League Rules

League Name: Joker Series
Format: Competitive 7v7
Ages: 18+
Location: Fareway Fields
Season: Summer (June/July)

Game Format

Games consist of two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime. In the regular season, if the game is tied at the end of regulation, it goes straight to MLS-style penalty kicks (1v1 shootout, alternating players, sudden death). In playoffs, tied games will go to a 5-minute overtime period before heading to PKs if still tied.

Field & Equipment

All matches are played on turf fields using size 5 soccer balls. Players must wear turf or indoor shoes—no metal studs.

Roster Rules

Teams may roster up to 15 players. A minimum of 5 players is required to start a match. Rosters lock after Week 3; no player additions will be allowed beyond that point. Players must be officially rostered—no ringers.

Substitutions

Substitutions are on the fly. A player must fully exit before their sub enters. Entering too early results in a yellow card. Unlimited substitutions are allowed.

Goalkeeper Rules

Goalkeepers have no restrictions and may play anywhere on the field, including as sweepers or attackers.

Offsides

There is no offsides rule in this league.

Discipline & Cards

Yellow cards are issued for reckless play, dissent, or substitution violations. A straight red card results in a minimum 1-game suspension. Further suspension or expulsion is possible depending on the offense. Accumulated yellow cards may lead to disciplinary review.

Point System

Win in regulation: 3 points
Tie in regulation: 1 point
PK shootout win: 1 additional point
Loss in regulation: 0 points
Note: Every game will produce a winner due to the PK format.

Forfeits & No Shows

A forfeit results in a 6-0 loss. Teams that forfeit two or more times will be removed from the league without a refund. Repeated lateness may be ruled as a forfeit at the discretion of the referee or league staff.

Sportsmanship & Conduct

This is a competitive league, but all players are expected to maintain respect and sportsmanship. Verbal abuse, threats, or physical altercations may result in suspension or expulsion. Fighting or intentional violent conduct may result in a lifetime ban.

Weather Policy

Games are played rain or shine unless lightning or dangerous field conditions occur. In the event of weather-related cancellations, games may be rescheduled or declared a draw depending on field availability. Players will be notified via text/email at least one hour prior to kickoff if a game is canceled.

Uniforms

Teams must wear matching jerseys or shirts. In case of a color conflict, the home team (listed first) is responsible for changing. Pinnies may be provided if needed.

Referees & Game Management

Each match will be officiated by one certified referee. All decisions made by the referee are final. Any disputes must be submitted to league officials within 24 hours after the match.

Reschedules

At the time of registration, each team is allowed to submit multiple schedule conflicts, which must be entered into the registration system before the registration deadline. If a team manager does not submit conflicts by the deadline, no reschedules will be made unless a $100 rescheduling fee is paid to The Joker Series.