VALLEY DISTRICT SOCCER ASSN.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW……………………………………………………………………………………….1
1. INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………...1
2. ORGANIZATION WITHIN VDSA…………………………………………………...1
3. DECISION MAKING WITHIN VDSA…………………….……………………....….1
4. VDSA ACTIVITIES………………………………………….……………………......2
- POLICY DEVELOPMENT………………………………………...………....………...…4
1.1 GENERAL…………………………………………………………………..……...…4
1.2 TYPES OF POLICIES………………………………………………………..…...….4
1.3 PROCEDURES………………………………………………………………….....…4
1.4 DEVELOPMENT OF NEW MEMBER POLICIES/PROCEDURES…………….…4
1.5 REVISIONS TO EXISTING MEMBER POLICIES/PROCEDURES…………….....5
1.6 REQUESTS FOR DECISION…………………………………………………..…….5
1.7 PROCEDURES AND TIMELINES FOR REQUESTS FOR DECISIONS……..…...5
1.8 APPROVAL OF MEMBER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES………………….….6
- COMMITTEES………………………………………………………………………....…..7
2.1 MANDATE…………………………………………………………………..……….7
2.2 AD-HOC COMMITEES………………………………………………………..…….7
2.3 MINUTES OF MEETINGS……………………………………………………..……7
- CLUBS………………………………………………………………………………….......8
3.1 GENERAL………………………………………………………………………...…..8
3.2 CLUB REQUIREMENTS……………………………………………………...……..8
3.3 ADHERENCE…………………………………………………………………...……8
- PLAYERS……………………………………………………………………….....……….9
4.1 DEFINITION OF A PLAYER………………………………………………...……...9
4.2 DEFINITION OF A SEASON…………………………………………………...…...9
4.3 DEFINITION OF AGE CATEGORIES AND TIERS……………………....………..9
4.4 REGISTRATION …………………………………………………………....……….11
4.5 TEMPORARY REGISTRATION……………………………………………....……12
4.6 REGISTRATION DEADLINES……………………………………………....……..12
4.7 REGISTRATION FEES…………………………………………………....………...12
4.8 PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITIES………………………………....………..12
4.9 RESTRICTIONS……………………………………………………………....……..13
4.10 EXCEPTIONS…………………………………………………………….....………13
4.11 PLAYER MOVEMENT TO OTHER CLUBS…………………………….....……..14
4.12 PLAYER MOVEMENT WITHIN A CLUB……………………………......……....15
4.13 PLAYER MOVEMENT TO PROVINCIAL/NATIONAL/ALL-STAR TEAM.......15
4.14 TRANSFERS…………………………………………………………………......….16
4.15 YOUTH PLAYING ZONES…………………………………………………….......17
- COACHES……………………………………………………………………………........19
5.1 REGISTRATION…………………………………………………………….........…19
5.2 REGISTRATION FEES……………………………………………………...............19
5.3 PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITIES…………………………………..…........19
5.4 CERTIICATION REQUIREMENTS………………………………………..….........20
5.5 BACKGROUND CHECK…………………………………………………...….........20
- REFEREES………………………………………………………………………................21
6.1 DEFINITION……………………………………………………………….......….…21
6.2 REGISTRATION…………………………………………………………..…............21
6.3 REFEREE REGISTRATION CLASSIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS….............22
6.4 GENERAL REGULATIONS………………………………………………...............24
6.5 CODE OF ETHICS………………………………………………….……..…............25
6.6 REFRESHER TRAINING………………………………………………...….........…26
6.7 ASSIGNING………………………………………………………….…...…........…..27
6.8 APPOINTMENTS……………………………………………………………….........27
6.9 GAME FEES……………………………………………………………………..........28
6.10 REFEREES, LEAGUES, PAYMENT AND ASSIGNING………………..........……28
- TEAMS…………………………………………………………………………...........……29
7.1 DEFINITION…………………………………………………………………….........29
7.2 REGISTRATION………………………………………………………………...........29
7.3 REGISTRATION FEES……………………………………………....……….........…29
7.4 TEAM DESIGNATIONS…………………………………………...…………...........29
7.5 AGE CATEGORIES………………………………………………………….........….30
7.6 NUMBER OF PLAYERS…………………………………………...…………..........30
7.7 RESTRICTIONS…………………………………………………...…………............30
- COMPETITIONS………………………………………………………...………...........…32
8.1 DEFINITION OF A COMPETITION……………………………...…………...........32
8.2 DEFINITION OF COMPETITIVE CLASSIFICATIONS………...…………............32
8.3 SANCTIONING…………………………………………………...…………….........32
8.4 RESTRICTIONS…………………………………………………...…………............33
8.5 NATIONALS……………………………………………………...………….............33
8.6 PROVINCIALS…………………………………………………...……..........………33
8.7 EXHIBITION GAMES…………………………………………………….........…….33
8.8 PROTESTS………………………………………………………………….........…...34
- TOURNAMENTS…………………………………………………………………..............35
9.1 DEFINITION OF A TOURNAMENT……………….........………………………….35
9.2 TOURNAMENT CLASSIFICATIONS…………………….........…………………...35
9.3 AGE CATEGORIES…………………………………………….........……………….35
9.4 RESTRICTIONS………………………………………………..........………………..36
9.5 TOURNAMENT HOST………………………………………….........……………...36
9.6 SANCTIONING OF TOURNAMENTS………………………….........……………..36
9.7 TOURNAMENT REQUIREMENTS OF PARTICIPANTS…...……..........………...37
9.8 REQUIREMENTS OF TOURNAMENT HOSTS………………...….….........……...37
9.9 REQUIREMENTS OF THE GOVERNING BODY……………...…….…….........…38
9.10 TOURNAMENT RULES……………………………………........…….……………38
9.11 DISCIPLINE MEASURES…………………………………….............…………….40
- LEAGUES……………………………………………………………...…............………...41
10.1 DEFINITION OF A LEAGUE………………………………...…………...........…...41
10.2 LEAGUE SEASONS…………………………………………...………...........……..41
10.3 LEAGUE CATEGORIES……………………………………...…..........….……...…41
10.4 LEAGUE REGISTRATION…………………………..............…………….………..41
10.5 AFFILIATION…………………………………………….........…………….………42
10.6 SANCTIONING…………………………………………….........…………….…….42
10.7 LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP…………………………………..............………….…….43
10.8 LEAGUE REQUIREMENTS………………………………...…...........……….……44
- DISCIPLINE………………………………………………………...………............….…..46
11.1 GENERAL…………………………………………………...……...........…….…….46
11.2 EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA…..............…….…..46
11.3 DISTRICT OR LEAGUE JURISDICTION………………………...…...........……..47
11.4 DISCIPLINE ACTION……………………………………………..……….............47
11.5 EXTENT OF AFFECTED ACTIVITIES……………………............……………….47
11.6 MISCONDUCT-DEFINED………………………………………................…...…..48
11.7 FILING OF COMPLAINT………………………………………..………................48
11.8 DISCIPLINE HEARINGS……………..………………………..……...............…...48
11.9 PUNISHMENT………………………………………………….............……...……50
11.10 APPEAL OF DECISION……………………………………...…….............……...50
11.11 DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES…………………………………...…………...............50
- APPEALS……………………………………………………..................…………………58
APPENDIX A---LIST OF VDSA AND SNS FORMS…………................………….…..60
1. INTRODUCTION
This section provides an informal overview of Valley District Soccer (VDSA) – how it is organized, governed, who are its members, what are its programs. Where applicable, any topic that exists in the official bylaws or policies which define each in more detail will be italicized (e.g. Players). You should be able to locate such topics in the table of contents of the Bylaws or Policies and Procedures.
2. ORGANIZATION WITHIN VDSA
VDSA is responsible for organizing soccer activities for all its members. Activities include
competions, training and general administration.
Players are the ‘foundation’ membership units in soccer. Players register with Clubs, and as such, have the right to participate in competitions and training activities. Club membership automatically includes membership in all other member organizations of the Club, Leagues, and VDSA. Membership includes the obligation and acknowledgment for an individual to adhere to all bylaws, policies and procedures of all these organizations.
Clubs are the ‘grass root’ organization for registration of and program delivery to Players. Clubs form Club Teams and manage all team related activities including selection, registration, training, and coach selection. Clubs may also organize non-team related training or activities for its members. Clubs are members of VDSA and Leagues. Clubs register players, and where applicable, assign players to registered teams.
VDSA serves as the representative for its member Clubs and their players on Soccer Nova Scotia governing bodies.
Leagues organize seasonal league play for VDSA or Club teams. This includes creating divisions, schedules, and where applicable publishing standings and statistics.
3. DECISION MAKING LEVELS WITHIN VDSA
Within VDSA, decisions are made by the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, VDSA committees, and Operations ( i.e. staff )
The Board of Directors consists of a representative from each Club that is in good
standing with the VDSA and Soccer Nova Scotia. The powers of the Board of Directors are vested to direct the affairs of the VDSA as outlined in the by-laws.
Between General Meetings of its members, the Board of Directors has the power to develop or update policies and procedures, or to strike committees or perform other tasks as so required to carry out the business of the VDSA.
The Board of Directors is supported by a number of Committees and delegates authority to each committee by approving its objectives, membership, duties and responsibilities. Each VDSA Committee consists of a Chair and Members. Each Chair is appointed by the Executive Committee based on the recommendation of the President or, in the case where the Chair is an Officer, is elected at an AGM. Other committee members are selected either by the Committee Chair in consultation with staff and subject to the veto of the President, or as outlined under specific Committee policies. Staff members, as required, provide support for committees.
The role of each committee is to assist the Board of Directors in directing the affairs of the VDSA.
The Executive Committee consists of the eight elected Officers on the Borad of Directors: President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, Competitions representative, Technical committee director, Registrar, Referee representive, and the Executive Director. During the intervals between meetings of the Board of Directors, the Executive committee possesses and exercises the powers of the Board of Directors in the management and direction of the affairs of the VDSA.
The Day to Day Operations of the VDSA are the responsibility of the Executive Committee and are carried out under its direction by its staff. The EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR is responsible for the implementation of operations.
4. VDSA ACTIVITIES
VDSA and its Members, through its Bylaws, Policies and Procedures, support all member soccer activities. The following is an overview of these activities that also identifies roles and responsibilities of organizations and governing bodies in these activities.
Competitions
The major competition format for teams is through Leagues. Leagues are registered either through VDSA of Soccer Nova Scotia depending on the clubs that play in the League. There are ‘provincial’, ‘inter-district’, and ‘district’ leagues. Leagues are responsible for forming divisions for applicable age categories and creating schedules for each club team in those divisions. Leagues may also be required to maintain standings and statistics. Depending on the league authority, the League may also be responsible for identifying one or more teams that will participate in the Provincial tournament for Soccer Nova Scotia.
Tournaments are organized by Districts, Clubs, Leagues, or Soccer Nova Scotia. All tournaments must be sanctioned by Soccer Nova Scotia and as part of this process must file pre-tournament reports and post tournament reports.
Tournaments must also form divisions by age categories and provide teams with schedules, and where applicable tournament specific rules. Soccer Nova Scotia controls Provincial tournaments, annually awarding host sites to Districts, and providing rules and regulations to govern provincial play through a Competitions Handbook.
VDSA and clubs also organize competitions through ‘exhibition games’ for their competitive teams or informal league play for recreational level teams and players.
Registration
Soccer Nova Scotia governs the registration of Players, Referees, Teams, and Coaches through policies and procedures. A province wide IT Registration System serves as the central database/application for all registrations. Registration of players, teams, and coaches is carried out by Clubs. Registrations are ‘seasonal’ – summer, winter, and spring, with registrations expiring at the end of each season. Soccer Nova Scotia insures registered players and coaches, and for the purposes of insurance, coverage begins at the time of registration and ceases prior to the next summer season
Coach Development
Coaching Development is the responsibility of Districts and Clubs, with direction and assistance from Soccer Nova Scotia Technical Committee through its Director of Coaching and Player Development. Coaching certification is required for all competitive coaches and strongly encouraged for ALL coaches. The Canadian Soccer Associations certification program, that is soccer specific training, is made available to coaches through regular coaching clinics organized by Soccer Nova Scotia and the VDSA.
Referee Development
Through the local referee associations and the Referees Committee, Soccer Nova Scotia provides officials with formal training and certification. Referees are also required to attend regular ‘refresher training’ and to insure adequate fitness levels, all officials must pass annual fitness tests.
Local referee associations also provide assessments during the season to help identify opportunities for improvement/advancement and ‘mentor programs’ to utilize existing expertise in training new officials.
Administration
VDSA provides administrative services to support all its members through its staff members. The primary focus of staff is District wide services, including but not limited to financial management, overseeing registration, organizing training programs, coordinating maintenance of bylaws, policies and procedures, and any other rules or regulations.
While many day to day administrative tasks of clubs and leagues are carried out by those individual organizations, VDSA staff can offer support and guidance.
top
1.1 GENERAL
1.1.1 A policy is a position statement adopted by the Board of Directors to define the intent of VDSA Bylaws or to cover matters related to administration managed by Association’s staff. Policy includes all Policies and Procedures or other rules and regulations adopted by VDSA. Policy does NOT include Bylaws.
1.2.1 TYPES OF POLICIES
1.2.2 There shall be two types of policies:
1.2.3 Member Policies; and
1.2.4 Operational Policies.
1.2.5 Member policies are those that affect members and member’s affiliated governing bodies.
1.2.6 Operational Policies are those that pertain to administration managed by staff.
1.2.7 Member Policies and associated Procedures shall be developed and approved in accordance with this policy.
1.2.8 Operational Policies and associated Procedures shall be developed and approved by the Executive Committee.
1.3 PROCEDURES
1.3.1 Procedures shall be detailed statements covering the manner in which a Policy will be executed.
1.4 DEVELOPMENT OF NEW MEMBER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1.4.1 Policy must be developed by the Board of Directors.
1.4.2 Policy must be customer driven and always developed, maintained, and evaluated from that perspective.
1.4.3 Any Member Organization, any member of the Board of Directors, any Committee, and any staff member may initiate the development of a Policy by submitting to VDSA Executive Director a proposal on a “Policy and Procedures Introduction” form provided by VDSA, in accordance with the procedures and timelines specified in ““Policy Development - Procedures and Timelines for Requests for Decisions”
1.4.4 The Executive Director shall ensure that the issue is properly identified, the intent is clear, and that adequate rationale is included.
1.4.5 The Board of Directors must decide on whether it agrees with the basic need and principal issue prior to the development of any new policy. If the Board of Directors agrees with the basic need and principal issue, it shall delegate the development and wording of the policy to the appropriate group or individual.
1.4.6 The group, committee, or individual delegated by the Board of Directors is to develop the policy; and
A) Shall advise VDSA Member Organizations that the policy is being developed and shall solicit Member’s input, which shall be in writing
B) Shall consult, as required, with other Association Committees, and Staff and each shall respond in writing;
C) Shall consult with the policy initiator as needed.
1.4.7 When policy development has been completed, shall submit the results, together with supporting documentation, on a Request for Decision form to the Executive Director as per “Policy Development - Procedures and Timelines for Requests for Decisions”.
1.4.8 The Executive Director shall verify that all procedures have been followed.
1.4.9 Once it has been established that proper procedures have been followed, the Executive Director shall arrange for the distribution of the Request for Decision (RFD) as per “Policy Development - Procedures and Timelines for Requests for Decisions”.
1.5 REVISIONS TO EXISTING MEMBER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1.5.1 Any Member Organization, any member of the Board of Directors, any Association Committee, and any Staff member may propose a revision to an existing Member Policy and Procedure by submitting a proposal to VDSA on a Request for Decision (RFD) form provided by VDSA, in accordance with “Policies – Requests for Decision“, and the procedures and timelines specified in “Policy Development - Procedures and Timelines for Requests for Decisions”.
1.6 REQUESTS FOR DECISION
1.6.1 Any Member Organization, any member of the Board of Directors, any Association Committee, and any Staff member may submit a Request for Decision (RFD) proposal to the Board of Directors for its approval.
1.6.2 The decision requested may pertain to the revision of existing, or the creation of new policy or procedure, or it may pertain to any other decision which requires Board approval.
1.6.3 RFD’s shall be submitted to VDSA’s Executive Director in accordance with the procedures and timelines specified in “Policies - Procedures and Timelines for Requests for Decisions”
1.7 PROCEDURES AND TIMELINES FOR REQUESTS FOR DECISIONS
1.7.1 RFD’s shall be submitted to VDSA’s Executive Director no later than sixty (60) days prior to the Board of Directors meeting (at which the RFD will be considered by the Board of Directors).
1.7.2 The Executive Director shall verify that all procedures have been followed.
1.7.3 Once it has been established that proper procedures have been followed, the Executive Director shall circulate the RFD to Member Organization, the Board of Directors, other Association Committees, Task Forces, and Staff no later than forty-five (45) days prior to the next Board of Directors Meeting, .
1.7.4 Members of the Board of Directors, Association Committees, and Staff members may submit written comments regarding the RFD to the Executive Director no later than twenty-one (21) days prior to the Board of Directors meeting.
1.8 APPROVAL OF MEMBER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1.8.1 Policies shall be approved by the Board of Directors at a regularly scheduled meeting.
1.8.2 Policies approved by the Board of Directors shall be in effect as of the date determined by the Board.
1.8.3 Publications of Policies approved by the Board of Directors shall be updated no later than thirty (30) days following approval by the Board.
1.8.4 Policies approved by the Board of Directors shall be ratified by the Membership at VDSA’s
Annual General Meeting.
top
COMMITTEES
2.1 MANDATE
2.1.1 The mandate of a committee shall be the objectives, duties, and instructions as determined by the Board of Directors.
2.1.2 A committee shall oversee the administration of a program, including:
a) budgeting
b) formal meetings
c) progress reports
d) periodic Board presentations
2.2 AD-HOC COMMITTEES
2.2.1 The Board of Directors may form an Ad-Hoc Committee as required.
2.2.2 The mandate of an Ad-Hoc committee shall be restricted to the mandate of the Board.
2.3 COMMITTEE SELECTION
2.3.1 The Chair of each Committee will be appointed through an application process initiated by the President and approved by the Board of Directors before appointment.
2.3.2 The Chair of each Committee will select the members of that Committee, subject to the Membership terms for the committee.
a) Where Membership terms of a Committee do not specify inclusion of a VDSA staff member, the President may appoint a staff person as an ex-officio member.
2.4 MINUTES OF MEETINGS
2.4.1 Minutes shall be kept of all meetings of VDSA and its Committees, and they shall be submitted for ratification at the next relevant meeting.
2.4.2 Copies of minutes of each Committee meeting shall be submitted promptly to that Committee’s members and to the Board of Directors.
top
CLUBS
3.1 GENERAL
3.1.1 A Club is a governing body operating one or more Teams or organized soccer programs under a common Executive.
3.2 CLUB REQUIREMENTS
3.2.1 All Clubs located within the geographic area of the VDSA must be members of their VDSA, and as such, are associated with VDSA.
3.2.2 In addition to requirements contained herein, Clubs must meet all additional requirements of their District for Club status.
3.2.3 A Club is responsible for all actions of its players, officials and spectators.
3.2.4 Clubs must adopt standardized bylaws as set out by Soccer Nova Scotia.
a) Clubs may include additional bylaws providing they do not conflict with the standardized bylaws or the bylaws, policies and procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia.
3.2.5 A Club is required to take all precautions necessary to prevent its players, officials, and spectators from threatening or assaulting anyone present at a game, especially the game official(s).
3.2.6 A Club must provide to the VDSA on or before the District Annual General Meeting, and to Soccer Nova Scotia on or before April 1 annually:
a) A copy of its Annual General Meeting Minutes;
b) A financial statement covering the previous year’s financial activities;
c) A list of its elected and appointed officers;
d) A copy of bylaws;
e) Proof of registration and good standing in the Registry of Joint Stocks.
3.2.7 A club should notify it’s District in writing within fifteen (15) days of any change of officers or any change of address.
3.2.8 Clubs are responsible for registering Teams as outlined in Soccer Nova Scotia policies.
3.2.9 Clubs are responsible for registering Players as outlined in Soccer Nova Scotia policies.
3.3 Adherence To VDSA and Soccer Nova Scotia Bylaws, Policies and Procedures
3.3.1 Each Club is required to respect the aims and objectives of VDSA and Soccer Nova Scotia and comply with the bylaws, policies and procedures of VDSA and Soccer Nova Scotia.
top
PLAYERS
4.1 DEFINITION OF A PLAYER
4.1.1 A Player is defined as any person who registers to participate in any program or on any team associated with a member club of VDSA. This includes programs and teams under direct control of VDSA.
4.2 DEFINITION OF A SEASON
4.2.1 All registrations shall be associated with a Season. Annual Seasons are defined as Summer, Winter, and Spring. Dates for each Season are defined as:
Summer: May 1 to October 15
Winter: October 16 to May 14
Spring: March 15 to May 14
4.3 DEFINITION OF AGE CATEGORIES AND TIERS
4.3.1 All players shall register in an “Age Category” defined by Soccer Nova. Each Age Category contains 3 components:
* an age group * a Tier level * a Gender
A) Age groups are determined by Soccer Nova Scotia. Current age groups are:
1: Masters 1V: Senior V11: Under 14
11: 7 aside V: Under 18 V111: Under 12
111: Under 16 V1: Mini
B) Tier Levels are defined as:
1: Youth Tier levels
a) Tier 1: enables a player to participate in Tier 1 competitions including those leading to nationals.
b) Tier II A: Enables a player to participate in Tier II A competitions including those leading to Tier II A Provincial Championships.
c) Tier II B: Enables a player to participate in Tier II B competitions including those leading to Tier II B Provincial Championships. OR, where no Tier II B provincials exist , Tier II A competitions including those leading to Tier II A provincials.
d) Tier III: Enables a player to participate in club “ house” league competition ONLY. A Tier III player cannot play in a Tier 1/TierII tournament or league game.
a) Senior A: Enables a player to participate in Senior A competitions including those leading to a national championship.
b) Senor B: Enables a player to participate in Senior B competitions including those leading to Senior B provincial championships.
c) Senior C: Enables a player to participate in Senior C competitions including those leading to Senior C provincial championships.
d) Rec: Enables a player to participate in club “ house” league competition only. A Rec player cannot play in a Senior A, B, or C tournament or league game.
III: Other Tier levels recognized by Soccer Nova Scotia are:
a) Masters: Enables a player to participate in Masters competitions including those leading to a national championship.
b) 7 aside: Enables a player to participate in 7 aside competitions including those leading to a 7 aside provincial championship.
c) Gender is defined as:
I) Male ( boys/men) II) Female ( girls/women)
4.3.2. A player may be registered in the corresponding Age Category listed below with his/her stipulated birthday, provided s/he has not reached the stipulated birthday before January 1st of the calendar year for Season in which s/he is registering
Stipulated Birthday Age Category
i) 18th Birthday Under 18
ii)17th Birthday Under 18
iii) 16th Birthday Under 16
iv) 15th Birthday Under 16
v) 14th Birthday Under 14
vi) 13th Birthday Under 14
vii) 12th Birthday Under 12
viii) 11th Birthday Under 12
ix) 10th Birthday or earlier Mini
x) 35 Birthday Masters
xi) 30 Birthday 7 aside
xii) 19 Birthday Senior
4.4 REGISTRATION
4.4.1 All player registrations are submitted to Soccer Nova Scotia by utilizing the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) provided to all clubs by Soccer Nova Scotia.
4.4.2 Every registration shall be associated with an individual Season.
4.4.3 A Club shall not register any player without obtaining a written request or registration form from that player requesting registration with that Club. At a minimum, any player registering with a club must include a signed document acknowledging acceptance of the “Amateur Athlete Waiver and Release of Liability and Agreement to Abide by SNS and Club Bylaws, Policies, and Procedures” as part of the registration process which states that players will abide by the bylaws, policies and procedures, and rules of their club and Soccer Nova Scotia.
4.4.4 Clubs may incorporate the “Amateur Athlete Waiver and Release of Liability and Agreement to Abide by SNS and Club Bylaws, Policies, and Procedures” into their standard registration form.
4.4.5 When necessary, birth certificates, passports or other evidence acceptable to Soccer Nova Scotia shall be recognized as proof of age and evidence shall accompany all registration forms. The burden of proof of age shall rest with the player.
4.4.6 A player is considered to be registered once his/her name is entered into the ITSNS system by his/her club. At a minimum, the Club will register the player to an Age Category, and will submit a full name, address and birth date.
4.4.7 When applicable, the Club will further register a Player with a Registered Team of that Club for the purpose of playing in a Registered League and/or a Sanctioned Competition(s).
4.4.8 Players must be registered to a Team at least 48 hours prior to any team competition before being permitted to participate in that competition (exception: refer to ‘Player Movement’ sections)
4.4.9 A player, after being registered to a Team, may compete in competitions in which that team is registered as provided by the rules of such competition.
4.4.10 A player’s obligation as a registered player for any Season with a Club shall cease when the Season has ended.
4.4.11 A player registered with a club which has declared him / her surplus to their requirements may be granted a release from that club by filing a form supplied by Soccer Nova Scotia.
4.4.12 A Club shall be obliged to release (un-register) any registered player upon written request from that player. Any such request made after Registration Deadlines may be subject to monetary penalties for Soccer NS registration fees at the discretion of the Club. A Club may also withhold all or part of any associated registration fees based on Club Policies.
4.5 TEMPORARY REGISTRATION
4.5.1 Players not currently registered with Soccer Nova Scotia before applicable Registration Deadlines may register by means of a “Temporary Registration”. The Temporary Registration affords the player training privileges with a team but does not permit competitive and / or exhibition games. The registration will expire on May 1st annually and carries a fee of $10.00.
4.6 REGISTRATION DEADLINES
4.6.1 Player registration deadlines for each season are:
Summer – June 30th
Winter – December 15th (exception: Tier II - January 31st)
Spring – May 14th
4.6.3 A player must be registered at least seven (7) days prior to in any cup competition leading to a National Competition in order to participate in any such cup competition.
4.6.4 A League may further establish a deadline for players registering to play in league competitions organized by that League. In such a case, the League must advise, in writing, to its Governing Body that such a deadline has been established.
4.6.5 The CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER of SNS is empowered to access the ITSNS system and register any youth or senior player after the registration deadline upon receipt of satisfactory evidence that the player was mistakenly left off his/her club registration. A $25 fee may be applied to every such registration.
4.7 REGISTRATION FEES
4.7.1 Player Registration Fees shall be based on the actual registered player counts in the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system
4.7.2 By May 31, each Club registered and in good standing with Soccer Nova Scotia shall pay an amount equal to 75% of the previous year’s player registration fees and will pay (within 30 days of receipt of invoices) the balance of final player registration fees against invoices received from Soccer Nova Scotia, such final fees being based on the actual data in the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system.
By July 1, each club registered with the VDSA will be invoiced for player registration fees and such fees will be based on the actual data in the Nova Scotia computerized registration system.
4.8 PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
4.8.1 A player registered with VDSA through Soccer Nova Scotia shall be entitled to all associated privileges, including, but not limited to participation in programs, teams, and leagues, and limited insurance coverage.
4.8.2 However, for the purpose of insurance, a player’s summer registration with Soccer Nova Scotia is effective until May 15th of the following year, and winter or spring registration is effective until May 15th immediately following the winter or spring season.
4.8.3 Soccer Nova Scotia’s player Summer registration affords insurance for all programs, practices, and summer season outdoor sanctioned games from the date of registration until May 14th of the next year.
4.8.4 Soccer Nova Scotia’s player Winter registration affords insurance coverage for sanctioned winter (indoor) soccer games and practices.
4.8.5 Soccer Nova Scotia’s player Spring registration affords insurance coverage for sanctioned spring league games and practices.
4.8.6 The act of registration by any individual with Soccer Nova Scotia will oblige that individual to adhere to all bylaws, policies and procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia
4.8.7 A player found guilty of providing false information for registration purposes shall be subject to suspension for one year, in accordance with the discipline policies and procedures.
4.8.8 Players contravening registration policies will be suspended immediately pending a Soccer Nova Scotia Discipline and Appeals Hearing.
4.9 RESTRICTIONS
4.9.1 A player going from Nova Scotia to another province, under the jurisdiction of the C.S.A. shall not be registered in that province until he/she receives in writing a clearance from the Registrar of Soccer Nova Scotia under which he/she was last registered.
4.9.2 In order to participate in any competition leading to National Championships, including but not limited to Leagues, Challenge Games, Provincial Championships, and Maritime Championships, a player shall be either:
a Canadian citizen;
a landed immigrant;
a refugee claimant;
a full-time student who has been a continuous resident in Canada for at least six
months prior to the start of the National Championships.
4.10 EXCEPTIONS
Recreation Tier level Players may also register with a Competitive team.
4.10.1 Under exceptional circumstances, Soccer Nova Scotia may, at its discretion, enact regulations to allow a player to play for more than one amateur team. However, a player may not register or play for more than one team in the same league, or cup, or youth age-group competition.
4.10.2 Under exceptional circumstances, players may request for Soccer Nova Scotia to appeal on their behalf to the Director of Competitions of the Canadian Soccer Association for special permission to enable them to participate in competitions leading to National Championships
4.11 PLAYER MOVEMENT TO OTHER CLUBS
4.11.1 Any player registered with Soccer Nova Scotia is eligible to obtain a “TEMPORARY REGISTRATION PERMIT
4.11.2 A Temporary Registration Permit shall entitle a player to play for a higher level team in a Club other than one with which he/she is registered, in a game of any registered league or sanctioned competition.
4.11.3 A Temporary Registration Permit may not be used for movement between teams within the same Club.
4.11.4 A Temporary Registration Permit cannot be utilized by a player to play for more than one team in the same division of a League.
4.11.5 A Temporary Registration Permit shall be validated by an Executive Member of the Club with which the team, from which he/she is playing up, is registered.
4.11.6 A player using a Temporary Registration Permit in order to be eligible to play for a competitive team must also possess a SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA I.D. CARD available for presentation at the game. Failure to present the SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA I.D. CARD shall render the player ineligible to play in that game.
4.11.7 A player shall be entitled to three (3) Temporary Registration Permits during each Season.
4.11.8 Clubs are responsible for maintaining a record of the number of Temporary Registration Permits issued to their players.
4.11.9 A “higher level team” shall be defined as a team which is:
Registered in a higher Age Group
Registered in a higher Tier Level or
Playing in a higher division of the same league
4.11.10 In a tournament, a Temporary Registration Permit must be used by any player playing for a Club Team, other than one with which he/she is registered, subject to the following conditions:
a) the tournament rules permit guest players;
b) if the tournament permits competitive teams only, the player has a SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA I.D. CARD available for presentation at each game in which he/she plays;.
c) A Temporary Registration Permit entitles the player to play in all of the games in the tournament.
4.12 PLAYER MOVEMENT WITHIN A CLUB
4.12.1 With the permission of his/her Club, a player may play for a “higher level Club Team” than, and within the same Club as, the Club Team to which he/she has been assigned and registered.
4.12.2 “TEMPORARY REGISTRATION PERMIT” is not required when such movement within a Club occurs.
4.12.3 A “higher level team” shall be defined as a team which is:
a) Registered in a higher Age Group
b) Registered in a higher Tier Level ;or
c) Playing in a higher division of the same league.
4.12.4 If the “higher level team” is a competitive team, the player must possess a SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA I.D. CARD which must be available for presentation at each game in which he/she is playing. Failure to present the SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA I.D. CARD shall render the player ineligible to play in that game.
4.12.5 A Club or District League may impose limitations on such movement within a Club, provided that the limitations are applied consistently.
4.13 PLAYER MOVEMENT TO PROVINCIAL - NATIONAL - ALL STAR TEAMS
4.13.1 Only registered players may play for Provincial, National, or All-Star Teams.
4.13.2 Any such team may be formed to represent:
A)Canadian Soccer Association
B)Soccer Nova Scotia;
C)A District Association;
D)A sanctioned League
4.13.3 Any such team may only play in game(s) that are sanctioned competitions.
4.13.4 In all cases in which a player is playing for a competitive team under one of the conditions above, the player must possess a Soccer Nova Scotia ID Card and have such document available for presentation at the game in which he/she is playing. Failure to present the Soccer Nova Scotia ID Card shall render the player ineligible to play in that game.
4.14 TRANSFERS
4.14.2 In the summer season, the transfer deadline shall be June 30th for Tier I and Senior A players, and July 15th for Tier II, Senior B and Senior C players.
4.14.3 In the winter season, the transfer deadline shall be December 31st.
4.14.4 All transfers require completion of a “Player Transfer Form” and shall be processed by Soccer Nova Scotia and shall be requested by electronic means from the Soccer Nova Scotia Director of Administration.
4.14.5 The transfer of a player between Soccer Nova Scotia and another Provincial Association or a National League shall be in accordance with the C.S.A. Published Rules.
4.14.6 A player shall be entitled to the following transfers:
A) Two transfers only during the current season within the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia. However, a player, once transferred, cannot be transferred back to the team for which he was originally registered until a period of thirty (30) days has elapsed.
B) One transfer between Soccer Nova Scotia and any other Provincial Association, except that in the event of a player, having been transferred under Section a) and finding it necessary to return to the jurisdiction under which he was originally registered, shall be allowed to transfer his/her services back to the team for which (s)he was last registered.
C) A player moving outside the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia may apply for, and be granted, an “open” transfer upon payment of the applicable fee. The transfer will bear the required signatures of the officials of the team from which (s)he is transferring and will become effective when completed by officials of his/her new team in the receiving jurisdiction.
4.14.7 No person, association, league, club or team shall limit unreasonably the right of a player to transfer to the team of his/her choice. If a transfer is denied, the player may appeal in accordance with Policy of the Appeals and Procedures.
4.14.8 Notice of all transfers as hereby provided shall immediately be mailed to the Secretary of the Club. Save and except the National Championships and Soccer Nova Scotia competitions, the player so transferred shall be eligible after one day following the registration of such transfer, to play all games for the team to which his transfer has been granted.
4.14.9 The fee payable for a transfer shall be set by Soccer Nova Scotia, and it applies to players transferring to a different club. There is no transfer fee associated with transferring players within the same club. Clubs receiving the transferring player will be billed the transfer fee by Soccer Nova Scotia.
4.15 YOUTH PLAYING ZONES
4.15.1 This policy applies to ALL youth age registered players.
4.15.2 For the purpose of this policy all playing zones can be identified by the clubs that serve their respective towns, villages, and communities. Clubs under the VDSA as follows:
- West Hants Soccer Club
- Hantsport Soccer Club
- Gaspereau Soccer Club
- Wolfville Soccer Club
- New Minas Soccer Club
- Port Williams Soccer Club
- East Kings Soccer Club
- Kings West Soccer Club
- Somerset Soccer Club
- Kingston/Greenwood Soccer Club
- Bridgetown Soccer Club
- Middleton Soccer Club
- Annapolis Soccer Club
- Digby Soccer Club
- Clare Soccer Club
4.15.3 Such players must register and play within the Region in which that player resides (“Home Region”) except as specified here.
4.15.4 The residency of the player is determined by the residency of the parent. For the purposes of this policy the parent of the player is:
A) Either parent where both parents have a common residence or if there is only one surviving parent, such surviving parent and
B) In the event that the parents are living apart, the parent who has custody of the player, or if both parents have custody, the parent with whom the player habitually resides or if the player does not habitually reside with either parent, then either parent, and
C) In the event both parents are deceased, the person who is the guardian
4.15.5 Any player who wishes to return to play in his/her Home Region may do so without penalty or formal request.
4.15.6 A player may register and play outside his / her Home Region (“Out-Of-Region”)
A) No youth team exists for the age category for the player
B) A player is playing for a Tier 1 team ( Valley United Soccer Club)
C) A player may be allowed to play out of region on the basis of exceptional circumstances provided a player request is applied for and approval obtained from the VDSA.
4.15.7 Any such permission granted by VDSA to play Out-Of-Region shall be valid for ONLY the upcoming season. At the end of that season, the player shall be considered as having returned to his/her Home Region and a new request must be made for subsequent seasons.
4.15.8 For players who do not intend to play in their Home Region for an upcoming season:
a) The player must submit a ‘Request to Play Out-Of-Region’ form to VDSA no later than:
1) May 1 for upcoming summer season
2) October 1 for upcoming winter season
b) VDSA shall forward all requests to the players Home Regions Club within five (5) days of the applicable deadline for receipt.
c) Clubs in effected regions shall have fourteen (14) days to respond to VDSA with acknowledgement of either:
1) acceptance
2) request to deny
3) failure to file a response with VDSA within fourteen (14) days shall be construed as acceptance of the request.
4) The VDSA executive will render a final decision on each request and inform the player and the home region within five (5) days.
top
COACHES
5.1 REGISTRATION
5.1.1 All coach registrations are submitted to Soccer Nova Scotia by utilizing the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) provided to all clubs by Soccer Nova Scotia. “Coaches” are defined to include head coaches, assistant coaches, team managers and team trainers.
5.1.2 Registration includes:
a) Entry as a person to include names, address, and phone number,
b) For competitive teams, registration to an Age Category and a Team as a Team Official,
c) For recreational teams, registration to an Age Category.
5.1.3 Every registration shall be associated with an individual Season.
5.1.4 At a minimum, every coach registering with a club must include a signed document acknowledging acceptance of:
a) the SNS coach waiver and release of liability as part of the registration process
b) clubs may incorporate the SNS coach waiver and release of liability into their standard coach registration form.
5.1.5 Competitive team coaches must be registered prior to participation in any Competition.
5.1.6 A coach’s obligation as a coach for any season with a club shall cease when the season has ended.
5.1.7 A Club shall be obliged to release (un-register) any coach upon written request from that coach. Any such request made after Registration Deadlines may be subject to monetary penalties for Soccer NS registration fees at the discretion of the Club. A Club may also withhold all or part of any associated registration fees based on Club Policies.
5.2 REGISTRATION FEES
5.2.1 All applicable coach registration fees will be paid to Soccer Nova Scotia by the Club where a coach is registered in a manner to be determined by Soccer Nova Scotia annually, such manner to be communicated to Clubs no later than January 31st annually.
5.3 PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
5.3.1 A coach registered with Soccer Nova Scotia shall be entitled to all associated privileges, including, but not limited to participation in programs, teams, and leagues, and limited insurance coverage.
5.3.2 However, for the purpose of insurance, a coach’s summer registration with Soccer Nova Scotia is effective until May 15th of the following year, and winter or spring registration is effective until May 15th immediately following the winter or spring season.
5.3.3 Soccer Nova Scotia’s coach Summer registration affords insurance for all programs, practices, and summer season outdoor sanctioned games from the date of registration until May 14th of the next year.
5.3.4 Soccer Nova Scotia’s coach Winter registration affords insurance coverage for sanctioned winter (indoor) soccer games and practices.
5.3.5 Soccer Nova Scotia’s coach Spring registration affords insurance coverage for sanctioned spring league games and practices.
5.3.6 The act of registration by any individual with Soccer Nova Scotia will oblige that individual to adhere to all bylaws, policies and procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia.
5.3.7 A coach found guilty of providing false information for registration purposes shall be suspended for one year, in accordance with the discipline policies and procedures.
5.3.8 Coaches contravening registration policies will be suspended immediately pending a Soccer Nova Scotia Discipline and Appeals Hearing.
5.4 CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
5.4.1 Each coach registered with a Club and assigned as the Team Head Coach to a competitive Youth team other than Tier I is required to have completed the Youth Level of the CSA Community Coaching Program to participate in Soccer Nova Scotia Provincials.
5.4.2 Each coach registered with a Club and assigned as the Team Head Coach to a competitive Senior Team other than Tier A is required to have completed the Senior Level of the CSA Community Coaching Program to participate in Soccer Nova Scotia Provincials
5.4.3 Each coach registered with a Club and assigned as the Team Head Coach to a Youth Tier I or a Senior A team must have full certification of CSA Community Coaching Program to participate in any competition.
5.5 BACKGROUND CHECK
5.5.1 All coaches must submit a Canadian Police Information Check (CPIC) criminal record check to their Club at least every three (3) years
5.5.2 Clubs or VDSA shall also have the right to require a Nova Scotia Child Abuse Registry check at least every three (3) years.
top
REFEREES
6.1 DEFINITION
6.1.1 “Referees” are defined as any sanctioned competition referee, assistant referee, fourth official, referee assessor, referee assignor, or referee instructor.
6.2 REGISTRATION
6.2.1 All Referees shall register annually with Soccer Nova Scotia.
6.2.2 Applications to register shall use the Soccer Nova Scotia “Referee Registration Form”. The name of the applicant shall be placed on the official list in the classification for which s/he is qualified. All Registration Forms must be accompanied by the appropriate registration fee.
6.2.3 At a minimum, every referee registration must include a signed document acknowledging acceptance of :
A) the “SNS Referee Waiver and Release of Liability” as part of the registration process
B) a “SNS Referee Agreement” which states that coaches “Abide with the bylaws, policies and procedures, rules and regulations of their Regional Referee Association and those of Soccer Nova Scotia.”
Clubs may incorporate the “SNS Referee Waiver and Release of Liability” and “SNS Referee Agreement” into their standard referee registration form.
6.2.4 Registration is effective from April 1st or on the date late registration is accepted, and terminates on March 31st of the following year.
a) Late Registration will be accepted after June 1st and includes a late fee penalty as prescribed by Soccer Nova Scotia. This late fee shall be directed to the Regional Referee Association to cover costs related to managing the refresher training for late registering referees.
6.2.5 A referee must register at his/her appointed classification unless they wish to register at a lower appointed classification at which time he/she must notify the Soccer Nova Scotia Chief Operations Office Coordinator.
6.2.6 Registration includes:
a) Registration with Soccer Nova Scotia;
b) Registration with the Canadian Soccer Association for Senior Referees (i.e. Class 3 and up);
c) Registration with the referee’s VDSA Referee Association.
6.2.7 Referees with appointed classifications that wish to register at a lower appointed class or an entry level class must notify the Program Chief Operations Office Coordinator.
6.2.8 Persons who have let their registration lapse more than one year and who apply for registration will have their case reviewed by the Program Chief Operations Office Coordinator who, in making a decision, will be guided by the Canadian Soccer Association regulation on Reinstatement of Registration.
6.2.9 Referee registration fees are set annually by Soccer Nova Scotia
6.3 REFEREE REGISTRATION CLASSIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS
6.3.1 Persons wishing to register as a referee must attend a course of instruction conducted under the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia. Upon successful completion, candidates shall be classified as Class 3 Referees.
6.3.2 Candidates must be not less than 14 years of age as of January 1st of the current year. Proof of age may be required at the time of application. Failure to adhere to the age policy will result in Candidates being required to re-take the course of instruction.
6.3.3 Class 3 Referees shall be eligible:
a) Within their first year as a Class 3 Referee, to officiate as a Referee in Youth Competitive and Youth Recreational Games and as an Assistant Referee in Senior Amateur games.
b) Within their second and subsequent years as a Class 3 Referee, to officiate Senior Amateur games as a Match Referee or Assistant Referee.
6.3.4 To maintain standing as a Class 3 Referee, a Referee must:
a) Actively officiate within Soccer Nova Scotia;
b) Adhere to all Bylaws, Policies and Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia and be in good standing;
c) Must remain current by attending annual courses (see “Refresher Training”) held by VDSA Referee Association;
d) Pay the annual fees as published by Soccer Nova Scotia;
e) Maintain registration each year.
6.3.5 To be eligible for consideration for promotion to a Class 2 Referee, a Class 3 Referee must complete an application form and complete the criteria below in the order listed.
a) Be recommended for upgrading by their Regional Referee Association or the Provincial Assessment Program and be considered an above average Class 3 Referee. This recommendation shall be made by the March RDC meeting in the season before attendance at an upgrading clinic.
b) Meet the Class 2 fitness standards the season before being invited to a Class 2 upgrading clinic.
c) Within two years following a passing mark on the Class 2 Examination, obtain a minimum of three qualifying assessments by more than one assessor, at least two of which must be obtained in Senior Men’s Competitive games with the other assessment obtained in another Competitive caliber game;
d) Fulfill the yearly fitness standards in supervised tests each of the following two years following the Examination.
6.3.6 Class 2 Referees shall be eligible:
a) Officiate in any category of amateur soccer under the jurisdiction of a Provincial Soccer Association
6.3.7 To maintain standing as a Class 2 Referee, a Referee must
a) Actively officiate within Soccer Nova Scotia;
b) Adhere to all Bylaws, Policies and Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia and be in good standing;
c) Must remain current by attending education programming (see “Refresher Training”);
d) Pay the annual fees as published by Soccer Nova Scotia;
e) Maintain registration each year;
f) Complete a minimum of one formal assessment per year in an appropriate Senior Competitive game;
g) Fulfill the fitness test requirement for Class 2 Referees;
6.3.8 To be eligible for consideration from promotion to a Class 1 Referee, a Class 2 Referee must complete all the criteria below within a two year time period:
a) Be an above average Class 2 Referee for two years;
b) Be recommended for upgrading by their Regional Referee Association or the Provincial Assessment Program and be considered an above average Class 2 Referee. This recommendation shall be made by the March RDC meeting in the season before attendance at an upgrading clinic.
c) Meet the Class 1 fitness standards the season before being invited to a Class 2 upgrading clinic.
d) Attend the Class 1 preparation sessions ;
e) Attend and pass the Class 1 Examination;
f) A minimum of four qualifying assessments, at least one of which shall be by a National Assessor and all of which shall be in Senior Men’s Competitive games;
g) Fulfill the yearly fitness standards in supervised tests each year;
h) Candidates may be required to complete additional assessments above the minimum to show proficiency of performance at the required level. In such cases, an extension beyond the two-year limit may be granted.
6.3.9 Evaluation of candidates in the Upgrading Program will be completed each year at the need of the outdoor season and will be effective for the following registration year.
6.3.10 Class 1 Referees shall be eligible to officiate in any category of amateur soccer and may be appointed to non-amateur and inter-provincial competitions.
6.3.11 To maintain standing as a Class 1 Referee, a Referee must:
a) Actively officiate within Soccer Nova Scotia;
b) Adhere to all Bylaws, Policies and Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia and be in good standing;
c) Must remain current by attending education programming (see “Refresher Training”);
d) Pay the annual fees as published by Soccer Nova Scotia
e) Maintain registration each year;
f) Complete a minimum of one formal assessment per year in an appropriate Senior Competitive game;
g) Fulfill the fitness test requirement for Class 1 Referees;
6.3.12 To be considered for status as a Nominated National Referee, a Class 1 Referee must
a) Perform as an above average Class 1 Referee for a minimum of 2 years;
b) Fulfill the requirements of a Class 1 Referee;
c) Fulfill the entry fitness test requirements of the Canadian Soccer Association;
d) Obtain assessments performed by National Assessors in suitable competitions;
e) At the call of the Canadian Soccer Association through Soccer Nova Scotia, prepare a resume of all soccer related activities for the past two years;
f) Meet age qualification standards of The CSA;
g) Be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
h) At all times (whether on or off the field play) exhibit professional conduct, a positive attitude and commitment to the game
6.3.13 Nominations as a National Referee shall be recommended by the Referee Development Committee to Soccer Nova Scotia.
6.3.14 Appointment as a National Referee is under the jurisdiction of The Canadian Soccer Association, which may also make nominations to the International List of Referees or Assistant Referees.
6.3.15 Referees who are unable to fulfill the fitness or assessment requirements to maintain their classifications (those under the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia) in a given year shall be allowed the next season in which to fulfill the requirements and be reinstated to the higher classification.
6.3.16 Transferring Referees from other jurisdictions shall have their credentials checked by the Director of the Referee Development Committee, who will notify them at what classification they may register and what additional requirements they must meet.
6.3.17 Referees who have let their registration lapse more than one year may apply for reinstatement and have their cases reviewed by the Director of the Referee Development Committee.
6.4 GENERAL REGULATIONS
6.4.1 A person wishing to register as a referee must be examined and classified in accordance with the standards published by the Canadian Soccer Association.
6.4.2 No person shall act as a referee, in any competition, under the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia who is not on the Official List of the Provincial Soccer Association.
6.4.3 For each referee on the Official List, Soccer Nova Scotia shall forward the latest copy of the Laws of the Game.
6.4.4 Soccer Nova Scotia may re-examine or re-classify any registered referee at its discretion, and may also remove a referee from its Official List of Referees for just cause.
6.4.5 A registered player, who is also on the Provincial Official List of Referees, shall not officiate in any competition in which the player’s team is entered.
6.4.6 The match referee shall decide on the fitness of the ground, and his/her decision shall be final.
6.4.7 The match referee must, within 48 hours of the conclusion of the game, or such other time as may be stipulated in the rules of the competition, forward to the appointing body a written report containing the result of the game and details of any misconduct.
6.4.8 In the event of serious foul play or violent conduct or misconduct toward the match referee or assistant referees, the match referee shall, within 24 hours of the conclusion of the game, submit a copy of the Soccer Nova Scotia Misconduct Report to Soccer Nova Scotia.
6.4.9 All referees shall be under the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia and shall only officiate games involving registered teams playing in approved competitions.
6.4.10 Soccer Nova Scotia Registered Referees shall adhere to the regulations and standards for referees as set by the National Referees’ Committee and approved by the Board of Directors of the Canadian Soccer Association.
6.4.11 When officiating, all referees shall wear the official uniform for a Canadian referee, which is:
a) Black shirt with white collar and cuffs, black shorts, black soccer-style shoes and black knee-high length socks with three white rings around the top. The shirt may have short sleeves for summer use.
b) When there is a clash of colours with a team wearing black, the alternate shirt for Nova Scotia referees is yellow. If there is a clash with yellow and black, a red shirt may be worn.
c) One badge shall be worn on the left breast area of the shirt. The badge shall be for the highest level for which the referee is qualified such as F.I.F.A. or National or as approved by the Provincial Association.
d) Soccer Nova Scotia will make available for purchase, a black ball cap with crest. This cap may only be worn when officiating as an assistant referee, and when officiating more than one game on the same day.
6.5 CODE OF ETHICS
a) Referees, having certain privileges through and by Soccer Nova Scotia, with respect to the game, shall realize their responsibilities and duties to Soccer Nova Scotia and the game. Soccer Nova Scotia’s Code includes and enlarges upon the Canadian Soccer Association’s “Code of Ethics” for referees. Specifically, a Soccer Nova Scotia Referee shall:
b) Conduct him/herself with dignity both on and off the field of play and shall, by example, seek to inspire the principles of fair play and earn the respect of those the referee serves;
c) Not cause the Canadian Soccer Association, Soccer Nova Scotia, VDSA or any Regional Referee Association to become involved in any controversial matters and shall abide by the bylaws, policies and procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia and the referee’s own Regional Referee Association.
d) Adhere to all standards and directives established by the international [F.I.F.A.], national [C.S.A.], and provincial [S.N.S.] soccer associations, and the referee’s Regional Referee Association.
e) Always be neat in appearance and maintain a high level of physical and mental fitness;
f) Study the Laws of the Game and be aware of all changes and enforce all said laws and changes;
g) Perform his/her designated duties, including attending organized clinics and lectures, etc. and shall assist their colleagues in upgrading and improving their standards of officiating, instructing and assessing;
h) Adhere to the Canadian Soccer Association’s Anti- Doping Policy
i) Honour any appointments made for and accepted by them unless unable to do so by virtue of illness or personal emergency;
j) Not publicly criticize other referees, national or provincial soccer association, or any Regional Referee Association.
k) Not make any statement to the media (newspaper, television, radio, etc.) related to a game in which the referee has officiated, or to the performance of the players or other officials.
l) Not accept any appointment to officiate in any competitive game involving a team in the same age and gender division in the same league to which the referee is directly affiliated as a registered coach or manager.
m) Not accept an appointment to officiate in any provincial championship game involving a team or club to whom the referee is directly affiliated as a player, a registered coach or manager, an elected Executive or Board member.
n) Not accept any appointment to officiate in any competitive game in which an immediate member of his/her family (by marriage or common law) is a registered player or coach. An immediate member of the family is a parent, a spouse, a son or daughter, a brother or sister.
o) Be subject to disciplinary action by the Referee Ethics Committee for not complying with this Code of Ethics.
6.6 REFRESHER TRAINING
6.6.1 A referee must attend annual refresher training as directed by the VDSA Referee Association. A referee will not be placed on the Soccer Nova Scotia Official list of referees until annual refresher training is completed to the satisfaction of the referee’s Regional Referee Association and reported to Soccer Nova Scotia by that association.
6.7 ASSIGNING
6.7.2 League and Tournament games under the jurisdiction of Inter-District and/or Provincial leagues will be assigned by the Leagues. The leagues may delegate assigning to any of the local societies within the soccer regions that the leagues represent, based on a mutual contract. The appointments will be made from the SNS official list of referees for the current year.
6.7.3 League and tournament games under the jurisdiction of the VDSA will be assigned by a local referee assignor(s), as appointed by the league as follows:
a) The valley referees association will nominate local referee assignors to the league prior to:
1) March 1 for the outdoor season
2) October 1 for the indoor season
b) The executive of a league, under the jurisdiction of the VDSA, will approve the nomination of such assignors.
c) This process will be repeated for each year a league operates.
6.8 APPOINTMENTS
6.8.1 Referee appointments to VDSA League and Tournament games will be assigned by the local referee assignor(s) The appointments will be made from the SNS official list of referees for the current year.
6.8.2 Referee appointments to League and Tournament games under the jurisdiction of Inter-District and/or Provincial leagues will be assigned by the Leagues. The leagues may delegate assigning to any of the local societies within the soccer regions that the leagues represent, based on a mutual contract. The appointments will be made from the SNS official list of referees for the current year.
6.8.3 Referee appointments to provincial Tier I championship games and Division I Men’s and Women’s playoffs will be assigned by the SNS Chief Assessor, in consultation with the SNS Referee Development Committee and the League. The appointments will be made from the SNS official list of referees for the current year.
6.8.4 Referee appointments to Tier II and Senior B provincial championship games will be assigned by the regional referee assessor serving the hosting district in consultation with the SNS Chief Assessor. The appointments will be made from the SNS official list of referees for the current year.
6.8.5 The SNS Chief Assessor reserves the right to make referee appointments for assessment purposes to any league, tournament or provincial championship game. The appointments will be made from the SNS official list of referees for the current year.
6.8.6 Appointments made by Soccer Nova Scotia shall take precedence over those made by Leagues and Competitions.
6.8.7 Referees shall not be appointed to games for which their classification does not permit.
6.8.8 A referee shall only officiate at games involving:
a) Registered teams playing in approved competitions,
b) School, college and university teams, and
c) Exhibition games sanctioned by Soccer Nova Scotia.
6.8.9 Referees shall have the right to choose the competitions for which they are willing to officiate, provided the competitions meet the criteria for which the referees are registered.
6.8.10 A referee shall be deemed to have accepted an appointment if, within 48 hours after its receipt, the referee does not return it to the appointers.
6.8.11 A referee who accepts two appointments shall accept the higher valued appointment as deemed by the Referee Development Committee flow chart.
6.8.12 Maximum number of games per one day for a match referee and assistant referee: Match referees and assistant referees shall abide by a 360 minute maximum in one day with a maximum of 180 minutes as a match referee and assistant referee, excluding overtime. Upon completion of 180 minutes, there must be a two-hour break before returning to officiate.
6.9 GAME FEES
6.9.1 All leagues under the jurisdiction of the VDSA will negotiate referee and assigning fees with the President of the Valley referee association annually as such:
a) no later than Feb 1 for an outdoor league
b) no later than October 1 for an indoor league
6.9.2 Leagues or competitions shall pay such fees to referees as are approved by Soccer Nova Scotia and/or VDSA under whose jurisdiction the games are played. It is an offence for an official to ask for or receive more than the set rates.
6.9.3 Referees may only be paid game fees and expenses at rates set in advance by Soccer Nova Scotia or Leagues under whose jurisdiction the games are played. In the case of provincial leagues the rates are those set by Soccer Nova Scotia at its annual September Board Meeting.
6.10 REFEREES, LEAGUES, PAYMENT AND ASSIGNING
6.10.1 Referee appointments will be assigned as per guidelines of the ‘Appointments’ subsection of this policy.
6.10.2 A referee who accepts two appointments shall accept the higher valued appointment as deemed by the Referee Development Committee flow chart.
6.10.3 All leagues, after negotiations with the relevant Regional Referee Association(s), must have written policies on the payment of referees.
6.10.4 All leagues must pay referees either before each game or at regular intervals during the season, as agreed with the applicable referee Regional Referee Association(s).
6.10.5 All leagues must have written policies, negotiated with regional referee’s Regional Referee Association(s) on payment of referees arriving at the field for games cancelled at late notice or no notice at all, and for games that referees attend but are not played due to team no-shows.
top
TEAMS
7.1 DEFINITION
7.1.1 Teams are formed by Clubs and must consist of registered Players. Teams compete in sanctioned Competitions.
a) Soccer Nova Scotia creates Provincial or All Star Teams that are controlled by a separate policy “Provincial-All Star Teams” and as such, may not be subject to all conditions and limitations of this policy.
7.2 REGISTRATION
7.2.1 All team registrations are submitted to Soccer Nova Scotia by utilizing the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) provided to all clubs by Soccer Nova Scotia.
7.2.2 All Teams must register for play in a sanctioned competition. A Sanctioned Competition is a registered League, sanctioned tournament (including provincials), sanctioned cup competition, or sanctioned exhibition game (see “Competitions”).
7.2.3 Every team registration shall be associated with:
a) A Season, as defined by Soccer Nova Scotia (see “Players-Definitions”).
b) An Age Category, as defined by Soccer Nova Scotia (see “Players-Definitions”).
c) Where participating in league play, a Division, being the League Division that the team shall compete in.
1. Leagues are required to create a Division in the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) for each Season and Division that the League administers.
7.2.4 A team is registered by its Club to play in sanctioned competition(s). Such registration shall be defined by:
a) For League play, registration of a team to a Division in the ITSNS and authorization from that League;
b) For a tournament or cup competition, application and acceptance into a sanctioned tournament or cup competition by the event organizers;
c) For exhibition games, sanctioning by the Club host District(s) for the playing teams.
7.3 REGISTRATION FEES
7.3.1 All applicable League Team fees will be paid to the League that Clubs are affiliated with in a manner to be communicated to clubs by their respective Leagues.
7.4 TEAM DESIGNATIONS
7.4.1 Recreational Teams
a) Shall be composed entirely of players registered in either youth ‘Tier III’ or senior ‘Rec’ tier levels
b) May only participate in club house league competition.
7.4.2 Competitive Teams
a) Shall be composed entirely of competitively registered players of the same Tier.
b) May participate in competitions conducted outside the jurisdictional areas of Soccer Nova Scotia with written permission from Soccer Nova Scotia, obtained prior to departure.
c) May participate in only one Competitive League.
d) May participate in Soccer Nova Scotia Provincial Championships provided that their coach is certified:
1. at the Community Coach youth level for Tier II youth teams.
2. at the Community Coach Senior level for Senior B or C teams.
3. at the full Community Coach Certification level for Tier I or Senior A teams.
e) Shall not participate in any competition that is not relevant to their Age Category without the permission of Soccer Nova Scotia.
.
7.5 AGE CATEGORIES
7.5.1 Each team shall register and compete in an Age Category defined by Soccer Nova Scotia and VDSA. Refer to “Players” section of these policies for definitions of valid Age Categories.
7.6 NUMBER OF PLAYERS
7.6.1 The number of players per team permitted to be registered to an OUTDOOR team is:
a) Tier III, Rec, Mini: minimum of 10 players, maximum of 27 players.
b) Tier II , Senior B, Rec Masters: minimum of 14 players, maximum of 27 players.
c) Tier I, Senior A: minimum of 14 players, maximum of 22 players.
d) Senior 7 A-Side and Tier II C: minimum of 10 players, maximum of 22 players.
7.6.2 The number of players per team permitted to be registered to an INDOOR team is:
a) All teams: minimum of 10 players, maximum of 18 players.
7.7 RESTRICTIONS
7.7.1 Any team or club official reported for approaching players for the purpose of transferring from another club or joining their team will be subject to a discipline hearing by Soccer Nova Scotia, and if found guilty, may face a suspension for a period of time of three (3) years.
7.7.2 Any registered team that wishes to participate in any competition outside of the province must submit an ‘Application to Travel Out of Province’ form to Soccer Nova Scotia, no later than four (4) days prior to the date first date of competition.
top
COMPETITIONS
8.1 DEFINITION OF A COMPETITION
8.1.1 A competition shall include any games in a sanctioned League, Tournament or Cup competition, or Exhibition Game.
8.1.2 All competitions shall have a designated Governing Body, being either a registered district or club, league, or tournament/cup organizing committee. This designated governing body shall be referred to as the competition ‘Host’.
8.1.3 Soccer Nova Scotia competitions are also governed by the rules, regulations, and policies found in the “Competitions Handbook”. Where conflicts exist between these policies and the Competitions Handbook, these policies will prevail.
8.2 DEFINITION OF COMPETITIVE CLASSIFICATIONS
8.2.1 For the purposes of Competition, “Competitive Classifications” are defined to include the following Tier Levels:
a) Tier I
b) Tier II A
c) Tier II B
d) Senior A
e) Senior B
f) Senior C
g) Masters
h) 7 A Side
8.2.2 All other Tier Levels shall be considered “Recreational Classifications”.
8.3 SANCTIONING
8.3.1 All competitions must be sanctioned by a “Governing Body”. Based on the competition, the Governing Body shall be:
a) The VDSA for District competitions excluding Inter-District exhibition games.
b) Soccer Nova Scotia for Provincial / Inter-District / Inter-Region competitions.
1. The Competitions Chair is empowered to sanction Leagues or Tournaments that meet all requirements as contained in the ‘Leagues’ and ‘Tournaments’ policies.
c) The District(s) of the Club(s) in which the participating Club teams are registered for exhibition games
8.3.2 When applying for sanctioning, the Host must provide the information required on the appropriate application form, in accordance with the bylaws, policies, procedures, and/or published rules for the Governing Body.
8.3.3 A Governing Body must specify which age division(s) the competition will include.
a) In the case(s) where there is a maximum age limit, a participating team’s age division shall not exceed the competition’s age division.
b) In the cases where there is a minimum age limit, a participating team’s age division shall not fall short of the competition’s age division.
8.4 RESTRICTIONS
8.4.1 Only teams whose team status, team classification, team season and team gender correspond with the competition status, competition classification, competition season and competition gender may compete in that competition.
8.4.2 For the purposes of Competitive League play, a team may only participate in one Competitive League per Season.
8.4.3 For competitions outside the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia, must meet requirements outlined under “Teams – Team Designation”
8.5 NATIONALS
8.5.1 Current Tier 1, Senior A, and Masters provincial cup competition champions are recognized as the provincial representative team to attend annual national Club championships.
8.5.2 In the event that any provincial cup competition champion team declines to attend or withdraws from national Club championships, the privilege of representing Soccer Nova Scotia at Club Nationals will be offered to the other participants in the provincial championships in the order of final standings of that tournament.
8.5.3 If the opportunity arises for Soccer Nova Scotia to send a 2nd team to national Club championships hosted by a district/club within the province, the privilege of representing Soccer Nova Scotia at Club Nationals will be offered to the other participants in the provincial championships as described below:
a) the privilege of representing Soccer Nova Scotia at Club Nationals will be offered to the 2nd place in the final standings of that tournament;
b) If the 2nd place team declines, the host district/club will be offered the opportunity;
c) If the host district/club declines, the Nationals will be offered to the remaining participants in the provincial championships in the order of final standings of that tournament.
8.5.4 If the opportunity arises for Soccer Nova Scotia to send a 2nd team to national Club championships NOT hosted within the province, the privilege of representing Soccer Nova Scotia at Club Nationals will be offered to the other participants in the provincial championships in the order of the final standings of that tournament.
8.6 PROVINCIALS
8.6.1 Provincial Cup Competitions shall be held annually in accordance with rules and regulations as published by Soccer Nova Scotia in the “Competitions Handbook”.
8.6.2 Soccer Nova shall designate and/or organize competitions that declare provincial cup competition representatives.
8.7 EXHIBITION GAMES
8.7.1 District(s) responsible for sanctioning an Exhibition Game are responsible to ensure teams, coaches, and players involved are properly registered.
8.8 PROTESTS
8.8.1 Protests on any games shall be made according to the rules of the competition in which the game was played.
8.8.2 All protests must be filed within 24 hours of the game being protested. The rules of the competition may require inclusion of a monetary deposit, with this deposit being refunded only upon the protest being successful.
8.8.3 It is mandatory that formalized hearings be convened and conducted for all protests.
8.8.4 All decisions are to be rendered in writing to all concerned parties within a reasonable timeframe of the hearing, maximum fifteen (15) days, Saturday, Sunday or Legal Holidays excepted.
8.8.5 Unless the rules of the competition specify otherwise, all protest meetings will be convened in accordance with the same timeframes specified for discipline hearings (see “Discipline”)
8.8.6 The Protest Panel should consist of at least three members: a Chair, a Recording Secretary and a third member. Any parties involved in the protest, including the person filing the protest shall be invited, but are not required, to attend the protest meeting.
8.8.7 All protest meetings will be documented with formal findings and decisions arrived at by the panel.
8.8.8 Competitions such as Tournaments and Cup Games may not allow for protests to be dealt with in normally accepted timeframes. Since disputes must be dealt with as quickly as possible in these instances, the normally accepted timeframes will be waived.
8.8.9 Members of Protest Panels may not be members of any subsequent Discipline or Appeal Hearing Panel that deals with the same protest matter.
top
TOURNAMENTS
9.1 DEFINITION OF A TOURNAMENT
9.1.1 A tournament will consist of a series of games between a minimum of four teams.
9.1.2 Tournaments shall be conducted in accordance with the Policies and Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia as approved and published annually by its Board of Directors.
9.1.3 The Tournament Rules as defined in this policy are applicable to all tournaments, indoor and outdoor, conducted under the jurisdiction of the Soccer Nova Soccer.
9.1.4 The failure of any person(s) to comply fully with the terms of these published Tournament Rules and of the accompanying Policies and Procedures may render such person(s) subject to disciplinary action.
9.1.5 A tournament is a competition that teams register to participate in. A tournament shall take place through part or all of the playing season in a series of rounds (or draws) with the losing team(s) at the end of each round (or draw) being eliminated from further play in the tournament.
9.2 TOURNAMENT CLASSIFICATIONS
9.2.1 A tournament must comply with one or more or the following Tier Classifications:
* Tier 1 * Tier 11 * Senior A * Senior B * Senior C
* Mini/Tier lll/Rec festival * Masters * Ladies 7 aside
9.3 AGE CATEGORIES
9.3.1 A tournament must comply with one of the following age classifications:
a) Open Age – no age restrictions
b) Under 18 – all players must be under 18 years of age
c) Under 16 – all players must be under 16 years of age
d) Under 14 – all players must be under 14 years of age
e) Under 12 – all players must be under 12 years of age
f) Under 10 – all players must be under 10 years of age
g) Ladies 7 A Side – all players must be 30 years of age or over
h) Masters – all players must be 35 years of age or over
i) Senior – no age restrictions
9.3.2 Age classifications are based on team/player Age Category on January 1st of the tournament year.
9.3.3 Notwithstanding the above age classifications, tournaments may require other age restrictions or permit other age categories.
9.3.4 A Tournament Host may host more than one class of tournament at the same time. Teams are eligible to participate in only one of those classes of tournaments.
9.4 RESTRICTIONS
9.4.1 Tournaments may impose other restrictions on the players or teams permitted to participate.
9.5 TOURNAMENT HOST
9.5.1 A Tournament Host must be one of the following:
a) Soccer Nova Scotia
b) A District member of Soccer Nova Scotia
c) An Affiliated Club
d) An Affiliated League
e) Other
a. ‘Other’ hosts must negotiate a tournament fee and tournament bond with Soccer Nova Scotia for each application.
9.6 SANCTIONING OF TOURNAMENTS
9.6.1 A TOURNAMENT APPLICATION FORM must be used when applying for sanctioning of a tournament.
9.6.2 TOURNAMENT APPLICATION FORM will be obtained from Soccer Nova Scotia.
9.6.3 The TOURNAMENT APPLICATION FORM must be completed by the Tournament Host and returned to the Governing Body as defined in “Competitions – Sanctioning”.
9.6.4 A $250 bond will be required with all tournament applications, with the provision that the bond will be returned if the tournament report is received within forty-five (45) days of the last day of the tournament, or if the tournament is not held
9.6.5 Except for Soccer Nova Scotia tournaments and Inter-District League tournaments, the TOURNAMENT APPLICATION FORM must be signed by the District in which the tournament games will be played.
9.6.6 The tournament host must appoint a Discipline Committee and identify the Tournament Discipline Chair including name, address, phone number, and email, no later than fifteen (15) days before the start of the tournament.
9.6.7 All tournaments must have an appeals process in place for the duration of the tournament. Failing to identify a separate appeals process in tournament rules, Soccer Nova Scotia Appeals policy shall apply.
9.6.8 Deadline for sanction requests to host outdoor tournaments shall be March 1st annually
9.6.9 Deadline for sanction requests to host indoor tournaments shall be November 1st annually
9.6.10 The Governing Body shall approve/deny sanctioning no later than thirty (30) days after the deadline.
9.6.11 The Tournament Host must indicate in writing on the TOURNAMENT APPLICATION FORM that it will comply with all of the Soccer Nova Scotia Rules, Policies and Procedures governing tournaments.
9.6.12 Failure to comply with the terms of ‘Approval of Tournament’ may result in the Governing Body not approving the tournament application.
9.7 TOURNAMENT REQUIREMENTS OF PARTICIPANTS
9.7.1 Each team must provide the tournament host with a tournament registration document that shall include a list of all players that will participate or that team will not be allowed to play in that tournament.
9.7.2 Participation in any class/division is open only to teams registered with Soccer Nova Scotia or other provincial or state associations in an age category denoted by the class/division, or a lower age category than that denoted by the class/division.
9.8 REQUIREMENTS OF TOURNAMENT HOSTS
9.8.1 The Tournament Host must comply with all Competition Rules as published by Soccer Nova Scotia
9.8.2 The Tournament Host shall provide team sheets which shall be completed by each team prior to each game and which must be submitted to the referee prior to the kick-off.
9.8.3 Game sheets that document cases of filed misconduct reports and/or injury to a player must be forwarded to Soccer Nova Scotia within seven (7) days from completion of the tournament.
9.8.4 Where red cards are issued in final games, the game sheet(s) shall be forwarded to Soccer Nova for further appropriate action.
9.8.5 In all cases of alleged physical contact or attempted physical contact with a game official, the misconduct report (i.e., Referee Assault Report Form) shall be forwarded by the referee to:
a) Soccer Nova Scotia
b) His/her District
c) The Tournament Host (subject to the last requirement) as indicated on the form within forty-eight hours of the conclusion of the game.
9.8.6 Any cases of alleged misconduct by a referee must be reported to Soccer Nova Scotia by the Discipline Chair no later than twenty-four (24) hours following the completion of the tournament.
9.8.7 The Tournament Host must submit a tournament report to the Governing Body within forty-five (45) days of the final day of the tournament or the required security bond submitted upon sanctioning request will be forfeited to Soccer Nova Scotia
9.8.8 The tournament report shall include:
a) a list of participating teams;
b) a list of teams failing to show up;
c) a list of teams which failed to play all their games
d) a summary report of serious injuries;
e) discipline problems, including all misconduct reports;
f) the tournament schedule and results of each game;
g) all tournament game sheets;
h) any other relevant comments.
9.8.9 Failure to comply with the terms of this section will render the Tournament Host subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, non-sanction of hosting any tournament in the following year.
9.9 REQUIREMENTS OF THE GOVERNING BODY
9.9.1 The Governing Body shall appoint or delegate the appointment of referees.
a) Only referees on the “Official List of Referees” maintained by Soccer Nova Scotia shall be used unless prior written approval to use unlisted referees has been received from Soccer Nova Scotia.
9.10 TOURNAMENT RULES
9.10.1 Tournament rules may be submitted at the time of request for Sanctioning. The Governing Body shall either accept the submitted rules as part of sanctioning or otherwise dictate that the tournament will be governed by the Soccer Nova Scotia tournament rules as described below.
9.10.2 Tournament hosts must convey the tournament rules and regulations to participating teams no later than seven (7) days before the start of the tournament
9.10.3 In the event that the Tournament host is unable to provide acceptable tournament rules as per above, the following Tournament Rules shall apply.
a) Age Category – Tournaments may be played:
i. at the North American, International and Inter-provincial classes, by Over-11 age divisions and above;
ii. at the Inter-District and District classes, by all age divisions.
b) Team Eligibility
1. All teams must be registered with their Provincial, State or National Association.
2. All teams from outside Nova Scotia must supply proof of “Permission to Travel” duly authorized by the Governing Association to the Tournament Host not later than fourteen (14) days prior to the first day of the tournament.
3. All teams from outside Nova Scotia must supply proof of accident/ injury/ illness medical insurance to the Tournament Host not later than fourteen (14) days prior to the tournament.
4. Teams may only use players who are registered with their Club, unless on a Temporary Registration Permit
5. Teams may only dress and play up to a maximum of eighteen players in each game of the tournament
c) Laws of the Game
1. All games shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game observed by Soccer Nova Scotia and the CSA.
d) Duration of Game
1. The following tournaments shall not exceed the permitted time limit per day:
a. Mini-Festivals: not to exceed 100 minutes of regulation play per day.
b. Over 11 to U15: not to exceed 150 minutes of regulation play per day.
c. Over 15: not to exceed 180 minutes of regulation play per day.
d. Masters, 7 A Side: not to exceed 180 minutes of regulation play per day
2. There must be a minimum of one hour between each game played by any team.
e) Game sheets and Misconduct Reports
1. The Tournament Host shall provide game sheets which shall be completed by each team prior to each game, and which must be submitted to the referee prior to the kick-off.
2. The referee shall sign the game sheets and misconduct reports for each game that (s)he officiates.
3. The Tournament Host shall collect game sheets and misconduct reports from referees immediately after each game.
4. All game sheets and misconduct reports shall be forwarded by the Tournament Host to the Governing Body of the tournament, no later than forty-eight hours after the last day of the tournament.
f)Protest
1. All tournaments must have an appeals process in place for the duration of the tournament. Except for conditions listed here, Soccer Nova Scotia Appeals policy shall apply.
2. Protests, which may only be made by a team Coach or Manager, must be in writing and delivered, with a minimum fee of $100.00 to the Tournament Chair or his/her designate within one hour of the end of the game in question.
3. The decision of the Tournament Host shall be final.
g) Referees
1. No referee will officiate in the centre for more than two consecutive games in one day
2. Every effort must be made by the tournament host to appoint three (3) officials for each tournament game.
h) Awards Recognition
1. Award recognition shall be provided for all medal/final games for competitive tournaments
i) Services
1. The tournament must provide fields, field marshals, washroom facilities, corner flags, netting, and emergency medical services.
9.10.4 In instances when the Tournament Host’s Tournament Rules conflict with Soccer Nova Scotia’s Tournament Rules, Soccer Nova Scotia’s Rules shall apply.
9.11 DISCIPLINE MEASURES
9.11.1 Tournaments negligent in assuring that all teams seeking participation in their tournament are members of a club duly affiliated with a district association shall lose their privilege of hosting for the following calendar year.
9.11.2 Tournaments negligent in assuring that all referees utilized in their tournaments are those listed in the current official Nova Scotia referee list shall lose their privilege of hosting for the following calendar year.
top
10.1 DEFINITION OF A LEAGUE
10.1.1 A League is a governing body that organizes Competitions for its members.
10.2 LEAGUE SEASONS
10.2.1 Every League shall be sanctioned annually for one or more “Seasons” as defined by Soccer Nova Scotia and VDSA.
10.2.2 Summer and Spring Leagues shall be considered “Outdoor Leagues” and Winter Leagues shall be considered “Indoor Leagues”.
10.3 LEAGUE CATEGORIES
10.3.1 A League Category is defined by its:
a) League Level
1) Provincial League
2) Inter-District League
3) District League
4) Educational and Other Leagues
b) League Status
1) Amateur
2) Non-Amateur
c) League Classification
1) Mini Soccer Recreational
2) Youth Competitive
3) Youth Recreational
4) Senior Competitive
5) Senior Recreational
6) Masters Competitive
7) Senior 7 A Side Competitive
d) League Gender
1) Male
2) Female
e) League age divisions
* Under 6 * Under 8 * Under 10 * Under 12 * Under 14
* Under 16 * Under 18 * Open * 30 and over * 35 and over
10.3.2 A League may operate other age division(s) as approved by its governing body.
10.4 LEAGUE REGISTRATION
10.4.1 All Competitive Leagues shall create a Division in the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) for each Season and each Age Category (division) that the League administers.
10.4.2 All Competitive Leagues shall add Clubs as Members in the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) for each Club that will register a team in a League Division in any Season.
10.5 AFFILIATION
10.5.1 Every League shall affiliate with a governing soccer body and be subject to the bylaws and policies of the governing body, and is immediately subordinate to the governing body which delegates it the right to operate;
10.5.2 Leagues shall be governed as follows:
a) A National League shall affiliate with the Canadian Soccer Association and be subject to the bylaws of that governing body.
b) A Provincial League shall affiliate with Soccer Nova Scotia and be subject to the bylaws, polices and procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia.
c) An Inter-District League shall affiliate with Soccer Nova Scotia and be subject to the bylaws, polices and procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia.
d) A District League shall affiliate with a District Association and be subject to the bylaws, polices and procedures of that governing body.
e) An Educational or Other League may affiliate, as an Associate Member, with Soccer Nova Scotia and shall be subject to the bylaws, polices and procedures.
10.5.3 Provincial and Inter-District Leagues shall provide for appointment of one Soccer Nova Scotia representative to its Board, at the discretion of Soccer Nova Scotia.
10.6 SANCTIONING-Leagues in VDSA
10.6.1 A League operating in the VDSA must be sanctioned by VDSA on an annual basis.
10.6.2 Sanctioning shall be requested by the league submitting a “ League Sanction Request Form” to the VDSA.
10.6.3 Deadlines for submitting a sanction request form for all leagues
a) February 1 for a Spring ( Outdoor ) league
b)March 1 for a Summer ( Outdoor) league
c) September 15 for a Winter ( indoor) league
10.6.4 A sanction request form includes:
a) League Season to be sanctioned
b) League Categories (level, status, gender, classification, age divisions)
c) Geographical location
d) League Office address, phone numbers, and primary contact
e) Expected member clubs, and copies of bylaws, policies and procedures, published rules, and a list of officers
10.6.5 The VDSA body will provide a sanctioning decision within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a league sanction request form.
10.6.6 Should sanctioning be denied, the League may file an appeal under Soccer Nova Scotia Discipline and Appeals policies
10.7 LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP
10.7.1 All Leagues shall comply with the Membership Criteria outlined in this Policy. A League may establish additional criteria, subject to the Soccer Nova Scotia Board of Directors approving the Membership Criteria of a League prior to the implementation by that League.
10.7.2 Based on the Level of a League, membership conditions/restrictions are:
10.7.3 Provincial and Inter District League shall:
a) Consist of Clubs as members.
b) Be open to any Club team in the province, subject to the criteria contained in the League bylaws and policies and Soccer Nova Scotia policies and procedures.
c) Only be open to participation by properly registered Teams and Players as defined by Soccer Nova Scotia
1) No team will be permitted to participate unless it meets Soccer Nova Scotia coaching certification requirements (see “Coaches - Certification Requirements” policy
10.7.4 A District League shall:
a) consist of Clubs as members;
b) be open to any Club team within its approved District, subject to any criteria required by its District Association;
c) permit the participation of players registered in any approved playing classification of Soccer Nova Scotia;
10.7.5 Members shall apply for League membership annually, in accordance with League policies.
10.7.6 Failure to comply with any deadline or other requirements for submitting an application may, in itself, be sufficient reason to deny membership and/or team(s) participation in the League, provided that such denial is applied consistently to all applications for a particular season. However, in the interests of the players, the League will make every effort to accommodate late applications, provided that the interests of the League, other Member Clubs and participating teams are not compromised;
10.7.7 The League Executive, or a committee to which this responsibility is delegated, may meet with the representative(s) of any existing Member Clubs applying for renewal of membership and shall meet with the representative(s) of any Club whose Club membership and/or team participation in the League is under review or not in good standing.
10.7.8 In the event that a Club is denied membership in a Provincial or Inter-District League or is denied its team(s) participation in a Provincial or Inter-District League, it may appeal such decision(s) to Soccer Nova Scotia.
10.8 LEAGUE REQUIREMENTS
10.8.1 A League controls its teams, for league operation purposes only, in accordance with bylaws, policies and procedures, and published rules;
10.8.2 A League shall have at least one division with a minimum of four teams.
10.8.3 All Leagues shall operate under an Executive and a set of bylaws, policies and procedures, and published rules to provide competition for teams entered in the League.
10.8.4 Leagues operating under the jurisdiction of the VDSA must supply the VDSA ( for each season ) with the following:
a) Up to date rules and policies/procedures
b) Up to date list of league officers
c) Latest financial statement
d) Minutes of latest Annual General Meeting
10.8.5 Each League’s bylaws, policies and procedures, and published rules shall not prohibit a person who is affiliated to a Club, League or other soccer governing body from being nominated or elected to a position on its Board of Directors, Executive Committee, or an equivalent governing council.
10.8.6 League bylaws, policies and procedures, and published rules must not conflict with the bylaws and policies of VDSA. In such circumstances the Bylaws, Policies and Policies of VDSA bylaws shall govern.
10.8.7 VDSA must receive a Notice of each of a League’s General Meetings and be entitled to send a representative(s) to such meetings, and upon request, receive a copy of the Minutes of all of the League’s General Meetings.
10.8.8 Each League shall have its annual budget, including team fees, fines, and all other financial items, approved at either the League General Meeting or the governing body’s Annual general Meeting.
10.8.9 Prior to start if play for any season, a League must submit to Soccer Nova Scotia an up-to-date list of its teams, team contact persons, team addresses, and team telephone numbers.
A) A League that utilizes the Soccer Nova Scotia computerized registration system (ITSNS) for scheduling and managing their League shall be considered to have already met this requirement.
10.8.10 league shall perform such functions as are delegated to it by its governing body. Such delegation may be withdrawn at any time.
10.8.11A league shall provide scheduled games for its member teams
10.8.12A league shall maintain and publish statistics and standings; however this is optional for leagues classified as recreational.
10.8.13A league may provide a knock-out or cup competition(s) for its member teams only, at which one or more winners may be declared.
10.8.14A league may provide a play-off competition or similar format of play following completion of the regularly scheduled games, from which one or more winners may be declared.
10.8.15A league may host a tournament in accordance with the Soccer Nova Scotia policies and procedures governing tournaments
10.8.16Discipline pertaining to League activities may be delegated to the League by Soccer Nova Scotia and shall be done in accordance with Soccer Nova Scotia Policies and Procedures for discipline, appeals and protests.
10.8.17Soccer Nova Scotia must receive a copy of the results of all League discipline cases.
10.8.18Each Indoor League shall ensure that the facilities it uses within which it operates do not present a danger to players, officials and/or spectators.
top
DISCIPLINE
11.1 GENERAL
11.1.1 The Discipline and Appeals Committee is a Standing Committee of Soccer Nova Scotia whose mandate, as defined under the duties and responsibilities of the Discipline and Appeals Committee, includes but is not limited to:
a) hear discipline cases that are the exclusive jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia as per this policy;
b) hear appeal cases that are the exclusive jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia as per the “Appeals” policy;
c) to hear appeals for discipline administered by leagues and other competitions under the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia as per the “Appeals” policy;
d) to provide direction to all Soccer Nova Scotia sanctioned competition discipline committees, district discipline committees, and the referee ethics committee.
11.1.2 Every Club is responsible for the action of its players, officials and spectators.
11.1.3 Every Club and League is required to take every precaution to prevent players, officials, and spectators, from threatening or assaulting anyone present at competitions.
11.1.4 Districts and Leagues in Membership shall ensure that their disciplinary Rules, Regulations, Policies, and Procedures are consistent with those of Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.1.5 Time is of the essence and failure to observe timelines established by these policies may render any disciplinary action taken after the expiration of the time null and void.
11.1.6 A person subject to a discipline proceeding has the right to attend any discipline hearing at his/her own expense.
11.1.7 The report provided by the game official to Soccer Nova Scotia, leagues, and / or other competitions shall be regarded as his / her report to a Discipline Hearing Committee. As far as Points of Law is concerned, Law V in “Laws of the Games” is final. The presence of the game official is not required at any discipline hearing unless the Discipline Hearing Committee deems it necessary.
11.2 EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF SOCCER NOVA SCOTIA
11.2.1 Soccer Nova Scotia shall have exclusive Authority of Jurisdiction in the following circumstances:
a) All cases of misconduct towards any game official by any person involving alleged physical assault, attempted physical assault or threatening behaviour or verbal abuse and/or the use of clear and unambiguous gestures of an insulting nature;
b) All cases of misconduct towards any person by a game official involving alleged physical assault, attempted physical assault, threatening behaviour or verbal abuse and/or the use of clear and unambiguous gestures of an insulting nature;
c) Misconduct involving violent conduct or serious foul play requiring a discipline hearing when the reportable incident also includes a charge under paragraph (a)
d) Misconduct by any person arising from participation in National or Regional Competitions;
e) Misconduct by any officer or official of any governing body under the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia;
f) Misconduct arising from any international event (in or out of Canada) where participation is given prior approval by Soccer Nova Scotia;
g) Any other matter directly related to Soccer Nova Scotia that Soccer Nova Scotia, in its sole discretion, deems should be dealt with by Soccer Nova Scotia;
11.2.2 Soccer Nova Scotia, in its sole discretion, may delegate its Authority of Jurisdiction to a District or League in Membership.
11.3 DISTRICT OR LEAGUE JURISDICTION
11.3.1 Except as herein set out, the Discipline Committee of Districts or Leagues affiliated thereto shall have the Authority of Jurisdiction to deal with violations of the Laws of the Game, Bylaws, Policies and Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia, or misconduct by any of their clubs or by any of their players, officials or members. In all cases, the party complained against shall have the right to appear and to offer a full answer or defense to any charges against him/her when the case is heard by a Discipline Hearing Committee.
11.3.2 All discipline hearings involving offences listed, other than those involving physical contact with referees or attempted physical contact with referees, or threatening behaviour towards a game official or verbal abuse and/or the use of clear and unambiguous gestures of an insulting nature towards a game official, shall be dealt with by the District Association or Inter-District League in whose jurisdiction the alleged offence took place.
11.3.3 The disposition of all discipline hearings must be reported to Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.4 DISCIPLINE ACTION
11.4.1 A Discipline Hearing Committee may, at its discretion, take action against any Club whose players, officials or spectators have been found guilty of misconduct and/or violence towards anyone present at a game and especially towards referees.
11.4.2 Any misconduct that requires a discipline hearing shall result in immediate suspension from applicable soccer activities (as described in ‘Extent of Affected Activities‘) of the person(s) involved until such discipline hearing takes place.
11.5 EXTENT OF AFFECTED ACTIVITIES
11.5.1 All suspensions resulting from player-related incidents shall be from playing in all soccer competitions within the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.5.2 All suspensions resulting from coach-related or team official-related incidents shall be from coaching/team officiating in all soccer competitions within the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.5.3 All suspensions resulting from referee-related incidents shall be from refereeing in all soccer competitions within the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.5.4 A Discipline Hearing Committee shall also have the authority, as a result of the discipline hearing, to suspend any player, coach, team official, or referee from any or all soccer competition related activities within the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.6 MISCONDUCT – DEFINED
11.6.1 In addition to matters referred to in any other By-Law, Policy or Procedure of Soccer Nova Scotia, it shall be misconduct if any person or governing body is proved at a discipline hearing to the satisfaction of a Discipline Hearing Committee of Soccer Nova Scotia to have done, or permitted or assisted in doing or permitting any of the following:
a) Violated the Laws of the Game or the Bylaws, Polices or Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia or a District or League in Membership;
b) Committed any act or made any statement either verbally or in writing, or been responsible for conduct, continuing misconduct or any other matter which, in the opinion of Soccer Nova Scotia is considered to be unsportsmanlike, insulting or improper behaviour or likely to bring the game into disrepute.
11.6.2 Soccer Nova Scotia reserves the right to take disciplinary action in any case of criminal misconduct or human right abuse not covered specifically in the Bylaws, Polices and Procedures.
11.7 FILING OF COMPLAINT
11.7.1 A Misconduct Report and the accompanying game sheet(s) shall be considered a Complaint of Misconduct for the purposes of this section and shall be acted upon by the Authority having Jurisdiction.
11.7.2 A Complaint of Misconduct may also be initiated by filing a written complaint with Soccer Nova Scotia and the President of the District or League concerned, within seven (7) days of the alleged occurrence. The written complaint shall contain a consistent statement of the facts and the relevant rule or regulation under consideration. Each complaint shall be accompanied by a $150.00 fee payable to Soccer Nova Scotia in the form of a certified cheque or money order. In the event the complaint is upheld, the fee is refundable.
11.8 DISCIPLINE HEARINGS
11.8.1 Each discipline hearing held within the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia and its Member District shall be conducted in accordance with the following:
a) A Discipline Hearing Committee shall have no less than three members.
b) One of the Discipline Hearing Committee members shall act as Recording Secretary, or a non-voting Recording Secretary (not one of the Committee) shall be appointed to be present for the whole discipline hearing.
c) A person subject to a discipline proceeding may be accompanied by legal counsel only with the permission of Soccer Nova Scotia or the District or League in Membership with jurisdiction over the discipline.
d) In the event the person subject to a complaint does not attend the discipline hearing, the discipline hearing may proceed in his/her absence.
e) Failure to appear at a discipline hearing when due notice has been given, may result in suspension of the person subject to a discipline proceeding until (s)he requests in writing and attends another discipline hearing.
f) A request for a discipline hearing under the above shall be accompanied by the fee set by Soccer Nova Scotia or its Member, in the form of a certified cheque or money order.
g) Adjournment of a discipline hearing may be granted by the Discipline Hearing Committee on such terms as are reasonable.
11.8.2 Location of Discipline Hearing
a) Unless the parties to a complaint otherwise agree, discipline hearings shall be held within the district where the complaint arose.
11.8.3 Timeliness and Notices
a) Any person or governing body accused of misconduct shall be given at least ten (10) ‘clear days’ notice of any scheduled discipline hearing into the allegation. A copy of such notice shall also be sent to the governing body if the person complained against is one of their registered players or is acting as an official representative. Where special circumstances exist, the Discipline Hearing Committee may abridge the notice period, but the parties concerned must receive written notice of the discipline hearing.
b) Notwithstanding a), Soccer Nova Scotia, Districts and Leagues in Membership, or their Members, may publish in advance the dates of regularly scheduled discipline hearings, and the giving of notice in a) is waived.
c) Any person or governing body shall be given at least seven (7) working days notice of any scheduled discipline hearing, if their presence is required by a Discipline Hearing Committee.
d) Requests for postponement of a discipline hearing scheduled by Soccer Nova Scotia must be received by Soccer Nova Scotia at least five (5) working days prior to the date of the discipline hearing, accompanied by the approved fee in the form of a certified cheque or money order, which shall be refunded if the request is denied.
e) In cases where a person, subject to a discipline hearing, stands suspended pending a discipline hearing, or for any adjourned discipline hearing, the date for the discipline hearing shall be set within fifteen (15) working days of the receipt of the misconduct report (or previous discipline hearing).
f) The result of any discipline hearing shall be sent to the accused no later than fifteen (15) working days after the discipline hearing.
g) By mutual consent, in writing, of the person subject to a discipline proceeding and a Discipline Hearing Committee, any terms in d) may be waived.
11.8.4 Discipline Hearing Procedure
a) With all required persons present, the discipline hearing shall proceed as follows:
b) The Chairman of the Discipline Hearing Committee shall read the report and state the complaint;
c) The person(s) writing the report(s) (if present) shall be given the opportunity to amplify or qualify the report(s);
d) The person subject to a discipline hearing shall be allowed to ask relevant questions of the author of the report if (s)he is present or to make submissions on the report and testify on his/her own behalf.
e) The person subject to a discipline hearing and the person(s) writing the report(s) shall have the opportunity to call witnesses;
f) The Chairman and any Discipline Hearing Committee member may question the accused or any witness;
g) The person(s) writing the report and the person subject to the discipline hearing shall be allowed to make final summations before withdrawing;
h) The Discipline Hearing Committee shall consider the report and any further evidence provided, and shall either decide the case, or adjourn the discipline hearing for decision;
i) The person, club, and affected competition involved in a discipline hearing shall be notified of the result in writing.
j) All decisions are to be rendered by the Discipline Hearing Committee within fifteen (15) days of the discipline hearing unless all parties agree to a further specified extension.
11.9 PUNISHMENT
11.9.1 On misconduct being proved to its satisfaction, a Discipline Hearing Committee shall have the power to order the offender to be suspended, or fined, or both.
11.9.2 A Discipline Hearing Committee shall set timelines for the payment of any costs, fines or bonds, and may set further terms of punishment for non-compliance.
11.9.3 In all cases of alleged physical assault of, attempted physical assault of, or threatening behaviour towards a game official, the person subject to a discipline proceeding shall be suspended from all soccer activity until the case has been decided by Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.9.4 In all cases where a person has been charged in Criminal Court with offences of moral turpitude involving youths, the person subject to a discipline proceeding shall be suspended from all soccer activity until the cases have been concluded in the Criminal Court and then Soccer Nova Scotia, District or League in Membership may decide if further proceedings are warranted pursuant to their Bylaws, Polices, or Procedures or the Soccer Nova Scotia Bylaws, Polices, and Procedures.
11.9.5 Suspensions shall be served for a continuous period, or for consecutive games, except where there is a break in the competition, in which case the suspension may be continued accordingly as determined by the Discipline Hearing Committee.
11.9.6 Suspension guidelines for specific offences are set out in the “Discipline Guidelines” section of this policy. Districts and Leagues in Membership, and their Members, shall use these guidelines in setting punishments.
11.10 APPEAL OF DECISION
11.10.1All appeals of discipline hearing decisions shall follow the ‘Appeals’ Policy of Soccer Nova Scotia.
11.11 DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES
11.11.1Soccer Nova Scotia’s competitions are guided by “standard penalties for misconduct against players, coaches and referees”. These penalties are listed below for each group.
11.11.2All misconduct will be dealt with by the body that administers the competition where the misconduct occurred, unless tournament rules or penalties specify.
11.11.3Any punishment received as a result of red card / yellow card system must be served in the competition in which a punished person participated. Cards from one competition will not carry over to another competition.
11.11.4In a situation where there are any reports sent into SNS, the player automatically receives a suspension until a discipline hearing is conducted.
11.11.5All suspensions referring to number of games will be served in consecutive games played by the player’s team, or as specified by the Discipline Hearing Committee
11.11.6All suspensions referring to a period of time (days, weeks, months, years) will be served from the time of the offense or as specified by the Discipline Hearing Committee
11.11.7Offences which occur in the final game of a tournament or an exhibition game shall be referred to the League in which the player’s registered team normally competes, and the League shall deal with any such punishment accordingly.
11.11.8Where a player receives cards or other suspensions from misconduct while playing on a team other than his/her registered team, such cards or suspensions apply to his/her registered team division, and s/he cannot play for any other team in any other competition until any suspensions resulting from such cards or actions has been served with his/her registered team.
|
STANDARD PENALTIES FOR MISCONDUCT BY A PLAYER
|
|
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
|
1.1
|
First Caution
|
No action
|
|
|
|
|
1.2
|
Second Caution
|
No action
|
|
|
|
|
1.3
|
Third Caution
|
1-game suspension
|
|
|
|
|
1.4
|
Fourth Caution
|
No action
|
|
|
|
|
1.5
|
Fifth Caution
|
2-game suspension
|
|
|
|
|
1.6
|
Sixth Caution & any subsequent caution.
|
3-game suspension
|
|
|
|
|
1.7
|
Dismissed for “Receiving a second caution in the same game” for which neither of the cautions was directed at the game official(s).
|
1-game suspension
|
2-game suspension
|
3-game suspension
|
|
|
1.8
|
Dismissed for “Receiving a second caution in the same game” (for which one of the cautions) was directed at the game official(s).
|
2-game suspension
|
3-game suspension
|
5-game suspension
|
|
|
1.9
|
Dismissed for Red Card offences (except as noted below)
|
1-game suspension
|
2-game suspension
|
3-game suspension
|
|
| |
|
1.10
|
Dismissed for “Using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at anyone other than the game official(s).
|
1-game suspension
|
3-game suspension
|
3-game suspension
|
|
|
1.11
|
Dismissed for “using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at the game official(s)
|
2 game suspension
|
4 game suspension
|
6 game suspension
|
|
|
1.12
|
Persisted in “using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at a game official(s) after having been dismissed for such action that is directly in the area(s) of the soccer field.
|
Discipline Hearing By Competition or League
|
Discipline Hearing By Competition or League
|
Discipline Hearing By Competition or League
|
|
|
1.13
|
Dismissed for “Serious Foul Play”.
|
2-game suspension
|
4-game suspension
|
6-game suspension
|
|
|
1.14
|
Dismissed for “spitting at an opponent or any other person”, other than a game official.
|
4-game suspension
|
8 –game suspension
|
12-game suspension
|
|
|
1.15
|
Dismissed for “Violent Conduct”.
|
Discipline Hearing by Competition or League
|
Discipline Hearing by Competition or League
|
Discipline Hearing by Competition or League
|
|
|
1.16
|
Received a third dismissal in a season.
|
Suspended until a Discipline Hearing is conducted by SNS. This overrides any third seasonal offence above.
|
|
|
|
1.17
|
Knowingly played as an ineligible player.
|
4-game suspension
|
8-game suspension
|
16-game suspension
|
|
1.18
|
Game Official Assault for “deliberate physical contact (ie., pushing, pulling, charging, etc.) or attempted physical contact or threatening”.
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
|
1.19
|
Game Official Assault for “striking, spitting, kicking, or any form of violent conduct, or attempted violent conduct”.
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
|
1.20
|
Failed to attend a discipline hearing at which he/she was accused of an offence -without acceptable reason.
|
Player is fined $100 and remains suspended until he/she requests and attends a subsequent discipline hearing
|
|
|
|
1.21
|
Participated in a soccer activity from which he/she was suspended
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
5-year suspension
|
|
1.22
|
Intentionally acted in a manner deemed to be detrimental to the game
|
3-12 month suspension
|
1-3 year suspension
|
2-5 year suspension
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
STANDARD PENALTIES FOR MISCONDUCT BY A COACH OR MANAGER
|
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
2.1
|
Persisted in misconduct “after receiving a warning ‘for misconduct’ from the game official” for which neither of the offences was directed at the game official(s)
|
1-week suspension
|
3-week suspension
|
6-week suspension
|
|
2.2
|
Persisted in misconduct “after receiving a warning ‘for misconduct’ from the game official for which at least one of the offences was directed at the game official(s)
|
2-week suspension
|
5-week suspension
|
10-week suspension
|
|
2.3
|
Used “Offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at anyone other than the game official(s).
|
2-week suspension
|
5-week suspension
|
10-week suspension
|
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
2.4
|
Used “Offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at the game official(s).
|
3-week suspension
|
6-week suspension
|
12-week suspension
|
|
2.5
|
Persisted in “using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at a game official(s) after having been dismissed for such action that is directly in the area(s) of the soccer field.
|
6-weeks
|
3-months
|
1-year
|
|
2.6
|
Physical Assault or Attempted Physical Assault of a player
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
2.7
|
Game Official Assault for “deliberate physical contact (ie., pushing, pulling, charging, etc.) or attempted physical contact or threatening”.
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
2.8
|
Game Official Assault for “striking, spitting, kicking, or any form of violent conduct, or attempted violent conduct”.
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing By SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
2.9
|
Failed to attend a discipline hearing at which he/she was accused of game official assault, without acceptable reason
|
Accused is fined $150 and remains suspended until he/she request and attends a subsequent discipline hearing
|
|
|
|
2.10
|
Knowingly played an ineligible player in a sanctioned game.
|
2-month suspension
|
6-month suspension
|
2- year suspension
|
|
2.11
|
Participated in a soccer activity from which he/she was suspended
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
5-year suspension
|
|
2.12
|
Intentionally instigated and/or participated in a brawl between two teams before, during, or after a game.
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
5-year suspension
|
|
2.13
|
Intentionally acted in contravention of, or failed to act in accordance with, a published “Bylaw, Policy, Procedure or Rule”.
|
1-month suspension
|
6-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
2.14
|
Intentionally acted in a manner deemed to be detrimental to the game
|
3-12 month
Suspension +
League or District Discipline Hearing
|
1-3 year Suspension+
League or District Discipline Hearing
|
2-5 year Suspension+
SNS Discipline Hearing
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
2.15
|
a) Changed any information on a registration form without the consent of the person being registered on such form.
b) Provided false or inaccurate information on a registration form
c) Falsified a signature on a registration form
|
Discipline Hearing by District or League
|
Discipline Hearing by District or League
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
2.16
|
Provided a false address on the player registration form.
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
2.17
|
Registered under a false name.
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
2.18
|
Induced or attempted to induce a registered player to leave his/her team before the end of that team’s current season.
* see “Teams-Restrictions” policy *
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
STANDARD PENALTIES FOR MISCONDUCT BY A GAME OFFICIAL
(SNS JURISDICTION)
|
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
3.1
|
Used “Offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at anyone other than the game official(s)
|
1-month suspension
|
3-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.2
|
Used “Offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures” directed at the game official(s).
|
1-month suspension
|
3-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.3
|
Failed to conduct himself/herself with dignity both on , and off, the field of play
|
1-month suspension
|
3-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.4
|
Failed to abide by the published “Bylaws, Policies, Procedures or Rules” of the jurisdiction in which he/she officiates.
|
1-month suspension
|
3-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.5
|
Failed to report to a game (to which he/she has been appointed) without giving adequate notice of his/her inability to officiate such game.
|
1-month suspension
|
3-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.6
|
Game Official Assault for “deliberate physical contact (ie., pushing, pulling, charging, etc.) or attempted physical contact or threatening”.
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
Minimum 5-year suspension
|
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
3.7
|
Game Official Assault for “striking, spitting, kicking, or any form of violent conduct, or attempted violent conduct”.
|
2-year suspension
|
5-year suspension
|
Minimum 10-year suspension
|
|
3.8
|
Made deliberate physical contact (ie., pushing, pulling, charging, etc.) or attempts physical contact with, or threatens, a registrant of SNS or a spectator
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
Minimum 5-year suspension
|
|
3.9
|
Struck, spat on, kicked, or committed any form of violent conduct, or attempted violent conduct, against a registrant of SNS or a spectator.
|
2 year suspension
|
5 year suspension
|
Minimum 10-year suspension
|
|
3.10
|
Publicly criticized any other game official or Soccer Governing body; made derogatory statements to the media relating to any game in which he/she was involved concerning the performance of the players or other referees
|
1-month suspension
|
3-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.11
|
Failed to submit a “Misconduct Report” as required by Soccer Nova Scotia.
|
Fined game fee
|
Fined game fee
|
Fined game fee
|
|
3.12
|
Failed to report a serious game-related offence as required under ‘Referee Policies’
|
Discipline hearing by the Referee Ethics Committee
|
Discipline hearing by SNS
|
Discipline hearing by SNS
|
|
3.13
|
Officiated an unsanctioned or unaffiliated soccer game.
|
1-month suspension
|
3-6 month suspension
|
1-2 year suspension
|
|
3.14
|
Failed to attend (when required to do so), without a valid reason, a discipline hearing for a person whom the referee had reported for Game Official Assault
|
$100 fine
|
$200 fine
|
$300 fine
|
|
3.15
|
Failed to attend a discipline hearing at which he/she was accused of Game Official Assault
|
Game Official is fined $150 and remains suspended until he/she requests and attends a subsequent discipline hearing
|
|
|
|
3.16
|
Participated in a soccer activity from which he/she was suspended
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
5-year suspension
|
|
3.17
|
Intentionally acted in contravention of, or failed to act in accordance with, a published “Bylaw, Policy, Procedure or Rule”.
|
1-month suspension
|
6-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
#
|
Description of Misconduct
|
First Seasonal Offence
|
Second Seasonal Offence
|
Third Seasonal Offence
|
|
3.18
|
Intentionally acted in a manner deemed to be detrimental to the game.
|
3-month suspension
|
6-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.19
|
a) Changed any information on a registration form without the consent of the person being registered on such form.
b) Provided false or inaccurate information on a registration form
c) Falsified a signature on a registration form
|
3-month suspension + Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
6-month suspension + Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
1-year suspension + Discipline Hearing by SNS
|
|
3.20
|
Provided a false address on the referee registration form
|
1-month suspension
|
6-month suspension
|
1-year suspension
|
|
3.21
|
Registered under a false name
|
1-year suspension
|
3-year suspension
|
5-year suspension
|
top
APPEALS
12.1 APPEALS
12.1.1 The Discipline and Appeals Committee of Soccer Nova Scotia shall have jurisdiction to hear Appeals involving:
a) Misconduct, as defined in the ‘Discipline’ policy;
b) Appeals of the decisions of Associations, Districts or Leagues in Membership made against the appellant party provided said appeal involves only an interpretation of the Bylaws, Policies or Procedures of Soccer Nova Scotia or of a League or District in membership.
c) All matters of administrative jurisdiction or membership whether brought forward by Soccer Nova Scotia, districts, clubs, leagues, or other governing bodies affiliated with or recognized by Soccer Nova Scotia.
d) Exemptions to Soccer Nova Scotia Policies and Procedures.
12 An Appeal to Soccer Nova Scotia shall be commenced by an application for leave as follows:
e) By making an application in writing to the Chief Executive Officer of Soccer Nova Scotia within seven (7) days after receipt of the said decision setting out:
i) The decision sought to be appealed;
ii)A concise statement of the facts; and
iii) A concise submission stating the By-Law, Policy, Procedure, or Rule that has been contravened and setting out clearly in what respect the decision is alleged to be wrong.
f) Forward, with the said application, a certified cheque or money order payable to Soccer Nova Scotia in the amount of $150.00 and copies of all relevant documents, bylaws, policies and procedures.
12.1.3 The Chief Executive Officer of Soccer Nova Scotia shall forward a copy of the application for leave to appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee of Soccer Nova Scotia.
12.1.4 If leave to appeal is granted, the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall state reasons for granting leave, designate an Appeals Committee for the appeal hearing, and hold an appeal hearing.
12.1.5 If leave to appeal is not granted, the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall state reasons for not granting leave.
12.1.6 The decision of the Discipline and Appeals Committee shall be final and binding subject to further appeal to the Canadian Soccer Association.
12.1.7 Decisions of the Discipline and Appeals Committee may be appealed to the Canadian Soccer Association and must be appealed within ten (10) days of receipt of decision.
12.1.8 The Discipline and Appeals Committee shall give reasons for their decision, in writing, to all parties to the appeal.
12.1.9 No application for leave to appeal shall be entertained in any matter arising out of a competition under the jurisdiction of a District in Membership whose rule provide that its decision in such matters shall be final and binding.
12.2 non-jurisdiction APPEALS PROCEDURES
12.2.1 All Appeals against the decision outside of the jurisdiction of Soccer Nova Scotia shall be made directly to the Canadian Soccer Association in accordance with CSA procedures.
12.3 APPEAL HEARINGS
12.3.1 Appeal hearings shall be held in accordance with the following:
a)An Appeals Committee, which shall consist of at least three members, one of whom shall be the Chairperson and one of whom shall act as Recording Secretary, shall hear all properly submitted appeals. The Appeals Committee may appoint a non-voting Secretary to act on any appeal.
b) Any individual who has participated in the judicial process of a case is automatically disqualified from membership of the Appeals Committee.
c)Those who are required to attend an appeal hearing shall include:
1) The appellant
2) The respondent
3) Both parties shall be given ten (10) days notice of said appeal hearing.
d) In addition to the fee required to initiate an appeal, the appeal hearing may order costs against any party arising out of an appeal hearing.
e)A person or governing body may be legally represented at any Hearing or Inquiry only with prior written consent of Soccer Nova Scotia. Subject to the foregoing, a governing body may be represented at any Hearing or Inquiry by any member of its Executive. Any person required to attend must attend personally.
12.3.3 Except to the extent the provisions under this section are inconsistent with the hearing procedures set out under the “Discipline-Hearings” policy, the procedures for Appeals Hearings shall be the same as those under the “Discipline-Hearings” policy.
top
Appendix A – List of VDSA & Soccer Nova Scotia Forms
The following is a list of forms (listed by Policy) used by VDSA & Soccer Nova Scotia as required through VDSA Policies and Procedures. These forms are available from the VDSA Main office or Soccer Nova Scotia website. Note that some forms require payment of a standard fee upon submission.
Policy Development
Request for Decision form
Districts
Association application/renewal form
Players
Player Registration Form (“SNS Athlete Waiver and Release of Liability” and “SNS Amateur Athletic Agreement”)
Club Player Release form
Reinstatement from Professional to Amateur Approval Forms
Player Transfer Form
Request to Play Out-Of-Region Form
Coaches
Coach Registration Form (“SNS Athlete Waiver and Release of Liability” and “SNS Amateur Athletic Agreement”)
Referees
Referee Registration Form (“SNS Waiver and Release of Liability” and “SNS Amateur Athletic Agreement”)
Misconduct Report
Teams
Application to Travel Out of Province
Competitions
Tournament/Cup Competition Application/Sanction Form
Leagues
League sanction request form
Other
VDSA Bylaws
top