calls. However, cherry-picking is not allowed. Cherry-picking means a player is standing clearly behind the defense, roughly 5+ yards beyond the last defender, and is not making a normal run with the play.
Cherry-picking may only be called by the defenders or goalkeeper.
Players making attacking runs should make a good-faith effort to stay reasonably in line with play. Be your own ref.
The goalkeeper has the final call on whether the ball is a goal kick or corner kick. If there is no goalkeeper in the moment, the defending team makes the call.
If your team does not have a dedicated goalkeeper, players are expected to rotate and volunteer. Everyone should be willing to help in goal when needed. Players who refuse to take a turn may be assigned a turn by the group organizer or team.
This is competitive pickup, but it is still pickup. Play hard, but do not play dirty. Respect the other players, make honest calls, avoid unnecessary contact, and keep the game moving.
If you ever feel unsafe or have a serious concern, please reach out to Jon immediately.