Suspension Policy
Home » Info » League Rules »
When registering to play in our leagues players agree to our Player Pledge. The Pledge is the framework that allows us to operate safe, fun and inclusive community recreational soccer leagues. Core to the player pledge is respect for referees and fellow players.
When, during match play, players violate our Player Pledge, District Soccer reserves the right to take disciplinary action. Types of violations may include foul or reckless play, violent conduct or abusive behavior by word or actions.
The following guidelines outline the type and length of disciplinary sanctions that may be issued - usually in the form of suspension from league play. League administrators will do their best to consider all sides of a given issue through discussions with referees, captains and players. Ultimately, suspensions are not up for a review or appeal. As an independent organization, we may exclude individuals for participating as fits the needs of our program.
In the case where a player is suspended for more than one game (or week) the suspension will apply across participation in all District Soccer programming - this includes participating as a substitute or playing in District Soccer tournaments. Note, captains of teams found allowing a suspended player to participate may also be subject to suspension.
| Denial of Goal Scoring Opportunity | Reminder of Game | Multi-game suspension will not be enforced |
| Serious Foul Play | One Game | May be increased to multiple games or permanent for repeat offenders |
| Verbal Abuse | One Game | May be increased to multiple games or permanent for repeat offenders |
| Physical violent conduct | Multi-week or season long suspension. Permanent ban will be considered. | |
| Verbal violent conduct | Permanent ban will be considered. |
The Offenses above are defined as follows:
Serious foul play - A tackle or challenge which endangers the safety of an opponent or use of excessive force or brutality. Examples of serious foul play include dangerous slide tackles, kicking or attempting to kick an opponent or pushing in an overly aggressive manner.
Verbal Abuse - Use of offensive or profane language towards a referee or other player.
Physical violent conduct - Examples include but are not limited to punching, physically assaulting, or spitting on an opponent or referee.
Verbal violent conduct - Examples include but are not limited to use of racist language, hate speech, homophobic language.