TORSO Match Procedures

Special Note: TORSO stresses that matches must start at their scheduled times. Referees should follow these established guidelines regarding match times

If the match starts after the scheduled start time, referees are to reduce each half by the amount of time needed to complete the match at the originally scheduled end time
Teams must field minimum players within 15 minutes of scheduled match time or forfeit the match

TORSO Semi-Finals - Playoff Format & Tie Breaker Procedures

Matches will consist of two 45 minute halves.
Matches cannot end in a tie.
If a semi-final match ends in a tie, the winner will be decided by going directly to Kicks from the Penalty Mark with the following exceptions:
   - Each goal counts as 1 regardless of gender.
   - Teams must start and continue each kicking round by alternating gender of the kickers.
   - No two male players may kick in succession unless there is an insufficient number of women to complete a shooting round by alternating gender.

TORSO Finals - Playoff Format & Tie Breaker Procedures

Matches will consist of two 45 minute halves.
Matches cannot end in a tie.
If a finals match ends in a tie, teams will play two 10 minute extra time periods after a 5 minute break. A two minute break is given between extra time periods. Both extra time periods must be played i.e. no golden goal.
If the match remains a tie, the winner will be decided by Kicks from the Penalty Mark with the following exceptions:
   - Each goal counts as 1 regardless of gender.
   - Teams must start and continue each kicking round by alternating gender of the kickers.
   - No two male players may kick in succession unless there is an insufficient number of women to complete a shooting round by alternating gender.

Procedure Overview

Referees that are assigned to officiate TORSO games should use these game procedures to help manage the competition fairly, efficiently, and professionally. Because TORSO is a recreational league that uses fields throughout the Houston and Harris County area, referees may encounter many unique situations during the season. Common sense, along with abiding by the laws and spirit of the game, should be used when officiating.

Referees may request to be considered for assignments by contacting the TORSO referee assignor. The assignor will work with you on specific match assignments based on experience and availability. Once you accept a match assignment from the assignor, it is your responsibility to show up to the match on time, with proper attire, and the right frame of mind to officiate in a professional and fair manner.

Before Leaving for a Match

Call the TORSO weather hotline 832-487-8786 BEFORE going to the fields. The hotline is updated at 11am each playing Sunday during the TORSO season. It is TORSO's policy that referees will not be paid match fees if the fields have been closed for any reason and reported as such on the TORSO weather hotline. If the weather hotline indicates that the field is open, the referee should still determine the playability of the field unless they are otherwise contacted. After arriving at the field, if the referee terminates the match for safety reasons, they will receive the full game fee.

Match Duration

All TORSO matches are full 90 minute games comprised of 2 - 45 minute halves. A 10 minute halftime interval is provided. If both teams agree before the match, water breaks may be given during each half without adding stoppage time.

Approved Referee Systems

TORSO abides by USSF policy and assigns only 3-referee crews or single center referees. Dual or 2-center referee systems of control are not to be used in TORSO matches. Matches that have only 2 referees assigned to them should use a center referee and a single assistant referee - no dual center referee systems should be used. The use of club linesmen is an option if a second assistant referee is required.

Preparing for a Match

Referees should make sure that they are mentally and physically prepared for each match. When assigned multiple matches in one day, make sure that you are properly hydrated and physically fit enough to maintain standards of a professional USSF referee.

Arriving at the Field

It is recommended that you arrive at the field at least one half hour before the first match begins. This will give you time to warm up, inspect the field, and prepare for the administrative duties of the match.

Note: Referees are reminded that after field inspection, you have the ability to cancel a match due to the field being unplayable due to weather or other factors.

Pre-Match Meeting

Referees are strongly encouraged to have a pre-match meeting with their assistant referees so that the referee crew can act as a team. Referees should understand the experience and fitness level of their assistant referees and assure that coverage assignments and communication methods are clear. It is also advisable to take time to talk with the team managers and cover pre-match areas that might become issues.

Check Player Cards and Official Roster

As stated in the Exceptions to the Laws section, the referee must check player cards before the match begins. All players on the roster must have a player card or other picture ID in order to participate. Teams are expected to provide the referee a completed and printed game sheet at least 15 minutes prior to the match start time. Player names must be pre-printed (via Demosphere) on the game sheet. Numbers for players must also be completed but can be written before the match. Please be sure to remind the team managers of this procedure during your pregame meeting with them.

Managing the Match

In addition to normal game management techniques, keep in mind that TORSO is a diverse, adult, co-ed soccer league. Many different cultures, ages, and experience levels may be on the field at any one time. Addressing overly aggressive play between male and female players and other risky behavior in a respectful manner early in the match will often prevent escalation of issues on the field. Taking a few seconds to explain a call or listening to players will help you develop a good rapport with the players and increase acceptance of your calls. Always treat players and your referee crew with respect and you should expect the same level of respect from the players towards you and your crew.

Do not negotiate bookings. Unless you made an error in issuing a card, submit all bookings in the official match report.

Completing the Match Sheets

Be sure that the match sheets are completed fully with the final score, cards, injuries, and field conditions being recorded. The online game report will ask for both player number and player name for both goals and cautions / send-offs. Please be sure to make note of these before the end of the match.

Verify Match Results and Submit Results Online

Be sure to verify the match results with each team manager BEFORE leaving the field. Make sure the score, players names, numbers, and all bookings are accurate. Any misconduct resulting in a send-off must have specific details submitted via the online match report. Referees must complete the online match report on the TORSO web site. The referee and TORSO team managers will be sent a copy of the game report via email.