CISL League Rules

Ideally, all soccer games will be competitive, producing a close score line. Players, coaches, and
spectators have a much better experience during games that are close, versus a game in which one
team wins easily. In lop-sided games, the losing team’s players are deflated, decreasing confidence
and lowering morale, while the winning team’s players may become bored, develop bad habits
(dribbling too much) and gain a false sense of superiority. The ideal scenario is one in which each
game is a tie or is decided by the odd goal. There will be occasions, however, where games may
become lopsided. The following are recommendations to help create an even playing field.
1. Trade players to balance the teams. Pinnies and reversible jerseys make this easier to
accomplish.
2. Move players around so that they have less influence on the game. For example, have your
stronger offensive players play as a keeper or as a defender.
3. Encourage and focus on skill development. For example, instruct your players to:
a. Play with their weaker foot
b. Play using two touches (control and pass)
c. Make five passes before shooting.
4. Encourage and focus on tactical development. For example;
a. Players can only score from crosses
b. Every player on the team (including the keeper) must touch the ball before they can
shoot.
c. Goals can only be scored after a give-and-go (wall pass).
5. Allow the other team to play with an extra player(s).

Remember, we do not keep score. Players and coaches do not earn win bonuses or a wealthy
contract extension for significantly outscoring an opponent, and a coach’s position is not in jeopardy
due to a bad run of results! Coaches should focus on creating a fun, competitive, and positive
learning environment for players. Hopefully, the recommendations listed above can help us all
continue to move in that direction.