Match Day Standards

Match Day Standards for All CJSL Competitions

Clubs are responsible for making sure every match is set up correctly and played in accordance with CJSL standards. This includes proper field setup, printed rosters, referee payment, AED presence, sideline control, and compliance with all age-group rules.

The information below brings together the most important operational rules for league play so clubs, coaches, managers, and referees can quickly understand what is required before kickoff and throughout the match.

Age Group Standards of Play

Age Group	Format	Roster (Max / Min)	Min to Play	Ball	Rules	Duration	Goal Size	Field Size / USSF Max Field Dimensions
U7–U8	4v4	—	—	3	AED: YES Heading: NO Build Out: NO	20 mins	4x6 Bownet Style Goal	Field: 40 x 20
U8–U9–U10	7v7	14 max / 5 min	5	4	AED: YES Heading: NO Build Out: YES	2 x 25 min	6x12 – 6x18	USSF Recommended – Max (yds): 55–65 length x 35–45 width
U11	9v9	16 max / 6 min	6	4	AED: YES Heading: NO Build Out: NO	2 x 30 min	6x18 – 7x21	USSF Recommended – Max (yds): 70–80 length x 45–55 width
U12	9v9	16 max / 6 min	6	4	AED: YES Heading: YES Build Out: NO	2 x 30 min	6x18 – 7x21	USSF Recommended – Max (yds): 70–80 length x 45–55 width
U13 (9v9)	9v9	16 max / 6 min	6	5	AED: YES Heading: YES Build Out: NO	2 x 35 min	6x18 – 7x21	USSF Recommended – Max (yds): 70–80 length x 45–55 width
U13 (11v11)	11v11	18 max / 7 min	7	5	AED: YES Heading: YES Build Out: NO	2 x 35	8x24	USSF Recommended – Regulation Field
U14	11v11	18 max / 7 min	7	5	AED: YES Heading: YES Build Out: NO	2 x 35	8x24	USSF Recommended – Regulation Field
U15–U16	11v11	18 max / 7 min	7	5	AED: YES Heading: YES Build Out: NO	2 x 40	8x24	USSF Recommended – Regulation Field
U17–U18–U19	11v11	18 max / 7 min	7	5	AED: YES Heading: YES Build Out: NO	2 x 45	8x24	USSF Recommended – Regulation Field

Match Procedures

Duration of Games

Games may not be shortened by more than ten (10) minutes under any circumstances. Each match must consist of two (2) equal halves.

Waiting Period

There is no waiting time for the start of games under the jurisdiction of this league. Teams are expected to be ready to play at the scheduled kickoff time.

Halftime

The referee has the authority to shorten the halftime intermission if necessary, such as when the match start is delayed or conditions require it.

The halftime should not exceed five (5) minutes.

A minimum intermission of five (5) minutes must be granted if requested by either team.

Players Required and Rostered

7v7 Games: Minimum of 5 players, maximum 14
9v9 Games: Minimum of 6 players, maximum 16
11v11 Games: Minimum of 7 players, maximum 18

AED Required — Home Team Responsibility

The home team is responsible for ensuring that an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is on site, readily accessible, and available for the entire match.

AED compliance is required under New York State Public Health Law Section 3000-F and applies to all CJSL matches and sanctioned youth soccer activities.

Clubs should ensure coaches and team officials know the AED's location prior to kickoff and that it can be accessed immediately in the event of an emergency.

CJSL AED Compliance ENYYSA AED Policy

Match Day Game Rosters / Cards with Photo ID

Roster Rules

Each CJSL team must present an approved physical roster before kickoff. Digital or electronic versions are not accepted.

Accepted Roster Documents

Teams may present either of the following in color or black and white:

Match Day Game Roster with Photo ID (MDGR)
View Match Day Roster Example

Team Roster with Photo ID
View Team Roster Example

Match Requirements

Bring two (2) physical roster copies to every match.
Provide one copy to the referee before kickoff.
Exchange one copy with the opposing team.
Include the game details, age group, player numbers, and coach’s signature.
Only players and adults listed on the roster may be on the team sideline or bench.

No Correct Physical Roster = No Game = Forfeit

A missing, incorrect, incomplete, or electronic-only roster may result in a forfeit. The forfeiting team will be assessed a $200 fine plus the full referee fees, and the match will be recorded as a 2–0 win for the opposing team.

Forfeits & Match Day Conduct

Failure to Appear for a Scheduled Game

A team that fails to appear for a scheduled league match will forfeit the game and be assessed a $200 fine, plus the full referee fees. The fine increases by $50 for each additional forfeit within the same season.

Breaking Off of a Game

Under no circumstances may a team break off a game without referee approval. Any team that does so will automatically forfeit the match and may face additional penalties, including fines or suspensions.

Forfeited Games and Loss of Points

If a game is forfeited or ruled a forfeit by the arbiter, the opposing team will be awarded a 2–0 win. The forfeiting team will be assessed a $200 fine, plus the full referee fees.

Failure to Control Parents and Sidelines

The playing field must be protected from public interference. Both clubs are responsible for their supporters’ behavior. If verbal or physical altercations arise involving parents or spectators, penalties may include fines, forfeits, or loss of points.

The league will not tolerate abuse directed at referees. Reports from match officials detailing inappropriate parent behavior, field encroachment, or threats to safety will lead to disciplinary action. This may include loss of points, suspensions, or fines.

Game Misconduct – Coaches, Players, Bench Personnel

Clubs are ultimately accountable for the conduct of their coaches, players, parents, and spectators. CJSL adheres to the ENY Zero Tolerance Policy and US Soccer Policy 531-9.

Referee No Show

For U9–U14 Matches

If the assigned referee does not show, the coaches or managers must mutually agree on a substitute referee.
This person does not need to be a certified referee and may be a coach, parent, or responsible adult.
If no agreement can be reached, a coin toss may be used to select the referee.
The agreed-upon individual must officiate the entire game.
Splitting halves between teams is strongly discouraged.
Matches played under these conditions are considered official.
Scheduled games may not be downgraded to friendlies.

After the match:

Winning team must report the score.
If tied, both teams must report the score.

If the teams fail to agree on a referee:

Both teams will be fined $50.00.
The match will be rescheduled, unless it is proven that one team refused to play.

For U15–U19 Matches

Games may be officiated by a 1-, 2-, or 3-person crew.
If no referee is present, the game must be rescheduled according to the Game Change Policy.
No reschedule fee will be charged if the match is postponed due to a referee no-show.

View Game Change Policy

CJSL Match Day Checklist

Before every match, clubs should confirm the following items are completed to ensure the game can proceed smoothly and in accordance with CJSL match standards.

Match Day Roster Set in GotSport
Coaches Listed on Official Roster
Correct Players Listed on Match Day Roster
2 Copies of Official Match Card or Team Roster Printed
Opponent and Referee Receive Roster Before Kickoff
Correct Referee Fees Available
Referee Fees Shared Between Teams and Paid at Check-In

Home Team AED Available and On Site
Parents and Spectators on Opposite Side of Field
Only Rostered Coaches and Players on Team Sideline
Review with Opponent and Referee Match Day Standards
Players Wearing Proper Uniform and Shin Guards
Goals Properly Anchored and Safe
Field and Goals Properly Set Up for Age Group
Respect Referees and Follow CJSL Sideline Conduct Standards

CJSL Match Day Standards