Soccer Forfeits Done the Right Way

We know that forfeiting a game is disappointing for everyone, which makes it even more important that we do it right. We have to keep SFPAL games safe for the kids. Make sure you know the rules and respect the call of the referee.

Here are a few reminders:

  • Coach Passes: No PAL-stickered CYSA coaching pass? It’s an automatic forfeit. If there isn’t a CYSA coach for that team, the team does not play; no exceptions.
  • Player Passes: Missing a CYSA pass for a player? That player does not play. If a coach forgets all their passes, it’s an automatic forfeit.
  • Minimum Team Players: U8-U11 = 5 players, U12-U14 = 7 players. Teams cannot combine or have someone “guest play” for the game, even if they have a CYSA pass from another team. The referee can delay the game up to 10 minutes while they wait for players to arrive, but you can’t change these rules.
  • No Friendly Games: Once the referee calls the game forfeit, they must walk off the field. They cannot officiate a friendly game.

Why? We must protect the kids. For insurance and liability reasons we only can play official games with the kids on the right teams, with the right coaches, and everyone has to have their passes.

Have questions? Let us know! We want soccer to be a fun, rewarding, and safe experience for everyone involved.