New Rules
New Rules for 2010
For complete descriptions of the 2010 New USL Rules and Points of Emphasis, please read the USL Rule Book and watch the New Rules DVD. Here is a summarized list.
New uniform requirements will be in effect in 2013. PLAN AHEAD!
The umpire’s authority extends from 30 min prior to the start of the game until they leave the playing venue.
Umpires now have the authority to issue a post game red card to any player or coach for actions that would warrant an ejection during play.
Scorer’s table personnel must notify a coach when the 3 minute penalty for a card has expired.
A team may call a time out during a dead ball situation (when the whistle has blown to stop play), which includes after a goal.
During a draw, stepping into the center circle or over the restraining line will be immediately penalized as a minor foul for illegal draw, and possession awarded to the non-offending team.
Draw set-up clarification: The entire length of each player’s crosse must be contained within the vertical plane of the center line.
The definition for “Within a Stick’s Length” has been altered, and the distance is now shorter. The phrase “and an arm’s length extended” has been removed from the definition. In order to be considered legally marking, a player will have to be inside a crosses’ length from her opponent.
Cross-check has been added as another example of illegal use of the crosse. Players may not use the shaft of the stick to hit, push or displace an opponent.
All shooting strings must be in compliance with specifications by 2011
The definition of false start has been clarified. Players may not step or make any movement simulating the beginning of play designed to gain an advantage over one’s opponent.
Umpire procedural change: Because crossing into the center circle or over the restraining line at a draw is now considered part of an illegal draw (and an immediate whistle), the set-up will be that for an illegal draw. The 2 players closest to the center of the circle (likely the 2 centers, but not always) will be placed: the non-offending team player with the ball on the center line, the offending team player in front at a 45 degree angle and 4 meters away.
2010 Points of Emphasis
- Cross-check
- Charging: call it more quickly; know how it differs from blocking
- Dangerous checks and slashing
- Offsides: call immediately
Rule reminders from 2009
- No substitutes for yellow cards during the 3 minute penalty time
- Colored mouth guards are required
- A red card is an "ejection"
2009 Points of Emphasis
- Dangerous checks and slashing
- Use of cards
- Stick to body/body to stick contact
- Draw setup
Points of Emphasis for WA State
- Spectators must be on the opposite side of the field as the team benches (unless in permanent stadium seating) and 4 meters from the boundary
- Follow-through into the goal circle is allowed on a shot by the shooter and defenders directly defending the shot, but feet must remain outside of the goal circle (and this is not allowed for any youth level of game)
- Shooting space, dangerous propelling, and dangerous follow-through fouls are dangerous and can be avoided with good coaching.
