Hello Upward fans!

As we approach Game 4 this Saturday, we have alerted the coaches and players of several changes that will be

implemented for the rest of the season. I want to share them with you to keep you informed of the details.

1. Jersey numbers must be visible during gameplay. If additional clothing (long sleeves) is required, please have your

player wear the jersey on the outside layer. Referees must be able to identify the team and number your player

represents.

2. Throw-ins must conform to regulation standards: Both feet on the ground behind the line, both hands on ball, ball

thrown over head. There will no longer be re-tries for bad throw-ins. A bad throw-in will result in a possession change.

3. Primary and Upper Teams must switch sides after halftime.

4. If the referee perceives a danger to the child, gameplay will stop when a player is on the ground. Gameplay will

resume with a drop-ball.

5. Primary and Upper Teams will conform to "Off-sides" regulation standards. Although this is not an Upward

recommendation, the commissioners have agreed to adopt this rule at Cornerstone.

6. Coaches must remain on the sidelines and may not enter the playing field during game play. We recommend one

coach manage the sideline and the other, the backfield.

7. Standard roster rotation must be observed. This is to balance playing time for all players throughout the season.

Coaches are given latitude as to positional rotations, but efforts must be made to ensure equal playing time for all.

We understand that Upward is often the first experience many players AND coaches have with organized soccer. The

commissioners elected to ease into these rules to allow the players to gradually acclimate to this standard of play. We

feel that after the first three games, it's time to "play by the rules."

The most important rule that we must follow is to acknowledge the Upward mission statement which is "to introduce

children to Jesus Christ by creating opportunities to serve through sports." I assure you that my goal as your League

Director this year is primarily to meet that mission for the glory of God alone. Additionally I hope this program provides

an opportunity for family FUN and FELLOWSHIP.

If you have any questions about the changes we have implemented, please reach out to your coach, a referee, Kriag

Brugger or me.

Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of such a great program.

In His Service,