Bermuda Football Association General Rules for Division Competition

Rules for all Division Competition

THE BERMUDA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

GENERAL RULES FOR DIVISION COMPETITION

These rules will apply for all Divisions of the Association except where set out in rules relating to a specific Divisional competition.

1. Management

(a) The Division shall be governed in accordance with the Rules, Bye-Laws and Regulations of the Bermuda Football Association by the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee or such other committees as the Executive Council of the Association from time to time may appoint.

(b) The Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee shall meet as often as is necessary to conduct the business of the Divisions concerned.

(c) All communications shall be addressed to the Administrative Office of the Association who shall conduct the correspondence of the Divisions and keep a record of its proceedings.

(d) The League and Cups Competitions Committee shall have powers to apply, act upon, and enforce the Rules of a Division and shall also have jurisdiction over all matters affecting a Division, including any not provided for by the rules.

(e) All decisions of the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee shall be binding subject to the right of appeal to the Executive Council, except where provided for in these Rules or other Rules and Regulations of the Association.

(f) All fines and charges shall be paid within twenty-one days of the date of notification of imposition (unless otherwise ordered).

(g) Clubs, Officials or individuals committing a breach of this rule shall be liable to such penalties as the Executive Council may impose.

(h) A Club having failed to comply with an order or instruction of the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf within twenty-one days of receipt of notice of such order or within twenty-one days of an operative date specified in that order, shall not be allowed to play or take part in the business of the Division until the order has been complied with and a reason for the delay has been submitted to the Administrative Office, who shall forward it to the Executive Council for their adjudication.

(i) Not withstanding the forgoing the Executive Council or League and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf may request an earlier compliance of an order or instruction if it is satisfied that an earlier compliance is necessary for the normal function of the Division and other competitions or activities of the Association.

2. Conditions of Play/Times of Kick-Off/Postponements/Substitutes

(a) Fixtures shall be deemed as having been accepted unless the Association receives objections within fourteen days after Fixtures have been circulated or published.

(b) All matches shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game as published by the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

(c) Membership Organizations must take the necessary precautions to keep their grounds in playable condition. All matches shall be played on grounds deemed suitable by the Executive Council. If through any fault of the home team a match has to be replayed, the Executive Council shall have the power to order the venue to be changed.

(d) The Executive Council shall have the power to decide whether a ground is suitable for matches in a Division and to order the Club concerned to play its fixtures on another ground.

(e) Membership Organization shall be responsible for the taking of gate receipts for its entire home Divisional matches.

(f) The maximum time to be played in the various Divisional matches of the Association shall be as follows:-

(1) All Senior Divisions....................90 minutes

(2) Women Division...................…..90 minutes

(g) The kick-off times shall be fixed by the Association. Any membership organization failing to commence at the appointed time shall be liable to be fined a fee or be otherwise dealt with as the Executive Council may determine.

(h) Referees must order matches to commence at the appointed time if possible and must state the reason(s) for all late starts in his Match Report and advise the Coach of the offending team(s) of his intention to do so.

(i) The home team must provide balls fit for play throughout the match and the referee must state in his Match Report the unsuitability of the match balls and must also notify the Coach of his intention to do so.

(j) Every membership organization shall play its strongest available team(s) or players in all matches. (The intention of this Rule is not to interfere with normal team selection by membership organizations, but to prevent membership organizations from deliberately fielding a weakened team in order to unreasonably reserve players for another game or to boost the strength of another or lower team.

It is NOT intended that membership organization MUST field higher team players in lower teams when the higher team has no engagement. If in the opinion of the Executive Council the substance or spirit of the Rule is obviously being disregarded, the membership organization concerned may be called to account for its/their actions and shall be subject to such decisions as the Executive Council may determine despite the fact that the Rule governing the qualification of players has not been infringed.

(k) Home and Away Matches shall be played. In the event a membership organization fails to keep its engagement, the Executive Council shall have the power to impose a fine, order the defaulting membership organization to pay any expenses incurred or otherwise deal with them at their discretion. But in all circumstances where a membership organization fails to keep its engagement the points and a score of 3-0 shall be awarded to the non-offending membership organization. In the event a match is unable to be played owing to the fault of no team, the match shall be ruled as tied and a score of 0-0 shall be recorded.

(l) In cases were their grounds do not possess lighting suitable for the playing of night matches and in cases were the Association must schedule or reschedule a match for any reason, the membership organization shall at the time of registration, designate a field with lighting, on which such matches will be played if said field is available at the time required for the playing of the match. In all other cases the choice of venue will be at the discretion of the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

(m) Not withstanding the foregoing Home and Away provision - the Executive Council shall have the power to order a match to be played on a neutral ground or on the opponents ground if they are satisfied that such action is warranted by the circumstances.

(n) In the event of a match not being played it shall be rescheduled on a date set by the Association.

(o) In the event of a match being abandoned owing to causes over which neither club has control, the Leagues and Competitions Committee shall review the causes of abandonment and make its ruling on the outcome of the match in accordance with the following:

(i) If a match is abandoned before the completion of the first half, during the half-time interval or up to 75 minutes of play the match shall be replayed in its entirety.

(ii) If a match is abandoned after 75 minutes the Committee shall rule only in cases where it is to the advantage of the Competition and shall record the score at the time of the abandonment as final. In all other cases, the match shall be replayed.

(p) (i) In all cases were the Committee is satisfied that a game has been abandoned owing to the conduct of one team or membership organization or its/their members, fans, or any spectators attending the match they shall award the points for the game to its opponents and take what other action they may deem necessary.

(ii) In cases where a game is abandoned owing to the conduct of both teams or membership organizations, its/their members, fans, or any spectators attending the match, the Executive Council shall take such action as they consider appropriate.

(q) A Membership Organization may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game and the permission granted by the Association use substitute players as follows:

(1) Senior Men’s Competitions.........................………...3

(2) Women’s League Competition.............................….Unlimited

(3) Women FA and Konica Cup Competitions............…3

(4) Commercial Divisions....................…………………5

The referee need not be informed of the name(s) of the substitute(s) before the start of the match. All eligible substitutes must be recorded on the team sheet before the start of the match.

(r) A player who has been selected, appointed, or named as a substitute before the start of or during a match but does not actually play in the game, shall be considered to have been in that game within the meaning of the Rules governing the Qualification of Players of the Association.

3. Report Forms - Fines

(a) Each membership organization must submit their Team Representative Form and the appropriate Field Operator Form to the Referee upon his arrival to the match. In all cases, the Referee must receive these forms prior to the start of the match.

(b) The Referee must submit all Match Forms & documents stated in 3(a) above within 48 hours of completing the match. A $5 penalty will be imposed for match reports not submitted within 7 days of the completion of the match. Each subsequent week that the match report is not submitted will result in an additional $5 penalty per week.

4. Championship 'Deciding' Matches - Promotion and Regulation.

(a) The competition shall be decided by points: the membership organization gaining the most points in their respective Division at the conclusion shall be adjudged the winner. Three points shall be awarded for a win and one point for a draw.

(b) In the event of two or more membership organizations being equal on points for any position in any of the Divisional Tables at the close of the Competition, goal difference shall decide. Should that not break the deadlock then the most goals scored shall decide. Should a deadlock still persist then the head-to-head scores from the games played between the teams tied in the Division (home & away) with the team having the better record being awarded the higher placing in the Standings. Should a tie remain, the team conceding fewer goals shall be awarded the higher placing in the Standings.

teams in each division except as provided for hereunder.

(i) Should more than two teams withdraw from any one Division after their fixtures have commenced and their vacancies not filled during the season then no team in that Division shall be automatically relegated to the lower division.

(ii) Vacancies caused by the retirement of a team or by the withdrawal of a membership organization from the Division may be filled by the Executive Council at their discretion prior to the commencement of the Leagues.

(d) In the event of a membership organization not completing 75 per cent of its fixtures for the season, all points obtained by or recorded against such defaulting Club shall be expunged from the League table.

(e) Where a membership organization has completed 75 per cent of its fixtures the points for any games shall be awarded to the opponents of the defaulting membership organization. All remaining fixtures shall be ruled a tie and a score of 0-0 shall be recorded.

5. Registration, Entry and Withdrawal of Membership Organizations

(a) Any Club entering a Team in Association Competitions must register a minimum of 18 players per team.

(b) Every Membership Organization must notify the Administrative Office of the Association on or before the annual Club Registration deadline of its intention to continue in, or withdraw from any League.

(c) Membership Organizations shall not be allowed to withdraw any of its teams from the League after the publication of fixtures during the current year. Any membership organization infringing this Rule shall be liable to a fine and such other action as determined by the Executive Council.

6. Protest, Appeals and Deposits

(a) All questions of eligibility, qualifications of players or interpretations of the rules, except where stated in these rules or any other rules or regulations of the Association, shall be referred to the Executive Council or a Committee acting on its behalf, but no objection relative to the dimensions of the ground, goal post or other appurtenances of the game shall be entertained by the Association unless a protest is lodged with the Referee before the commencement of the match. Any Club lodging a protest with the Referee and not proceeding with it shall be deemed guilty of serious misconduct and shall be dealt with by the Executive Council.

(b) Protests and complaints must contain full particulars of the grounds upon which they are founded and must be lodged in duplicate with the Administrative Office of the Association within 48 hours of the conclusion of the match or occurrence to which they refer. No objection or protest shall be withdrawn except by permission of the Executive Council. Any member of the Executive Council being associated in any manner with the Membership Organization concerned shall not be present at the deliberations (except as a witness or representative) when such objection or protest is being considered and decided.

(c) Any dispute occurring between Membership Organizations shall be referred to an Ad Hoc Committee acting on behalf of the Executive Council whose decision shall be binding upon all parties subject to Article 8(f) of these Rules.

(d) No protest shall be considered by the Executive Council unless the complaining member shall have deposited with the Administrative Office the applicable fee which may be forfeited in whole or in part to the Association, in the event of the member losing its case and the Association shall have the power to order the Membership Organization making a frivolous protest or complaint to pay any other expenses of the hearing.

(e) Parties to a protest or complaint shall be afforded an opportunity of making a statement when the protest is being heard and where possible, shall receive 48 hours notice of the meeting, together with a copy of the protest. The Ad Hoc Committee acting on behalf of the Executive Council shall take into consideration when dealing with the protest the possession by the protesting Membership Organization of any information, which if properly used might have avoided the protest.

(f) Membership Organizations within seven days of receipt of written notification of any decision of the Ad Hoc Committee acting on behalf of the Executive Council, may, except where stated in these rules or any other rule or regulation of the Association, appeal against such decision.

(g) Such appeal being addressed to the Administrative Office of the Association (accompanied by the appropriate fee) for the adjudication of the Appeals Committee, whose decision shall be final and binding on all concerned. In the event of the appeal being unsuccessful, the fee shall be forfeited in whole or in part, at the discretion of the Appeals Committee.

7. Team Sheet

The names (FULL FIRST AND LAST) of all players participating in a match must be recorded on the team sheet in the appropriate manner and must include the player’s registration card number and jersey number to be worn during the match. The names of the eleven players starting the match must be recorded first followed by any substitute players. Failure of the Membership Organizations to strictly adhere to this Article shall render the Membership Organization to a fine of $50 per incorrect team sheet.

8. Team Colors

Where there is a conflict in the colors worn by any two teams and for any match, the home team shall be required to change. However, should the visiting team not be wearing its registered colors thus causing the home team to change, the visiting team shall be fined, and/or otherwise dealt with by the Association.

9. Exclusion of Membership Organization

(a) The Executive Council shall have the power to exclude from further participation in a Division or any other competition in the Association, or from membership in the Association any member whose conduct has in their opinion been objectionable and who have been found guilty of violating the rules and regulations of the Association.

10. Alteration of Rules

The Executive Council shall have the power to alter or add to these rules, as it may from time to time deem expedient.

11. Rules Binding on Membership Organization

(i) Each member shall be deemed to have given its assent to the foregoing rules and agreed to abide by the decisions of the Executive Council subject to Section 6(f) of these Rules.

(ii) The Executive Council shall have the power to decide on matters not provided for in these regulations.

RULES FOR PREMIER AND FIRST DIVISION LEAGUE COMPETITIONS

1. Name

The competitions shall be known as the Bermuda Football Association Premier and First Division League Competitions.

2. Trophies

The Divisional Champions shall retain the replica trophy awarded during the presentation ceremony on the last match day of the season. All other trophies shall be the property of the Association or sponsor of any Divisional competitions.

3. Management

The entire control and management of the Competition shall be vested in the Executive Council of the Association or Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

4. Operation

(a) Membership in the Competition shall be at the discretion of the Executive Council who shall have the power from time to time to determine the number of teams in each Division. No revisions shall be instituted unless at least one year's notice is given by the Executive Council except where stated herein.

(b) No Membership Organization is permitted to have more than one team in the any

Divisional Competition.

(c) Automatic Promotion and Relegation shall be applied for the first two and last two teams in each Division except as provided for hereinafter.

(i) Should more than two teams withdraw from The Premier Division after the fixtures have commenced and their vacancies not filled during the season, no team in that Division shall be automatically relegated.

(ii) Additional vacancies, caused by the retirement of a team or by the withdrawal of a member from the Competition, shall be filled by the Executive Council.

5. Qualification of Players

(a) Any Club entering a team in the Divisions shall be required to register a minimum of 18 players.

(b) No player under the age of 16 years shall be permitted to register as a player in the Premier and First Division Competitions.

(c) A maximum of four (4) players per match from a membership organization in the Premier and First Divisions, may participate in the Reserve Division, provided the membership organization for which they are registered have a team in the Reserve

Division.

(d) No player registered with a team in the Commercial Division will be permitted to play in the Premier, First or Reserve League Competitions of the Association.

6. All Divisions shall be governed by the General Rules Governing Divisional Competitions and any other Rules and Regulations of the Association as they apply.

7. No alterations, additions or deletions may be made at an Annual or Semi-Annual Congress Meeting or Special Congress Meeting regarding relegation or promotion that has been determined through competition in a previous year.

8. All matches shall be administered and controlled in addition to the regulations contained herein as well as in accordance with the Match Day Procedures, which may be published by the Association from time to time.

9. Any matter not provided for in these regulations shall be resolved by the Executive Council.

MARTONMERE CUP COMPETITION

1. Name of Competition

The Competition shall be called the Martonmere Cup.

2. Ownership of Cup

The Cup shall be the property of the Bermuda Football Association, and shall be competed for annually.

3. Eligibility of Clubs

The competition shall be played between the clubs filling the first six positions in the Premier Division of the Bermuda Football Association at the end of the season preceding that of the Cup competition.

4. Qualification of Players

Players must be registered members of the participating teams, and their registration must be in accordance with the Regulations Governing the Qualification of Players (Domestic Competitions), prior to any match in which they participate.

5. Playing Rules

(a) The six teams shall be placed in two groups of three (3) teams with the first, third and fifth teams in Group A and the second, fourth and sixth teams in Group B.

(b) Each team in each Group shall play each other once.

(d) The venues for each match shall be decided by the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee.

(e) The first named team shall be designated the home team.

(f) In all rounds, except the final, the match balls shall be provided by the home team.

(g) Where there is a conflict in the colors worn by any two teams, the home team shall be required to change. However, should the visiting team not be wearing its registered colors thus causing the home team to change, the visiting team shall be fined, and/or otherwise dealt with by the Association.

(h) Three points shall be awarded for a win, and one point for a draw.

(i) The teams finishing first and second in each Group shall participate in a semi-final round with the winner of Group A playing the second placed team in Group (B) and the winner of Group B playing the Runner-up in Group A.

(j) If in either Group, two teams are tied for first place on points, then the winner shall be decided on goal difference.

(k) Should the goal difference not produce a winner then the head-to-head score from the game played between the two teams shall decide the winner. Should a deadlock still persist then the team scoring the most goals shall be declared the winner. Should a tie remain, the team conceding fewer goals shall be declared the winner.

(l) The two teams winning the semi-final round shall meet in the Martonmere Cup Final on the Remembrance Day Holiday to be played at a venue decided by the Executive Council or Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

(m) (i) If at the end of regulation time in the Semi-final and Final matches, the score is tied, then an extra period of one half hour, divided into two equal periods shall be played.

(ii) If the score remains tied, the winner shall be decided by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game.

(n) The winner of the Final of the Martonmere Cup shall retain the replica trophy while the Martonmere Cup shall remain in the possession of the Association.

6. Finance

(a) Admission charges to all games shall be determined by the Executive Council each year prior to the commencement of the competition.

(b) In addition to receiving the Martonmere Cup, the Champion shall also receive the sum of one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500.00) with the Runner-up receiving seven hundred and fifty dollars ($750.00). The teams finishing third and fourth shall each receive the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250.00). The fifth and sixth place teams shall receive one hundred dollars ($100.00) each.

(c) Match Officials shall be appointed by the Referees Committee. All Match Officials shall be paid as laid out in Rules Governing Referees and Assistant Referees.

7. Control & Management

(a) The entire control and management of the Competition shall be vested in the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee appointed annually by the President of the Association.

(b) The Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee shall have the power to disqualify any competing club, player or players who may be proved guilty of any breach of the Rules of the Association.

(c) All questions relating to the qualification of players, the interpretation of rules or any dispute or protest arising out of the competition, shall be referred to the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee whose decision shall be final and binding to all clubs.

(d) All such queries must be submitted in writing within 48 hours of the match in question, to the Administrative Office, and must be accompanied by a fee of $30.

(e) The Executive Council may amend these rules, as they from time to time deem expedient.

(f) The Executive Council shall have the power to decide on matters not provided for in these regulations.

DUDLEY EVE TROPHY

1. Name of Competition

The competition shall be called the Dudley Eve Trophy.

2. Object

To assist with financing the Associations domestic and international football programs.

3. Ownership of Trophy

The trophy shall be the property of the Bermuda Football Association.

4. Eligibility of Clubs

(a) (i) The competition shall be opened to the clubs occupying the top four positions in the Premier Division and First Division League Standing at the time of the cut off date.

(ii) The cut off date shall be determined by the Executive Council each year prior to the start of the season.

(b) (i) Should any team not have played the maximum amount of games by the cut off date but still have a chance to qualify for the competition, then the positions in the standings shall be determined by dividing the teams total points by the number of games played, and the four teams with the best percentages will be eligible to compete.

(ii) Section 4(b) (i) is not applicable to any team which has not played the maximum number of games by the cut off date by reason of having asked for and been granted a postponement of any fixture.

(c) If, in determining the positions by percentages, there is a tie, then the qualifying positions shall be determined by goal difference. Should a deadlock still persist then the head-to-head scores from the games played between the teams tied with the team having the better record being awarded the higher placing in the League Standings. Should that not break the tie then the most goals scored in equal number games played shall decide. Should a tie remain, the team conceding fewer goals in equal number games played shall be awarded the higher placing in the Standings. Should a tie still persist, then, a drawing of lots will take place to decide the participants.

5. Qualification of Players

Players must be registered members of the participating teams, in accordance with the Regulations Governing the Qualification of Players (Domestic Competitions).

6. Playing Rules

(a) The competition shall be played in two phases, the Preliminary Phase and the Final Phase.

(b) The Preliminary Phase shall be played on a Double Elimination basis in accordance with the following format:

(i) The teams participating shall be designated A, B, C, and D, by the drawing of lots, the team drawn first designated A, the second B, the third C and the fourth D.

(ii) The fixtures in the Preliminary Phase shall be as follows:

First Fixture: (i) Team A vs Team B

(ii) Team C vs Team D

Second Fixture: (iii) Winner (i) vs Winner (ii)

(iv) Loser (i) vs Loser (ii)

Third Fixture: (v) Loser (iii) vs Winner (iv)

(c) If, in the Preliminary Phase, the score is tied at the end of regulation time, then the winner shall be determined by taking kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game.

(d) The two teams NOT eliminated in the Preliminary Phase shall advance to the Final.

(e) The Final will be played in the following manner:

(i) Two matches will be played, and the winner determined by goal aggregate. Should the score be tied at the completion of regulation time in the first Final. The score shall stand.

(ii) In the event that both teams are equal in goals for and against (two match aggregate) at the conclusion of the second match, then an extra period of

30 minutes, played in two equal halves, shall be played to break the deadlock.

(iii) Should the deadlock persist after the period of extra time then the Champion shall be decided by taking kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game.

(f) The winner of the Dudley Eve Trophy shall retain the replica trophy while the Dudley Eve Trophy shall remain in the possession of the Association.

(g) (i) In all matches, the times, and venues, shall be determined by the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee.

(ii) In all matches, the match balls will be provided by the Association.

(iii) The Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee Chairman shall meet with all teams prior to the start of the competition to determine the colors to be worn by all competing teams. Should there be a conflict in the colors worn by any two teams; the first named team shall be required to change. However, should any team not be wearing its recorded colors thus causing the opposing team to change, then the guilty team shall be fined, and/or otherwise dealt with by the Association.

(iv) The date of the Finals shall be fixed prior to the date fixed for the F.A. Challenge Cup Final, unless the Executive Council rules otherwise.

(h) The Laws of the Games as published by FIFA shall prevail in this competition.

(i) Match Officials shall be appointed by the Referees Committee or the Director of Referees acting on its behalf. Referees will be paid as laid out in the Rules Governing Referees and Assistant Referees.

7. Disciplinary Matters

(i) Any player that receives two (2) yellow cards during the knockout phase of the Competition shall miss their team’s next game in the Competition. Any player that receives two (2) cards in the same game during the competition shall miss the next game in the competition.

(ii) Yellow cards received during the Competition will not count toward the Domestic

League Competition.

(iii) Any player receiving two yellow cards in the Final Match shall not be required to miss their team’s next match in the domestic league competitions.

(iii) Any player sent off (red card) in the Final match of the Competition shall miss their team’s next match in the domestic league competitions and if necessary shall be referred to the Association’s Disciplinary Committee.

8. Finance

(a) Admission charges to all games shall be determined by the Executive Council each year prior to the commencement of the Competition.

(b) The net profits from the competition shall be divided as follows:

(i) 50% to the BFA’s General Account.

(ii) The remaining 50% to be shared amongst the participating teams with the

First Place team receiving 50%, the Second Place team 25%, the Third Place team 15% and the Fourth Place Team 10%.

9. Control and Management

(a) The entire control and management of the competition shall be vested in the Competitions Committee appointed annually by the President of the Association.

(b) The Executive Council or the Competitions Committee acting on its behalf shall have the power to disqualify any competing club, player or players who may be proved guilty of any breach of the Rules of the Association.

(c) All questions relating to the qualifications of competitors, the interpretation of rules or any dispute or protest arising out of the competition, must be submitted in writing within 48 hours of the completion of the match to the Administrative Office and must be accompanied by a fee of $30.00.

(d) The Executive Council may amend these rules, as they from time to time deem expedient.

(e) The Executive Council shall have the power to decide on matters not provided for in these regulations.

FA CHALLENGE CUP COMPETITION

1. The competition shall be called "The Bermuda Football Association Challenge Cup

Competition.

2. The Cup shall be the property of the Association.

3. The entire control and management of the competition shall be vested in the Executive

Council of the Association.

4. The Competition shall be open to: -

One team from each Full Membership Organization of the Bermuda Football Association who participates in senior competition.

One team from each Associate member who participates in the Commercial Division and who are not affiliated with a Full Membership Organization who participates in senior competitions.

5. The Executive Council may reject the entry of any Club. The Cup shall be competed for annually, in accordance with the following rules, by teams, which shall represent the full strength of the club competing.

6. Each club desirous of entering shall complete the official Annual Registration Form and return it to the Administrative Office of the Association, together with the entrance fee so that the form is received on or before the registration deadline of the season in which the club propose to compete. Should the entry of any club be rejected in accordance with Rule 5 of the Competition then the entry fee will be refunded.

7. A player shall not in one season play for more than one membership club, but members of each respective team may be changed during the series of matches. In the rounds preceding the quarter-final of the competition, a player shall have been a duly registered player of his club. In the quarter-final, semi-final and final rounds, a player must have been a registered playing member of his club for more then fourteen (14) days before the time fixed for playing the match. A playing member is one who has actually played for the club during the current season and no playing member of a Club shall be permitted to enter this competition as a player for any other club. In the case of postponed, drawn or replayed matches, only those players shall be allowed to play who were eligible on the date fixed for the playing of the original match, except a player who has been suspended, who may play in matches after the term of suspension has expired.

8. The Executive Council shall have the power to disqualify any competing club, player or players, of any competing club who may prove to be guilty of any breach of the Rules of the Association.

9. All fields available for use in this competition shall be registered with the Association. The registration shall indicate its dimensions, enclosure and gate facilities, and also the name of the member operating the field. All rents or share of gate receipts paid for use of any field shall be paid to the registered operating member.

10. The dimensions of the field of play for all matches shall be in accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game under Law 1.

LENGTH: MAXIMUM 130 YARDS WIDTH: MAXIMUM 100 YARDS

MINIMUM 100 YARDS MINIMUM 50 YARDS

The playing area shall be enclosed by rope; fence and goal nets must be used in all matches.

11. A club whose grounds is less then the minimum allowed under Rule No. 10, or which is declared unfit for competition, under rule No. 14, prior to the commencement of the season, may on entering the competition obtain the consent of the Executive Council to play on another ground that fulfills the requirements and which the club has authority to use.

12. The competition shall be conducted in the following manner:-

(a) No more than one team may represent any membership club. No team entering shall be permitted to apply for exemption from the first or any other round of the competition.

(b) All teams shall be entered in the required number of preliminary round matches. The winning teams shall advance on to the first, quarter-final, semi-final and final rounds.

match shall be eliminated from the competition. After the final match the winning club shall be crowned the FA Cup Champions for the current year. All matches drawn in each round prior to the Semi-Final round shall be played on one date and at such time as the Executive Council may determine, unless circumstances shall prevent the Executive Council from so arranging.

13. The Administrative Office of the Association shall, immediately after each draw is made, notify each club of the name of its opponent and of the date and time when the match should be played. The draw for each round from the first to the semi-finals shall be made during the week following the completion of the previous round.

14. In the case of replayed matches the club, which was not drawn at home in the first match shall play at home in the replay. The Executive Council shall have the right to reject, at any time, any ground that does not fulfill the requirements of Rule No. 10, or which it may consider unsuitable for a match for any reason, and in such case the match shall be played on a ground selected by the Executive Council.

In the semi-final and final rounds the Executive Council shall select the ground on which the match shall be played, and no ground shall be selected which, in the opinion of the Executive Council does not enable entrance and gate money to be properly controlled. No match after the quarter-finals shall be played on the home field of either of the competing teams. The Executive Council or the Leagues and Cup Competitions Committee acting on its behalf shall decide upon the replaying of any non-completed match.

15. Where the colors of two competing teams are similar the home team shall be required to change. Goalkeepers must wear colors, which distinguish them from other players.

16. The duration of all matches shall be Ninety Minutes. If at the end of this time the score is tie, then a half hour extra time shall be played in two equal periods. If the score then remains tied the match shall be replayed at a time, and venue, appointed by the Executive.

In all cases re-scheduled cup matches shall have priority over any other scheduled matches.

In the case of all Women’s FA Cup matches prior to the Final, if at the end of ninety minutes the score is tied, then the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the Laws of the Game as published by FIFA. During the Final, if at the end of ninety minutes the score is tied, then a half hour extra time shall be played in two equal periods. If the score remains tied then the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the Laws of the Game as published by FIFA.

17. If any club fails to play or complete a match, without showing a good and sufficient cause for such failure to play, may be judged to have been guilty of serious misconduct and liable to be dealt with by the by the Executive Council.

18. (a) Referees and Assistant Referees for all matches shall be approved by the Executive Council or the Referees Committee acting on its behalf. The Referee shall have the final decision as to whether a field is fit for play, subject to Rule No. 14. However, in all cases the Referee shall consult with the BFA Representative before making a final decision.

(b) In all other respects the duties of the Referee and Assistant Referees shall be those defined in the Laws of the Game. Fees shall be paid to the Referee and Assistant Referees as laid out in Rules Governing Referees and Assistant Referees. The Referee shall notify the Administrative Office of the Association of the result of the match through a Referee's Match Report submitted within 48 hours from the time fixed for the match to start. Failure by the Referee to submit the Match Report by the required time shall render the Referee liable for a fine in accordance with Article 8 (2) of the Rules Governing Referees and Assistant Referees.

(c) In the event of an Assistant Referees not reporting for duty, the Referee must secure the approval of the Association's Representative for any substitute he might wish to make. In the event of a Referee not reporting for duty the Association's Representative shall be empowered to appoint another in his place.

19. In matches during the competition up to the Semi-final round, the games shall be operated and administered by the registered operating member club and the gross gate receipts shall be divided as follows: -

(a) One third to be retained by the operating member as field rent.

(b) Two thirds to be submitted to the Bermuda Football Association to be divided equally between the Association’s General Fund and the Challenge Cup Pool.

(c) At the conclusion of the competition, the Challenge Cup Pool shall be divided amongst the participating clubs on a share basis as follows:-

(i) The receipts in the Pool from all rounds up to and including the first round shall be divided amongst all clubs participating in those rounds so that all clubs receive equal share for each round in which they participate. (In all replays only the participating Clubs shall receive a share.)

(ii) The receipts in the Pool from the Quarter-final round to the Final Round shall be divided amongst the clubs participating in those rounds so that all clubs receive equal share for each round in which they participate. The Association shall meet the general expenses of the competition officials, medals, advertising, etc. The share of the receipts paid to the competing clubs shall be in lieu of any further payment for other expenses in relation to the match. The registered operator of the field shall be responsible for the provision of gate keepers, police and/or other security where necessary and other officials at the field, and any expenses attached thereto shall be an expense against the rent received and shall not be deducted from the gross receipts. The official representative of the Association shall verify the gate receipts immediately after the match, and a full statement, together with the proportionate disbursements, shall be forwarded to all parties concerned within fourteen days of the match.

(iii) All club members shall be charged for admission to the grounds. The Admission charges will be set up by the Executive Council.

(d) At all matches the club which is the registered Field Operator shall appoint a Representative who shall be present, and be prepared to assist the Association's Representative in any way required.

(e) During the semi-final and final matches the Association shall be responsible for the operations and administration of the match and the Association’s Chairman of the Leagues and Cups Competitions shall have the full authority to see that requirements for the match are carried out, and have authority to issue instructions as he may see fit on the day of the match.

(f) The Field Operator shall provide, where possible, separate changing facilities for the Match Officials from that provided for the players.

20. All questions relating to matches, the qualification of players, interpretation of the Rules, disputes, protests or complaints shall be referred to the Executive Council whose decision shall be final. Every complaint or protest, of whatever kind, must be made in writing and must contain the particulars of the grounds on which it is founded. Two copies of the protest or complaint must be lodged with the Executive Council accompanied with a fee of $30.00 within 48 hours of the completion of the match to which it relates. The Executive may order any club engaged in any dispute, protest or complaint, to pay such sum, as may be considered necessary towards defraying the expenses incurred. Any protest relating to the ground, goal post or appurtenances of the game, shall not be entertained by the Executive Council unless notice with full particulars, has been submitted by the protesting club to the Referee immediately before and during the match once the grounds for the protest came to knowledge of the club. The Referee shall require the responsible club to rectify the cause of the objection if possible, without unduly delaying the game. If the grounds of protest can't be rectified at the venue, then a protest must be lodged with the Association within 48 hours of the schedule match time. No protest shall be withdrawn except by leave of the Executive Council.

21. The Administrative Office of the Association shall send a copy of the protest and particulars to the club protested against. Each club may support its case by witnesses. Neither Barrister nor Solicitor shall represent a club at a hearing of a dispute, unless they be the President or Secretary of the club concerned, at the time the protest was lodged.

22. When a match is postponed through causes over which neither club has control there shall be no compensation for any expenses to any party.

23. Any match that has been ordered to be replayed as result of a breach of rules, misconduct, or other similar cause, the offending club shall forfeit its share of the Challenge Cup Pool for the replay.

24. The winner of the FA Challenge Cup shall retain the replica trophy while the FA Challenge Cup shall remain in the possession of the Association.

25. In addition to the Cup, the Association shall present to the teams in the Final match, gold medals to the players of the winning team and silver medals to the players of the losing team. When a player taking part is ordered to leave the field of play for misconduct, the medal shall be withheld at the discretion of the Executive Council.

26. (a) Challenge Cup matches must not be preceded by any other matches on the same day or the same field, unless the Executive Council or Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf decide otherwise.

(b) In the Semi-Final and Final Rounds of the competition, there must be no other matches scheduled anywhere.

27. For all Rounds, the first name team shall be designated as the Home Team. For all Rounds prior to the semi-finals and final, the Home Team shall provide the match balls. These balls remain the property of the team, which provide them. In the semi-final and the Cup Final, the Association shall provide the match balls.

28. All notice required to be given to the Association in relation to any of these rules shall be addressed to the Administrative Office.

29. The Executive Council shall have the power to alter or add to these rules, as it may from time to time deem expedient.

30. The Executive Council shall have the power to decide on matters not provided for in these Regulations.

THE FRIENDSHIP TROPHY COMPETITION

1. Name

The competition shall be known as the `Friendship Trophy Competition', and the Trophy shall be the property of the Bermuda Football Association.

2. Objects

To provide additional competition for Premier Division teams registered with the Association, and to promote a better understanding of FAIR PLAY amongst all persons who participate and support the Competition.

3. Administration

The entire control and management of the competition shall be vested in the Executive Council.

4. Players

(a) Only players registered with a Premier Division team shall be eligible to participate in this competition. No player under 16 years of age may be permitted to play in this competition.

(b) No player may play with more than one team during the season.

5. Rules of the Competition

(a) The competition shall be open to all teams participating in the Association's Premier Division.

(b) Teams entering the competition must register by August 1^st of each year. Failure to do so will result in the club being dealt with in accordance with the Regulations of the Association.

(d) The competition shall be played on a knock-out basis, that is to say, the team that loses shall be eliminated. All games played in the competition shall be in accordance with the Rules of the Association and the Laws of the Game, as issued by FIFA.

(e) The duration of the match shall be Ninety Minutes, played in two equal periods. If at the end of regulation time the score is tied, then thirty minutes extra time shall be played in two equal periods. If the score then remains tied, the game shall be decided by kicks from the penalty mark according to the Laws of FIFA.

(f) (i) In all rounds prior to the final round, the first named team shall be designated as the home team.

(ii) In all games prior to the final round, the home team shall provide the match balls.

(iii) In the Final Round, the Association will provide the match balls. The Referee shall consult with the Association's Representative before calling the final off for any reason.

(iv) Abandoned games shall be played in full unless otherwise ruled by the Executive Council.

(v) In all rounds, the Executive Council shall decide the grounds upon which the game shall be played and times.

(vi) Where the colors of the two competing teams are similar, the home team shall be required to change.

6. Finances

Proceeds from all games played in this competition shall go into the General Fund of the Association to assist in defraying the operational expenses of the Association, unless otherwise directed by the Executive Council.

For the Friendship Finals, both teams participating shall receive 10% of net gate receipts from the Finals only. Both teams participating in the Shield Final shall each receive 5% of the net gate receipts from the Finals only.

7. Officials

Referees and Assistant Referees will be appointed by the Referees Committee, or Director of Referees acting on its behalf, and shall be paid as laid out in Rules Governing Referees and Assistant Referees.

8. Protests

All protest must be made in writing and submitted to the Administrative Office of the Association within 48 hours of the match to which it relates, accompanied by a fee of $30.00. Should the protest be successful, the fee will be refunded after any expenses incurred have been deducted.

In matters related to this competition, the decision of the Executive Council is final.

THE SHIELD COMPETITION

1. Name

The competition shall be called the `Bermuda Football Association Shield Competition', and the Shield shall be the property of the Bermuda Football Association.

2. Object

To provide additional competition for those teams participating in the Association's First Division

3. Administration

The entire control and management of this competition shall be vested in the Executive Council.

4. Players

(a) Only players registered with a First Division team shall be eligible to participate in this competition. No player under the age of 16 years of age shall be permitted to play in this competition.

(b) No player may play with more than one team during any season.

5. Rules of the Competition

(a) The competition shall be open to all teams participating in the Association's First Division.

(b) Teams entering the competition must register by August 1^st of each year.

(d) The remaining regulations of the competition shall be in accordance with the Rules Governing the Friendship Trophy, Articles 5(d, e and f), 6, 7 and 8.

KONICA CUP COMPETITION

1. Name of Competition

The Competition shall be called the “Konica Cup” Competition.

2. Object

To provide additional competition for those teams participating in the Association's Women Division

3. Administration

The entire control and management of this competition shall be vested in the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cup Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

4. Ownership of Cup

The Cup shall be the property of the Bermuda Football Association, and shall be competed for annually.

5. Eligibility of Clubs

Only clubs registered with the Association’s Women’s Division shall be eligible to participate in this competition.

6. Qualification of Players

7. Playing Rules

(a) The teams shall be placed in two groups of equal numbers and being designated as Group A and Group B.

(b) Each team in each Group shall play each other once.

(c) All matches shall be played in accordance with the Schedule approved by the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

(d) The venues for each match shall be decided upon by the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee.

(e) The match Referee and Assistant Referees shall be appointed by the Association’s Referees Committee.

(f) The first named team shall be designated the home team.

(g) In all rounds, except for the Final, the match balls shall be provided by the home team.

(h) Where there is a conflict in the colors worn by any two teams, the home team shall be required to change. However, should the visiting team not be wearing its registered colors thus causing the home team to change, the visiting team shall be fined, and/or otherwise dealt with by the Association.

(i) Three points shall be awarded for a win, and one point for a draw.

(j) The teams finishing first and second in each Group shall participate in a semi-final round with the winner of Group A playing the second placed team in Group (B) and the winner of Group B playing the Runner-up in Group A.

(k) If in either Group, two teams are tied for first place on points, then the winner shall be decided on goal difference.

(l) Should the goal difference not produce a winner then the head-to-head score from the game played between the two teams shall decide the winner. Should a deadlock still persist then the team scoring the most goals shall be declared the winner. Should a tie remain, the team conceding fewer goals shall be declared the winner.

(m) The two teams winning the semi-final round shall meet in the Konica Cup Final on the Remembrance Day Holiday to be played at a venue decided by the Executive Council or Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

(n) If at the end of regulation time in the Semi-final and Final matches, the score is tie, then the winner shall be decided by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game.

(o) The winner of the Konica Cup shall retain the trophy until start of the next season.

8. Control & Management

(a) The entire control and management of the Competition shall be vested in the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee.

(b) The Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee shall have the power to disqualify any competing club, player or players who may be proved guilty of any breach of the Rules of the Association.

(d) All such queries must be submitted in writing within 48 hours of the match in question, to the Administrative Office, and must be accompanied by a fee of $30.

(e) The Executive Council may amend these rules from time to time, as they may deem expedient.

(f) The Executive Council shall have the power to decide on matters not provided for in these regulations.

THE CHARITY CUP COMPETITION

1. NAME

The competition shall be called the Charity Cup Competition.

2. OBJECT

To raise funds for charitable and benevolent purposes and to support development programs within the Association.

3. OWNERSHIP OF TROPHY

The Trophy shall be the property of the Association.

4. PARTICIPANTS

Each year, the defending champions of the respective Premier and Women’s Divisions will play a defending champion of one of the remaining competitions with the preference of opponents being selected in the following order: FA Challenge Cup, Martonmere Cup then Friendship Trophy Champions for Men and the FA Cup and Konica Cup for Women.

In the event that the Premier and Women’s Division Champions are also champions of the foregoing competitions, then the opponent will be selected from the runners-up of the foregoing competitions in that order.

5. QUALIFICATION OF PLAYERS

Players must be registered members of participating teams.

6. PLAYING RULES

(a) The match shall be played annually prior to the start of the regular season, unless otherwise determined by the Association.

(b) Should the match be tied at the end of regulation time, the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in according with the Laws of the Game as published by FIFA.

(d) The winner of the Charity Cup shall retain the replica trophy while the Charity Cup shall remain in the possession of the Association.

(e) The venue and time for the match shall be determined by the Executive Council.

(f) Match balls shall be provided by the Association.

(g) The Laws of the Game as issued by FIFA shall prevail in this competition.

7. FINANCE

(a) Admission charges to the game shall be determined each year by the Executive Council.

(b) After all expenses incurred in staging the match have been deducted from the gross gate receipts, then the net profits shall be dispersed equally as follows:

(i) One third to be donated to a registered charitable organization or community project of the Association's choice.

(ii) Two thirds to be utilized by the Association in accordance with the Object stated above in these regulations.

8. REFEREES

The Executive Council or the Referees Committee acting on its behalf shall appoint the match officials, but the services of such officials shall be gratis.

9. CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT

(a) The entire control and management of the match shall be vested in the Leagues and Cups Competition's Committee appointed annually by the President of the Association.

(b) The Leagues and Cups Competition's Committee shall have the power to disqualify any club, player/or players or officials who may be proved guilty of any breach of the Rules of the Association.

(c) All questions relating to the qualification of competitors, the interpretation of the rules or any dispute or protest arising out of the match shall be submitted to the Administrative Office within 48 hours of the completion of the match, and the decision of the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee in such matters shall be binding on the teams.

(d) The Executive Council may amend these rules from time to time, as they may deem expedient.

(e) Any matter not provided for in these regulations shall be decided by the Executive

Council.

COMPETITION RULES FOR THE COMMERCIAL DIVISION

1. NAME

The competition shall be comprised of the Commercial “A” and Commercial “B” Divisions.

2. TROPHIES

All trophies awarded to the Division Champions shall be property of the Bermuda Football Association.

3. MANAGEMENT

The control and management of the Commercial Divisions shall be vested in the Executive Council of the Association.

4. OPERATION

(a) Each Division shall operate by a League system with the team gaining the highest number of points at the conclusion of the League season shall be adjudged the winner. Three points shall be awarded for a win and one for a draw.

(b) In the event of two or more teams being equal on points for any positions at the conclusion of the League season then goal difference shall decide followed by the greatest number of goals scored. If a deadlock still persists then the head-to-head score between the teams concerned shall decide followed by goal difference between the teams concerned and finally by the greatest number of goals scored between the teams concerned.

5. MATCHES

All matches played in the Commercial League shall be played under the authority of the Association and in accordance with the Laws of the Game as published by the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The duration of matches shall be ninety minutes played in two equal periods.

6. GENERAL RULES FOR LEAGUE COMPETITION:-

Classification of Players

(a) Any club entering a team in the Commercial League shall be required to register a minimum of 16 players.

(b) No Club shall be permitted to enter two teams in the Commercial League unless permission is granted by the Executive Council.

7. TRANSFERS:

(a) Players shall register by filling in and signing the appropriate forms. Such registration shall remain in force for a minimum of three years or until such time as the player shall forward to the Administrative Office of the BFA the required Release Forms, in accordance with Rules 8 and 17 of the Qualification of Players.

8. TEAM RESPONSIBILITY

(a) At least a half hour prior to the scheduled start of any game, teams are required to present to the Referee a list of names, with proper registration numbers, up to a maximum of 16 players in the Commercial “A” and “B” Divisions, on the appropriate match form and signed by the Manager or Coach of the team, who also must lists his proper Officials registration number.

(b) Teams in the Commercial Division may use up to five (5) substitutes during the playing of the match. The substitutes however, must be included in the list presented to the referee.

(d) Home teams, or teams listed first on the fixture list, shall be responsible for the providing match balls.

(e) A minimum of seven (7) players is required to commence and / or continue playing a game. Failure of a team to field its strongest team is no cause for postponement of a game.

9. OFFICIALS

(a) Referees for the Commercial “A” and “B” League matches shall be appointed by the Referees' Committee, Director of Referees or other such body assigned by the Association to perform this function. Such Referees shall be required to furnish the match report, including goal-scorers and time of goals to the Administrative Office on the appropriate match form within 48 hours of the game being played. The full first and last name of players participating in the match including details of any incidents or injuries occurring during the match must be submitted with the Match Form. Club Referees and Assistant Referees may be used. Under no circumstances shall a match be postponed because the appointed Referee failed to show up.

The home team shall be responsible to ensure that a Match Report Form is completed and submitted to the Administrative Office within 48 hours. Failure to do so may result in sanctions against the home team.

Referee's Report has been forwarded in accordance with Rule 9 (a) of these Rules.

The Executive Council reserves the right to withhold payment of a Referees' fee for any match for which a Referee's Report has not been received.

(d) Any appeal involving the competency of the Referee shall be referred to the Association.

10. FIELDS

(a) All fields available for use in Commercial “A” and “B” Divisions shall be registered with the B.F.A.

11. FAILURE TO PLAY & ABANDONED MATCHES:

(a) Any club or team refusing to play or otherwise failing to play a scheduled match without the prior permission from the Association shall forfeit the game and the points shall be awarded to the opposing team and a score of 3-0 shall be recorded.

(b) If a game is abandoned due to the actions of players, members or fans of either team then the non-offending team shall be awarded the points and a score of 3-0 shall be recorded. The Executive Council or a committee working on its behalf may take any other action against the offending team that they may deem appropriate.

(d) In cases where a match is unable to be played, of which it has been decided that neither team is at fault then the match shall not be rescheduled and both teams shall be awarded one (1) point and a score of 1-1 shall be recorded.

12. ALTERATION OF RULES

The Executive Council shall have the power to alter or add to these rules, as it may from time to time deem expedient.

13. RULES BINDING ON MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS

(a) Each member shall be deemed to have given its assent to the foregoing rules and agreed to abide by the decisions of the Executive Council subject to Section 8(f) of The General Rules For Division Competition.

(b) In addition to the above, the operation of the Divisions shall be governed by the General Rules Governing League Competitions and such other Rules and Regulations of the Association as they apply.

(c) Any matters not provided for in these regulations shall be resolved by the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

COMPETITION RULES FOR COMMERCIAL “C” DIVISION

1. NAME

The competition shall be comprised of the Commercial “C” Division.

2. TROPHIES

All trophies awarded to the division champion shall be property of the Bermuda Football

Association.

3. MANAGEMENT

The control and management of the Commercial “C” Division shall be vested in the Executive Council of the Association.

4. OPERATION

(a) The Division shall operate by a League system with the team gaining the highest number of points at the conclusion of the League season shall be adjudged the winner. Three points shall be awarded for a win and one for a draw.

5. MATCHES

All matches played in the Commercial “C” Division shall be played under the authority of the Association and in accordance with the Laws of the Game as laid down by the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The duration of matches shall be ninety minutes played in two equal periods.

6. GENERAL RULES FOR LEAGUE COMPETITION:-

Classification of Players

(a) Any club entering a team in the Commercial “C” Division shall be required to register a minimum of 16 players.

(b) No Club shall be permitted to enter two teams in the Commercial “C” Division Leagues unless permission is granted by the Executive Council.

7. TRANSFERS & REGISTRATION:

(a) Players shall transfer and register by filling in and signing the appropriate forms in accordance with the applicable regulations. Such registration shall remain in force for a minimum of three years or until such time as the player shall forward to the Administrative Office of the BFA the required Transfer Forms, in accordance with Rules 8 and 17 of the Qualification of Players.

8. TEAM RESPONSIBILITY

(a) At least a half hour prior to the scheduled start of any game, teams are required to present to the Referee a list of names, with proper registration numbers, up to a maximum 18 players in the Commercial “C” Division, on the appropriate match form and signed by the Manager or Coach of the team, who also must lists his proper Officials registration number.

(b) Teams in the Commercial “C” Division may use up to seven (7) substitutes during the playing of the match. The substitutes however, must be included in the list presented to the referee.

(d) Home teams, or teams listed first on the fixture list, shall be responsible for the providing match balls.

(e) A minimum of seven (7) players is required to commence and / or continue playing a game. Failure of a team to field its strongest team is no cause for postponement of a game.

9. OFFICIALS

(a) Referees for the Commercial “C” League matches shall be appointed by the Referees' Committee, Director of Referees or other such body assigned by the Association to perform this function. Such Referees shall be required to furnish the match report, including goal-scorers and time of goals to the Administrative Office on the appropriate match form within 48 hours of the game being played. The full first and last name of players participating in the match including details of any incidents or injuries occurring during the match must be submitted with the Match Form. Club Referees and Assistant Referees may be used. Under no circumstances shall a match be postponed because the appointed Referee failed to show up.

(b) Games may be played without an officially appointed Referee from the Association provided that both team coaches agree to a responsible person taking over the refereeing duties, but no game shall be postponed because the assigned Referee failed to arrive to the game. In case, where there is no agreement, the home team shall be responsible for choosing the Referee to officiate the match. The home team shall be responsible to ensure that a Match Report Form is completed and submitted to the Administrative Office within 48 hours. Failure to do so may result in sanctions against the home team.

Referee's Report has been forwarded in accordance with Rule 9 (a) of these Rules.

The Executive Council reserves the right to withhold payment of a Referees' fee for any match for which a Referee's Report has not been received.

(d) Any appeal involving the competency of the Referee shall be referred to the Association.

10. FIELDS

(a) All fields available for use in the Commercial “C” Division shall be registered with the B.F.A.

11. FAILURE TO PLAY & ABANDONED MATCHES:

12. ALTERATION OF RULES

The Executive Council shall have the power to alter or add to these rules, as it may from time to time deem expedient.

13. RULES BINDING ON MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS

(c) Any matters not provided for in these regulations shall be resolved by the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cups Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

COMMERCIAL DIVISION

KNOCKOUT CUP COMPETITION

1. NAME

The competition shall be called the Commercial Division K.O. Cup and the Cup shall be the property of the Bermuda Football Association.

2. OBJECT

To provide a knockout competition for all teams participating in the Commercial League Divisions

3. ADMINISTRATION

The entire control and management of the competition shall be vested in the Executive Council or the Leagues and Cup Competitions Committee acting on its behalf.

4. PLAYERS

(a) Only players registered with a Commercial A, B or C Division team shall be eligible to participate in this competition.

(b) No player may play in this competition with more than one team during any season.

5. RULES OF THE COMPETITION

(a) Teams entering the competition must be registered by the registration deadline as set by the Executive Council.

(b) The competition shall be on a knockout basis, that is to say, the team that loses shall be eliminated from the Competition

(c) All games played in the competition shall be in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the Association and the Laws of the Game as published by FIFA.

(d) The duration of the match shall be ninety minutes, played in two equal periods.

(i) If at the end of regulation time the score is tied, then the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the Laws of Game as published by FIFA.

(ii) In the Final, should the score be tied after regulation time, then a half hour extra time shall be played in two equal periods. If at the end of extra time the score remains tied, then the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the Laws of Game as published by FIFA. Should poor light prevent the taking of kicks from the penalty mark then the winner shall be decided by the toss of a coin.

(e) (i) In all rounds prior to the final round, the first named team shall be the home team.

(ii) In all games, the home team shall provide the match balls.

(iii) Abandoned games shall be played in accordance with the General Rules for Divisional Competitions Article 2 (o) and (p).

(iv) In all rounds, the Leagues and Cup Competitions Committee shall decide the grounds upon which the matches shall be played and the kick-off times.

(v) Where the uniform colors of the two competing teams are similar, the home team shall be required to change.

6. OFFICIALS

The Association’s Referee Committee shall appoint all Match Officials. Should, for any reason, the Referee fail to turn up, the Home team shall choose a suitable individual to take officiate the match. However, under no circumstances shall the match be called off because the assigned Referee did not show up.

7. PROTESTS

Any protest must be made in writing and submitted to the Administrative Office of the Association within 48 hours of the match to which it relates. A fee of $30.00 must accompany all protest.

The Executive Council or Leagues and Cup Competitions Committee acting on its behalf shall decide upon any matters not specified in these regulations.