NFHS Soccer Rules Changes 2007-2008

1-5-3 EXCEPTION: When teams are placed on opposite sides of the field, each team area shall be located as specified above and shall be placed diagonally across from each other.

4-1-1 Beginning with the fall 2008 season, shinguards must meet the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) specifications.

4-3 Each head coach shall be responsible for ensuring that each of his/her players is properly equipped.

Add Penalty: An improperly equipped player shall be instructed to leave the field of play when the ball next ceases to be in play. The head coach shall be cautioned (yellow card) for improperly equipped players.

Delete 5-2-2-d-3 Examine the uniform and equipment of each player to see that it complies with the rules.

Major Editorial Changes

1-4-1 If used on a football field, portable goals should be anchored at least 2 yards in front of the base of the existing football goal posts.

5-3-1 Note 2: If a coach or bench personnel is being disqualified for a subsequent act of misconduct, the referee will show a yellow card indicating the subsequent caution followed

immediately by showing a red card.

11-1-1-b The player is not nearer to the opponent's goal line than at least two opponents. Note: The position of any part of the player's head, body or feet will be the deciding factor, not the player's arms.

12-8-3 Insert after b: c. subsequent caution on coach or bench personnel.

12-8-5 Misconduct Penalty Chart

13-2-2j spitting at a teammate or game official.