2025 Clarity

 

1. The 10-second countdown at the end of each period continues while a ball is out of bounds for a throw-in. Refs may use discretion to stop the clock for time wasting.

   1. An unused timeout may be used during the countdown by the team that is restarting a throw-in, goal kick, penalty kick, or kickoff.​

2. Player socks may recognize special situations (ex: kicks for cancer, concussion awareness) with colors such as pink, orange, rainbow, and similar, as long as all players are outfitted the same.​

3. Cochlear Implants are not considered jewelry and are fully allowed by players without a doctor's note or other documentation.

4. The MIAA prohibits micro shin guards. All school officials and administrators received a communication from the MIAA in the preseason. 

5. Coaches and players who request not to report cautions, disqualifications/send-offs must still report them, and the MIAA must be informed of any such requests for this violation.

6. Handball Video:  excellent presentation of handling/handball that is offered by USSF/FIFA and applies to NFHS Soccer as well https://youtu.be/k6cz9bJwCdw 

7. Tackling - Side and back tackling - watch for the leg of the defender (usually) above the height of the ball.  Safety is the first consideration!

8. Penalty Kick Violations: Please review the violations for both the kicking and defending teams.  This is different than Club and FIFA rules/LOTG:  The chart is on Rule #14 Page 76-77

9. ​All Cautioned Players (including GKs MUST leave the field and are eligible for replacement, Caution, until the next legal opportunity for substitution, and Disqualification (Red) team plays short for the remainder of the match.​​​

10. Wearable technology (Apple Watches, FitBits, and other data collection devices is allowed as long as, in the judgment of the referee, it is covered and doesn't present a danger to ANY player.

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Please use the form below for clarifications and interpretations of NFHS & MIAA Soccer Rules.