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. PGL reserves the right to organise and manage all official competitions and activities.
- 2. All teams, players, coaches, officials and spectators are required to comply with league regulations.
- 3. The Organiser reserves the right to amend regulations, fixtures and schedules where necessary.
- 4. Participation in PGL constitutes acceptance of all Rules & Regulations.
Section B: Competition Format
- 1. All age groups shall compete in a league format.
- 2. Teams may play each participating team twice during the season.
- 3. Three (3) points shall be awarded for a win, one (1) point for a draw and zero (0) points for a loss.
- 4. League standings shall first be determined by total league points accumulated.
- 5. Sportsmanship Scores shall be used as a tiebreaker where applicable.
- 6. PGL reserves the right to adjust competition structures depending on participation numbers.
Section C: Sportsmanship Scoring System
- 1. At the end of every match, teams shall award their opponents a Sportsmanship Score between 1 and 5.
- 2. 1 represents poor sportsmanship behaviour while 5 represents excellent sportsmanship and respect.
- 3. Sportsmanship Scores contribute towards final standings and Fair Play recognition.
- 4. Teams are expected to score opponents fairly and honestly.
- 5. The Organiser reserves the right to review suspicious or manipulated scoring patterns.
Section D: Match Format & Rules
- 1. All age groups shall play in a 5v5 format including goalkeepers.
- 2. Matches shall be played in one (1) continuous twenty-minute period with no halftime interval.
- 3. Unlimited rolling substitutions are permitted.
- 4. A minimum of four (4) players is required for a match to continue.
- 5. Sliding tackles are not permitted.
- 6. All free kicks shall be indirect.
- 7. Goals may be scored from any area of the pitch.
- 8. Kick-ins shall be awarded when the ball exits above the boards or netting.
Section E: Refereeing & Game Management
- 1. PGL adopts a Guided Game Management approach focused on development and learning.
- 2. Matches may be officiated by Match Officials, Game Leaders or Facilitators appointed by the Organiser.
- 3. Match Officials shall guide players positively and encourage learning moments where appropriate.
- 4. Coaches are expected to support fair play and sportsmanship throughout matches.
- 5. Abusive behaviour towards Match Officials shall not be tolerated.
- 6. All decisions made by Match Officials are final.
Section F: Player Eligibility
- 1. Players must fall within the correct age bracket as of 1 January 2026.
- 2. Valid identification or birth certificate must be provided during registration.
- 3. Players may only be registered to one team within the same age group.
- 4. Only officially registered players are permitted to participate in matches.
Section G: Team Requirements
- 1. Each team must register at least one (1) Team Official.
- 2. Only registered Team Officials are allowed to manage teams during matchdays.
- 3. Team Officials are responsible for the conduct of players, parents and spectators.
- 4. Teams are expected to uphold the values of Respect, Commitment and Passion.
Section H: Player Equipment & Safety
- 1. All players must wear appropriate football attire and shin guards.
- 2. Jewellery and dangerous accessories must be removed before participation.
- 3. Players with bleeding injuries must leave the pitch immediately.
- 4. First aid support will be available onsite during official matchdays.
- 5. PGL reserves the right to suspend matches during unsafe weather or venue conditions.
Section I: Walkovers & Abandoned Matches
- 1. Teams must report to their assigned pitch at least thirty (30) minutes before kick-off.
- 2. A walkover shall result in a 3–0 win being awarded to the opposing team.
- 3. Repeated walkovers may result in disciplinary action or removal from the league.
- 4. If both teams fail to fulfil a fixture, the match may be recorded as a double walkover.
- 5. Abandoned matches shall be reviewed by the Organiser.
Section J: Code of Conduct
- 1. Players, coaches, parents and spectators must behave respectfully at all times.
- 2. Positive encouragement and support are strongly encouraged.
- 3. Abusive language, intimidation or violent conduct shall not be tolerated.
- 4. The Organiser reserves the right to remove any individual whose behaviour negatively affects the football environment.
Section K: Media & Photography
- 1. By participating in PGL, teams and participants consent to the use of photographs and videos for league-related purposes.
- 2. Media content may be used on social media platforms, websites, promotional materials and marketing campaigns.
- 3. Parents or guardians may notify the Organiser in writing should they wish to opt out.
Section L: General Rules
- 1. The Organiser reserves the right to amend fixtures, schedules or regulations where necessary.
- 2. Reschedule requests shall only be considered under exceptional circumstances.
- 3. Participation in the competition constitutes acceptance of all Rules & Regulations.
- 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 |