SFYS Varsity Rules Summary
This rules summary is provided to the referees as a service. These are not the official rules of the competition. NO warranty is made that this summary is up to date.
Last Updated 7/10/2025
League - Weather Hot Line / Game Day Hot Line
Questions? Talk to field marshal first. No field marshal? Call 415-794-2974
Player Passes
Printed on a game day photo roster.
Applies to Players, Coaches and Guest Players.
Guest coaches can use ANY team game day photo roster.
Not on the roster = no play. No handwritten names.
Adults
Only 2 coaches in the Technical Area ("Coaches' Box"). People not on a game day roster are not allowed in the technical area. Guest coach from same registration league permitted as long as they are on a game day roster (any game).
Player Counts
8 v 8 Minimum 6 Maximum 18
Referees
Referee and two ARs. STAR referees as backup. Get their names for your report.
Games that start late must be shortened equally in each half to end on time.
No coach? No game day roster? No team? - do not wait more than 5 minutes.
- Referees are encouraged to explain infractions.
- Prepare a Match Report on the Pensra website.
>> No report = no pay
>> Report rainouts. You are paid if the game started. Otherwise no pay.
>> Report forfeits. . You are paid.
>> You must have a W9 form on file with Pensra or SFYS.
>> Note the names of the STAR referees in your report
Match Reports
Submit match reports online at the Pensra website
Must logon.
Mercy Rule
No Mercy rule in Varsity.
Age specific
Legal slide tackling is permitted
PK and DFK all ages.
Direct Kicks allowed all ages: the wall should be set at 10 yards!
Penalty Kicks allowed all ages. The penalty kick should be taken at 12 yards
Heading permitted.
Goalkeeper may not punt ball from hands directly in the air across the centerline. IFK at centerline.
Goalkeeper may not kick ball from goal kick directly in the air across the centerline. IFK at centerline
Match Length
2 X 35 minute
Substitutions
Unlimited substitutions at any stoppage with Referee's permission.
Add time for time lost for substitutions.
Half Time
5 minute half time all levels
IFAB "Only Captains"
Youth leagues are not adopting the IFAB requirements for captain armbands and the "only captains" mechanic. Posted July 22, 2025
Send offs
Click here for procedure.
Other
Size 5 Ball
Playoffs
- If tied - straight to Penalties. Normal Law 14.
- Only 10 minutes allotted for Penalties - keep it moving!
- No guest players
More Information
General Information (Pay)
Referee Resources
Become a Ref
How to get games
Rules of the Competition