LDA Cup Rules

MATCH RULES

Rolling, unlimited subs (except for goalkeepers, see below).
The player who starts in goal in any match must remain in goal for the duration of that match. Goalkeepers can be changed on a match-by-match basis, however.
Match duration TBC dependent on final number of participating teams.
Size Five (5) footballs will be used.
“Head height” is the ideal maximum for the ball to be played although there will be fair leniency.
No heading of the ball.
After a goal is scored, play is to be restarted from the centre spot.
Goalkeepers not to handle the ball outside their area although they may leave their area and play with feet.
Outfield players are not to enter goal area at any time.
Back passes are allowed.
Goalkeepers may roll, kick or throw the ball out.
Jewellery should be removed whilst playing.
Shinpads are optional.
Slide tackles are not allowed.
Referees and competition organisers will be very flexible and accommodating on any needs that may clash with the above where appropriate provided it does not grant an unfair advantage over other teams.

COMPETITION RULES

This competition is for adults with learning difficulties/disabilities. No players/teams will be allowed to play in contravention of this rule (with the exception of Rule 4 In ‘Squad/Team Rules’).
Absolutely NO STUDS allowed of ay kind. This includes moulded studs. Only trainers or ‘flat’ boots designed for artificial turf are permitted. Any player wearing studs/studded boots will be asked to remove them or will be excluded from the competition.
Three (3) points for a win, one (1) point for a draw.
If teams at the top are tied on points at the end of any round robin games (subject to on the day league/fixture structures), head-to-head result will decide who finishes top. If this was a draw, then a penalty shootout will be held.
Each match will be refereed, and the ref’s decision is final.
Each team is responsible for any pre-existing medical conditions of their players at the tournament.
Each team to submit Team Registration Form/Disclaimer (at the end of this document). Teams will not be permitted to take part without this form submitted.

SQUAD/TEAM RULES

Maximum of 10 players per squad.
Squads can be mixed (Male/Female/Other).
Players must be 16+ years old.
Volunteers/staff/trustees etc. may play but only in the event of low numbers/injury and only one on the pitch per team at any one time and will be expected to participate “in the spirit of the game”.
If your team has a kit already, please do bring/wear it. If not, please wear white t-shirts/tops and bibs will be provided where required. Please don’t worry about shorts/socks colour.
All players (other than as mentioned above in 7.4) must be adults with at least one learning disability/difficulty that must NOT solely be ADHD. If a player has ADHD it must also be a comorbidity with another recognised learning disability.

OTHER DETAILS

Given the nature of learning disabilities/difficulties, every effort will be made to be considerate of the ability level of participants and at the end of the day, the tournament is meant to be a friendly, inclusive sociable event designed to bring together as many people involved in the Learning Disability/Autism sector from all corners as possible.
First aiders and equipment will be present on the day.
Photos/videos will be taken throughout the day. The blanket approach is that by taking part in the competition, your team/members of your team have agreed to have their image taken and shared (either on official write ups or social media). Please let us know if you/your team DO NOT wish for images to be shared.
Each team must be accompanied by at least one responsible representative/team manager for the duration of the tournament.
Each team’s responsible representative/team manager is responsible for any pre-existing health conditions and medication (inhalers, epi pens etc.).
Refreshments will be available throughout the competition but please do bring any supplies for your team you may wish to.