Primary Competition Rules

• Competition Format

  Expand Competition Format

  Matches are conducted according to the FIFA 9v9 Laws of the Game.

  • Match Duration: 2 x 15-minute halves with a 5-minute half-time interval.
  • Team Size: Maximum of 14 players per day.
  • On-Field: 9 players (including a goalkeeper) with up to 5 rolling substitutions.

• Round Robin Scoring

  Expand Round Robin Scoring

  Points are allocated as follows: 3 for a win, 1 for a draw, 0 for a loss. If teams are tied, the winner is decided by:

  1. Result of the head-to-head match.
  2. Goal difference (Goals scored minus goals conceded).
  3. Most goals scored.
  4. Least goals conceded.
  5. Who scored first in the head-to-head match.
  6. Least red card infringements.
  7. Least yellow card infringements.
  8. Coin toss.

• State Final Winner

  Expand State Final Winner

  If tied at full-time, 10 minutes of extra time will be played (5 minutes each way). If still tied, a series of 5 penalty kicks per team will decide the winner. If the deadlock continues, further alternating kicks will be taken until a winner is determined. All team members (excluding the goalkeeper) must participate before any player can take a second kick.

• Match Day Requirements

  Expand Match Day Requirements
  • Officials: Referees are provided at State Finals. Each team must supply a competent linesperson to assist with out-of-bounds and offside decisions.
  • Player Restrictions: Rolling substitutions allowed when the ball is out of play or at half-time. The referee must be notified before any interchange.
  • Dress Code: Players must wear matching strips with unique numbers, matching shorts (no pockets), and matching socks. Goalkeepers must wear a contrasting shirt. Shin guards are mandatory; mouthguards are strongly recommended.
  • Lateness: Teams late without notice face a penalty of one goal for every 10 minutes of lateness.

• Equipment to Bring

  Expand Equipment to Bring
  • A competent linesperson.
  • A new competition-size 4 soccer ball (for non-state final matches).
  • A first-aid kit and sports tape (strapping must be performed by the school).
  • An up-to-date team sheet (with uniform numbers) to be handed to the convener.