TEAM REGISTRATION
EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 2026
Season
Season means the competitive season beginning August 1 of each year and ending July 31 of the following year.
Age Groups:
Each team must enter the age group consistent with the highest age of any of its players based upon calendar birth year age brackets for that season.
Fall 2026 – Spring 2027
Genders:
Team gender designations:
- Teams with females only are girls’ teams.
- All other teams are boys’ teams.
Eligibility
Open to all teams regardless of your league affiliation.
Roster Size:
The master roster size for teams is 30 and may include any age-appropriate valid carded player from within the Club. Master rosters for the Tri State Championship may be updated at any time.
- To be added to any event roster (league, tri state championship), a player must first be designated as a P on a carding event roster. A player may then be added as a dual/secondary player on a second team in the club.
The only restrictions are:
- A player on a PLATINUM team may ONLY play on ONE team (PLATINUM) within the same age group.
- A player on a GOLD team may ONLY play on one GOLD team within the same age group.
- A player on a GOLD team may play on any PLATINUM team within the same age group.
- A player on a GOLD team may NOT play on a SILVER team within the same age group.
- A player on a SILVER team may ONLY play on one SILVER team within the same age group.
- A player on a SILVER team may play on any PLATINUM or GOLD team within the same age group.
- A players designated as a P on a carding event roster is only permitted to play on the highest level team within the same age group.
- A player is permitted to play up an age group(s) without any restriction.
- A player is tied to one club for the duration of the competition.
Guest Players
NO guest players are permitted in any Tri State Championship competitions. Guest players are defined as players with ENYYSA passes from another club.
PLAYER REGISTRATION
Eligibility
Eligibility is open to all youth irrespective of race, nationality, color or religious affiliation or non-affiliation. The Tri State Championship is limited to youth players. A youth player is any person up to and including U19, other than a professional or amateur player.
Player Release/Transfer:
Teams must satisfy their league’s transfer requirements to secure player passes.
COACH REGISTRATION
Eligibility
Eligibility to coach is open to all adults irrespective of race, nationality, color or religious affiliation or non-affiliation. Clubs are responsible for selecting coaches. The clubs’ coaches must adhere to the rules, regulations and guidelines set forth by the league. The league is not responsible for the selection process or for providing coaches to the clubs.
Coach Presence at Games
The club must have a coach, from within the same club, on the sidelines at all scheduled matches in which the team participates. A coach must be on the sidelines even if a trainer is present. The coach must be in possession of a valid Adult Supervisor pass from the same club as the team. A coach must be present throughout the entire match or the match will be terminated and forfeited to the opponent, 3-0. A maximum of 3 coaches are permitted on the team sidelines per match. If a coach, other than the one listed on the printed roster will be covering a game, the name must be handwritten on the Official Match Day Card with Photos and their valid, physical pass presented to the referee. Coaches may only coach for a team affiliated with the same club and USSF entity, and their pass must be presented at the scheduled match. Trainer Presence at Games Those holding trainer passes are permitted to join the team’s sideline without being rostered.
RULES OF PLAY:
All Tri State Championship sanctioned competitions must be played in accordance with the most current FIFA laws of the Game and the modifications noted within these rules unless specifically accepted by authorization of the NYCS Executive Board. It is the responsibility of all coaches and referees to be thoroughly familiar with and abide by the FIFA laws and these modifications.
Ball Size
- U9-U12 teams all utilize ball size #4.
- U13 and older teams all utilize ball size #5.
The home team will provide the game ball.
Duration of the Game
- Halftimes are 5 minutes for all age groups.
- There shall be NO OVERTIME periods in the Tri State Championship Group Stage competition.
Field Size and Age Group Format
The field of play shall conform to FIFA Law I, except as listed.
Substitutions
Re-entry is unlimited for all Tri State Championship games, with the consent of the referee at any stoppage in play.
- Change With The Goalkeeper: Any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper provided that the referee is informed before the change is made, and that the change is made during a stoppage in the game.
- Substitution Procedure: When a goalkeeper or any other player is to be replaced by a substitute, the following conditions shall be observed:
- The referee shall be informed of the proposed substitution before it is made.
- The substitute shall not enter the field of play until the player he/she is replacing has left, and then only after having received a signal from the referee.
- Enter the field during a stoppage in the game, and at the halfway line.
Other FIFA Exceptions
- Heading Rule- When a player deliberately heads the ball in a game, an indirect free kick (IFK) should be awarded to the opposing team from the spot of the offense. lf the deliberate header occurs within the goal area, the indirect free kick (IFK) should be taken on the goal area line parallel to the goal lines at the point nearest to the where the infringement occurred. Referees shall enforce this rule by the age group of the team, they will not be assessing the age of individual players on the field.
- Build Out Lines U9-U10 Only Build Out lines are required for 7v7 play at the U9-U10 age groups.
- When the GK has the ball, either during the play or from a goal kick, the opposing team must retreat behind the build out line
- GK can play the ball right away or once the opposing team is behind the build out line. GK can pass or throw/roll the ball to a teammate anywhere on the field (NO PUNTING or DROPKICKS)
- After the ball is put into play by the GK, by either leaving Goal Keepers hand or by a goal kick, the opposing team can cross the build out line and play resumes as normal
- A restart from the GK’s hands or goal kick will take place if the opposition infringes inside the build out lines
- Free Kicks for all 9v9 & 7v7 Games: until the ball is in play, all opponents must remain 8 yards from the ball.
- Penalty Kicks for all 9v9 & 7v7 Games: The penalty mark shall be 10 yards from the goal line.
Game Format
Game format and maximum number of players dressed per game are listed.
Age Group Format / #Players Dressed
Number of Players
Two teams shall play a match with no more than the listed number of players on the field at one time, one of whom shall be the goalkeeper.
Minimum Number of Players
A minimum number of players shall be required for a scheduled match. Should a team not have at least the minimum number of players at the scheduled match time, it shall forfeit the game 3-0 and will be responsible for the entire referee and associated assignor fees. The minimum number of players per age group is listed.
PLAYERS EQUIPMENT:
Uniforms
The visiting team’s coach or team manager will verify the uniform colors with the home team coach or team manager prior to the game date. All field payers on a team shall wear similar colored jerseys, shorts and soccer socks. A legible non-duplicated number on the back of each jersey is required. Players and substitutes shall not change numbers or remove their jerseys prior to the completion of the game without specific permission of the referee. The color of a team’s jerseys may be different from the color of the team’s shorts and or soccer socks. At each game, both teams shall be able to make a change of jersey color. If both teams are wearing similar colored jerseys, the home team shall be required to change. Goalkeepers shall change jerseys as the referee directs, regardless of the home/visitor status. All players shall have their jerseys tucked into their shorts. Teams may elect to display sponsorship on their team jerseys but may only due so upon approval by the league. Decision of the league is final, without any permissible appeal.
Shin Guards
Shin guards are required equipment for all players and are to be worn at all practices and matches. Shin guards are to be covered entirely by the players’ socks. Shin guards are to be made of suitable-material, rubber or plastic to provide a reasonable degree of protection.
Team Captain Identification
The captain(s) of a team shall wear an armband for identification purposes, which is to be displayed only on the arm.
Safe Equipment
In addition to the authority granted to the referee under FIFA Law V to determine the safety of a player’s equipment as defined in FIFA Law IV, the following shall not be permitted:
- Hair control devices with any hard parts.
- Earrings or any other jewelry, regardless of covering.
In addition to the authority granted to the referee under FIFA Law V, the following shall be permitted:
- A soft splint or a soft cast, provided that the match referee has determined that it is not a danger to himself or another player;
- A hard cast is considered to pose a danger to both the wearer and other players and is not permitted to be worn. The practice of padding a hard cast does not reduce the element of danger;
- A brace, joint or prosthetic device, provided that the match referee has determined that it is not a danger to himself or another player;
- Sports Spectacles: Protective sports spectacles or plastic prescription frames sports spectacles with the lenses fully contained with the frame, and held on by an elastic strap are expressly permitted. Any eye wear containing glass, metal or any sharp edges are prohibited.
- Headgear: Soft foam headgear for goalkeeper, Full 90 type headgear for player, provided that the referee has determined that it is not a danger to himself or another player
If the Referee finds that a player is wearing articles not permitted by the Laws or this Rule, the Referee shall order the player to remove them. If a player fails to carry out the Referee’s instruction, the player shall not take part in the match.
Severe Weather
In the event of severe weather conditions, players will be permitted to wear a sweat suit or similar trousers and stockings, or other type of clothing under their team uniform. Sweatpants must have no metallic buckle, snaps, buttons or other items that the referee considers dangerous to any player.
Goalkeeper
The Goalkeeper is permitted to wear a tracksuit or similar trousers and stockings or other type of clothing in all League sanctioned activities. The Goalkeeper is also permitted to wear a vinyl foam soft soccer helmet.
Coaching from the sidelines
Coaching from the sidelines is permitted, so long as one is giving direction to one’s own team on points of strategy, tactics and position provided that the following conditions are complied with:
- No mechanical devices are used;
- The tone of voice is informative and sportsmanlike;
- No coach, substitute, or player is to be anywhere but within an area extending along his sideline, no more than 20 yards on either side of the mid-field line.
No club official, club member, team manager, player, or spectator may enter the field of play regardless of the circumstances unless the referee has given them permission. If this is disregarded, they shall become subject to disciplinary action by the Disciplinary Committee.
Accidents or Unusual Incidents
The team coach or manager must report any accident or unusual incident to the league.
Suspended Coach
Any coach who has been placed on suspension is not permitted to participate in any manner whatsoever in the activities of the League during the suspension. The suspended person is not permitted to be present at the site of a match or areas immediately adjacent. PENALTY: Disciplinary action by the Disciplinary Committee.
Suspended Player
A player who has been placed on suspension is not permitted to dress for any match during the time period of his/her suspension, nor be present at the site of a match or areas immediately adjacent (player may participate in team practices). PENALTY: Disciplinary action by the Disciplinary Committee.
Standings (Tri State Championship Group Stage)
Standings are kept for all Tri State Championship group stage games and are determined by the following point system:
U9-U14 Teams At the conclusion of the Tri State Championship group play/stage 1, the winners and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress to the first knockout round (the round of 16) for group stages consisting of 24 through 32 teams. In groups of less than 32 teams, wild card teams will also progress to the first knockout round of 16 (Tri State Championship Knockout Format). In groups of more than 32 teams, the winners in each four-team bracket will progress to the first knockout round (the round of 16), wild card teams will also progress to the first knockout round of 16 (Tri State Championship Knockout Format). This will be based on the listed tiebreakers. If the teams are still tied, then a single match elimination game will be played. The home team will be decided on a coin flip. U15-U18/19 Teams At the conclusion of Tri State Championship group play/stage 1, the winners in each bracket will progress to the first knockout round (quarterfinals) for group stages consisting of 13 through 24 teams. In groups of less than 24 teams, wild card teams will also progress to the first knockout quarterfinals round (Tri State Championship Knockout Format). In groups of more than 24 teams, the top-ranked winners in each bracket will progress to the first knockout round (quarterfinals), wild card teams will also progress to the first knockout quarterfinals round (Tri State Championship Knockout Format). This will be based on the listed tiebreakers. If the teams are still tied, then a single match elimination game will be played. The home team will be decided on a coin flip. Tiebreakers: In the event that the Tri State Championship teams in any of the brackets finish tied for first place, based on points, at the conclusion of the group stage, the winning team will be decided by the following tiebreakers, in order listed:
- Head to Head (Does not apply if three (3) or more teams are tied.)
- Goal Differential
- U9-U14 Teams: maximum of 5 goals per game
- U15-U18/19 Teams: unlimited number of goals per game
- Fewest Goals Allowed
- U9-U14 Teams: maximum of 5 goals per game
- U15-U18/19 Teams: unlimited number of goals per game
- Number of Shutouts
- If two teams are tied for first place after all of the tiebreakers above, a coin toss will determine which team is designated as a winner and which as a runner-up, as long as the runner-up advances. Should the runner-up not advance, the teams will play a special play-in game to determine who will advance to the knockout round for the Tri State Championship.
- If two teams are tied after all of the tie breakers above and a coin toss eliminates one of them from advancing, they will play a special play-in game to determine who will advance to the knockout round for the Tri State Championship.
- Should play-off games be necessary for either team, the Tri State Championship criteria are detailed under Standings.
- Tie Games: If a Tri State Championship group stage scheduled game ends in a tie score at the end of regulation playing time, the game and score shall stand as official.
- Team Withdraws/Is Removed During Group Stage: If a team withdraws or is removed from competition during the group stage, all scores and point records for or in connection with that team shall be nullified and all group stage games played or scheduled to be played shall be recorded as a 0-3 loss for the opposing team.
- Team Withdraws/Is Removed During Knockout Stage: If a team withdraws or is removed from competition during the knockout stage, NYCS will make a determination to either award a win by forfeit or to replace referenced team with appropriately ranked team. NYCS decision is final.
- Team Forfeit/Disqualification: Standings upon conclusion of the Tri State Championship group Stage will be adjusted to move all teams with a forfeit to last place, as a forfeit disqualifies a team from advancing into the Tri State Championship Knockout Stage.
Tri State Championship Knockout Stage: U9 to U14 Teams
NYCS has the authority to cap the number of teams in any age group bracket prior to the start of the Tri State Championship play. On conclusion of the group play/stage 1, a drawing will determine the matchup for the knockout round of the tournament. All top finishers shall be matched against the runners-up or wild card teams. This shall be accomplished by placing top finishers and runners-up/wild card teams in two separate pools for the drawing. During the first knockout round (Round of 16), teams that were in the same group will not be allowed to matchup against each other. However, teams will be allowed to match up in the later knockout stages. For groups that start the first knockout round with the quarterfinals or semifinals, teams that were in the same group will be allowed to matchup against each other. Top finishers for brackets progressing directly to the round of 16 are defined as the winners of each bracket followed by the next best team(s) based upon the tiebreakers yet limited to the top 8 teams. Top finishers for brackets progressing directly to the quarterfinals are defined as the winners of each bracket followed by the next best team(s) based upon the tiebreakers yet limited to the top 4 teams. FOR STARTING GROUPS OF MORE THAN 32 TEAMS, TEAMS WILL PROGRESS TO THE PLAYOFF ROUND OF 16 AS INDICATED.
GROUP STAGE OF 40 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 40, the winners of each bracket progress directly to the round of 16. The next 4 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also progress directly to the round of 16. Based upon the tiebreakers, the 15th place team will play the 18th place team and the 16th place team will play the 17th place team in a play in game to qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 38 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 38, the winners of each bracket progress directly to the round of 16. The next 4 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also progress directly to the round of 16. Based upon the tiebreakers, the 15th place team will play the 18th place team and the 16th place team will play the 17th place team in a play in game to qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 36 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 36, the winners of each bracket progress directly to the round of 16. The next 5 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also progress directly to the round of 16. Based upon the tiebreakers, the 15th place team will play the 18th place team and the 16th place team will play the 17th place team in a play in game to qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 34 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 34, the winners of each bracket progress directly to the round of 16. The next 5 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also progress directly to the round of 16. Based upon the tiebreakers, the 15th place team will play the 18th place team and the 16th place team will play the 17th place team in a play in game to qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 32 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 32, the winners and runners-up progress directly to the round of 16. FOR STARTING GROUPS OF LESS THAN 32 TEAMS, TEAMS WILL PROGRESS TO THE PLAYOFF ROUND (ROUND OF 16 OR QUARTERFINALS) AS INDICATED.
GROUP STAGE OF 31 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 31, the winners of each bracket and the and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. The next best team, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 30 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 30, the winners of each bracket and the and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. The next 2 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 28 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 28, the winners of each bracket and the and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. The next 2 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 27 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 27, the winners of each bracket and the and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. The next 3 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 26 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 26, the winners of each bracket and the and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. The next 4 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 25 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 25, the winners of each bracket and the and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. The next 5 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 24 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 24, the winners of each bracket and the runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the round of 16. Based on the listed tiebreakers, the next best teams, to bring the total number of teams advancing to 16, will qualify for the round of 16.
GROUP STAGE OF 23 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 23 teams, the winners of each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best two teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 22 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 22 teams, the winners of each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best two teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 20 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 20 teams, the winners of each bracket (5 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best three teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 18 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 18 teams, the winners of each bracket (5 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best three teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 16 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 16 teams, the winners and runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. This will be based on the listed tiebreakers.
GROUP STAGE OF 15 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 15 teams, the winners of each bracket (4 teams) and the runners-up in each four-team bracket (3 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best team, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 14 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 14 teams, the winners of each bracket (4 teams) and the runners-up in each four-team bracket (2 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next 2 best teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 12 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 12 teams, the winners in each bracket will progress directly to the semifinals round. The next best team, based on the listed tiebreakers, will also progress directly to the semifinals.
GROUP STAGE OF 10 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 10 teams, the winners in each bracket will progress directly to the semifinals round. The next best team, based on the listed tiebreakers, will also progress directly to the semifinals.
GROUP STAGE OF 8 TEAMS (U9-U14)
In groups of 8 teams, the winners and the runners-up in each four-team bracket will progress directly to the semifinals round.
Tri State Championship Knockout Stage: U15 to U18/19 Teams
NYCS has the authority to cap the number of teams in any age group bracket prior to the start of Tri State Championship play. On conclusion of the group play/stage 1, a public drawing will determine the match up for the knockout round of the tournament. All top finishers shall be matched against the runners-up or wild card teams. This shall be accomplished by placing top finishers and runners-up/wild card teams in two separate pools for the drawing. During the first knockout round (Quarterfinals), teams that were in the same group will be allowed to match up against each other. Top finishers for brackets progressing directly to the quarterfinals are defined as the winners of each bracket followed by the next best team(s) based upon the tiebreakers, yet limited to the top 8 teams. FOR STARTING GROUPS OF MORE THAN 24 TEAMS, TEAMS WILL PROGRESS TO THE PLAYOFF QUARTERFINALS ROUND AS INDICATED.
GROUP STAGE OF 30 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 30 teams, the top six ranked winners in each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth ranked bracket winners will play against each other (7th plays 10th and 8th plays 9th) in a play-in game to qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 29 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 29 teams, the top six ranked winners in each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth ranked three-team bracket winners will play against each other (7th plays 10th and 8th plays 9th) in a play-in game to qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 28 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 28 teams, the top six ranked winners in each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth ranked three-team bracket winners will play against each other (7th plays 10th and 8th plays 9th) in a play-in game to qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 27 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 27 teams, the top six highest ranking winners of each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The remaining winners (3) and the next best team based upon tiebreakers, will qualify for play-in games.
GROUP STAGE OF 25 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 25 teams, the top six highest ranking winners of each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The remaining winners (3) and the next best team based upon tiebreakers, will qualify for play-in games.
GROUP STAGE OF 24 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 24 teams, the winners in each bracket will progress directly to the quarterfinals round.
FOR STARTING GROUPS OF LESS THAN 24 TEAMS, TEAMS WILL PROGRESS TO THE PLAYOFF QUARTERFINALS ROUND AS INDICATED.
GROUP STAGE OF 22 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 22 teams, the winners in each bracket (8 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 21 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 21 teams, the winners in each bracket (7 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best team, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 19 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 19 teams, the winners in each bracket (7 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best team, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 18 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 18 teams, the winners in each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best two teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 16 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 16 teams, the winners in each bracket (6 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best two teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 15 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 15 teams, the winners in each bracket (5 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best three teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 13 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 13 teams, the winners in each bracket (5 teams) will progress directly to the quarterfinals round. The next best three teams, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the quarterfinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 12 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 12 teams, the winners in each bracket (4 teams) will progress directly to the semifinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 10 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 10 teams, the winners in each bracket (4 teams) will progress directly to the semifinals round
GROUP STAGE OF 9 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 9 teams, the winners in each bracket (3 or 4 teams) will progress directly to the semifinals round. The next best team (if necessary), based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the semifinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 7 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 7 teams, the winners in each bracket (3 teams) will progress directly to the semifinals round. The next best team, based upon the listed tiebreakers, will also qualify for the semifinals round.
GROUP STAGE OF 6 TEAMS (U15-U18/19)
In groups of 6 teams, the winners and runners-up in each bracket (2 teams) will progress directly to the semifinals round. The winner of one bracket will host the runner-up from the opposite bracket.
KNOCKOUT ROUND
Extra time and penalty shootouts will be used to produce winners at this stage if necessary. If a match is tied after regulation, two 5-minute overtime periods for U9-U12 and two 10-minute overtime periods will be played for U13 and older in their entirety. Teams will have a 5-minute break before the first overtime. After the first overtime period, teams will change sides, with no break, and play the remaining overtime period. If the match is still tied after the two overtime periods, then penalty kicks (FIFA rules) will determine the winning team. Should circumstances arise beyond the control of the home team (weather, onset of darkness etc.), causing the referee to halt the game during any portion of the overtime, the game will be rescheduled and replayed in its entirety at a time agreed upon by the competing teams in consultation with the NYCS Committee. All additional round(s) EXCEPT the finals and the game to determine 3rd place will follow the same structure. If a final’s match is tied after regulation, it will go straight to penalty kicks (FIFA rules).
Tri State Championship WINNERS
Tri State Championship Premier and Gold winners U10-U17 will qualify for an EDP tournament at no additional cost.
HOME FIELD DETERMINATION
Round of 16 Field Determination
The top finishers in each bracket will be HOME for the Round of 16 match.
Quarter Finals Home Field Determination
If the 2 teams advancing were both HOME or both AWAY in the Round of 16, then the team listed on the TOP of the bracket will be the Home Team If only one of the teams advancing was the HOME team in the Round of 16, then they will be the AWAY team. If the teams’ group stage starts with the Quarter Finals, then the top finisher will be home for the Quarter Final match.
Semi-Finals Home Field Determination
If the 2 teams advancing were both HOME or both AWAY in the Quarter Finals round, then the team listed on the TOP of the bracket will be the Home Team. If only one of the teams advancing was the HOME team in the Quarter Finals round, they will be the AWAY team.
Finals Home Field Determination
If the 2 teams advancing were both HOME or both AWAY in the Semi-Finals round, then the team listed on the TOP of the bracket will be the Home Team. If only one of the teams advancing was the HOME team in the Semi-Finals round, then they will be the AWAY team. Finals The Tri State Championship winner will be decided with a single game.
Home Team Unable to Provide a Field
Should the home team is unable to provide a field for the scheduled elimination round match and the away team hosts, the originally designated home team will remain with the status of “home team” when scheduling the next round. For group stage games, the home team is the team hosting the game at their field.
Protests/Appeals
For the Tri State Championship, all decisions determined by the NYCS Management Committee are final. No protests or appeals are allowed.
GAME REGULATIONS:
Scheduling
For Tri State Championship matches, game must be played by the specified dates. If the visiting team plays its league games on the opposite day of the home team, then the home team must schedule the Tri State Championship game on the home team’s league game day (visiting team’s “off day”). If it is not possible for the teams to agree on a scheduled date within the league mandated time period, then NYCS will make the final determination. Teams not available on the defined weekend(s) of play, which have been published prior to the competition’s start, will be removed from the competition. If the home team is unavailable to play on the defined weekend AND both teams agree on a different date to play, the home team will lose home field and the away team will host. Games may not be scheduled to start before 10am if a team is traveling from 1-2 hours away and they may not be scheduled to start before 12pm if a team is traveling 140 miles or more (unless agreed to by visiting team).
Fields
Home Team Responsibility- The Home team is responsible for the condition of the playing area including the proper field markings, and proper equipment – nets and corner flags are required. If the referee determines that the field is not playable due to improper conditions (unrelated to weather), then the home team will forfeit the match and be responsible for absorbing the full cost of referee, assignor and field rental fees.
Neutral Playing Field– If a neutral playing field is used, the designated Home team must provide the field markings including placing the lines which represent the field of play, setting up the goal nets and corner flags. At the neutral site, the designated Home team is not responsible for the condition of the playing area. For failure to comply, the Home team will forfeit the match and be responsible for absorbing the full cost of referee, assignor and field rental fees.
Confirmation of Time, Field, and Colors– The visiting team’s coach or team manager shall confirm the game time, field location, and will verify uniform colors with the home team’s coach prior to the game date.
Position of the Team and Spectators at the Game Site– Spectators for each team will take a position on the opposite side of the field than the valid Coaches and rostered players. The home team shall have the choice of which side the spectator’s will be positioned.
Minimum Number of Players -A minimum number of players shall be required for a scheduled match. Should a team not have at least the minimum number of players within 15 minutes after the scheduled match time, it shall forfeit the game 3-0, and be responsible for the entire referee and associated assignor fees. The minimum number of players per age group is listed.
Start at the Scheduled Time At the scheduled time for the match, the minimum number of players will constitute a team and the match will start at the scheduled time. There is no permissible waiting period to wait for additional players to arrive at the game site.
Substitutions for Tri State Championship Unlimited substitutions may be made, with the consent of the Referee at any stoppage in play.
- Change With The Goalkeeper Any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper provided that the Referee is informed before the change is made, and that the change is made during a stoppage in the game.
- Substitution Procedure When a goalkeeper or any other player is to be replaced by a substitute, the following conditions shall be observed:
- The Referee shall be informed of the proposed substitution before it is made.
- The substitute shall not enter the field of play until the player he is replacing has left, and then only after having received a signal from the Referee.
- Enter the field during a stoppage in the game, and at the halfway line.
Referee System
All U12 and older matches shall be officiated by a 3-person referee crew (except for Long Island), provided by NYCS, U11 and younger matches shall be officiated by a single referee with referee fees split equally by the two teams playing, regardless of which team is the home team, at the rate posted on the NYCS website. Referees must be paid prior to the match. Yet if a full referee crew is not present, payment should be adjusted accordingly.
Delaying the Start of a Scheduled Match– Any team delaying the start of a scheduled game more than fifteen (15) minutes without the sanction of the League shall forfeit the game 3-0. This condition is waived should the game be delayed by a preceding game. The fifteen (15) minute forfeit time will commence upon completion of the previous match on fields with multiple games.
Incomplete Games– In the event a group stage game cannot be completed, the game counts if half the game was completed. If there is no result and the match is suspended prior to the expiration of one half, the games shall be repeated at a time agreed upon by the competing teams in consultation with the Tri State Championship Committee. If a knockout stage match cannot be completed, the game counts if half the game was completed with a definitive result (winner). If there is not a definitive result or if a knockout stage match is inadvertently terminated as a tie at the end of regulation, the game will be replayed in its entirety at a time agreed upon by the competing teams in consultation with the NYCS Committee.
Should circumstances arise beyond the control of the home team (weather, onset of darkness etc.), causing the referee to halt the game during any portion of the knockout stage match overtime, the game will be rescheduled and replayed in its entirety at a time agreed upon by the competing teams in consultation with the NYCS Committee. Teams that cause a game to end early due to poor sportsmanship toward referees, opponents, or fans will forfeit the match. If both teams are at fault, the game will be marked ‘No Contest,’ no points will be awarded, and the match will not be replayed. This could also lead to other possible penalties set by the Tri State Championship disciplinary committee.
Rescheduling Considerations: When both teams cannot agree on a re-schedule date, EDP will have the authority to review all facts and inter-team communications, preferably team chats, in order to determine whether the game should be forfeited or canceled permanently.
No-Shows/Forfeits: A no-show occurs when a team willfully does not show up to a game on the official Tri State Championship schedule. Penalties for no-shows are as follows:
- A forfeit to the opposing team: 0-3 loss
- A team with a forfeited game may not advance out of the knockout stage of the Tri State Championship
- See FINES for additional repercussions
- Removal from Tri State Championship and/or all other competitions at the league’s discretion
A team unable to attend a scheduled game because of an accident, weather or act of God should immediately notify the opponent and the league office. Each situation shall be reviewed by the NYCS committee, which shall enter a decision.
Unplayed Games/Standings-At the end of the group stage, if a team has one (1) or more of its games unplayed, NYCS will have the authority at its sole discretion to review all inter-team correspondence, including team chat, showing the intent to schedule and determine whether any unplayed games should be forfeited or canceled permanently.
If a Team Fails to Appear– The team that does appear must complete the Game Roster Form, line up, and kick off. The Referee will then terminate the match and file a referee’s report. Team that fails to appear will be responsible for the entire referee and associated assignor fees.
If Both Teams Fail to Appear– In the event both teams do not appear for a scheduled match, and the Referee rules the ground playable, both teams will be assessed a forfeit. Each team will be responsible for their share of the referee fees.
Team Uses Illegal Player– An Illegal player shall mean any player who is not on the official photo roster or is overage. The official photo roster or soccer player pass must specifically display the player’s date of birth, photo and membership in the participating club. Team using an illegal player will be assessed a 3-0 forfeit, will be responsible for the full referee fees and cannot advance out of the knockout stage. NYCS will determine additional sanctions, if any, up to and including player and/or coach suspension, fines up to $1000 and possible expulsion from the league.
Fines: $100 fine will be accessed upon a team forfeit. In addition, team will be responsible for full referee fees. Forfeiture and Failure to Compete (Complete One’s Scheduled Games): If a team fails to complete its scheduled games, the matter will be reviewed by the Disciplinary Committee, which shall have the authority to take such actions against the team as it deems appropriate.
If the Referee Fails to Appear: The no-show policy for referees favors getting games played. Therefore, the league will allow the use of a designated referee or parent.
- The Individual designated to referee must be approved by both teams.
- If teams decide to play the game as a friendly, both teams must send email notification to the league prior to kickoff.
- The default position of the league is that if the game is played, the result will stand.
- If the game is not played, it will be rescheduled and the home team will travel to the opposing team.
Bad Weather and/or Poor Field Conditions
Inspection of Playing Site– It shall be the home team Coach or Administrator with the club’s designated governing authority’s responsibility to inspect the game field prior to the match. In the event of bad weather, the home team’s club official, after inspection of the field, must notify the League no later than 2 hours prior to the scheduled starting time of the match that field conditions may require postponement of the match. If the visiting team is traveling 140 miles or more, the required notification period is four (4) hours. ONLY a Club Official can cancel a match, not the coach. Home team coach is responsible to notify the center referee. If a Match is Canceled, then the Home Team’s Coach or Administrator MUST Notify the AWAY TEAM, Center REFEREE and the League. Failure to do so may result in a forfeit as well as full referee payment.
Both Teams Must Appear Should any part of the two (2) hour notification period lapse, regardless of weather and/or field conditions, Coaches and their teams must appear at the match site, ready to play at the scheduled time of the match, or forfeit the match. Once any part of the two (2) hour notification period has lapsed, the Referee is the only person authorized to cancel the match. In the event that weather and/or field conditions are questionable for playing the match and the Referee fails to appear, the decision to play or cancel is granted to the home team. A four (4) hour notification period will apply for teams traveling 140 miles or further.
Game Terminated by the Referee– Should the match be terminated by the Referee prior to the time specified in the rules (refer to Incomplete Games section), for reasons of bad weather, poor field conditions, or darkness, the entire game must be replayed. (FIFA Law VII) Game Terminated by the Referee for other Reasons- Should the referee terminate the match for any other reason the Disciplinary Committee will decide whether the game should be replayed.
Availability of Home Field– Should a Home team find itself without a match site due to circumstances beyond the control of the team and/or club, the home team’s coach or team manger must notify the League no later than two (2) hours prior to the scheduled time of the match. Should a home team find itself without a match site due to circumstances within the control of the team and/or club, including but not limited to site double booking, field locked, the home team will be responsible for the full referee fees and the match will be rescheduled at the visiting team’s site.
Rescheduled Match– The League must be informed so that referee(s) can be assigned to the match. The responsibility for rescheduling rests with the Home team. Failure to comply will result in a forfeit. Should the Coach or team manager of the two (2) teams in question fail to agree on a rescheduling date within seven (7) days of the date of the canceled or postponed match, the League will establish a date.
Change A Scheduled Match– Under no circumstances will a coach, team manager or any other club representative change a scheduled match or reschedule a match without permission from the League. Should this occur, both teams will forfeit the match and will be responsible for their share of the referee and associated assignor fees.
Change of Game Location– Should there be a last-minute change to a match site; the home team must provide a person at the original site to escort the Referee and the visiting team to the new site. Reporting the Score-All scores must be reported no later than two (2) hours following the game’s completion, by using the enter game score button on the game reminder email. Either team may report the score. Both teams are responsible to report any erroneously reported scores no later than 48 hrs. after they are posted.
Ejection from a Match -In instances where the designated Coach has been ejected from a game, or has failed to control the activities at the match site to the detriment of the game, the Referee will retain the coach’s pass and return the pass to the League. The referee will also file a supplemental report online. The League’s Disciplinary Committee, at its discretion, will implement any disciplinary action recommended.
Referees
a) Player Verification
- Game Roster Form: The referee will require that both teams provide two (2) copies of the Tri State Championship Roster, one (1) to be given to the opposing coach. No player’s names may be handwritten on this roster. Any player not present for pre-match check-in must be verified against the game roster form by the referee, prior to playing in the match.
- Jersey Numbers: Teams must list a unique jersey number for each player present for that match and jersey number must match the roster, yet may be adjusted prior to presentation to the referee. If roster is not presented to the referee and opposing team including jersey numbers, the match will result in a forfeit.
- Verify the Player’s Identity: The referee will verify the identity of the players by inspecting the player’s photograph, which is on the photo roster(s). For players not on the presented photo roster, the player’s pass may be used to verify identity.
- Player Not Permitted to Participate: The referee will not permit a player to participate unless the player is included on the photo roster or, if not, a valid player pass has been furnished, matching the information on the Tri State Championship roster.
- Verify Written Data: The referee will verify that the player’s pass indicates the correct club name, date of birth and player id.
- Discrepancy in the Data: Should there be a discrepancy in the player information or club name, the player shall be permitted to participate in the match. The referee shall retain the photo pass and shall forward the player’s pass in question, with his/her report, to the League, which will administer disciplinary action for any or all infringements and violations regarding player eligibility.
b) Referee Reports
- Submit Referee Reports: The Referee shall submit (mail or email) a Referee Report for each match officiated, within forty-eight (48) hours (Holidays excluded) after the completion of the match. The Referee shall attach to the Referee Report, a copy of the league’s Game Roster Form and both team rosters presented.
- Supplementary Referee Report: The referee shall submit (mail or email) a Supplementary Referee Report for each player and/or coach ejected from the match, to the League within forty-eight (48) hours (Holidays excluded) after the completion of the match. The Referee will not retain the pass of the ejected player or coach.
- Violation: Will Be Held in Abeyance In the event that the Supplementary Referee Report is not received by the League within forty-eight (48) hours (Holidays excluded) after the completion of the match, the violation will be held in abeyance until the report is received.
c) Caution
- Yellow Card – Cautioned A Yellow Card is displayed by the referee to indicate that a player or coach is being cautioned for violating FIFA, Laws of the Game. Two (2) Cautions If a player or coach receives two (2) cautions during one match, the player or coach will be ejected from the match, and a suspension is in effect.
- Five (5) Cautions If a Coach receives five (5) cautions during a season, a suspension is in effect.
- Disciplinary Committee The Disciplinary Committee, at its discretion, will determine the length of the suspension and any other punishments, fines, and/or assessments.
d) Ejection
- Red Card – Ejection A Red Card is displayed by the Referee to indicate that a Player or Coach is ejected from the match, and a suspension is in effect. That player’s or coach’s pass will be retained by the referee, who will make a notation in the supplemental portion of the online referee report. The referee is responsible for sending the pass to the league office within 24 hrs.
- Disciplinary Committee The Disciplinary Committee, at its discretion, will determine the length of the suspension and any other punishments, fines and/or assessments.
- Appear Before Disciplinary Committee A player or Coach who receives a red card or the equivalent, will, at the discretion of the Disciplinary Committee, be summoned to appear at a hearing. Should the player or Coach fail to appear, he/she will be suspended until such appearance is made. The Disciplinary Committee, at its discretion, will determine the length of suspension and/or any other punishments, fines, or assessments. The club will be assessed a minimum of $50.00 each time a coach (Coach) is issued a red card, unless waived by the Disciplinary Committee. Should a player be summoned to appear, the Coach or Club representative from his/her designated team must accompany him/her.
- Suspended from Consecutive Competition A player or Coach shall be suspended from consecutive competition in the league.
- Team Refuses to Continue If a team refuses to continue to play after being so instructed by the Referee, the team will forfeit the game, 3-0.
- Reports Will Be Reviewed By The Disciplinary Committee The Referee Report and the Supplementary Referee Report shall be reviewed by the League’s Disciplinary Committee, who shall determine the punishment, fine, and/or assessment. The Disciplinary Committee shall notify the parties involved, in writing, of the decision.
e) Concussion/No-Reentry Protocol The referee will stop the game when he/she believes that a player has suffered an injury involving that player’s head and immediately remove the player from the game. That player’s pass will be retained by the referee, who will make a notation in the supplemental portion of the online referee report. The referee is responsible for sending the pass to the league office within 24 hrs. Eligibility Protest Protests on questions of eligibility must be filed in writing, with substantiating facts to the Disciplinary Committee, anytime within the current season.
Matters Not Provided
Any matters not provided for in these rules shall be determined by the Executive Board of NYCS and decisions so made shall be final and binding.
Penalties
No NYCS official, club, league, team, coach, referee, player, or other representative may invoke the aid of the Courts of any State or of the United States without first exhausting all available remedies within the appropriate soccer organizations. For violation of this rule the offending party shall be subject to the sanctions of suspension and fines and shall be liable to the NYCS for all expenses incurred by the NYCS and its officers in defending any court action, including but not limited to the following:
- Court costs
- Attorneys fees
- Reasonable compensation for time spent by NYCS officers and/or employees in responding to and defending against allegations in the action, including responses to discovery and court appearance
- Travel expenses
- Expenses for holding special NYCS meetings necessitated by court actio