FAQs

RETREAT LINE PROCEDURE

The retreat line will come into play when the ball has gone out for a goal kick OR when the goalkeeper has the ball in their hands.

All opponents must be behind the retreat line and cannot cross the retreat line until the ball :

Is released by the keeper’s hands to allow distribution with their feet or ( drops the ball to pass/ dribble with their feet.

• Tier 1 divisions in U15 & above have assistant referees
• Field linings are required in all divisions
• Slide tackles are allowed in outdoor soccer at the Referees discretion
• U8 to U11 All opponents must be at least 5 yards from the ball on a free kick
• U12 All opponents must be at least 7 yards from the ball on a free kick
• You cannot score from an indirect kick which includes from the sidelines
• If coaches would like water breaks, please discuss with referee 15 minutes before kick off
• Referees are to collect games sheets 15 minutes before the game
• The ball is not live when the goalie puts it down as it must be touched by another player first
• See the EMDSL Web Page for the new OS soccer lightning rule
• Shirts do not have to be tucked in
• All Substitutions must be done at the center of the field
• No offside’s for U8-U11 and offside’s are in effect U12 & above
• They are no penalty kicks in U-8
• U-10 and U-11 penalty mark is 7 yards from goal line
• U12 penalty mark is 9 yards from midpoint of the goal posts
• A goal cannot be scored directly from a pass in
• A goal cannot be scored directly from a goal kick

For complete rules, including the new Ontario Soccer lightning rule, please see the about section .