Player Misconduct Policy

Player Misconduct Policy

The Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and competitive environment for all players. To uphold the integrity of the game and protect everyone involved, CJSL enforces strict disciplinary consequences for player misconduct on and off the field. Below are examples of offenses and their corresponding penalties.


This policy is not limited to player-to-player interactions. Any misconduct—whether directed at another player, a coach, a parent, a spectator, or any individual involved in the match environment—will be subject to review and disciplinary action.


Misconduct directed at a referee is handled under the Zero Tolerance Policy on Misconduct Toward Referees and falls under the jurisdiction of Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association in alignment with U.S. Soccer Policy 531-9. All such incidents are subject to formal state-level review and potential disciplinary action.

Misconduct Categories and Consequences

Misconduct Description Consequence
Fighting or Physical Confrontation Punching, kicking, or physical attacks during or after a game; intentional involvement in a physical altercation. 4-game suspension (doubles with repeat offenses); up to full season suspension for severe cases. Club fines: $100–$500.
Serious Foul Play or Violent Conduct Tackling from behind without intent to play the ball; deliberate kicking or tripping. 2-game suspension (doubles with repeat offenses).
Threatening Language Verbal threats or incitement to violence. 3-game suspension.
Racist or Discriminatory Behavior Racial, ethnic, religious, gender-based slurs or gestures—during games, online, or in communications. CJSL Supervisory Hearing, 8-game suspension, and $1,000 club fine.
Spitting on a Person At any player, coach, or official. 4-game suspension.
Rough Play Repeated reckless or dangerous play. 2-game suspension.
Insults to Opposing Players Offensive or vulgar remarks. 2-game suspension.
Offensive Gestures Obscene or mocking hand gestures. 3-game suspension.
Unsporting Behavior Includes diving, time-wasting, goal celebration infractions, or trickery. 2 yellow cards = 1-game suspension.

Appeal Process

A. Reconsideration Before the Arbiter

  • A written request with specific reasons must be submitted within 14 days of the decision.
  • No fee required.

B. Appeal to the CJSL Appeals Committee

  • Must be submitted within 14 days of the second decision.
  • Fee: $50.

C. Appeal to Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA)

  • Must be submitted in writing within 3 days of the appeals committee decision.
  • Fee: $250.
All clubs have the right to appeal a disciplinary decision, following this outlined process.