Question Number: 21598

Law 3 - Number of Players 6/29/2009

RE: rec Under 11

Coach Jim of blue bell, pa usa asks...

At what points during the game can you substitue a player

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

This will depend on your local league rules.

Per the Laws of the Game, a substitution is allowed at any stoppage in play.

But also per the Laws, teams are limited to a set number (3 to 7) substitutions, with the player being substituted out being done for the day. The Laws wisely allow local modifications for substitutions in youth leagues.

Many leagues allow unlimited number of substitutions, with right of reentry. Consequently, to keep the game from stopping for a substitution every few seconds, they limit what stoppages are allowable substitution opportunities. Common sub opportunities are goal kicks (but not corner kicks), throw-ins by the team substituting, goals, halftime, and injuries. (There are often complications to the injury sub process, such as only injured players may be subbed, and the other team gets to sub as well on a 1-for-1 basis.) Some leagues, under the influence of NFHS (high school) rules, will also allow both teams to substitute on throw-ins, provided the team with the throw initiates it.

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Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Youth soccer is permitted to modify the substitution rules under the laws of the game.

In Southern California, leagues have moved from the specific list of substitution opportunities (as Ref Voshol described) to permit unlimited substitution at any stoppage in play with the permission of the referee.

Regardless of limited or unlimited lists of substitution opportunities, the substitute should be standing near the halfway line, ready for a substitution when play is stopped. (For a substitution after injury or caution, referees usually will be flexible.) If the substitute is not ready when play is stopped, the referee may defer permission until the next opportunity.

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Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

While many if not most areas adhere to the guidelines Ref Voshol lists, many states are going to FIFA rules and allow a substitution at any stoppage of play. Check with your local club and if need be, with your State association

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