Texas Club Soccer League

TEXAS CLUB SOCCER LEAGUE RULES

Updated Dec 9, 2025

Table of Contents

General Information | Game Format | Scheduling/Forfeits | Discounts | Game Day Paperwork / Requirements | Player Eligibility | Pool Play | Playing Rules | Standings | Weather Policy | Referee Fees | Code of Conduct | Locations | Inquiries | League Partners

Table of Contents

League Overview: Registration & Payments | Season Structure | Age Divisions

Team Management: Player Eligibility | Pool Play Rules | Coach Requirements

Game Operations: Scheduling & Rescheduling | Forfeit Policy | Game Day Procedures

Playing Rules: General Rules | Specific Format Rules | Substitutions | Misconduct Policy

Policies & Procedures: Standings & Scoring | Weather Policy | Facility Rules

Code of Conduct: Coaches | Players | Parents & Spectators | Enforcement & Consequences

Contacts & Resources: Key Personnel | Important Resources | Required Forms

League Partners

League Overview: Registration & Payments | Season Structure | Age Divisions

Team Management: Player Eligibility | Pool Play Rules | Coach Requirements

Game Operations: Scheduling & Rescheduling | Forfeit Policy | Game Day Procedures

Playing Rules: General Rules | Specific Format Rules | Substitutions | Misconduct Policy

Policies & Procedures: Standings & Scoring | Weather Policy | Facility Rules

Code of Conduct: Coaches | Players | Parents & Spectators | Enforcement & Consequences

Contacts & Resources: Key Personnel | Important Resources | Required Forms

League Partners

1. LEAGUE OVERVIEW

1.1 Registration & Payments

  • Payment Deadline: All payments must be made before February 5, 2026, to avoid a late fee of $50.00.

  • Late Payment Policy: Teams failing to pay by February 5, 2026 will incur a $50 late fee and void all season discounts

  • Final Deadline: Teams must pay league fee plus late fee by February 12, 2026, or be removed from the season

  • Payment Agreements: Special payment arrangements must be made directly with the league director

  • No Refunds: Once any schedule (partial or completed) is released, no refunds will be issued

1.2 Season Structure

  • Season Dates: February 6, 2026 to May 3, 2026

  • Game Schedule: 8 games scheduled with a 6-game guarantee

  • Game Days: Games may be played on weeknights due to weather and Friday nights in all locations

  • Standings: Maintained for all age groups (no awards issued

1.3 Age Divisions

Academy Divisions (Pool play rosters allowed):

  • U6: Born in 2020
  • U7: Born 2019
  • U8: Born 2018
  • U9: Born 2017
  • U10: Born 2016

Select Divisions (Fixed rosters):

  • U11: Born 2015
  • U12: Born 2014
  • U13: Born 2013
  • U14: Born 2012
  • U15: Born 2011
  • U16: Born 2010

2. TEAM MANAGEMENT

2.1 Player Eligibility

Registration Requirements:

  • ALL players must have a valid US Club Soccer player card
  • Players can ONLY play for the club they are registered with
  • NTSSA player forms/rosters are NOT accepted
  • NO guest players allowed in league play

 

Age Group Participation:

  • Players may “play up” to an older division
  • Players may NOT play in a younger division
  • Players may participate in multiple age groups if age-eligible for both
  • Girls teams may play in Boys divisions; Boys teams may NOT play in Girls divisions

 

Required Documentation:

  • US Club Player ID Cards OR electronic copies must be available at every game
  • Teams playing ineligible players forfeit all matches involving those players

2.2 Pool Play Rules (Academy Divisions Only)

Purpose: Allow coaches flexibility to develop players based on changing skill levels throughout the season. NOT intended for “stacking” teams to win games.

Player Classifications:

  • Level 1: Best players capable of playing at the highest level
  • Level 2: Good players who would be reserves on the top team
  • Level 3: Players needing development to compete at higher levels

2.3 Coach Requirements

  • Scheduling accommodates HEAD COACH schedules for up to 3 teams
  • Maximum 2 adults allowed on player side of field
  • All coaches/managers must be listed on game report
  • Coaches are responsible for player and parent behavior

3. GAME OPERATIONS

3.1 Scheduling & Rescheduling

Schedule Information: Available in team GotSport accounts and TCSL webpage

Reschedule Requests:

  • Must be submitted via official Reschedule Request Form
  • Deadline: Tuesday 5:00 PM prior to originally scheduled game
  • Fees: $50 if requested 7+ days in advance; $100 if within 7 days
  • Email or phone requests will NOT be considered

3.2 Forfeit Policy

Advance Notice Required: 48 hours to Nicole James for fee waiver

 

Forfeit Fees:

  • 4v4 and 7v7 matches: $125
  • 9v9 and 11v11 matches: $200

 

Payment Requirements:

  • Fees must be paid within 72 hours OR before next scheduled game (whichever comes first)
  • Payment by credit card on file
  • Teams cannot play until fees are paid

 

No-Show Policy: Teams that no-show or cancel within 24 hours of kickoff incur full forfeit fees

3.3 Game Day Procedures

Pre-Game Requirements:

  • Pay referee fees prior to kickoff (exact portion per team)
  • Submit game report listing all participating players with jersey numbers
  • Present US Club player cards or electronic copies for all players
  • Show referee photo identification for each participating player

Uniform Policy:

  • Home team must change in case of uniform conflict
  • If home team cannot provide alternate jerseys, they forfeit the game

Score Reporting:

  • Referees return game reports with scores to teams
  • Teams must verify scores before leaving the field
  • WINNING TEAM will use QR code to enter the score. Score must be reported within 48 hours of match played. If time has past, email match card to Tim Garcia (tgarcia@texasclubsoccer.com)
  • Once teams leave, referee’s recorded score stands (even if in error)

Misconduct Cards:

  • Referee retains game report if cards are issued
  • All cards are recorded and tracked

4. PLAYING RULES

4.1 General Rules

Heading: Prohibited for all U11 and younger teams

 

Offside:

  • Applied in 7v7 and 9v9 formats
  • NO offside in 4v4 format

 

Goalkeepers:

  • NO goalkeepers in 4v4 format (all players must be active)
  • 7v7 goalkeepers cannot punt; may throw, roll, or place ball for stationary kick
  • All opposing players must be behind build-out line during goalkeeper distribution

4.2 Specific Format Rules

U7 and U8: Throw-ins required (NO kick-ins)

 

7v7 Format:

  • Build-out line enforced during goalkeeper distribution
  • Ball is live once it moves forward from goalkeeper’s stationary kick
  • Offside applies

 

4v4 Format:

  • No goalkeepers
  • No offside
  • All players must actively participate

4.3 Substitutions

  • At referee’s discretion during play
  • MUST be allowed on all goal kicks and kick-offs
  • Referee must be notified of goalkeeper changes before player enters field
  • NO ONE may enter field without referee permission

4.4 Misconduct Policy

  • Ejections: Player/coach sent off must sit out next game (fighting = 2 games)
  • Sit-Out Verification: Form must be completed and signed by referee during sit-out game
  • Zero Tolerance: Inappropriate language, racial slurs, or verbal abuse results in immediate removal
  • Complex Removal: Ejected persons must leave facility immediately

5. POLICIES & PROCEDURES

5.1 Standings & Scoring

Point System:

  • Win: 3 points
  • Tie: 1 point
  • Loss: 0 points
  • Forfeit: 3-0 result

 

Tiebreakers:

  • Two teams: Head-to-head record
  • Three+ teams: (A) Goal difference, (B) Goals for, (C) Goals against

5.2 Weather Policy

Severe Weather Procedure:

  • All persons go to cars (NOT concession stands)
  • Only field staff and referees remain at concession building
  • Games with 30+ minute delays are rescheduled
  • Games with completed second half count as played

 

Weather Information:

  • Hotline: (469) 200-6287 (Press 1 for TCSL, 3 for field status)
  • Website: Click Here

5.3 Facility Rules

Prohibited: Dogs at games (violators fined $50)

6. CODE OF CONDUCT

6.1 Coaches' Code of Conduct

Required Behavior:

  • Respect all players, referees, and opponents
  • Encourage fair play over winning
  • Communicate positively without profanity or demeaning language
  • Ensure player safety and proper hydration
  • Refrain from arguing with referees
  • Follow all league rules and policies
  • Report on misconduct or safety concerns

 

Violations may result in: Warnings, suspensions, or removal from league

6.2 Players' Code of Conduct

Required Behavior:

  • Play fairly and respect all participants
  • Follow game rules and accept referee decisions
  • Avoid aggressive behavior, fighting, or taunting
  • Demonstrate good sportsmanship
  • Respect for equipment and facilities
  • Communicate concerns respectfully through coaches

 

Violations may result in: Warnings, suspension, or expulsion from league

6.3 Parents' & Spectators' Code of Conduct

Required Behavior:

  • Encourage all players positively
  • Respect referees’ decisions without argument
  • Refrain from sideline coaching
  • Demonstrate sportsmanship and patience
  • Avoid profanity, threats, or aggressive behavior
  • Address concerns through proper channels

 

Violations may result in: Warnings, game suspensions, or attendance bans

6.4 Enforcement & Consequences

Progressive Discipline:

  1. Verbal or written warnings
  2. Temporary suspensions (games or season)
  3. Disqualification from participation
  4. Permanent league ban (severe/repeated violations)

 

Reporting: All concerns must be submitted in writing to league officials

7. CONTACTS & RESOURCES

7.1 Key Personnel

7.2 Important Resources

7.3 Required Forms

  • Reschedule Request Form

  • Sit-Out Verification Form

  • Game Report (provided by teams)

General Information

All Payments must be made by September 5, 2025 (Unless an Agreement is made with club) or your team will not be on the schedule.

  • Academy play is for player born 2009 – 2019.
  • Teams cannot have players play down in any games in any age groups.
  • We schedule 8-games for the season with a 6-game guarantee. Some games may be played on weeknights due to weather.
  • Fall Season runs September 6, 2025 to November 9, 2025
  • Games may be played on Friday nights as part of league play in all locations.
  • In the event of a uniform conflict, the home team must change or wear cover-ups. If the home team cannot provide an alternate jersey or cover-ups the game will be forfeited.
  • Standings are kept for all age groups.
  • NO DOGS ARE ALLOWED AT THE GAMES. IF A DOG IS BROUGHT TO A GAME, THE TEAM WILL BE FINED $50.
  • There are no refunds for any teams once the schedule (partial or completed) is released. No exceptions!

Game Format

CLICK TO EXPAND

Scheduling / Forfeits

  • We schedule 8-games for the season with a 6-game guarantee. Some games may be played on weeknights due to weather.
  • Once schedule is complete, all game information can be found in the team GotSport account or on the TCSL webpage.
  • Scheduler will work around the HEAD COACH’S schedules (up to three (3) teams including the registered teams for this league) regardless of the league(s) the coach is playing in. The league does not work around players.
  • After the final schedule is announced, request for reschedule will need to be submitted via Reschedule Request Form (and a reschedule fee paid by Tuesday at 5:00 pm prior to the originally scheduled game. No reschedule request will be considered after Tuesday at 5:00 pm prior to the originally scheduled game. Requests made via email or phone will not be considered. Reschedule fee is determined by the amount of days between the request and the game’s play date: $50 if the request is made more than 7 days prior to the game, or $100 if the request is made within 7 days or less of the game.
  • Any team that no-shows or cancels in less than 24 hours of kick-off will be charged $125 Forfeit Fine for 4v4 match or 7v7 match and $200 Forfeit Fine for 9v9 match or 11v11 match. **Team will not be allowed to play another league game until fees are paid via credit card**
  • Forfeiting a game, at any time, is unacceptable. But if a game is forfeited, then the forfeiting team will be charged $125 Forfeit Fine for 4v4 match or 7v7 match and $200 Forfeit Fine for 9v9 match or 11v11 match – unless Nicole James is notified with 48 hours of kick-off. The fee must be paid before the next scheduled game or within 72 hours. Payment is to be made by credit card on file.

Discounts

  • MULTI-TEAM DISCOUNT – Save $25 off each league fee of 3+ teams with the same head coach.
  • Teams failing to pay the league fee by 11:59 PM on September 5, 2025, will void all eligible season discounts and incur a $50 late fee (unless agreement made with league director)
  • Teams failing to pay (league fee + late fee) by 11:59 PM on September 10, 2025 will be removed from the season (unless agreement made with league director).

Game Day Paperwork / Requirements

  • Each team is responsible for the EXACT portion of the Referee Fees. Fees are to be paid prior to the kickoff of the game.
  • At every game, teams must have proof (US Club Player ID Cards OR ELECTORNIC COPIES OF PLAYER CARDS) that all participating players are registered with US Club Soccer.
  • Each team will need to hand the referee a game report for each game. The game report needs to list each player’s name and jersey number taking the field for that match. ALL TEAMS WILL NEED TO SHOW THE REFEREE A PHOTO OF EACH PLAYER TAKING THE FIELD ON EITHER A US CLUB PLAYER CARD OR THE GAME REPORT.
  • Players may play on multiple teams within the club they are registered to with the proper required paperwork:
    • Select League (U11 and older) = Valid US Club Player ID card registered under that same team’s club
    • Academy League (U10 and younger) = Valid US Club Player ID card registered under that same team’s club
  • Any coach or team manager to be on the coach/player side of the field must be listed on the game report. No more than two (2) adults are allowed on the player side of the field.
  • Referees will return all game reports with game scores to the teams. It is the teams’ responsibility to check the scores BEFORE leaving the pitch. Once the teams have left the field, the score recorded by the referee even in error will be recorded as written and signed by the referee. All scores are to be entered by the WINNING TEAM and emailed to Tim Garcia (tgarcia@texasclubsoccer.com).
  • If a card is issued during the match, the referee will keep the game report. All cards are recorded and tracked for all games played.

Player Eligibility

ALL PLAYERS PARTICIPATING IN TCSL MUST HAVE A US CLUB PLAYER CARD. A PLAYER CAN ONLY PLAY FOR THE CLUB THEY ARE REGISTERED WITH. NO GUEST PLAYING ALLOWED IN LEAGUE PLAY

  • NTSSA player forms/rosters are NOT valid – ONLY US Club Soccer
  • At every game, teams must have proof (US Club Player ID Cards OR ELECTORNIC COPIES OF PLAYER CARDS) that all participating players are registered with US Club Soccer.
  • Teams that play ineligible or unregistered players could forfeit any matches in which the ineligible player(s) played.
  • Players may “Play Up” to an older division but may NOT play in a younger division.
  • Players may play on teams in 2 different age groups as long as the player is age-eligible for both divisions.
  • Players may play on multiple teams with the proper required paperwork:
    • Select League (U11 and older) = Valid US Club Player ID card registered under that same team’s club
    • Academy League (U10 and younger) = Valid US Club Player ID card registered under that same team’s club
  • Girls teams may play in a Boys division, but Boys teams may not play in a Girls division

Pool Play

  • The purpose of Pool Play is to allow coaches freedom to develop their players based on their changing skill levels throughout the season. It is never intended to be used to “stack” a team to simply win a particular game. We have implemented a pool play format for league play to help players best develop and increase their overall enjoyment of playing soccer. For players playing down a division (a gold team player playing with a silver team) we expect that coaches will pull their weaker players and/or those who don’t get much playing time on their regular team to play down. Teams/coaches found to be abusing the purpose of pool play and stacking their team to win will be forced to declare an unchanging roster for the remainder of the season. With everyone getting on board with this practice we will all have an enjoyable season.
  • Player pools will typically consist of the following classifications of players:
    • Level 1: The best players in the pool, capable of playing at the highest level.
    • Level 2: Good players, but would be reserves on the top team, playing behind the Level 1 players.
    • Level 3: Players in the pool that still need development to compete at the highest levels.
  • Coaches with a large enough player pool to have multiple teams in TCSL are expected to manage their game rosters consistent with the Pool Play concept and the levels at which their teams compete. Meaning, the coach’s top team should consist of Level 1 and 2 players needed to fill the roster for that team. The coach’s next team should consist of Level 2 players who did not make the top team roster or Level 2 players that are only on the top team as reserves and Level 3 players. Said another way, it should be the Level 2 players who should be listed on multiple game day rosters for the different teams, NOT the Level 1 players. It is a violation of the Pool Play concept for a coach to play his/her Level 1 players on every team from this pool.
  • TCSL management reserves the right to investigate any situation where it is possible the coach is not managing his/her teams within the spirit of the pool play concept.

Playing Rules

  • There is no heading in TCSL for all U11 and younger teams.
  • There is offside for the playing format of 7v7 and 9v9. There is NO offside for the 4v4.
  • All U7s AND U8s will do throw-ins – NO KICK-INS.
  • There are NO keepers in the 4v4 playing format. ALL players must be active and involved in the play.
  • There is no punting for the playing format of 7v7. The keeper can release the ball by throwing, rolling the ball outside of the goalie area or placing the ball on the ground and kicking the stationary ball. The ball may NOT be moving before the kick is taken. ALL opposing players must be behind the build out line. Once the ball is placed on the ground by the keeper for a stationary kick, the ball becomes live in play once the ball makes a forward motion.
  • All substitutions are at the sole discretion of the referee. A referee can or cannot allow an opposing team to sub while a substitution is taking place. A referee must allow a substitution on all goal kicks and kick-off. Referee must be notified of a keeper change BEFORE the new keeper takes the field of play.
  • At NO time shall anyone enter the field of play without referee permission. If anyone enters the field of play without permission from the referee, the person violating the rule can be dismissed from the complex.
  • SIT-OUT – When a referee ejects a player, coach or spectator from the game, the referee must complete a Misconduct Report and notify the League Director immediately after the game. The player or coach sent off will be required to sit out the next game played. Fighting requires a two-game sit-out. A SIT-OUT VERIFICATION FORM must be completed during the game in which the player/coach is sitting out. The coach fills out the form and the referee must sign off on the form. The form must be emailed to Nicole James (nicolej@texasclubsoccer.com) for verification. The League Director has final say over game day sit-outs. The person sent off must leave the complex immediately. Coaches and managers are responsible for the player’s and parent’s behavior. A “ZERO-TOLERANCE” POLICY FOR SIDELINE MISCONDUCT WILL BE ENFORCED FOR THESE GAMES. THIS INCLUDES INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE, RACIAL SLURS, OR VERBAL ABUSE TOWARD REFEREES, PLAYERS, AND GAMES OFFICIALS ON AND OFF THE PLAYING FIELD. Anyone found to be in violation of the zero-tolerance policy will be removed from the complex and not allowed to re-enter.
  • There are no awards given in TCSL.

Standings

  • Scores and standings are kept for all age groups, and can be found here. Awards are not issued in academy play as rosters are not locked during league play.
  • Each team shall be awarded three (3) points for a win, one (1) point for a tie, and zero (0) points for a loss. A forfeit shall be considered a 3-0 loss for the forfeiting team and a 3-0 win for the non-forfeiting team. The TCSL Director, and only the TCSL Director, may declare an TCSL match a forfeit based on the director’s review of the facts and circumstances, and at the director’s discretion.
  • The standings for the TCSL will be based on the Points per Game from league play. The following tiebreakers will be used for resolving ties between TCSL Teams:
    • Two Teams: Total points earned in head-to-head games
    • Three teams or more, in order: (A) Goal Difference, (B) Goals For, (C) Goals Against

Weather Policy

When inclement weather is in the area, teams will be notified to postpone games and ALL members are to go to their cars – NOT THE CONCESSION STANDS. Only field staff and referees remain at the concession building. NO other players, spectators, coaches, etc. should be at the concession area and they should remain in their cars in the parking lots until a change is made in the status of the playing conditions. Once the “all clear” is given and it is safe to take the pitch, the games will resume if enough time permits. Any game that has a 30 minute or more delay will NOT play and be rescheduled. Once the game is rescheduled, the game will play as a new game. Any game that has completed a second half kick-off will be considered a game played and will be scored as such.

 

WEATHER HOTLINE – (469) 200 – 6287          PRESS 1 FOR TCSL AND 3 FOR FIELD STATUS

 

WEBSITE FIELD STATUS – CLICK HERE

Referee Fees

Referee Fees can be seen here.

  • Each Team is responsible for the exact portion of the referee fees.
  • Fees are to be paid to referees prior to kickoff of each game.

Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct applies to all coaches, players and parents/guardians participating in TCSL league. Our goal is to promote a safe, respectful and enjoyable environment for everyone.

1. Coaches’ Code of Conduct

Coaches are role models and are expected to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and leadership. They must:

  • Respect all players, referees, and opponents at all times.
  • Encourage fair play and teamwork over winning at all costs.
  • Communicate positively and avoid yelling, profanity, or demeaning language.
  • Ensure player safety, including proper hydration and injury prevention.
  • Refrain from arguing with referees or league officials.
  • Follow league rules and policies, including substitution guidelines.
  • Report any misconduct or safety concerns to league officials.

Violations may result in: warnings, suspensions, or removal from TCSL League.

2. Players’ Code of Conduct

Players are responsible for representing themselves, their team, and the league with respect. They must:

  • Play fairly and respect teammates, opponents, coaches, and referees.
  • Follow game rules and accept referee decisions without argument.
  • Avoid aggressive behavior, such as fighting, bullying, or taunting.
  • Encourage teammates and demonstrate good sportsmanship, win or lose.
  • Respect the equipment, facilities, and playing field at all times.
  • Communicate concerns to their coach or league officials in a respectful manner.

Violations may result in: warnings, suspension, or expulsion from TCSL league.

3. Parents’ & Spectators’ Code of Conduct

Parents and spectators play a vital role in creating a positive environment. They must:

  • Encourage all players with positive reinforcement, regardless of skill level.
  • Respect referees’ decisions and refrain from arguing or confronting officials.
  • Refrain from coaching from the sidelines—let the coaches do their job.
  • Set a good example by demonstrating sportsmanship and patience.
  • Avoid using profanity, threats, or aggressive behavior at games and practices.
  • Follow league policies regarding sideline behavior and interactions with coaches and officials.
  • Address concerns appropriately by speaking with league officials rather than causing disruptions.

Violations may result in: verbal warnings, game suspensions, or bans from attending games.

Enforcement & Consequences

The league takes misconduct seriously. Depending on the severity of the offense, disciplinary actions may include:

  • Verbal or written warnings
    • Minor violations may result in a warning to the individual or team, providing them with an opportunity to correct their behavior.
  • Temporary suspensions (games or full season)
    • A temporary suspension from games can be enforced for more serious violations, whether it’s a player, coach, or parent
  • Disqualification:
    • For severe or repeated violations, an individual (or even a team) may be disqualified from participating in future games or seasons
  • Permanent Banning:
    • In extreme cases, an individual may be permanently banned from the league, especially for repeated or violent conduct.

All concerns should be reported to league officials in writing. The league reserves the right to review incidents and enforce penalties accordingly.

By participating in the league, all coaches, players, and parents agree to uphold this Code of Conduct. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.

Let’s work together to make this a fun and respectful environment for everyone!

Locations

A list of our locations and field maps can be found here. TCSL may not use all of the listed fields.

Inquiries

League Director & Scheduler

Nicole James

nicolej@texasclubsoccer.com

(469) 951-2297

Director of Member Services

Tim Garcia

tgarcia@texasclubsoccer.com

(469) 213-1636

LEAGUE PARTNERS