Substitutions

Published: Apr 5, 2021 Revised: Jan 10, 2025

When Substitutions are Allowed

Substitutes may enter the game under the following conditions:

4-6 age groups

The 4-6 age groups may substitute players at any time, with or without game stoppage. Players are permitted to enter or leave the field at the coaches or parents discretion; however, players may not enter the field if doing so would cause there to be a greater number of players than allowed.

7-13 age groups (NCAA rules)

  • On any goal kick
  • On a team’s own throw-in
  • On a team’s own corner kick
  • On an opponent’s throw-in or corner kick, if the opponent also substitutes
  • After a goal has been scored
  • At half time
  • When a player has been cautioned or sent off (yellow or red card)
  • When a player has been instructed to leave the field for equipment change

Substitution Reporting

During live play, substitutes shall not enter the field of play until they report to the referee by calling for a substitution. The substitute players must wait at the center line until they are beckoned by the referee. Any number of players can come into the game for substitutions. A player may only enter the field of play when beckoned by the referee to enter. Players must come onto the field from the touchline at the halfway line. Officials should kindly remind the coaches of this as necessary.

Substitution Violation

Any player who enters or leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission may be guilty of unsporting behavior, and may be shown the yellow card (cautioned). If an extra player takes the field without being acknowledged by an official or otherwise in violation of these rules, the official may issue a yellow card to the extra player and will direct that player to return to the coach.

Substitutions may not be permitted during live play or at any time without the acknowledgment of a referee. To acknowledge a substitution, officials should blow the whistle to signal the other referee and have the player hold the ball. Officials should raise a hand in the air straight up and hold it there until the substitution is complete, then count the number of players on the field for both teams.