History

          Following the establishment of the Champions League tournament in 2014, it became apparent that waiting for 365 days to play another tournament and redeem oneself was too long. The Easter holiday presented another opportunity for the losing players to win a trophy during the year. The weight of the competition was a little light since the Thanksgiving tournament had already taken all the glory for 2 years. Players were eager to compete again. The First Easter tournament was organized by NFL starting with only 14 registered players. He then put up an announcement on WhatsApp needing more players. The list then grew day by day from 14 to 28 players within 10 days. The tournament was to be played on March 27, 2016 at Lost Creek Park. The turnout was good, competition was high with low scoring games. The tournament received positive reviews from members and players after the games that it was gradually accepted as a second annual tournament behind the Thanksgiving tournament.

 

Eligibility

          The competition was open for anyone interested to sign up but club members would get priority over non-members if the list had to be cut. The number of players registering each year has remained about the same ranging from 28 to 36 players. The number of teams has been between 4-5 each year. The tournament gained momentum over the years as an additional competition but is yet to match the glory and luster of the prestigious Thanksgiving tournament hence the name “FA Cup”. That is not to say that it is lesser than the other because the level of competition is equally the same, the winners get their respect and bragging rights as well as the awards and trophies. The players who have failed to show up in previous tournaments are not eligible to play because a failure to report violation carries a $100 fine and a year suspension. Showing up late to a competition carries a $50 fine and missing the next tournament. The players under these penalties cannot play.

 

Format

• The format is just as similar as CL format;

• Teams are composed of 7-9 players with 9 being the maximum on your roster.

• All players, including guest players, must be registered prior to the tournament.

• A player may not play on two different teams in the same tournament

• Players are required to wear shin guards in accordance with the Laws of the Game.

• Teams are expected to be in matching uniforms are announced prior to the tournament.

• Only one color uniform is expected since there is no home or away team.

• Length of the games will range from 20-30 minutes depending on the number of teams.

• Each team will play 3 to 4 games depending on the number of teams.

• There are no goalkeepers, however one player is allowed to stand in front of goal and defend.

• That last player in goal cannot stop the ball with his hands, that will be considered a handball and the opposing team will kick the ball 25 ft away as a penalty.

• All games are played on the same day.

​

Points

• 3 points for a win

• 1 points for a tie

• 0 points for a loss

• A forfeit game will be a win for the opposing team

​

​Tiebreakers

• Winner of head-to-head

• Goal differential 

• Most goals scored in all preliminary games

• Fewest goals allowed in all preliminary games

• Penalty shootout

​

Substitutions

• Unlimited substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee, at the following times:

  • Prior to a throw in, by the team with possession of the ball.

  • Prior to a goal kick, by either team.

  • After a goal, by either team.

  • At half time and prior to the beginning of an overtime period.

  • Anytime at the discretion of the referee.

  • Limited substitutions may be made, with the consent of the referee, on a one-for-one basis for an injured player.

 

Red Cards and Send Offs

• Any player, coach or team official receiving a RED CARD/SEND OFF will be ejected from the game and suspended from playing/coaching in the following game.

• Two (2) yellow cards in one game is equivalent to a RED CARD AND WILL SIT OUT THEIR NEXT GAME.

 

General

The Tournament Committee’s interpretation of these rules is final.

​The Tournament Committee reserves the right to decide on all matters pertaining to this tournament.

​

The draw

Same as CL draw see Champions League

 

Trophies