Rules & Regulations 2026

Small Sided. Big Dreams.

Play Grassroots League (PGL) is a community-focused youth football league built around enjoyment, sportsmanship, development and belonging. The league aims to create a safe and positive football environment where every child can learn, grow and enjoy the game through meaningful match experiences.

Section A: League Administration

  1. 1. PGL reserves the right to organise and manage all official competitions and activities.
  2. 2. All teams, players, coaches, officials and spectators are required to comply with league regulations.
  3. 3. The Organiser reserves the right to amend regulations, fixtures and schedules where necessary.
  4. 4. Participation in PGL constitutes acceptance of all Rules & Regulations.

Section B: Competition Format

  1. 1. All age groups shall compete in a league format.
  2. 2. Teams may play each participating team twice during the season.
  3. 3. Three (3) points shall be awarded for a win, one (1) point for a draw and zero (0) points for a loss.
  4. 4. League standings shall first be determined by total league points accumulated.
  5. 5. Sportsmanship Scores shall be used as a tiebreaker where applicable.
  6. 6. PGL reserves the right to adjust competition structures depending on participation numbers.

Section C: Sportsmanship Scoring System

  1. 1. At the end of every match, teams shall award their opponents a Sportsmanship Score between 1 and 5.
  2. 2. 1 represents poor sportsmanship behaviour while 5 represents excellent sportsmanship and respect.
  3. 3. Sportsmanship Scores contribute towards final standings and Fair Play recognition.
  4. 4. Teams are expected to score opponents fairly and honestly.
  5. 5. The Organiser reserves the right to review suspicious or manipulated scoring patterns.

Section D: Match Format & Rules

  1. 1. All age groups shall play in a 5v5 format including goalkeepers.
  2. 2. Matches shall be played in one (1) continuous twenty-minute period with no halftime interval.
  3. 3. Unlimited rolling substitutions are permitted.
  4. 4. A minimum of four (4) players is required for a match to continue.
  5. 5. Sliding tackles are not permitted.
  6. 6. All free kicks shall be indirect.
  7. 7. Goals may be scored from any area of the pitch.
  8. 8. Kick-ins shall be awarded when the ball exits above the boards or netting.

Section E: Refereeing & Game Management

  1. 1. PGL adopts a Guided Game Management approach focused on development and learning.
  2. 2. Matches may be officiated by Match Officials, Game Leaders or Facilitators appointed by the Organiser.
  3. 3. Match Officials shall guide players positively and encourage learning moments where appropriate.
  4. 4. Coaches are expected to support fair play and sportsmanship throughout matches.
  5. 5. Abusive behaviour towards Match Officials shall not be tolerated.
  6. 6. All decisions made by Match Officials are final.

Section F: Player Eligibility

  1. 1. Players must fall within the correct age bracket as of 1 January 2026.
  2. 2. Valid identification or birth certificate must be provided during registration.
  3. 3. Players may only be registered to one team within the same age group.
  4. 4. Only officially registered players are permitted to participate in matches.

Section G: Team Requirements

  1. 1. Each team must register at least one (1) Team Official.
  2. 2. Only registered Team Officials are allowed to manage teams during matchdays.
  3. 3. Team Officials are responsible for the conduct of players, parents and spectators.
  4. 4. Teams are expected to uphold the values of Respect, Commitment and Passion.

Section H: Player Equipment & Safety

  1. 1. All players must wear appropriate football attire and shin guards.
  2. 2. Jewellery and dangerous accessories must be removed before participation.
  3. 3. Players with bleeding injuries must leave the pitch immediately.
  4. 4. First aid support will be available onsite during official matchdays.
  5. 5. PGL reserves the right to suspend matches during unsafe weather or venue conditions.

Section I: Walkovers & Abandoned Matches

  1. 1. Teams must report to their assigned pitch at least thirty (30) minutes before kick-off.
  2. 2. A walkover shall result in a 3–0 win being awarded to the opposing team.
  3. 3. Repeated walkovers may result in disciplinary action or removal from the league.
  4. 4. If both teams fail to fulfil a fixture, the match may be recorded as a double walkover.
  5. 5. Abandoned matches shall be reviewed by the Organiser.

Section J: Code of Conduct

  1. 1. Players, coaches, parents and spectators must behave respectfully at all times.
  2. 2. Positive encouragement and support are strongly encouraged.
  3. 3. Abusive language, intimidation or violent conduct shall not be tolerated.
  4. 4. The Organiser reserves the right to remove any individual whose behaviour negatively affects the football environment.

Section K: Media & Photography

  1. 1. By participating in PGL, teams and participants consent to the use of photographs and videos for league-related purposes.
  2. 2. Media content may be used on social media platforms, websites, promotional materials and marketing campaigns.
  3. 3. Parents or guardians may notify the Organiser in writing should they wish to opt out.

Section L: General Rules

  1. 1. The Organiser reserves the right to amend fixtures, schedules or regulations where necessary.
  2. 2. Reschedule requests shall only be considered under exceptional circumstances.
  3. 3. Participation in the competition constitutes acceptance of all Rules & Regulations.
  4. 4. Any matters not provided for shall be determined by the Organiser whose decision shall be final.

Match Format Summary

Age Group Format Duration Ball Size Offside
U6 5v5 20 mins Size 3 No
U8 5v5 20 mins Size 4 No
U10 5v5 20 mins Size 4 No
U12 5v5 20 mins Size 4 No