Multi-Sport Rules | Urban Rec - Vancouver's Sport and Social Club

Scheduling: Teams will play 1 game each week. Each game will have a 1-hour timeslot. Some teams MAY be scheduled into double headers. The schedule will be as balanced as possible with regards to early and late games.
Reseeding: Teams may be reseeded as a result of competitive balance requirements throughout the season as warranted at Urban Rec’s sole discretion.
Rules: Please review the rules before the season with your team to avoid any confusion. The rules are located online and can be accessed by going to the webpage for the sport that you will be playing. An abbreviated set of rules is listed below.
Uniforms: Bring light- and dark-coloured shirts- default is home team wears light and away wears dark. If there is a colour conflict, teams will play Rock, Paper, Scissors, with the losing team having to switch their jerseys.
Fouls: Please call your own fouls. Games are self-refereed. Participants are responsible for calling their own fouls- please err on the side of good sportsmanship.

General Rules

Have fun and play with good sportsmanship! We expect all of our Urban Rec participants to have a “Fun First” attitude about this unique sporting opportunity. There is an emphasis on the players knowing the rules and managing their own actions on the court. Sportsmanship, fun and being social are number one at Urban Rec and we hope to see that exhibited by all of our participants!
To be eligible to play in the league all participants must have signed an online waiver with Urban Rec. Players that do not sign an online waiver will not permitted to participate. Team captains that do not fill out the online team roster will have their team removed from the schedule until they do so and all players have signed the waiver. Team captains are responsible for ensuring that all participants for their team are eligible to participate.
Playoffs Eligibility – all players must be added to the roster and have played a minimum of 2 games over the regular season to be eligible to play in the playoffs. A team using an ineligible player will automatically forfeit the playoff game if the game has begun and that player has played in the game at that point. If a player shows up that is not on the team roster, they will not be allowed to play regardless if they played or subbed during the regular season. All players must be on the roster and indicate they have read the online waiver even if they are subs.
The on-site staff may do a random ID check for players at any time at their discretion to ensure they are eligible to participate. If a team is found to be using an ineligible player, then that player’s team will forfeit the game if it has already begun. If the ID check is done prior to the game starting then that player is simply not permitted to participate until they have indicated they have read the online waiver (they can do this via their smartphone).
Prior to your game, please double-check the online league schedule for your game times. If your team is late and not ready to go when the whistle blows to start the match, then you will lose playing time. A match will consist of two 25-minute halves for most sports. If necessary due to injuries or other occurrences, playing time may be shortened at the discretion of the on-site staff.
Teams have a 10-minute grace period from their scheduled start time as tracked by the on-site staff to field the minimum starting lineup (check each sport’s rules below for the minimum # of players required). If a team does not have enough players to field the minimum starting lineup by the end of this 10-minute grace period, then that team defaults the game and is subject to the associated default fee used to reimburse their opponent. In this situation, the teams are encouraged to mix up players and play for fun during their time slot. Any team defaulting more than 2 games in a season may be asked to leave the league, with no refund.
All players should bring a dark shirt and a light shirt to all games. No grey. By default, the visiting team will be required to change their shirts if both teams show up wearing a similar colour.
Tiebreaker - If two or more teams are tied in the standings at season’s end, the tiebreaker will be as follows:
- 1st tiebreaker – higher in-division wins
- 2nd tiebreaker – higher UR fun point average
- 3rd tiebreaker – head to head winner
- 4th tiebreaker- points for/against in head to head matches
- 5th tiebreaker – coin flip

Basketball Rules (Richmond Oval 5 v 5; East Vancouver 3 v 3)

Richmond Oval – Teams are comprised of 5 players with at least 2 women and 1 man on the court. A team may play shorthaned with only 4 players including a minimum of 1 woman and 1 man in order to not default. Teams that do not meet these requirments default the game (Teams should try to still play a game for fun).
East Vancouver – Teams are comprised of 3 players with at least 1 woman and 1 man on the court. Teams need at least 2 players including at least 1 woman in order to not default. Teams that do not meet these requirements default the game (Teams should stry to still play a game for fun).
Games start with a jump ball, with either the on-site staff, or another team member, tossing the ball.
Defensive play is man to man only - no zone defenses.
Rotate players at your discretion. Sub in on the offensive only before the ball has crossed half court.
All games are self-refereed. Any infraction can ONLY be called by the two players involved (no sideline calls, or calls from other players on the court).
On a restart after a foul, or out of bounds call in the OFFENSIVE END, to restart the game, the ball must be ‘checked in’ (passed to an opposing team player to ensure they are ready to restart). Once the ball is checked in, the ball must be passed (the offensive player cannot dribble or shoot when restarting the play). If there is an offensive foul, a ball goes out of play and it is awarded to the DEFENSIVE team, the ball will be inbounded.
FOULS- Each team shall be permitted five (5) team fouls per half. Upon a team’s sixth (and subsequent) foul, the non-offending team shall be awarded one (1) point as well as possession of the ball following the foul.
Please play safely in a sportsmanlike manner and with good spirit. ANY ROUGH OR PHYSICAL PLAY MAY RESULT IN EXPULSION FROM FURTHER GAME PLAY.
The over-and-back rule is in effect. If a team plays the ball over the midcourt line and then plays the ball back across the line into their own half, the other team shall take possession on the sideline at centre court.
In the event of a jumpball (two opponents are both holding possession of the ball for 3 seconds), the ball is awarded to team on the defensive side of the court.
Full court man-to-man pressure is permitted. Should a team lead the game by more 15 points or more, the full court pressure must be removed by the team that is leading.
Playoffs only – Shot clock & Stop time – If a playoff match enters the last two minutes of game with the score being within 10 points or less, shot clock & stop time stipulations will be put into effect and monitored by the on-stie staff. Time will be stopped whenever the ball is out of bounds, on a foul, injury, etc. The shot clock will be set at 24 seconds, which will only reset for a team should they recover an offensive rebound (the ball must hit the rim to be considered an offensive rebound).
Playoffs only – In the event of a tie at the end of regulation: teams should play a 2-minute OT. Shot clock and stop time rules will be in effect.
For additional rules, please read our basketball league rules. All other standard basketball regulations apply.

Benchball Rules

Basic Format

Richmond Oval – Teams consist of 5 players (minimum 2 women and 1 man)
East Vancouver – Teams consist of 5 players (mimimum 1 woman and 1 man)
Teams begin the game with 1 player standing on a bench located at the back of the opponent’s court, and the rest of their players on their own side of the court.
Players cannot cross the center line (except if they are making their way to stand on the bench)
Teams start with 3 dodgeballs on each side
The object of the game is to throw the ball in the air to your teammate on the bench; if the teammate is able to catch the ball while remaining on the bench, then the thrower joins the teammate on the bench. Once all of the players on a team make it onto the bench, that team wins the game.
Teams play as many games as they can within the time period allotted; each game won counts as a point in the match. The final score indicates how many games each team won.

Gameplay

Each game starts with 3 dodgeballs on each side of centre. One player from each team starts by standing on the bench in their opponent’s end. The remaining five players on each team start by standing in front of the bench in their respective ends.
A whistle is blown to start the game. The five (Oval) or four (East Vancouver) court players on each team can then rush out to grab the 3 balls on their side of centre and begin trying to throw the balls to their teammate standing on the far bench.
Players may only have 1 ball in their possession at a time.
Players may not cross the centre line unless traveling to the bench.
Once a player picks up a ball, they have 5 seconds to throw the ball. If a player takes longer than 10 seconds, they must roll the ball to the opposing team so that they have a chance to throw it.
The team that has the most balls on their side must pick the ball up first. If teams ahve an equal number of balls, the team that has the most people already on their bench must pick up a ball first.
A player on the bench may only catch 1 ball at a time.
Once a clean catch is made, the ball may be thrown back to their teammates and the thrower of the clean catch may travel along the outside edge of the playing area to join the bench player(s).
If the ball is NOT caught cleanly, the ball must be dropped to the floor in front of the bench so the opposing team can pick it up.
Teams cannot hoard the balls; players should make an effort to keep the balls in motion. If the on-site staff notices that a team is hoarding the balls, they have the discretion to roll some of those balls to the opposing team (or ask players to do so).
Players may play defense in attempts to intercept or deflect balls from being caught; however, players may not make physical contact at any time with any opposing player who is standing on the bench. If this occurs, the ball must be given back to the thrower and the defender who made contact must go and stand within 1 meter of the centre line until the thrower throws the ball (after the ball has been thrown, this defender is then free to move around their half of the court).
A defender may NOT try to slap the ball out of the hands of an opposing player who is standing on the bench; if the person on the bench makes initial contact with the ball, the defender may not interfere with that person’s attempt to catch the ball.
A player on the bench may deflect the ball to another player on the bench and if it is caught, this is a clean catch provided both players who touch the ball remain on the bench the entire time.
If a team has only 1 player left on the court (i.e. the rest of their players have made it onto the bench), once that player throws a ball that is caught by one of their teammates, the last player must run over and stand on the bench with two feet in order to win the game.
Players standing on the bench must keep at least one foot on the bench at all times when attempting to catch a ball (no jumping on the bench in an attempt to catch a ball). Any player who touches a ball while on the bench must also stay on the bench in order for the catch to count (ex. if a player on the bench wants to deflect or pass a ball to a teammate on the bench, they must keep at least one foot on the bench, as well as stay on the bench after the tough).
In the event that each team has only 1 player remaining on the court, whichever successfully makes it onto their team bench with two feet (while all of their teammates also have two feet on the bench) will determine the winner. In the event that both players achieve this simultaneously (or too close to determine which was first), the game will be declared a draw.

Dodgeball Rules

Match/Game Play

Each team will start the game with 5 players lined up along the back edge of the playing zone on their side of the court. There must be a minimum of 2 women and 1 man on the court when the match starts.
If a team is shorthanded, they can play shorthanded with a minimum of at least 3 players (including at least 1 woman and 1 man) in order to not default (and be subject to the Urban Rec Default Policy).
Prior to your match starting, teams must designate what side of the court eliminated players will go to once players are out.
Each game is a maximum 5 minutes, although many games end much quicker. Matches are comprised of as many games as can be played in the time allocated for the match.
The game begins with either the League Coordinator blowing the whistle or yelling “DODGEBALL!”
Once the game has begun, all balls are active, and players will need to throw the ball within 5 seconds.
Players are NOT allowed to squeeze the balls so that they impact the shape of the balls. Players that squeeze the balls will be eliminated. Any players that constantly squeeze the balls could face suspension. This action significantly shortens the life of the balls and gives an unfair advantage as the balls tends to move very differently.
At the start of the game the balls are placed on cones on either side of the center line. These cones also designate a warning area commonly referred to as a dead zone. This dead zone should act as a guide that you are very close to the center line and should proceed with caution. Any violation of the center line means you are out.
All games are SELF-OFFICIATED. Players are responsible for calling their own outs. If the ball hits a player, they should be honest and call themselves out and walk off the court promptly. Team captains should ensure that their teams are honest in calling their own eliminations and fouls.
The on-site staff’s job is not to officiate but if teams are not being honest or there is a safety issue (i.e. a player constantly crossing the center line without calling themselves out) the on-stie staff may step in and make necessary calls. If this occurs, the on-site staff’s decision is final and no dispute is permitted.
When eliminated players must immediately put up their hand and call “Out!” and move PROMPTLY off the court to sit/stand at the designated wall- NO DALLYING off the court.
To eliminate a player they must be hit with a ball BELOW THE SHOULDERS (unless the player is ducking). If the ball bounces before it hits the opposing player that player is NOT ELIMINATED.
A player is also eliminated if a member of the opposing team catches the ball thrown at them “in the air” before it hits the ground. The team that “catches” these balls DOES NOT get to have one of their eliminated players return to the court.
If a ball is thrown and strikes multiple opposing players before hitting the ground, wall etc. all of the players the ball struck are out. If the ball strikes a player (or players) and then is caught by that player’s teammate, all players are saved, and the thrower of the ball is out.
A player is eliminated if they drop a ball at any time.
A player may not pass a ball to another player on their own team.
A player may not have more than one dodgeball in their hand at one time.
Once a ball hits the ground, wall, or any apparatus in the gym the ball is considered dead and cannot either eliminate a player who is hit or be caught to eliminate a player from the other team.
If a person is hit in the head, the person is not eliminated. However the person who threw the ball, whether intentional or not is eliminated. Two head shots results in the player no longer being able to continue to play during the evening and can be subject to supplemental discipline. – DO NOT THROW AT ANYONE’S HEAD.
IF A PLAYER IS HIT IN THE HEAD AS A RESULT OF DUCKING – THAT PERSON IS ELIMINATED AND THE THROWER RECEIVES NO PENALTY.
Five second rule – no player can hold a ball or balls for more than 10 seconds. If they do so, then they are eliminated. ALL BALLS MUST BE THROWN FORWARD AND PAST THE DEAD ZONE.
Players must throw the ball forward; if a player throws a ball and hits their own player (friendly fire) their own player is out.
If a player has possession of the ball and drops the ball to catch another ball being thrown at them they are eliminated; the ball must be thrown with a forward motion and must cross center.
If any part of a player crosses the center line that player is eliminated.
You may not play the ball with your feet- this includes but is not limited to, keeping the ball from rolling to the other side or kicking a ball to a teammate.
When one player is left standing on either side, all players on both sides must actively continue to play the game. If the on-site staff feels that anyone is delaying the game, they will prompt the players to play or end the game at their discretion.
A player can NO LONGER CROSS OVER TO THEIR OPPONENT’S SIDE when they are the last player remaining on their team. Games generally only last a maximum of 5 min, and the team with more balls on their side must pick up a ball and throw it in a timely manner.
Each game won by a team counts as 1 point; whichever team wins the most games in the match wins the match.

Coed Indoor Soccer Rules

Match Format

Depending on the location, the number of players differs:
- East Vancouver Leagues: Teams are to play with 4 players (3 players and a goalie) including at least 1 woman and 1 man be on the floor (i.e. non-goalie players) at all times. If teams do not have a full lineup, then they require at least 3 players, including at least 1 woman and 1 man, in order to not default and they may play shorthanded. If a team does not meet these requirements, they will default that game and be subject to the Urban Rec Default
- Richmond Oval Leagues: Teams are to play with 6 players (5 players and a goalie) including at least 2 women and 1 man on the floor (i.e. non-goalie players) at all times. If teams do not have a full lineup, then they require at least 5 players, including at least 1 woman and 1 man in order to not default and they may play shorthanded. If a team does not meet these requirements, they will default that game and be subject to the Urban Rec Default Policy.
A match will consist of two 25-minute halves. If games are delayed in starting, this time will be adjusted accordingly at the discretion of the on-site staff.
Teams will play until the end of time (the on-site staff will blow the whistle). In the event of a tie score in a regular season match, the game will go into the standings as a tie. In the playoffs, a tie game shall be settled by a shootout.
Tie game in playoffs – teams will take part in a shootout. Three (3) players from each team shall take part. Team captains will rock-paper-scissors with the winning captain having the choice for his/her team to shoot either first or second. Teams will alternate shots with the opposing team, and each team’s shooting order cannot have two members of the same gender shoot in a row. Any subsequent shooters that are required must adhere to this requirement for their respective team. After each team has had three shooters shoot, the team with more goals scored in the shootout will be declared the winner. If the teams are tied after three shooters apiece, then each team will have one additional shooter take part will still adhering to the requirment of not having 2 members of the same gender shoot in a row. If the teams are still tied, then one additional shooter from each team will shoot until one team scores and the other does not, breaking the tie. For the shootout, no player may shoot a second time until all of the other players of that player’s gender on their team have shot.
Substitutions can be made “on-the-fly” – EXCEPT for the goalie, who can only be substituted for at a stoppage in play.
Heading of the ball is allowed
All matches are self-officiated – Team Captains are required to self-police their own teams and call their own fouls.
If you feel that a team is not calling their own fouls or is playing unsportsmanlike, at the next stoppage in play the team captains and ONLY the team captains, should have a discussion about the issue and attempt to resolve them. In the event that a situation is unresolved, team captains are required to report the incident to the on-site staff or e-mail the Urban Rec offices for follow up.

Equipment

Urban Rec will provide a game ball, the gym, nets, and an on-site staff.
Teams must supply both a light and dark colored shirt – the home team is always light coloured (unless both teams agree to alternate colours)
Outside shoes are not allowed – please bring a separate pair of gym shoes. East Van – No studded cleats are allowed. Indoor turf shoes or runners only.
Shin pads are not required, but recommended. If worn, shin pads must be totally covered by socks.

Match/Game Play

The game will start with one team getting the ball at mid-court – Team captains will “rock/paper/scissor” for possession of the ball.
Teams will change ends after each half and alternate kick offs
A kick off will start the game and restart the game after a goal is scored
A goal cannot be scored directly from a kick off
The opposing team must be at least 10 feet away from the ball on a kick off, until the ball has been put into play.
Richmond Oval – Balls that are out of play (when the ball has entered into the areas behind the benches) will result in an indirect free kick from in front of the bench area. A goal cannot be scored directly from an indirect free kick.
There is absolutely NO sliding or slide tackling. Stay on your FEET!
For additional clarity if you leave your feet you must land on your feet – for example bicycle kicks, slide tackles, sliding to kick a ball, or jumping to kick a ball and not landing back on your feet are not allowed.
Sliding includes any player, including the goalie, who leaves the ground in a foot or feet-forward motion regardless if there is an opposing player in the area or not. There is to be NO sliding to prevent a ball from going out of play, or to make any play on the ball regardless of whether another player is in the vicinity or not.
The goalie may dive head/hands first to make a save on a shot, and the goaltender can ONLY leave their feet to move parallel with the goal line. A goalie may leave their feet head/hands first to collect a ball as long as they are doing so parallel with the goal line, and not moving towards an oncoming player. A goalie MAY NOT leave their feet at any time when challenging or attempting to tackle and oncoming player. For examples of when and what a goalie is allowed to leave their feet head/hands first for, please click HERE.
Balls in the corner of the gym – If two players are running towards the corner, the lead player will be given the opportunity to retrieve the ball, the trailing player MUST stop short by 5 feet to give their opponent 3 seconds to play the ball. After 3 seconds, the trailing player may pursue the ball. The defensive player IS ALWAYS GIVEN THE RIGHT OF WAY in the event of there being no lead player
Players may not interfere in any way with the goalie inside the goalie crease. Players may pass through the crease, but any interference with the goalie will result in goalie’s ball.
Goalies are not allowed to handle the ball with their hands when the ball is thrown or kicked to them by their own team. They ARE allowed to use their hands inside the Goal Crease when the opposing team throws or kicks the ball towards the Goalie, or if the ball deflects off a defender. If a goalie uses their hands to play the ball in anyway, when it was thrown/passed by their own team, then the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick – see below for description.

General Urban Rec Indoor Soccer Rules (East Van)

If a player breaks a rule or commits a foul, then the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick from the spot of the infraction. If an infraction occurs in with in the crease area – they the opposing team is awarded a penalty kick

Fouls

Players may not jump to play a ball with their feet.
Any player who kicks or attempts to kick a ball that is above their own waist while standing on the floor will have a foul called on them. Two high kicking fouls in one game will result in the expulsion of the offending player from the game.
No bicycle kicks
Kicking or attempting to kick an opponent
Tripping or attempting to trip an opponent
Jumping at an opponent
Charging an opponent in a violent, reckless or dangerous manner
Holding or pushing an opponent
Handballs: A handball occurs when the balls touches any part of your arm from top of shoulders to fingertips (except a goalkeeper within their own crease). ALL handballs are to be called a foul and the opposing team gets an indirect free-kick. The ‘Advantage’ rule is not applicable in indoor soccer.
Obstructing an opponent
Slide tackling
Using your body to advance

General Urban Rec Outdoor Soccer Rules

If a player breaks a rule or commits a foul, then the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick from the spot of the infraction. If an infraction occurs in with in the crease area – they the opposing team is awarded a penalty kick
There is absolutely NO sliding or slide tackling. Stay on your FEET!
For additional clarity if you leave your feet you must land on your feet – for example bicycle kicks, slide tackles, sliding to kick a ball, or jumping to kick a ball and not landing back on your feet are not allowed.
Sliding includes any player, including the goalie, who leaves the ground in a foot or feet-forward motion regardless if there is an opposing player in the area or not. There is to be NO sliding to prevent a ball from going out of play, or to make any play on the ball regardless of whether another player is in the vicinity or not.
The goalie may dive head/hands first to make a save on a shot, and the goaltender can ONLY leave their feet to move parallel with the goal line. A goalie may leave their feet head/hands first to collect a ball as long as they are doing so parallel with the goal line, and not moving towards an oncoming player. A goalie MAY NOT leave their feet at any time when challenging or attempting to tackle and oncoming player. For examples of when and what a goalie is allowed to leave their feet head/hands first for, please click HERE.
Any player who slides for any reason will have a foul called for the slide either by themselves or by an opposing player on the field. If a player “forgets”, then it is the responsibility of their team captain to call the foul. If there is a disagreement, then the respective team captains are expected to maturely discuss the situation and come to a resolution.
Any attempt at a slide will result in an indirect free kick for the opposing team (unless the foul occurs in the penalty box area, in which case a penalty kick is awarded). The player who commits the sliding infraction will be removed from the game for a minimum of 5minutes, and any other player on that same team who commits a second sliding infraction (regardless if they are the same player or a different player) will be sent off for the remainder of the game. Repeat offenders will be subject to supplemental discipline from league management which may include suspension.
Responsibility to avoid collisions on NON-50/50 balls. If Player A clearly has the chance to gain possession of the ball before the opposing Player B, then it is Player B’s responsibility to avoid initiating contact (regardless of where the ball is on the field). This includes goalkeepers as well as regular players. If contact is initiated by Player B, this is a foul and Player A’s team will receive either a direct or indirect kick depending on where the foul occurred and if it falls under rule #4 above.
Handballs – hand-to-ball vs ball-to-hand
-Outside the box – Anytime a player touches the ball with their hand or arm, the play should be stopped, and the opposing team will receive an indirect free kick.
-Inside the box – If a ball strikes a defending player (who is not a goalie) in the hand or arm WITHIN the frame of their body (ball-to-hand), the play should be stopped, and an INDIRECT free kick will be given to the other team outside the edge of the box.
-Inside the box – If a ball strikes a defending player (who is not a goalie) in the hand or arm OUTSIDE the frame of their body, or in a deliberate attempt to block the ball (hand-to-ball), a penalty kick will be awarded.
There is no ‘advantage’ in our leagues, and all handballs will result in an indirect free kick, except for a handball that occurs in the defensive goalie box which will result in a penalty kick for the opposing team.
Substitutions can be made “on-the-fly” and substitutions must be done with the player coming in entering the field at the same spot, or within arms-length of the player subbing out – EXCEPT for the goalie, who can only be substituted for at a stoppage in play.

Goalkeeper Restrictions

Urban Rec Indoor soccer goalies have certain rules that are in place to encourage the flow of the game.

Players may pass a ball to their goalkeeper.
Goalies are ALLOWED to come out of their crease to play the ball. The goalie CANNOT play the ball with their hands outside of the crease and they are not allowed to take the ball back to their crease area and then pick it up with their hands. Goalies MAY NOT go over the half court line.
Once a goalkeeper has gained control of the ball at any time, they must release the ball into play within 5 seconds.
Releasing the ball in to play means: The goalie must either dribble the ball out of their crease, where they can be challenged for possession, or they must attempt to pass the ball to another player on the court.
If, after a save, the goalie is playing the ball (either by throwing the ball or kicking the ball), the ball must touch the floor on their own side of centre prior to continuing into the opposing side of centre. This is to dissuade the goalie from throwing/kicking the ball the entire length of the court. In the event that a goalie throws/kicks the ball into the opposing side of centre without the ball first touching the floor on the goalie's side of half, the play will be dead and the opposing team shall take possession with an indirect free kick from centre.
Richmond Oval – Goal kicks (a place kick from beside the goal after the ball goes out of bounds after touching an offensive player last) shall be exempt from the above rule and may travel into the opposing end without being required to touch the near side of centre.
East Vancouver – There are no goalkicks, as all balls off the boards/walls will be in play.
In the event a goalie breaks one of these restrictions – the opposing team will get an indirect free kick from the corner.

Miscellaneous Rules

Players are ALLOWED to brace themselves on the walls with their hands to play the ball with their feet. Defenders may attempt to take the ball (from the behind attacking position) but MUST NOT physically make contact. Any contact by the defender will result in a foul. The offensive player CANNOT use this position as a delay tactic.
Likewise, the offensive player may not initiate contact with the defensive player (i.e. back into the defender while retaining control of the ball). If the defender remains in position, the offensive player may not initiate contact. In this case, the ball will be turned over to the defending team for an indirect free kick from the spot of the foul.
On all restarts of play, the ball must be put into action within 5 seconds. Failure to do so will result in an indirect free kick for the opposing team at the point of the original kick.
Playoffs- to be eligible for playoffs, participants should play in at least 2 regular season games for their team. No ringers allowed!

Easily Confused Rules

The player starting the play (kick or throw-in) is not allowed to touch the ball again until it has been played by another player
Opposing players from the team that is kicking the ball must stay five yards away from ball until it is in play.
Substitutes must enter the field at the same location (and after) the player comes off the field.
Players are responsible for calling all penalties; Team Captains are responsible for informing their team of the rules and also for enforcing them.
The goalkeeper is not allowed to pick up the ball if it has been passed or thrown (via throw in) to him from a person on his team. The exception to this rule is if the ball is headed back to the goalie- in this case, they may pick the ball up with their hands providing they are in the crease.
All free kicks are to be indirect (except penalty shots): must touch at least one other person besides the kicker before going into net.
Fouls: kicking, tripping, jumping at, charging, holding, pushing, yelling at, slide tackling, striking or spitting at an opponent, or ‘hand’ling the ball; all result in a indirect free kick to the opposing team from where infringement occurred.
Penalty kicks are to be taken from the penalty spot located in front of the net. This varies depending on location, but will be the same for both teams.
Handballs: A handball occurs when the balls touches any part of your arm from top of shoulders to fingertips (except a goalkeeper within their own crease).

Coed 6’s Indoor Volleyball Rules

Gameplay

A complete starting lineup consists of 6 players including a minimum of 2 women and 1 man. If a team has less than 6 players, the following rules apply:
- If a team has less than 4 players it defaults the match.
- If a team has 4 or 5 players but does NOT have at least 2 women and 1 man, it is a default.
- If a team has 4 or 5 players including 2 women and 1 man, the team is eligible to play but a point penalty applies: 4 points in each of the first two games of the match and 3 points in the third game of the match.
- If a team has less than 6 players, there is no “ghost” rule. Serve rotation proceeds to the next available player.
Teams will only call fouls committed by their own players. Players will not call the fouls against their opponents. If a player neglects to call their own fouls, their team captain will be responsible for calling these fouls on their player’s behalf.
If there is a dispute on a call, re-serve the play. Contact an the on-site staff for clarification of rules after the match is completed.
All players will conduct themselves in a polite and sportsmanlike manner. Individuals who do not abide by these criteria will be removed from the league.
All balls must be hit cleanly. No scooping or carrying the ball. Only off of a driven ball may a ball may be double hit (i.e. off arm and head in one continuous motion).
Contact with the net in any way (except for hair) constitutes loss of point. A player that goes under the net but does not contact the net or interfere with the play is okay.
A served ball may not be blocked or attacked directly back over the net.
A served ball may be volleyed to a teammate (bump, set or otherwise), but may not be set directly over the net when receiving the serve.
If a player blocks a driven ball and the ball comes onto their own team’s side, the block does not count as a hit towards the three-hit limit (i.e. the team may still have 3 additional hits after the block).
The ball can hit any part of the body.
If a back-row player is in front of the attack line and plays the ball over the net, they must contact the ball below the height of the net.
Players must rotate position as well as serve with each side-out. If teams have more than 6 players, then the substitution should be made after a player serves, and the new player should move into the position to the left of the server when entering the game. All players must serve before they are subbed out. Liberos are NOT permitted in our leagues (all players must play each position as part of their rotation).
Play will consist of as many sets that can be played in the time allotted. Games are all rally point, win by 2 points, until a team scores 21 points (teams must win by at least 2 points unless the cap is reached), cap at 23 points.
If time expires while teams are playing, at least one of the teams must have reached 5 points for that set to count. Otherwise the match will be reported using the score of the respective sets won by each team not including the final incomplete set.

Floor Hockey Rules (6 v 6 Richmond Oval/4 v 4 East Vancouver)

General

VSB Floor Hockey (3-on-3 plus a goalie) – A complete starting lineup consists of 3 players and a goalie including at least 1 woman and 1 man on the floor. A team may play with an incomplete starting lineup of as few as 3 players provided there is at minimum 1 woman and 1 man on the floor. A team with less than 3 players or without the minimum 1 woman and 1 man required will be considered a team in default.
Richmond Oval Floor Hockey Leagues (5-on-5 plus a goalie)- A complete starting lineup consists of 5 players and a goalie including at least 2 women and 1 man. A team may play with an incomplete starting lineup of as few as 4 players provided there is at minimum 1 woman and 1 man on the floor. A team with less than 4 players or without the minimum 1 woman and 1 man required will be considered a team in default.
The on-site staff will be the score/time keeper.
Games will be comprised of two twenty-five minute halves with a 5-minute half-time. If the game started late, the length of the halves and the break may be reduced at the discretion of the on-site staff.
If a game is tied at the end of regulation time in the regular season, then the game will end in a tie. No overtime.
In the playoffs- if a game is tied at the end of regulation time, teams will move to a 3-person shootout. Teams will rock-paper-scissor to decide which team shoots first. FOr each team, the shooting order cannot have two members of the same gender shoot in a row. If after the 3 shooters, the game is still tied, sudden death shootout rounds of 1 shooter per team will continue until the game is settled. The same requirement applies prohibiting two shooters of the same gender shooting in a row, and shooters cannot repeat until every other member of that gender has had a turn. Goalies may not participate as a shooter.

Equipment

Only Urban Rec-supplied floor hockey sticks may be used. This includes goalies.
Players may wear soccer-style shin pads if they desire. Players may also wear gloves (hockey/lacrosse/winter mittens- all okay). This equipment is optional and not mandatory.
Goalies may use a glove (trapper or baseball glove), blocker, mask, chest/arm protector, leg pads, athletic cup and hockey pants. These may be from floor or ice hockey. If a goalie does not have the proper upper body equipment (e.g. a heavy winter coat instead of arm/chest protection, this will be permissible at the on-site staff’s discretion). As noted above, goalies must use a regular player’s floor hockey stick. Goalies must wear a facemask or helmet with a full cage.
A goalie’s leg pads cannot exceed a maximum length of 34 inches, nor a width of 12 inches (The size of the pads has been amended to reflect the sizes of floor hockey pads being sold in stores now, as well as to protect taller goalies). Ice hockey pads may be worn as long as they conform to the above size limitations.

Game play

Games start with a face-off, with either the on-stie staff or one of the participants dropping the ball at centre. After each goal, play is re-started with a face-off. The team that scores the goal drops the ball at centre. During a faceoff, the ball must hit the floor before being touched by any players’ stick
Balls going out of bounds are brought in from the corner by the defensive team, regardless of which team touched the ball last.
Any ball going out of bounds that strikes a wall or other object (including players or spectators) and comes back into bounds is considered to be in play.
When a team takes possession of the ball after it goes out-of-bounds, the opposing team must give that player 5 feet and 3 seconds to play the ball. Once the player moves the ball, the opposing team may check him/her. If 3 seconds elapse without the player moving the ball, the opposing team may check them. Any dispute over this will be decided by the on-site staff at their discretion.
If the goalie freezes the ball and stops play, then they may place or drop the ball either beside or behind the net for the defensive team to take possession. The opposing team must move at least 5 feet away and give 3 seconds of time for the defensive player to move the ball (as in rule 17). If the ball goes into the net as a result of the goalie accidentally dropping/placing the ball in the manner described above, it shall be no goal. Amended- However, if the goalie attempts to throw or play the ball up to a player that is not beside/behind their net, the ball shall be considered live as soon as the goalie releases the ball.
The goalie is permitted to freeze the ball if they have any part of their body touching the crease area. If the goalie freezes the ball and part of their body is not touching the crease area, the offensive team will receive possession of the ball at centre.
The goalie is not permitted to come across center. If the goalie does cross the center line, play will be stopped and the opposing team will get possession of the ball at centre. If a team wishes to “pull” the goalie during play, the goalie must leave the court and a regular player may come on to play.

Infractions

All games are self-refereed. The on-site staff is NOT a referee. Instead, as the emphasis in this league is on fun and participation, it is hoped that common sense prevails and players will call their own infractions.
If an infraction occurs, then the opposing team will receive possession of the ball under the following circumstances:
- If an infraction occurs against a defending team, then the offensive team will receive the ball at center court.
- If an infraction occurs against an offensive team, then the defending team with receive the ball by their own goal.
- When the game is restarted, 5 feet and 3 seconds are given to the player restarting the play, however the player may not shoot the ball at the goal (the restart must be indirect). If a goal is scored off of a shot or rebound from the restart, the goal will not count.
High-sticking, slashing, body-contact and slap shots are strictly forbidden. Please have consideration and respect for your opponents; you might think you are trying to get the ball but instead may be attacking their shins! Each player is responsible for their own stick, and must be able to control it. This rule applies for both players and goaltenders - there is to be absolutely NO slashing at a goalie’s pads, glove or blocker in an effort to free a ball or try to force the ball into the goal. This also includes trying to pry a ball loose under a goaltender, or jamming your stick at a goalie’s equipment to try and poke the ball into the net. PLEASE PLAY THE BALL AND NOT THE BODY!!!!
A player may NOT engage with an opposition player, or their stick unless they have the ball. This includes ‘tying a player up’/lifting their stick when they do not have the ball. You must play the ball, not the body or stick.
Any ball contacted by a stick above the height of the waist (of the player who is doing the high-sticking) is considered to be high-sticking, and the opposing team will receive possession. Needless to say, any goal scored in this manner will not count.
If the player keeps their stick below the height of their waist while playing the ball, but makes contact with an opposing player with their stick, this is an infraction and the opposing team will receive possession of the ball. This also includes attempting to check another player, or their stick. If you attempt to lift their stick, and your stick contacts an opponent above the waist, this will also be considered a foul. Please be responsible for your sticks!
No Hand Passes - Any ball intentionally touched by a player’s hand that is then next touched by another player on their own team will be considered a hand pass, and the opposing team will receive possession. A player may touch the ball and play it to themselves.
No Leaving The Feet – A player may not dive or lay down on the floor, either to check another player or to block a shot. Players may go down on one knee to block a shot, but leaving their feet to sprawl across the floor in an attempt to check a player or to block a shot will result in 1) the opposing team being awarded possession at centre, and 2) a warning being issued to the offending player. If a player commits the same foul after being issued a warning, they will be ejected from the game. Goalies are exempted from this rule for the purpose of blocking the shot while still in proximity to their crease (i.e. they have a foot within 1 meter of the goalmouth). If a player commits an infraction of this rule in their goalmouth (they are inside or mostly inside the “crease” area- this will be at the on-site staff’s discretion), then the opposing team will be issued a penalty shot that any member on the floor may take except the goalie.
If a player throws their stick anywhere on the floor, a penalty shot will be awarded to the opposing team. Any member of the non-offending team on the floor may take the penalty shot.
Please also remember that there is no intentional body contact allowed (this includes “pick”-plays). This also includes a defensive player pushing into the back of an offensive player, or an offensive player backing into a defensive player (even if they have possession of the ball). At all times players on offense and defence may not initiate physical contact with an opposing player. All players should do everything in their power to avoid contact at all times! Initiating physical contact will result in the opposing team receiving possession of the ball in the nearest corner (defensive team) or at centre (offensive team).
If a player commits any infraction (whether it is accidental or not), it is expected that that player will call themselves and give possession to the opposing team. If a player does not call themselves, it is their captain’s responsibility to call the infraction on their own team. If both the player and the captain fail to call the foul, the on-site staff may step in and call it.
If a player continuously fails to call their own infractions, the on-site staff may, at their discretion, ask the captain to tell their player to take a 5-minute “break” on the bench. The on-site staff will time the 5 minutes and notify the player when they may participate again.
The on-site staff’s decision is final, and may not be questioned or disputed. The team captains are the only players who may bring an issue to the on-site staff’s attention. Communication between the on-site staff and the team captains is encouraged to keep the league enjoyable for everyone.
Any player that is “benched” will not cause their team to be short-handed, unless they do not have any substitutes for that player. In this case, the team will play short-handed.
The first incident of any rough or physically unsafe play may result in a verbal warning or a benching for the guilty participant(s)- this will be at the discretion of the on-site staff. The second incident will result in a five-minute benching for the offending player. The third incident will result in that player’s IMMEDIATE EXPULSION from the game. In this case, the team captain will be responsible for ensuring that their player leaves the premises. The on-site staff’s decision will be final, and there will be no questioning the on-site staff’s decision. If the player refuses to sit out or leave the premises if asked to do so, the game will not re-start until that player complies. If, in the on-site staff’s opinion, the player takes too much time to comply, the offending player’s team will default the game (no matter what the current score is), and the opposing team will receive a 1-0 victory in the standings.
Any instances of verbal abuse by a player towards another player or the on-site staff will result in that player’s immediate expulsion from the game and gymnasium, at the discretion of the on-site staff. This includes foul language directed at another player or comments made to another player with, in the judgment of the on-site staff, the intent of instigating a confrontation. If a player has been asked to leave by the on-site staff, it will be the team captain’s responsibility to ensure that the player leaves without further incident.

Handball Gameplay and Rules (6 v 6 Richmond Oval/4 v 4 East Vancouver)

VSB Leagues (3-on-3 plus a goalie)- A complete starting lineup consists of 3 players and a goalie including at least 1 woman and 1 man on the floor. A team may play with an incomplete starting lineup of as few as 3 players provided there is at minimum 1 woman and 1 man on the floor. A team with less than 3 players or without the minimum 1 woman and 1 man required will be considered a team in default.
Richmond Oval Leagues (5-on-5 plus a goalie)- A complete starting lineup consists of 5 players and a goalie including at least 2 women and 1 man. A team may play with an incomplete starting lineup of as few as 4 players provided there is at minimum 1 woman and 1 man on the floor. A team with less than 4 players or without the minimum 1 woman and 1 man required will be considered a team in default.
The goal of handball is to score points by throwing the ball into the opponent’s net. The ball can be thrown in directly or can be bounced in.
Players may take 3 steps, then the ball can be dribbled once (like basketball) and then the player can take 3 more steps. However, the player must pass or shoot within five seconds of receiving the ball.
Players cannot enter either goal crease except in the act of shooting (after releasing the ball, the shooter may land inside the goal crease). * NEW* The defending team may stand 1 meter inside the goal crease in order to defend and avoid contact with the offensive team.
Team Handball is a game of positioning and not defensive contact. The rules of the game encourage lots of shooting. Please play it in this manner. Remember this is a recreational level league!
Players can shoot while jumping into the crease but the shot must be released before either foot touches inside crease. The shot must be released while in the air. The timing of this shot must be obvious. If there is any doubt that the shooter was back on the ground at the time of the shot, then it is the goalie’s ball and any goal resulting from the play does not count.
Goaltender cannot leave the crease.
After a goal has been scored, play will restart with the goalie having possession of the ball and making a pass.
If the goalie or a defender deflects a shot or pass over/beside the net, and it goes out of bounds over the end line, the defensive team regains possession and the goalie restarts the play.
No barging or head ducking, using elbows or swiping defenders arms away in order to get past them.
The defending team must allow 1 meter (3 feet) of space to the offensive players, and at no time should be closer than 1 meter while trying to defend. Offensive players must also respect this 1 meter of space, and if the defending player has established this position, then cannot attempt to run or jump into the player who has established the position (like a charge in basketball).
No hitting the opposition’s arms, no holding, and no tripping. A defender may only attempt to block a shot or pass, but only by having their hands directly above , or directly to their sides (like a jumping jack) – at no times are they allowed to try and wrap-up an offensive player.
No kicking the ball except for the goalkeeper making a save.
No diving on the floor to play a ball.
When the defender fouls the attacker while shooting, then a ‘free throw’ may be awarded (at the discretion of the on-site staff). The free throw will be from the top of the crease with only the goalie to beat (the goalie may stand wherever they want inside the goal crease).
No reaching in to grab ball away. Ball can only be blocked. Defender is not allowed to touch the attacker when the attacker has passed the defender.
A ball that is knocked down and bounces does not count as a dribble. If the player with possession bounces it a second time while gaining control, this counts as a dribble.
No punching or hitting the ball.
No moving screens or picks are allowed.

Spikeball Gameplay and Rules (East Van & Richmond Oval)

Format

East Van – There will be two spikeball nets set-up, and teams may choose their teams of 2 players to play on each net (so 4 players total). At least 1 woman and 1 man must be playing at all time (between the two nets), but each net does not have to have 1 player of each gender. The minimum number of players to avoid defaulting is 4 including at least 1 woman and 1 man.
Oval – There will be three spikeball nets set-up, and teams may choose their teams of 2 players to play on each net (so 6 players total). At least 2 woman and 1 man must be playing at all time (between the three nets), but each net does not have to have 1 player of each gender. The minimum number of players to avoid defaulting is 6 including at least 2 woman and 1 man.
Teams at each net will play a 10min game, and whichever team is leading when the whistle blows will earn a point for their team (if a game is tied when the whistle blows, play one more point). At the end of each game, teams can rotate which net their players will play on. For example, if Team A wins the game on net 1, and Team B wins the game on net 2, the score for the teams is tied 1-1. After both games are done, teams can re-set which of their players they want at each net. Teams will play as many points as they can in the 10min, and if the whistle blows and the score is tied, play one more point.

Basics

All players except the receiver must begin the point at least 7 feet from the net.
1. The receiver may stand at any desired distance
Once the server strikes the ball, players may go any where they choose.
Possession changes when the ball contacts the net.
Each team has up to 3 touches per possession.
Determine a serving order which alternates players from the two teams (e.g. Player 3 follows Player 1, etc.).
To equalize sun and wind effects, rotate starting positions 90 degrees counter-clockwise every 5 points if desired.

Scoring

Roundnet is played using rally scoring; points can be won by the serving or receiving team.
The rally ends and a point is awarded when:
1. The ball contacts the ground or otherwise isn't returned onto the net within 3 touches.
2. The ball is hit directly into the rim at any time, unless it's the first serve.
3. The ball bounces and falls back onto the net or rim.
4. The ball clearly rolls across the net

Serving

If the receiving team wins the point, the next designated player serves according to the initial sequence. Otherwise, the server switches places with their partner and serves to the other receiving team member.
The receiving team sets their position first. The server stands 180 degrees across the designated receiver--the only player allowed to field the serve.
Serves may be struck with any amount of force; short serves are allowed.
If a server serves two faults, the receiving team wins the point. Violation of ANY of the following rules is a fault:
1. The server must toss the ball upward at least 4 inches.
2. If the server tosses the ball, they must hit it. Dropping, catching, or swinging at and missing a toss all count as a fault.

Rallies

Touches must alternate between teammates. Consecutive touches by one player result in a loss of a point unless the first touch is a block.
The ball must be contacted cleanly, not caught, lifted, or thrown. Players may not hit the ball with two hands, even if placed together "volleyball style".
Players may use any individual part of their body to hit the ball.
After the serve, any unusual bounce (i.e. pocket) that does not contact the rim is legal and playable.
A shot which lands on the net, rolls into the rim and then off the net (i.e. roll-up) is played as a pocket, not a direct rim hit.
If teams cannot determine the legality of a hit, replay the point.

Infractions

Remember: Player safety is paramount
Defending players must make an effort not to impede the offending team's possession or play on the ball.
If an offender collides with a defender, or a defender's position prevents a markeable offensive play on the ball, the infracted player may call "hinder" to force a replay of the point.

Ultimate Frisbee Rules

Teams consist of 5 players (including at least 2 women and 1 man).
Timing – Teams will play 2 x 25min halves.
Teams will rock, paper, scissors to decide possession. The winning team may choose to receive first or defer first possession to start the second half.
Games start with the offensive team all on their goal line and the defensive team at least 5 meters away. To start the game, the offensive player with the disc will begin by ‘tagging’ the disc in by tapping the disc with their foot at which point their teammates may run forward. The player must throw the disc forward for the first pass.
1. The same process will be used after a point is scored.
Movement of the Disc – The disc may be advanced in any direction by completing a pass to a teammate. Players may not run with the disc. The person with the disc (the thrower) has 10 seconds to throw the disc. The defender guarding the thrower (the marker) must be at least 1 meter away and can count out the 10 seconds (by using Steamboats or Mississippi’s)
1. If the offensive teams throws the disc into their own endzone and it is dropped, or goes through the endzone, the defensive team will be awarded a point.
Change of Possession – when a pass is not completed (ex. disc goes out of bounds, it is dropped, blocked, or intercepted) the defense immediately takes possession and must restart the game by ‘tagging’ the disc in.
1. If a player catches the disc, but their momentum takes them out of bounds, this is considered a turnover.
Scoring – To score a point, the offensive team must complete a pass to a teammate across the defense’s goal line and have both feet in bounds with possession of the disc. A player cannot walk across the endzone to score a point.
1. After a point is scored, the team who was scored on will restart the game from their own 10 yard line once all the players are in position.
Non-Contact – There is NO physical contact allowed between players. Picks and screens are also prohibited. A foul occurs when contact is made.
Fouls – When a player initiates contact on another player, a foul occurs. When a foul disrupts possession, the play resumes form where the foul occurred, and possession is retained by the offense. If the player committing the foul disagrees with the foul call, the play is redone.
1. The offensive player has the ‘right of way’ to catch a disc. If a defensive player makes any contact with an offensive player attempting to catch disc, it is considered a foul.
2. An offensive player CANNOT create contact with a stationary defensive player standing on the field.
Spirit of the Game – Ultimate stresses sportsmanship and fair play. Competitive play is encouraged, but never at the expense of respect between players, adherence to the rules, and the basic joy of the game.

Flag Football (Oval Only)

Teams will consist of 5 players (including at least 2 women and 1 man).
Games will consist of two 25-minute halves in length; each team will be allocated one 30-second time out per half. The on-site staff member will give a 5minute warning for each half, and after 3minutes will call out ‘Last 3 Plays) and the game will go through 3 more plays and the half will be over.
20-second clock – once the ball is placed, teams will have 20 seconds to huddle and snap the ball; if a team takes longer than 20 seconds, then a 5-yard penalty will be assessed. In order for the penalty to be assessed, the defensive team must have counted out the 20 seconds out loud so that the offense can hear. No huddle is required. NFL rules apply, no movement (forward motion) before the ball is hiked.
Playoffs only – Overtime is played with consecutive attempts at a score. To determine who gets first possession, team captains will rock-paper-scissors to decide. Offense starts 10 yards from the opposing goal line. They have only 2 downs to score. If they score, they get 7 points. The other team has a chance to match the score following the same format. Teams continue until one team scores and the other does not match the score.

Ball Possession

The team that wins rock-paper-scissors to begin the game will have the choice to start with the ball on their 5-yard line (or approximate location if not marked on the field of play) or defer possession until the start of the second half.
Teams will have 4 downs to score a touchdown. If they do not score within their 4 downs, the opposing team will take possession from their 5-yard line (or approximate location if not marked on the field of play).

Offense

Scoring: An offensive touchdown is awarded when the ball carrier advances to the endzone (the player must have at least one foot in the endzone before being flagged). Touchdowns are worth 1 point.
Completed Pass: A player must have one foot inbounds and possession before going out of bounds (the boundary line will be the outside edge of the cones set-up or lines on the field). If a player has one foot established out of bounds, and one in bounds and a catches a ball, this will be ruled as incomplete.
No moving picks/screens – a standing screen can be set, however the player must have their feet set with their arms crossed in front of their body; a violation of this rule will result in the play being blown dead and a 10 yard penalty assessed from the point of the infraction.
Snap: the ball may be snapped directly to the quarterback through the center’s legs or to the side of the center’s body. If the ball hits the ground before the quarterback catches it, the ball is dead.
QB Rushing: QB’s can run the ball past the line of scrimmage only if rushed by the defensive team (i.e. after the defense has counted 4 alligators/steamboats/etc AND crossed the line of scrimmage. If the defense does not cross the line of scrimmage, the QB may not run with the ball.
Handoffs: If the ball is handed off to a player other than the QB behind the line of scrimmage, then all players are eligible to rush the line of scrimmage. If a fake handoff is used, the rushing player must still count 4 alligators/steamboats/etc unless the ball is touched by the player that the handoff is going to.
Physical Contact: Offensive players cannot charge through set defenders.
All players have the right of place. Right of place is given to a still standing player and opponents must avoid contact. Standing means to remain at the spot and not moving in any direction. To jump to catch a pass at this spot does not give up the right of place. An offensive player may not push off a player, if a player does so, the play is over and penalty yardage (10 yards) is assessed from the line of scrimmage.
Fumbles: When the offence fumbles (or drops) the ball the play is dead and the ball is spotted at the fumble. Offence retains the ball. This is for safety reasons. This includes if the center snaps the ball back to the quarterback and the ball hits the ground before the quarterback catches it.
Player on ground: If the ball carrier falls to the ground (i.e. their knee touches the ground); the defense only needs to touch the player for the player to be downed. They do not need to grab the flag once the player is down. If the player is not touched while on the ground, they can get back up and keep running. The opposing team then needs to grab their flag.
Flags: Flags must be on the sides of players at all times; shirts must be tucked into the flag belt at all times. Players who do not adhere to this rule after being asked once will have a 10-yard penalty assessed to their team from the line of scrimmage.
Guarding the Flag Belt: Players shall not flag guard or straight arm (natural running arms are permitted – intentional flag-guarding is not). If a player intentionally flag-guards, the play will be blown dead and a 10-yard penalty will be assessed from the point of the infraction.
Diving: The ball carrier may not dive to advance their position, however a player may dive in an attempt to catch a ball. If a player with possession of the ball does make an attempt to dive with it to avoid a defender and/or advance its position, the ball will be marked downed at the spot of the foul.

Defense

Physical Contact: defensive players must make a clean play on the ball or the flag only. The defensive player must not hold the player if flags are missed. Physical contact prior to a play on the ball will result in an Illegal Contact Penalty - the play is over and penalty yardage (10 yards) is assessed from the line of scrimmage.
Rushing the QB: The defense may send one player to rush the quarterback after 4 Alligators (or steamboats or other suitable word). The player rushing must count OUT LOUD the 4 Alligators prior to advancing on the rush so that everyone can hear it. This counting is meant to emulate 4 seconds, and must therefore be counted at a reasonable speed (one second per alligator).
Downed: Once the flag of the ball carrier is pulled the play is dead and the ball is spotted where the flag was pulled or where the ball carrier has stepped out of bounds. The exception to this rule is for touchdowns; once one foot crosses the line it is a touchdown.
Safeties: If an offensive player is tackled in their own end zone, a safety will be issued with the opposing team receiving the ball at midfield. They will have the usual 4 downs to score a touchdown. No additional points will be awarded for a safety.
If a flag is pulled in the process of making a catch, that player will be down at that spot. If a flag is pulled clearly before a player has started to make a catch, the player making the catch will not be considered down, and will still need to be flagged (with their one remaining flag) to be considered down.

Kickoffs, Punts and Fumbles

NO KICKOFFS: Ball taken at the 5-yard line (or approximate location if not marked on the field of play). Rock-paper-scissors winner decides if they want possession to start game or defer to second half. Loser decides which side of the field they would like to start the game (teams switch at half-time).
Fumble: The Play is DEAD on a fumble at the point it hits the ground, to prevent injuries. If the ball hits the ground on the snap, the ball is DEAD and the quarter-back cannot pick the ball back up to keep playing.

Penalties

Penalty Overview- 10-yard penalties for all violations- repeat down (opposing team can accept or reject penalty). Unless specifically mentioned above that the play is dead, penalty yardage is imposed after play is complete.
All penalties will be “walked off” 10 yards. Penalty yardage cannot result in a score or a 1st down at the half (half the distance to the goal will be applied in those cases).

Illegal Contact
Unsportsmanlike conduct
Flag guarding
Offensive Pass Interference
Defensive Pass Interference (10 yards or ball marked at point of infraction if ball was deemed catchable)
Offensive Holding/Blocking
Illegal de-flagging- holding offensive player in order to de-flag
Tripping opponent
Offensive Offsides
Defensive Offsides
Delay of game (see 20 sec. huddle clock under TIMING)
Illegal Forward Pass- throw the ball after crossing the line of scrimmage
Illegal Rush - rushing before official counts off necessary "alligators" The appropriate pace of the alligators is one per second.

Miscellaneous

Any controversial play, where the teams are unable to determine the appropriate call due to not seeing the play, complexity of the situation etc they can defer to the on-site staff and if he or she also cannot make a fair judgement call … it will result in a replay of the down. Once it has been determined that a replay is in order, the 20s clock will start and the game will proceed without further discussion.
Football size: The game ball shall be an adult-sized football that is provided by Urban Rec. An alternate ball may be used provided that 1) it is adult-sized, and 2) both teams agree to use the alternate ball. Teams may use different balls for when they are on offense. No child or youth-sized footballs are permitted.
UNSPORTSMANLIKE PLAY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED – Urban Rec leagues are recreational by design and sportsmanship is paramount. This is further articulated in the Urban Rec code of conduct that was signed by all players upon registering to play in any Urban Rec league.
If the on-site staff witnesses any acts of flagrant contact tackling, elbowing, cheap shots, blocking, or any unsportsmanlike act, the game can be stopped and the player can be removed from the game
Trash talking is illegal. (Trash talk is talk that may be offensive to the coordinator, opposing players, teams, or spectators.) The coordinator has the right to determine what is offensive language. If trash talking occurs, the on-stie staff will give one warning. If it continues, the player or players will be ejected from the game.
If the on-site staff inadvertently blows the whistle, the play is dead at the spot.
Substitutions on dead balls only.
Flag must be showing at all times- shirts tucked in (defense- notify on-site staff if they see a violation). On-site staff may call ball dead at location if an infraction impacted the play.
If the flag falls off any player (without being pulled by the opposition) – a one hand touch below the shoulders rule will apply to down said player.

Note that the above details are generic Multi-Sport rules. The rules for each specific league may differ.

View Multi-Sport Leagues View Multi-Sport FAQ