VDMSL Rules and Regulations

League Regulations

1. This is an adult soccer league (18+).
2. The games are played in a 7v7 format.
3. The referees and VDMSL league will not be held responsible for any injuries sustained during the
game.
4. Team captains must submit a roster before the season begins.
5. A minimum of 5 players are required to start a game.
6. If a team does not have at least five players dressed and ready to play on the field after
ten minutes of the scheduled start of the game, they will lose the game by a default
score of 3-0.
7. A player must play at least ¼ of the season to be eligible for playoffs.
8. Players are allowed to play for a maximum of one team per division.
9. Acceptable attire:

  • Jerseys must be numbered
  • Shorts and soccer pants are acceptable
  • Shin guards are mandatory
  • Glasses and jewelry are not permitted
  • Sports glasses are acceptable

10. Away teams must change jerseys if colors clash with the opponent’s listed color.
11. Win = 3 points, Tie = 1 point, Loss = 0 points
12. Playoff tiebreakers:

  • Goal difference
  • Head-to-head
  • Most goals

Gameplay Rules

1. VDMSL applies the rules laid out in the latest IFAB Laws of the Game, with variations to
adjust for our 7v7 gameplay.
2. The official game sheet must be signed by each team’s captain at the end of each
match.
3. Maximum of two designated coaches can sit at the bench. They must be registered on
the game sheet.
4. Suspended players are not allowed on the bench.
5. All touch and out of bound plays are kick-ins. Kick-ins are considered indirect free kicks.
6. All free kicks are direct, with the exception of kick-ins.
7. Opponents must be 5 yards from the ball on all free kicks. Opponents must be 2 yards
from the ball on all kick-ins.
8. Any red card, whether direct or an accumulation of two yellow cards, will carry a
minimum one-game suspension. Further disciplinary action may apply pending the
referee’s report.
9. All ejected players must leave the playing field and bench area before the restart of
play. Failure to leave the playing field in a timely manner may result in said player’s
team’s automatic default of the match in question.
10. Slide tackles are not permitted.
11. If a player leaves their bench to start or get involved in a physical altercation, the
referee deserves the right to give a red card to said player.
12. Indoor soccer – If the ball hits the ceiling or wires the kick shall be taken from a spot directly
to the touch line as a kick-in. The exception is over the penalty area shall be a corner
kick/goal kick. 

VDMSL HAS A ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICY FOR VIOLENCE AND DISCRIMINATION

Download a printable copy of the VDMSL rules & regulations.