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Youth SoccerThough the National Federation of State High School Associations creates many of the rules that govern high school sports, including soccer, the state of Colorado has adopted a few specific rules of their own. These rules don't actually alter the way the game is played, but rather aim to cut down on any confusion or tension that may result from unclear by-laws in the national rules. This allows high school matches in Colorado to begin quickly and flow smoothly.
Officials
Colorado has adopted precise rules regarding the referees and their duties. They must arrive at the field fully dressed in their uniforms at least 30 minutes prior to the game commencing. The state has chosen to adopt two different whistle systems, which are agreed upon by the leagues before the season begins. The dual system of control allows two referees to reside over the match, while the double dual system of control allows three whistled referees and two side referees to watch over the match.
Mercy Rule
The mercy rule refers to those matches where one team has gained such a significant lead throughout the game that it is nearly impossible for the other team to catch up or have a fighting shot at winning. To be fair to both teams, however, the State of Colorado requires the referee to ask both teams' coaches whether they would want to enforce the mercy rule should one team take a commanding lead. Both coaches must agree on whether or not this rule will be implemented before the game can begin. Note, however, that some high school leagues decide in favor or against the mercy rule before the season begins. In these cases the rule cannot be revised, even before a game begins.
Inappropriate Behavior
Unlike many other state's high school soccer regulations, Colorado high school referees do not report any yellow card violations directly to its governing body, the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA). Though a yellow card violation may result in a direct or indirect penalty kick for the other team, the only time the CHSAA is notified of on-field violations is if a player receives a red card and is therefore ejected from the game.
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