GENERAL

ISLAMIC GAMES 2008 is open male and female athletes from 8 years and above.
Proper Islamic manners and etiquettes must be observed at all times, especially respect for fellow athletes, organizers, officials, elders and volunteers.
Salaah (prayer) times will be observed
Athletes, coaches, parents and fans are expected to create an environment in which primary emphasis is placed upon the emotional and physical well-being of the players. Coaches, parents and fans should lead by example and demonstrate the value of fair play and sportsmanship to all participants.
Islamic Dress codes is expected – if you can pray in it, you can play in it! Sports Uniforms are not mandatory but recommended.
Age is calculated based on age as at December 31, 2008. Athletes must have document to verify age.
Teams and schools are encouraged to bring their banners
Teams are not allowed to trade players.
The winning team of each Division would play in the finals for that event.
Scoring would be conducted by official scorers
Basketball and Soccer teams will play two games and the top 8teams will advance to the playoffs playoff round.
Teams are encouraged to select names that are positive, progressive and non-confrontational. Islamic Games Committee reserves the right to disqualify any team with names that are offensive and confrontational.
All decisions by Officials and Event Organisers are final. Appeals can be sent to Islamic Games 2008, P. O. Box 300356, Jamaica, NY 11430 along with a processing fee of $25.

BASKETBALL

3-ON-3 - Male (Junior) and Female (Youth & Open)
1. 2-ten minute halves with a two minute half-time.
2. Clock runs continuously – only stops for injuries and score discrepancies.
3. Scoring is 3’s and 2’s.
4. Take everything back behind the 3-point line – includes turnovers and any other change of possession
5. No stalling – if a person holds the ball for more than 10 seconds it will be considered stalling. If the scorekeeper thinks a team is stalling a change of possession will be requested.
6. Call your own fouls – no fouls will be given by the opposing team – if there is a problem with foul calls both teams will be forced to forfeit.
7. Fouls on a shot will result in free throws – 2 for inside the 3 point line and 3 for outside the 3-point line.
8. After 7 team fouls there will be 1 free throw and retain possession.

Full Court – Male (Youth & Open)

Each team will play 2 games - top 8 teams will advance to a playoff round.
All qualifying games will consist of two halves of 15 minutes ea. - running time. Overtime is 5 minutes running time.
All teams entering must have color-coordinated team t-shirts – numbers are optional however highly recommended jerseys with numbers (6”) on the back.
Scoring would be conducted by the event organizer.
Players are to report to game sites at least 10 minutes prior to scheduled starting time. A team not ready after five (5) minutes of schedule start will result in a forfeited.
Team captains/coaches are responsible for informing all team members of playing times and court.
Timeouts: Two 60-second times outs per team, per half. They do not carry over. One time out per team per (5) five minute overtime periods. They do not carry over into extra overtime periods.
Free throws: Teams will shoot free throws on the 6th team foul.
Players will be ejected from the game on their 5th foul.
The game, 2nd half and all overtime periods will officially begin when the officials toss the game ball at center court for a jump ball.
All official’s judgments are final. Only misinterpretation of rules may be protested. All rule interpretation protests must be brought to the attention of the official, the other team captain and then the Organizer.
The officials shall have the power to make decisions on any points not specifically covered in the rules.
The officials shall penalize unsportsmanlike conduct by any player, coach, substitute, team attendant or team supporter.
The captain is the representative of his/her team and may address an official on matters of interpretation or to obtain essential info, if it is done in a courteous manner.
A substitute who desires to enter the game shall report to the scorer table. If entry is at any time other than between halves, the substitute must wait for a time out or a dead ball and can enter only after the scorer’s horn sounds and when recognized by the officials. Failure to comply will result in a technical foul.
Violations: The following violations will be enforced:

Blocking foul
Intentional foul
Double foul
Multiple fouls
Common foul
Personal foul
Flagrant foul
Player control foul
Technical foul
Five second rule
Unsportsmanlike foul
Kicking Ball (unintentional)
Traveling
10 second rule
Holding
Goaltending
Back Court Violation
Delay of game
Out of bounds
Unstationary Screen
Double Dribble
Any moving or stationary violation which the officials deem illegal.
Improper Alignment on a jump ball
Offense in the key for 3 seconds

18. No players may enter the free throw lane until the shooter has released the shot. Failure to comply will result in a violation:
Offensive - Ball is inbounded by opposing team
Defensive - Extra shot is attempted if the shooter fails to be successfu
19. All parts of the backboard are considered in play. When the ball comes in contact with a brace supporting the backboard it is a dead ball.
20. Any successful shot which is attempted by a player prior to an offensive foul is considered good.
21. Any time an offensive player attempts a shot by jumping straight up the defender must allow him space to come down.
22. The hand is not considered part of the ball.
23. A defensive player who is stationary is allowed to jump straight up to deter an offensive player but may not attempt any swinging motion of any sort. Compliance, offensive player is awarded an offensive foul; failure to comply, defensive player received a personal foul.
24. A potential rebounder may not back into any other player.
25. Rules and regulations may be amended or updated at any time to insure fair play.
26. Technical fouls will be considered as a personal foul.
27. Three point play - Three points will be awarded if a basked is made when the shot leaves the hand with both feet behind the green and/or white line arc. The feet may land inside the arc. If a foul is committed by the defense, 3 free throw attempts will be awarded.

Volleyball Rules – Male and Female
THE SERVE
( A ) Server must serve from behind the restraining line ( end line ) until after contact.
( B ) Ball may be served underhand or overhand.
( C ) Ball must be clearly visible to opponents before serve.
( D ) Served ball may graze the net and drop to the other side for point.
( E ) First game serve is determined by a volley, each subsequent game shall be served by the previous game loser.
( F ) Serve must be returned by a bump only. no setting or attacking a serve.

SCORING

Rally scoring will be used.
There will be a point scored on every score of the ball.
Offense will score on a defense miss or out of bounds hit.
Defense will score on an offensive miss, out of bounds hit, or serve into the net.
Game will be played to 16 pts.
Must win by 2 points.
Teams will play best of three games to determine winner.

ROTATION
( A ) Team will rotate each time they win the serve.
( B ) Players shall rotate in a clockwise manner.
( C ) There shall be 4-6 players on each side.

PLAYING THE GAME ( VOLLEY )
( A ) Maximum of three hits per side.
( B ) Player may not hit the ball twice in succession ( A block is not considered a hit ).
( C ) Ball may be played off the net during a volley and on serve.
( D ) A ball touching a boundary line is good.
( E ) A legal hit is contact with the ball by a player body above and including the waist which does not allow the ball to visibly come to a rest.
( F ) If two or more players contact the ball simultaneously, it is considered one play and the players involved may not participate in the next play.
( G ) A player must not block or attack a serve.
( H ) Switching positions will be allowed only between front line players. ( After the serve only ).

BASIC VIOLATIONS
( A ) Stepping on or over the line on a serve.
( B ) Failure to serve the ball over the net successfully.
( C ) Hitting the ball illegally ( Carrying, Palming, Throwing, etc. ).
( D ) Touches of the net with any part of the body while the ball is in play. If the ball is driven into the net with such force that it causes the net to contact an opposing player, no foul will be called, and the ball shall continue to be in play.
( E ) Reaching over the net, except under these conditions:
1 - When executing a follow-through.
2 - When blocking a ball which is in the opponents court but is being returned ( the blocker must not contact the ball until after the opponent who is attempting to return the ball makes contact). Except to block the third play.
( F ) Reaches under the net ( if it interferes with the ball or opposing player ).
( G ) Failure to serve in the correct order.
( H ) Blocks or spikes from a position which is clearly not behind the 10-foot line while in a back row position.

THE COURT
PLAYING AREA
Both indoor and outdoor courts are 18 m x 9mi (29'6" x 59').
Indoor courts also include an attack area designated by
a line 3 m (9'10") back from the center line.
Lines on the court are 5cm (2" wide).

NET HEIGHT

Net height for men, co-ed mixed 6, & outdoor is 2.43 meters or 7'11-5/8".
Net height for women, 7'4-1/8".
The height of the net shall be 8'.

BALL
The ball weighs between 9 and 10 ounces. Ball pressure is between 4.5 and 6.0 pounds

SOCCER
FIELD and GOAL DIMENSIONS
These are the recommended field and goal sizes for the various age groupings:
Junior/Youth 50 yards wide by 70 yards long – Goal Size: 7 feet high by 18 feet wide
Adults 18 Up 60 yards wide by 100 yards long - Goal Size: 8 feet high by 24 feet wide

THE BALL: Ball size # 5

NUMBER OF PLAYERS ON THE FIELD (including goalkeeper)
Junior 9 –13 yrs        8 vs. 8
Junior 14 – 18 yrs    8 vs. 8
Adults 18 & up       8 vs. 8

SUBSTITUTION
There is no limit on the number of players teams may substitute during a game. Substitutions may be made ONLY after receiving permission from the referee, and only at the following times:

On a throw-in with possession.
On a goal kick, by either team.
After the score of a goal, by either team.
At the end of any period.
During an injury stoppage, for the injured player only. Note that the coach, and only the coach, may enter the field of play to check on the player. And that this should only be done at the direction of the referee after he/she has stopped play.
Whenever the other team substitutes for an injury, but only with a like number of players at the same time.

GAME TIMES and LENGTH
All teams must be at the field ready to play as games will begin promptly at their scheduled times. If a game extends beyond its scheduled time slot, and there are other teams waiting to begin play, the game in progress will be halted and the teams running late must leave the field.
Game Durations:
U- 9-13 40-minute game broken into 20-minute halves
U- 14-18 60-minute game broken into 30-minute halves
U-18 & up 70minute game broken into 35-minute halves
Half time is five (10) minutes long,

CONCLUSION OF GAME
At the conclusion of each game, all players and coaches should immediately:

Acknowledge and thank the referee, and
Acknowledge the other team by lining up at mid-field and shaking hands.

Coaches must make sure this is done without incident.

PLAYER’S EQUIPMENT / SAFETY
Coaches shall confirm that all players are dress appropriately.

Uniforms
All players shall have a numbered jersey as their top garment. Jerseys must have uniform colors for each team. All goalkeepers must be dressed in a different colored jersey. The goalkeeper’s jersey does not need to be numbered. One team may use pull over vestments of a different color in the event two teams with similar colored jerseys play each other. These vestments do not need to be numbered and will be worn over the teams numbered jerseys.

Safety

Coaches must inspect the field for any unsafe conditions prior to the start of practice and/or play.
If, after arriving at the field and the field is not playable, for whatever reason; you, the other coach, and the referee may cancel the game. If lightning is evident, everyone must leave the field immediately.

Slide tackling, tackling from behind, and running the goalkeeper are strictly forbidden in this league.

All players must wear shin guards. Shin guards are to be worn with socks over the shin guard, not underneath, and then folded over the top. Players will not be permitted to play without shin guards
Jewelry, except for medical alerts, may not be worn during a game. This includes, but is not limited to such items as: earrings, bracelets, necklaces, watches, rings, etc. Taping of the jewelry, such as newly pierced earrings, is not acceptable. They must be removed in order to play.
No hooded sweatshirts are to be worn.
Baseball/Softball type cleats -- ones that have toe cleats -- may NOT be worn. Metal cleats of any type are strictly forbidden.
The wearing of additional protective equipment such as a mouth guard or safety eye guards is highly encouraged.
A bleeding player will be immediately asked to leave the field of play. This player may be immediately substituted. The injured player may return to the field of play once the bleeding has stopped, per normal substitution rules.
Players wearing splints or hard casts will not be permitted to play. This is to prevent re-injury to the player, as well as injury to others.

WHERE TO SIT and STAND
Each team shall set-up on opposite sides of the field. The only exception to this is if there is not enough room on one of the sidelines. Parents are also encouraged to stay on the same side as their team. No one may be behind the end line (i.e., behind the goalkeeper) during play.

Parents and other spectators must sit a minimum of 5 yards back from the sidelines. This is for the safety of the players. No parents, or coaches, will be allowed to run up and down the sidelines.

Coaches, parents and/or spectators are not allowed on the field at anytime unless given permission by the referee.

LINESMEN
Two linesmen are to be appointed (one from each opposing team), whose duties, subject to the decision of the referee, are to indicate:
a. When the whole of the ball has passed out of the field of play;
b. which side is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in, if so directed by the referee;

The linesmen will ASSIST the referee in such a manner as to enhance safety and accuracy of implementing calls in accordance with the Laws of the Game. Appointed linesmen will conduct their function on the opposing team’s sideline.

In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee will relieve a linesman of their duties and if necessary make a report to the appropriate authorities. A new linesman will be appointed to take over the function of the relieved assistant.

BALL IN / OUT OF PLAY
The ball must pass completely over the boundary lines, whether on the ground or in the air, for those boundaries to have an effect. These lines are considered to be in the field of play. For example, the ball is out of bounds only when the ball is completely over the outside of the line. A goal is scored only when the ball is completely over the goal line.

SCORING
The ball must be entirely over the goal line and between the uprights to be considered a score (i.e., a goal). A ball caught by a goalkeeper that is subsequently brought over the goal line by the goalkeeper, by falling or otherwise, is considered a goal.

THROW-INS
Throw-ins are awarded to the opposing team when the team with possession loses the ball entirely over the sideline, whether on the ground or in the air. The free throw is taken at the point where the ball left the field of play. Per FIFA rules, if the ball is thrown illegally, the other team takes possession with a free throw from that same spot.

For U-7 through U-10 games, referees shall use their discretion on the violation of the throw-in law. Meaning, for the first three games only, the referee may allow the throw-in to be retaken at least once. After the third game, FIFA rules shall apply.

Coaches should determine how the referee would enforce this rule prior to the start of the game.

GOAL KICKS
A goal kick is awarded to the defending team, when the attacking team kicks the ball entirely over the goal line. The ball is put in play from within the 6-yard box.

For U-7 and U-8 teams, the goal kick is taken anywhere within the 18-foot penalty box. Most referees will put the ball on the outer most 18-foot line. This will put the ball further in the middle of the field of play.

CORNER KICKS
A corner kick is awarded to the attacking team, when the defending team kicks the ball entirely over their own goal line. The balled is played from the corner, closest to where it left the field of play. The ball must take one full revolution, and must touch another player before the kicker can play it a second time.

For U-7 and U-8 teams, corner kicks are taken where the penalty box and goal line meet. There will usually be a one-yard arc painted at this corner.

PENALTY KICKS
A penalty kick is taken at the penalty mark whenever there is a major foul committed within the penalty box by the defending team.

U-7 and U-8 teams do not take penalty kicks. If there were a foul committed inside the penalty box that would be considered a penalty in regulation play, the foul would be taken as a corner kick instead of at the penalty mark. This corner kick would be taken where the penalty box and goal line meet.

OFFSIDE
Offside occurs when a player is:

Nearer to the opponents goal line than the ball and there are fewer than two opposing players between he/she and the goal line,
In the opinion of the referee, the player is involved in active play,
Gaining an advantage by being in an offside position.

Important Notes:

All three of the above criteria must be satisfied for the player to be penalized.
The Offside offense will not be called in the U-7/8 division.
Coaches should discourage “cherry picking,” especially at the U-7/8 level.
A player can be in an offside position with no call made. Offside is only called when the offending player becomes part of the play of the ball; in other words, if the ball is passed to the offside player or if the offside player creates an obvious advantage to his team.
There is no offside offense on a throw-in, corner kicks, goal kicks, or when a player is on their own half of the field.
With the exception of goal kicks and corner kicks, there may be an offside offense on free kicks.

SLIDE TACKLES
Slide tackling, tackling from behind, and ‘taking a run’ at the goalkeeper are strictly forbidden in this league. These fouls will be considered rough play and result in a direct free kick.

GOALKEEPER

Here are some points concerning the goalkeeper position.

The goalkeeper is considered to have control of the ball whenever he/she is touching it with any part of the hand or arms, even though it may not look like the goalkeeper has control over the ball. This rule will be strictly enforced for the safety of the players.
Arms and hands can only be used when the goalkeeper and ball are inside the penalty box area.
After controlling the ball, the goalkeeper must play the ball within six (6) seconds.
The goalkeeper may not use their hands on a pass from a teammate’s foot or a teammate’s throw-in. For U-7 and U-8 teams, the game is stopped and the rule is explained to the keeper. The game is continued with an indirect kick outside the 18-yard box by the opposing team.

SOCCER FIELD MARKINGS and USES

SIDELINE (TOUCH LINE) -- defines the field of play, when the ball goes completely over this line, whether on the ground or in the air, it is out of play.
GOAL LINE (END LINE) -- defines the field of play, when the ball goes completely over this line, whether on the ground or in the air, it is out of play, or a goal has been scored.
CENTER MARK -- used for kick offs, the ball is placed on this mark to start each quarter and after a goal has been score.
CENTER CIRCLE -- used for kick offs, the opposing team must stay outside this circle until the kicking team has played the ball.

CENTER LINE (HALFWAY LINE) -- for kick offs, each team must be on there half of the field until the ball is played. Also used in the offside rule. A player can’t be offside on his own half of the field.

GOAL BOX (6 yard line) -- the ball is placed on or behind this line when taking a goal kick.
CORNER ARCS -- the ball is placed inside this area when taking a corner kick.
PENALTY BOX AREA (18 yard line) --

The area in which the goalkeeper is allowed to handle the ball.
If a defending player commits a major foul inside this area, the opposing team gets a penalty kick instead of the normal direct free kick.
During a penalty kick, all players accept the kicker and the goalkeeper must stay out of this area until the ball is played.
When a goal kick is taken, no one may touch the ball until it clears this area.
When a goal kick is taken, no one from the opposing team may enter the penalty box area until the ball clears the penalty area.

PENALTY KICK MARK -- This is where the ball is placed when taking a penalty kick.
PENALTY BOX ARC -- Only used on a penalty kick, no player is allowed in this area when a penalty kick is being taken.

VIOLATIONS, FOULS AND OTHER ROUGH PLAY

There are clear FIFA guidelines on what is allowed and what is considered rough play. These are summarized below. All coaches are strongly encouraged to review these rules carefully with the players and their parents. Referees will be encouraged to control rough play early.

Note: A few of the violations are waived for U-7/8 teams. Please take note of them.

MINOR Violations resulting in an INDIRECT FREE KICK

Trying to kick the ball from the goalkeeper while the goalie is in possession. The goalkeeper’s safety is of primary concern. Therefore, the goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the ball when touching it with any part of his hand or arms and a foul will be called on any player trying to kick at a ball that meets this condition.
Interfering with the goalkeeper.
Goalkeeper takes too long to play the ball. The goalkeeper has six (6) seconds to put the ball back in play. (Waived at U-7/8).
Goalkeeper handles a deliberate foot pass or throw-in from a teammate with their hands or arms. (Waived at U-7/8).
Obstructing or interfering with an opponent (e.g. throwing a ‘pick’).
Touching the ball twice before another player touches it on a throw-in, kick off, free kick, corner kick, goal kick, or penalty shot. (Retake at U-7/8 with a teaching moment).
Offsides. (Waived at U-7/8).
Engaging in dangerous play. This includes a player lowering their head below the waist, making a play at the ball while lying on the ground, or trying to kick at the ball above the waist all with an opponent within playing distance.

MAJOR Violations resulting in a DIRECT FREE KICK

Kicking or tripping an opponent. Incidental contact with an opponent while trying to play the ball is not considered kicking an opponent.
Striking an opponent.
Jumping into an opponent.
Deliberately handling the ball with hands or arms.
Holding an opponent (includes grabbing the uniform).
Pushing an opponent.
Charging an opponent in a violent or dangerous manner. Shoulder-to-shoulder contact is allowed provided at least one foot is on ground and both players are upright with arms close to their sides.

Violations resulting in a VERBAL CAUTION and an INDIRECT FREE KICK

Abusive or foul language.
Persistent violations.
Unsporting conduct (e.g., taunting, kicking the ball away after play is stopped).

Violations resulting in an EJECTION.

Intentional spitting at an opponent or the referee.
Fighting.

STARTS and RE-STARTS

There are different ways play can be started, or re-started, depending on how the ball went out of play. For most violations of the restart rules, the restart is simply redone. For example, if on a kick off, the ball is kicked backwards or the other team moves into the circle before the kick, the play is stopped and the kick off retaken.

Kick off -- this is a kick taken from the center of the field at the beginning of each quarter or half, and after a goal is scored.

The team taking the initial kick off at the beginning of a game is determined by a coin toss.
Teams then alternate at the beginning of the remaining quarters.
After a goal, the team against whom the goal was scored takes the kick off.
The ball must travel into the opponent’s half of the field on the first touch (i.e., the ball must move forward.).
If the ball does not travel in a forward direction, the kick is retaken.
A goal may be scored directly from the kick off.
The player kicking off may not touch the ball again until another player touches it.
If the kicking player touches the ball twice before another player touches it, the other team gets an indirect free kick.
Each team’s players must stay on there half of the field, until the ball is kicked.
The team not kicking off must stay outside of the center circle until the ball is kicked.

Throw-Ins -- this is a free throw awarded to the opposing team when the team with possession loses the ball entirely over the sideline, whether on the ground or in the air. The free throw is taken at the point that the ball left the field of play.

Both feet must be on or behind the sideline.
Both feet must stay on the ground when the ball is thrown.
Ball must be thrown with both hands.
Ball must be thrown directly over the head.
The thrower may not touch the ball again until someone else touches it first (you can not throw the ball to yourself.).

Goal Kick -- this is a kick taken when the ball crosses the end line and is last touched by the attacking team.

The kick is taken from anywhere within the 6-yard box (goal area) of the defending team.
The ball must pass beyond the 18-yard box (penalty area) before another player can touch it.
The kicker cannot touch the ball again until someone else touches it.
A goal cannot be scored directly from the goal kick.
Opposing players must stand outside the penalty area when the goal kick is taken.

Corner Kick -- this kick is taken when the ball crosses the end line and is last touched by the defending team

The kick is taken from anywhere on or inside the corner arc.
The ball may be kicked by anyone on the team.
The opposing team must stay at least ten yards away from the ball until it is kicked.
Once kicked, the ball must touch another player before the kicker can play it a second time.
A goal can be scored directly from the corner kick.

Drop Ball -- this occurs when the referee cannot determine who touched the ball last.

A member of each team stands at the drop ballpoint facing the goal at which they are trying to score.
The referee drops the ball between them and they kick it after it touches the ground.
They may continue to play the ball (there is no second touch rule for drop balls).

FREE KICK RULES
When a foul occurs (described later) the referee may blow the whistle to stop the game. The team that fouled loses the ball. The other team will restart the game with a free kick from the point of the foul.

The ball is placed on the ground at the point of the foul.
Anyone on the team that was fouled may kick the ball.
All players on the fouling team must stay at least 10 yards away from the ball, until the ball is kicked.
The kicker may not touch the ball again until someone else touches it (you can not kick the ball to yourself).
There are two types of free kicks: Indirect and Direct.
The referee should tell the players if it is an indirect or direct free kick. On an in-direct free kick, the referee should keep his hand extended above his head until the ball is touched the second time.

Indirect Free Kick -- kick awarded after an infraction (see section on violations)

The ball must touch another player before it can go into the goal for a score. Note: That touch could be the goalkeeper attempting to save the ball.
The free kick is taken from the point where the infraction occurred.
The opposing team must stand at least ten yards away on the kick.
Once kicked the ball must touch another player before the kicker can play it a second time.

Direct Free Kick -- kick awarded after an infraction (see section on violations)

A goal can be scored directly from a direct free kick.
The free kick is taken from the point where the infraction occurred.
The opposing team must stand at least ten yards away on the kick.
Once kicked the ball must touch another player before the kicker can play it a second time.

Penalty Kick -- a penalty kick is a direct free kick awarded to the attacking team when a defending player commits a major foul within the 18-yard penalty box area.

The penalty shot is taken from the penalty spot (12 yards in front of the goal).
Any player may take the penalty kick once properly identified.
All players, except the kicker and the goalkeeper, must remain outside the penalty area including the penalty-restraining arc until the kick is taken.
The kicker must move forward, without stopping and kick the ball forward.
Once kicked, the ball must touch another player before the kicker can play it a second time.
A goal can be scored directly from a penalty kick.
The goalkeeper must remain on the goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts and is not allowed to move until the ball is kicked.
The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward. That is, if it does not score and bounces into the field of play, the game continues and anyone may kick it. The kicker may not touch the ball again until someone else touches it. If the ball bounces off the goalkeeper, anyone can play it. If the ball rebounds off the goal post, the kicker must not touch it until someone else does first.
U-7 and U-8 teams do not take penalty kicks. They are replaced with a corner kick taken where the penalty box and goal line meet.

ADVANTAGE RULE
If calling a foul would punish the fouled team and help the fouling team, the referee may ignore the call by using the advantage rule. As an example: a player dribbles past the last defender and moves in to shoot on goal. The last defender grabs the player’s shirt to try to keep him from shooting, but the player breaks away. If the referee calls a foul now, the player would loose his chance to shoot on goal. The referee should let the play go on. The referee will signal the advantage rule by holding both arms out in front of his/her body and shouting ”Play on.” Once the advantage is given, the referee cannot call that foul later if the person does not shoot or score.

REFEREE SIGNALS

Throw-In -- The referee will point in the direction of the throw-in.
Goal kick -- The referee will point to the goal area.
Corner Kick -- The referee will point to the corner of the field.
Goal Scored -- The referee will point to the center circle.
Free Kick -- The referee will move to the point of the foul and point in the direction of the kick.
Indirect Free Kick -- Same as the free kick, but the referee will extend hands above his/her head.
Off-Sides -- The referee will point to the off-sides player, indicate where the off-sides occurred and

Then signal for an indirect free kick.

Advantage -- The referee will extend both arms out in front if his/her body.

Whistle -- The referee will blow his/her whistle 3 times to signal the end of the quarter, half and game.

CRICKET
The tournament will consist of no more than 16 teams.
The tournament will be played in Knockout format where the winning team will advance to the next round and eventually to the finals.
Each team will bowl 10 overs each, without any field restrictions within allotted 40 minutes.
Teams will be awarded forfeiture, if the team members are not ready to start within 5 minutes of the announced play time.
Teams unable to complete the 10 over within the allotted 40 minutes will be penalized by deduction of overs available to achieve the target score (One over per 4 mins of delay).
If the play is held up by injury, then the umpires may add up to 5 additional minutes for continuance.

Playing Rules – Normal Cricket rules will apply unless stated specifically below:
Registration of teams will close on May 19, 2008.
Each team may register upto10 players by 11:59 pm on May 19, 2008.
Each team must register at least 7 players, 6 playing members and 1 substitute.
Each team must identify a captain, who will be single point of contact for communication with the Cricket Manager and the Games Committee.
Players must be between 15 and 55 years of age to play in a team.

Runs:
Boundaries as marked on the field map (see previous page).

Balls:
Cricket Tennis Balls (MRI branded – from India).

Pitch:
Watered baseball diamond.

Breaking a tie:
In case of tied scores at the end of 10 overs, there will be a bowl out.
Each team will identify 3 bowlers, who will try to score a point by bowling a legal delivery to break the stumps at the batting end (without a batsman).
If there still exists a tie, then 1 bowler will be identified by each team to do the same; until all individual team members have bowled. Then a previously selected bowler may be selected again in a cyclical fashion.
The team with the highest score wins.

Others:
Umpire’s decision will be considered final
Any player or team found arguing excessively with the umpire will be disqualified from the tournament, if reported by the umpire to the organizing committee.
An appeal to revoke the umpire’s decision or judgment may be requested with a $25/- processing fee. Requests will be processed within 1 week of submission, which may change based on the nature of request.
Trophies and Medals are awarded to 1st and 2nd place teams.

TRACK & FIELD

All track events are Time FInal
Spikes are allowed
Medals awarded up to 4th place

Softball
All teams must field at least (8) men for the game to count and even begin. If a team has fewer than (8) men by the time the game is scheduled to start, they will be forced to forfeit the game, the game must start no later than 10 minutes after the official start time. In order for a team to be considered at the game they have to be within sight of the playing field.

Each team has designated one (1) Captain and one (1) Co-Captain. Prior to each game the Captain and Co-Captain must go to the other team and introduce themselves, they must also introduce themselves to the umpire. Prior to each game if the captain and co captain are not there, someone else will be appointed for that one game. These two are the vocal leaders of the team and are the only ones involved with the umpire during the game.

Each game will be 7 innings with no game exceeding 10 innings. The umpire has the right to call a game early if the games goes past the designated time of the field.

If a player arrives after the game has already started, he may enter the game after a half inning is completed. They may enter at any time, but they can only be inserted at the end of the hitting line-up unless they are used as a pinch hitter or pinch runner in which case they replace the hitting spot of the player they pinched in for. Also the player who they have replaced is now out of the game.

Teams uniforms are recommended!

Hitting

Once a player positions himself in the batter box (as a lefty or righty), that player cannot switch his hitting stance until his next at-bat.

Every hitter will start with a 1-1 count (one ball and one strike. If the pitcher reaches (4) balls before (3) strikes, the batter will be given an automatic walk to 1st base. On the 3rd strike, the batter will be struck out unless he makes contact with the ball and puts the ball in play or tips it foul. The batter is allowed only (1) foul tip on the 2nd strike. The 2nd foul tip on the 2nd strike will result in a strike out.

The player must be aligned with home plate when hitting. At least one or both feet must be next to home plate, meaning the batter can move forward or back slightly in the batter box.

If a player throws his bat during his swing, he will be automatically called out by the umpire.

No bunts allowed. A hitter must fully swing through the pitch for the ball to be considered in play. The umpire may call a strike if a batter doesn't swing fully or if a bunt is attempted.

Do not argue strikes and balls with the umpires. We've hired them to umpire our games, therefore we should respect their calls even if we don't always agree with them.

Base-Running

Players are allowed to run through first base only. If they turn the corner and take a step in the direction of 2nd base, they will be back "in play" and can be tagged out at the discretion of the umpire.

Players are allowed to try to take a maximum of (1) extra base per each overthrow that occurs. If it is an overthow deep into foul territory, the umpire will call a dead ball and award that base regardless (for safety reasons).

There is no leading or stealing of bases. The base runners can *only* run when the hitter makes contact with the ball (on contact), not an instant sooner.

If a base runner is hit with the ball before a defensive player touches it, that base runner is automatically out. The remaining base runners, including the hitter are still free to advance to their next base in the meantime.

The base-runner cannot, under any circumstances, run into the catcher at home. The runner must either step through home plate or slide into home plate. We do not want any injuries. Any runner that runs into the catcher in hopes of dislodging the ball will automatically be called out by the umpire. NO EXCEPTIONS! The catcher can not block the plate; if they block the plate then the runner is automatically safe. The catcher has to stay to the side of the plate to make sure that we avoid contact.

Tagging up is allowed. The baserunner must wait until the defensive player touches the ball before he may begin tagging up to the next base. You do not have to wait until the ball is caught.

Base runners cannot purposefully distract the infielders (by waving their arms, slowing directly in front of the fielder, or screaming). Furthermore, the hitting team can't come onto the field during a play nor can they try to "psych out" a defender by yelling during a play. We have to exercise good sportsmanship. No taunting allowed. We're men, let's act like it

1st and 3rd base coaches may not interfere with the play. If a throw is coming to the base they have to make every attempt to get out of the way. If they are hit with the ball the ball is dead and the runner must stay at the base that they are on and can not advance any further.

1st and 3rd base coach may not touch their player and or force them to stop or move faster by contact at any time. If they do push the player or touch them in any way shape or manner that provides an advantage to the offensive team. The base runner is out. They are allowed to high five and provide encouragement. But can not physically assist their team mate in any way.

Pinch-hitters can come in to replace hitters in the rotation only or be added at the end of a rotation. The hitter that is subbed out cannot return to the same game. Likewise, Pinch-runners can come in to replace base-runners but those that are replaced can't return to the same game. The pinch-runner must hit in the spot of the player he replaced. If a player is injured upon reaching a base and there are no bench players available, then the opposing captain can select a runner to replace the man on base. That player who is subbed out due to injury can't return to the same game unless the team does not have the minimum (8) players available, in which case the player may remain in the game.

In the league we do not have any courtesy runners. If the player has a cramp or a sprained ankle and can not continue in the game, they must be taken out of the game. If they can hit the ball they have to run.

Fielding

Teams are allowed to have a maximum of (4) infielders, (4) outfielders, (1) pitcher, and (1) catcher playing defense at any given time. You are free to position yourself any which way you choose, but you must have (1) catcher and (1) pitcher at all times, unless you have fewer than (10) players available. So, for example, you may move one infielder to the outfield for a particular batter and vice versa.

The catcher or bench players cannot distract the hitter while he is in the box. Everyone must remember that we're playing a fun, friendly game and trash talking and "psyching out" has no place.

The catcher cannot completely block the home plate. He can stand in front of the plate, but he must leave room for the runner to step or slide through home plate. Injuries must be avoided!

If a team only has the minimum (8) players, then they must field (4) infielders, (3) outfielders, and (1) pitcher. The opposing team will shag the pitches but the first (or third) baseman must cover the home plate on defensive plays to home plate. If they have (9) players, then they must field (4) infielders, (3) out fielders, (1) pitcher, and (1) catcher.

Infielders must get out of the base path while the offensive players are rounding the bases. If an infielder obstructs the path of a base runner, the base runner will be free of being tagged out until he reaches his next base. The umpire must rule how far the runner would have gotten without the obstruction.

Once an infielder has control of the ball and the runners are holding their positions, the infielder can end the play simply by throwing or rolling the ball to the pitcher's mound. If baserunners are in between the bases, the play is still live.

Infield flyout rule: Once a pop-up happens to the infield with men on base, the batter will be called out by the umpire. The runners can advance if they want to, but if the defense catches the ball they can throw the runners that advanced out, so the runners are taking a chance. If the runners do not advance and the ball hits the ground on a missed catch, they can try to advance once the ball hits the ground, but once again they're taking a chance of getting thrown out. If the defense catches the ball they can try to then advance as a tag up.

PENALTY KICKS A penalty kick is taken at the penalty mark whenever there is a major foul committed within the penalty box by the defending team.