Game Rules - EASL

Welcome to the EASL Indoor Soccer experience! In order to ensure fair play, safety, and enjoyment for all participants, we've established the following set of indoor soccer rules:

Field Dimensions: We play on the 1/3 sized fields
Match Duration: Each game consists of two 25-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime break.
On-Field Team Composition: Teams are comprised of 5 players, one of whom is the goalkeeper.
*One player from each gender must be on the team's roster each game. They do not need to be on the field at all times, simply on the roster for the game.
Substitutions: Unlimited "on-the-fly" substitutions are allowed, but the substituting player must wait until the exiting player is off the field.
Boundaries: If the ball touches the ceiling or any fixtures, a free-kick is awarded to the opposing team from the spot where the ball hit the obstacle.
No Offsides: There is no offside rule in EASL Indoor Soccer.
Kick-ins: If the ball crosses the sidelines, a kick-in is awarded to the opposite team. The ball must be stationary, and the kick must be taken within 5 seconds of placing the ball down.
Penalty Area: The designated penalty area is smaller than in outdoor soccer. Goalkeepers are the only players allowed to use their hands within this area.
No Slide Tackling or high kicks: For safety purposes, slide tackling and high kicks are strictly prohibited. Offenders will be penalized with a free-kick.
Fouls & Misconduct: Standard soccer fouls apply, but due to the close quarters and faster pace, pushing, charging, and obstruction are more strictly penalized.
Footwear: Players can wear flat-soled shoes, specific indoor soccer shoes or turf cleats. Cleats are not mandatory, but strongly encouraged
Other protective gear: Shin pads and socks are not mandatory at EA Soccer, but encouraged.
Restart Delays: Players must restart play (kick-ins, free kicks, corner kicks) within 5 seconds; otherwise, possession is awarded to the opposing team.
NEW: Goal Keeper delays: A corner kick is awarded if a goalkeeper, inside their penalty area, controls the ball with their hand(s)/arm(s) for more than eight seconds before releasing it. The referee will decide when the goalkeeper has control of the ball and when the eight seconds begins. They will also visually count down the last five seconds with a raised hand.
Penalty Shootouts: If a match in a knockout stage or tournament setting ends in a draw, it will be decided by a penalty shootout. Each team will take five shots, followed by sudden death if necessary. In the first 3 shots, one player from each gender must take a shot.
Sportsmanship: EASL emphasizes fair play, respect, and good sportsmanship. Abusive language, aggressive behavior, or unsportsmanlike conduct will lead to immediate ejection and possible suspension.
Match Supervision: An EASL official will oversee each match to ensure adherence to the rules and maintain the spirit of friendly competition.

We hope these rules help facilitate a fun, safe, and competitive environment for all our EASL athletes. Should you have any questions or require clarification on any rules, our team is here to assist. Let the games begin!

Note: This is a generalized rule set tailored for the Everyday Athletes Soccer League. It's essential to ensure these rules meet the specific needs and preferences of the EASL community and its participants.