Playing Rules
Please ensure your players have read and understood our Ballerz Playing Rules.
Match play
Kick off from the spot
Each kick off starts from the centre spot (home team kicks first); the ball can go backward or forward.
Two equal halves
The game consists of 2 equal halves, with teams switching ends at half time. Each half is 25 minutes.
Free kicks
All free kicks are direct, with opposition players required to be at least 5 yards away from the spot.
Ball out of play
Balls which go out over the side line must be kicked in (not thrown). The ball must be placed on the line where it went out, with the non-kicking foot behind the line. Opposition players must be back 5 yards. A goal may not be scored directly from a kick-in.
Ball height
There are no ball height rules for players. Let the game flow.
No fouls on goal-scoring opportunities
Denying a goal-scoring opportunity results in a direct free kick and potential further punishment for serious foul play or violent conduct.
Penalty area
Any player is allowed in the penalty area. An offence by a defending player in the penalty area will result in a penalty kick.
Penalty procedure
Players may only take one step toward the ball for a penalty and must do it in one continuous motion. No retakes for incorrect attempts.
Goalkeepers
Distribution
Goalkeeper distribution and area rules are as in 11-a-side.
No direct back passes
The back pass rule applies — a free kick is awarded to the attacking team, 2 yards outside the penalty area.
Team rules
Player age limit
All players in adult leagues must be 16 years and above.
6-a-side team size
Six-a-side teams consist of five outfield players and a goalkeeper, with up to 5 substitutes. A game starts with a minimum of 5 players, and reduced teams may lead to match abandonment.
Unlimited substitutions
Substitutions require the referee's consent and can only be made when the ball is dead, with reasonable notice given to the referee.
Equipment
Shin pads are not optional
All players must wear shin pads.
No metal studs
Bladed studs or metal-tipped boots are not allowed.
No jewellery
Jewellery, including watches and fitness trackers, is not permitted during play.
Dress code
Sportswear — preferably team kits / matching colours — should be worn. No jeans or caps allowed.
Discipline
Reporting
All caution details are reported by the coordinator at the end of each game.
Cards
Verbal warning, then a yellow card for a first offence. A second yellow card in a game is a red card, and the player takes no further part in the game. Straight red cards result in a 2-match suspension.
Our discretion
Ballerz reserves the right to prohibit any player, team or club from taking further part in league competitions.
Spectators
Spectators are to be supportive to their team and responsible for the way they engage with other supporters. We expect supporters to support in an inclusive manner, create a positive atmosphere and never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour. Spectators who are unable to adhere to this may be asked to leave with any dependents and/or reported.
