1 | P a g e

GAME DAY GUIDELINES

Ontario Player Development League (OPDL)

A Guide for OPDL Teams to Policies & Procedures On The Day Of League Play

May 2015

A single line in the left-hand margin indicates new changes to the document

2 | P a g e

INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................................... 4

SECTION I - PRE-GAME ........................................................................................................................................... 5

1.1 OPDL MATCH SCHEDULE & CENTRAL VENUES .............................................................................................................. 5

1.2 PRE-GAME BRIEFING ................................................................................................................................................ 6

1.3 CENTRAL VENUE INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................. 6

1.4 IN-CONFERENCE VENUE INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................ 8

1.5 GAME DAY PRESENTATION & DRESS ............................................................................................................................ 8

SECTION II - AT GAME VENUE ................................................................................................................................ 9

2.1 OPDL VENUE RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................................................................. 9

2.2 OPDL COORDINATORS ............................................................................................................................................ 10

2.3 VENUE ARRIVAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 10

2.4 CHANGE ROOMS .................................................................................................................................................... 10

2.5 DRINKING WATER SOURCES & CONCESSIONS .............................................................................................................. 11

2.6 SPECTATOR DESIGNATED AREAS ................................................................................................................................ 11

2.7 TEAM SPONSORS & BANNERS ................................................................................................................................... 11

2.8 PRE-GAME WARM UP ............................................................................................................................................ 12

2.9 GAME SHEETS & PLAYER REPORTING ......................................................................................................................... 12

2.10 MATCH OFFICIALS ................................................................................................................................................ 13

2.11 MATCH DELAYS & FORFEITS ................................................................................................................................... 13

2.12 OPDL TECHNICAL STAFF & SCOUTING PERSONNEL ..................................................................................................... 14

SECTION III - IN-GAME ......................................................................................................................................... 14

3.1 GAME LENGTH & HALF TIME .................................................................................................................................... 14

3.2 GAME TIME MANAGEMENT TEAM & TECHNICAL AREA ................................................................................................. 15

3.3 GAME RECORDING ................................................................................................................................................. 16

3.4 RETREAT LINE RULE ................................................................................................................................................ 16

3.5 FAIR PLAYING TIME ................................................................................................................................................. 17

3.6 SUBSTITUTIONS ...................................................................................................................................................... 17

3.7 MISCONDUCTS ....................................................................................................................................................... 18

3.8 SIDELINE CONDUCT ................................................................................................................................................. 18

3.9 MEDICAL SERVICES & GAME TIME PLAYER TREATMENT/INJURY ...................................................................................... 18

SECTION IV - POST GAME ..................................................................................................................................... 19

4.1 FOLLOWING FINAL WHISTLE ..................................................................................................................................... 19

4.2 COMPLETING GAME SHEETS ..................................................................................................................................... 19

4.3 OPDL COORDINATOR SIGN OFF ................................................................................................................................ 19

4.4 EVENT EVALUATIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 20

APPENDIX I - CENTRAL VENUE MAPS ................................................................................................................... 21

APPENDIX II - HOTEL/ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION ................................................................................... 22

APPENDIX III - OPDL CODE OF CONDUCT ............................................................................................................. 24

APPENDIX IV - OPDL SPONSORSHIP GUIDELINES ................................................................................................. 25

3 | P a g e

APPENDIX V - OPDL BRAND & LOGO GUIDELINES ................................................................................................ 27

4 | P a g e

INTRODUCTION Welcome to the inaugural season of the Ontario Player Development League, Ontario's first standards-

based youth high performance soccer league.

As you know, OPDL is different from how any other League in Ontario has operated before. It represents

an exciting new level of athlete development and match play in Ontario youth soccer. And with it comes

different responsibilities and expectations the League has of its clubs, and in turn the clubs can expect of

the League. OPDL will operate differently from Leagues you've experienced in the past, which means

that procedures on game day are in places different or brand new.

To that end, this document will inform you of what you need to know when managing your OPDL team

on game day. Please read it and follow the guidelines carefully each weekend when your team comes to

compete. It will help ensure the best soccer experience possible for all.

Glossary of Terms

'OPDL': Ontario Player Development League

'LTPD': Long Term Player Development

'OPDL round': One full weekend of OPDL games, totalling 22 across the entire 2015 season

'In-Conference': A game or round of play against opposition in the same Conference

'Interleague' A game or round of play gainst opposition from the opposite Conference

'Game day': The day on which OPDL league competition occurs (Saturday or Sundays)

'OPDL game': One fully completed game between two OPDL teams

'Game time': The period of time from the blowing of the whistle by the referee to commence

play to the blowing of the whistle to indicate fulltime

'OPDL team': A team of 14-18 players participating in the OPDL of one age group and gender

'Team management': The non-playing team of coaches, trainers and/or administrators who are be

in attendance and in the Technical Area on OPDL game day

'Playing kit': Team uniform worn by players to play OPDL games

'Equipment': All items used to supplement the field of play to facilitate the game to be played

(eg. goals, nets, corner flags, balls, scoreboards, etc)

'Player book': Identification booklet issued by OSA district bodies verifying a player's identity,

club, registration & playing status

5 | P a g e

SECTION I - PRE-GAME

1.1 OPDL Match Schedule & Central Venues

a) Each OPDL team will play 22 games in the 2015 season, from season kick-off on Saturday 9th

May 2015, through to its completion on Sunday 8th November 2015. In-conference games are

mostly played on Saturday, with some Sunday games. Interleague rounds are played on both

Saturdays and Sundays. The League has scheduled breaks on public holiday long weekends and

a mid-season rest break in July.

b) OPDL teams plays 14 in-conference games (playing each conference opponent one home and

once away) and also play 8 Interleague games.

c) The full schedule of matches for the 2015 season can be found under the OPDL section at

www.ontariosoccer.net.

d) In a given in-conference round, all OPDL teams play against the same opposing club on the same

day and location, on a home and away basis. This means in each conference, each in-conference

round has four games being played between two OPDL clubs, at the four locations of the home

clubs.

e) In a given Interleague round, teams from opposing conferences play simultaneously at

designated central venues. This enables OPDL technical staff, and later university and higher

level scouting personnel to monitor the development of OPDL players throughout the season.

f) OPDL is responsible for the booking and payment of all central venues for Interleague rounds,

together with the provision of necessary field and game equipment (goals, corner flags, balls,

etc), either directly or through the venue providers.

g) For in-conference rounds, the host club is responsible for permitting, booking and payment of

playing fields and helps the OPDL source local event management staff support for the dates

they are hosting. The OPDL maintains responsibility (and payment of) match officials, medical

support, event support and gaem equipment (excluding field equipment (goals, corner flags).

h) All venues that are used for OPDL (in-conference or interleague) are inspected and approved by

the OPDL. In selecting venues, the OPDL has taken into consideration playing surface

requirements and quality, geographical location, availability of support infrastructure (such as

change rooms, parking, etc) and facility availability/access. A list of approved OPDL venues can

be found in the Appendix of this document.

6 | P a g e

1.2 Pre-Game Briefing

a) The week of your weekend OPDL game, the OPDL will send you a briefing on the upcoming

League round, which you will receive by midday on the Wednesday before your game. In this

report, you will receive specific information about the upcoming game, including:

i. Confirmation of your venue, game time, opposition and required time of arrival

ii. The names of the referees assigned to your game

iii. Name and contact details for your OPDL Coordinator

iv. Assignment of a specific match field (all venues for 2014 are multi-field facilities)

v. Details on parking assignment locations

vi. Details on changing room allocation, or notification if change rooms are not available

vii. Briefing on any advance weather warnings or other game time contingencies

viii. Any other prudent information relating to your OPDL game event that weekend

b) If you have not received this briefing document by the afternoon of the Wednesday before your

game, please contact the OPDL.

1.3 Central Venue Information

Address Fields Park' Fee Change Rooms Notes

University of Western Ontario

1151 Richmond

St, London, ON

N6A 3K7

Huron East (turf) Alumni (turf)

Free Change rooms are located either in the nearby Stadium building or in nearby buildings about a 5min walk from the fields.

Western's turf fields are new and FIFA Star II. Floodlighting is available if needed. Parking is located close by the fields.

University of Guelph

50 Stone Rd E

Guelph, ON N1G

2W1

Gryphon Soccer Complex: East Field (turf) West Field (turf) South Field (grass)

Free Change rooms are located in the nearby Arena building or Field House.

Guelph's turf fields are FIFA Star II and directly adjacent to each other. Parking is located directly adjacent to the field complex.

McMaster University

1280 Main St W

Hamilton, ON L8S

4L8

Les Princes Field (Ron Joyce Stadium) (turf) Alumni Field (turf)

$3 daily Extensive change rooms are located close to the fields in Ron Joyce Stadium & Rec' Dept.

Parking is located close to both fields.

University of Toronto Mississauga

3359 Mississauga

Rd, Mississauga,

ON L5L 1C6

North Field (grass) South Field (grass)

$6 daily Change rooms are located in the RAWC Building a short walk from the South Field but a 10min walk to the North Field.

North and South Fields are about a 10min walk or a short drive away from each other. Parking is located beside each field.

7 | P a g e

The Soccer Centre 7601 Martin Grove Rd, Vaughan, ON L4L 9E4

Indoor (turf) Outdoor (turf)

Free Change rooms are located directly in the Soccer Centre, walking distance to both fields.

Both fields are beside each other with plenty of parking directly in front.

Cityview Park

Kerns Rd,

Burlington, ON

L7P 1P8

East Field (turf) West Field (turf)

Free No change rooms. Teams should arrive changed and ready for play.

Cityview Park is a brand new facility constructed for the 2015 Pan Am Games. There is ample parking but few other facilities (concessions, change rooms, field house, etc.)

Norton Park 4275 Dundas St (between Appleby & Walkers Lines), Burlington, ON

2 turf fields (unnamed)

Free No change rooms. Teams should arrive changed and ready for play.

Both fields are directly adjacent to one another, with a Recreation Centre beside them that provides support services (but not change rooms). Parking is field-side but in demand due to use from the Rec' Centre.

University of Toronto Scarborough 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, ON M1C 1A4

2 grass fields (unnamed)

Free Two change rooms exist. Teams should arrive changed and ready for play.

The fields are located behind U of T Scarborough's campus off Old Kingston Rd (continue down Military Trail past the campus and turn right.)

Whitby Soccer Centre

695 Rossland Rd

West, Whitby,

ON L1R 2P2

Rossland Nth (grass) Rossland Sth (grass) Turf field (unnamed)

Free Two change rooms exist. Teams should arrive changed and ready for play.

Whitby's turf field is brand new, opening in spring 2014. All fields are located adjacent to an indoor soccer dome housing change rooms & washrooms, ample parking.

Queens University Main Campus, 99 University Ave, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 West Campus, 948 Johnson St, Kingston, ON

Nixon Field, Main Campus (turf) Tindall Field, Main Campus (turf) West Campus Field, West Campus (turf) West/East Fields, West Campus (grass)

Some free above ground, but fees apply in underground parking at the Main Campus.

Change rooms at the West Campus are limited, but more plentiful at the Main Campus.

Queens' two field sites are not within walkable distance of each other (10min drive). Parking is located beside all fields in the Western Campus. Various parking options exist in the Main Campus, with a short walk to Nixon and Tindall Fields.

George Nelms Park

5565-71 Mitch

Owens Rd, Manotick,

ON K4M 1B2

Multiple grass fields (unnamed)

Free No change rooms. Teams should arrive changed and ready for play.

Limited parking exists at George Nelms Park, but extra capacity exists at the adjacent school grounds.

8 | P a g e

Carleton University

1125 Colonel By

Dr, Ottawa, ON

K1S 5B6

Keith Harris Stadium (turf) Raven Road Field (turf)

$3 daily Multiple change rooms in the Stadium Building, beside both fields.

Parking is located beside both fields. The fields are located a 2-3min walk from each other.

1.4 In-Conference Venue Information

Cityview Park

Burlington

Kerns Road, Burlington, ON L7P 1P8

Norton Park

Burlington

3040 Tim Dobbie Drive, Burlington, ON L7M 0M4

Vaughan Grove Sports Park

Vaughan

7401 Martin Grove Rd, Vaughan, ON L4L 9E4

McNaughton Field

Vaughan

1 Saint Joan of Arc Avenue, Maple, ON L6A 1W9

St Joan of Arc Field

Vaughan

1 Saint Joan of Arc Avenue, Maple, ON L6A 1W9

Maple CC Field

Vaughan

101 McNaughton Road, Vaughan, ON L6A 1R2

Bill Crothers Secondary School

Unionville

44 Main St, Unionville, ON L3R 2E4

Berczy Park

Unionville

356-382 The Bridle Walk, Unionville, ON

Mount Joy Soccer Field

Markham

6140 16th Avenue, Markham, ON

Brother Andre Secondary School

Markham

6141 16th Avenue, Markham, ON

Dufferin Clark Community Centre

Thornhill

1441 Clark Avenue West, Thornhill, ON L4K 1R6

Concord Thornhill Regional Park

Thornhill

299 Racco Parkway, Thornhill, ON L4K 1R8

Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park

Richmond Hill 1300 Elgin Mills Rd East, Richmond Hill, ON L4S 1M5

Kinsmen Park

Pickering

650 Sandy Beach Rd, Pickering, ON

Pickering Soccer Centre

Pickering

1975 Clements Road, Pickering, Ontario L1W 4C2

Whitby Soccer Centre

Whitby

695 Rossland Road West, Whitby, ON L1R 2P2

George Nelms Field

Manotick

5590 Mitch Owens Road City, Manotick, ON K4M 1B2

Richcraft Recreation Complex

Kanata

4101 Innovation Drive, Ottawa, ON, K2K 0J3

Ben Franklin Superdome

Nepean

191 Knoxdale Road, Nepean, ON K2G 3J1

Franco-Cit Field

Ottawa

623 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON

Hillcrest Field

Ottawa

1900 Dauphin Road, Ottawa, ON

Wesley Clover Field

Ottawa

401 Corkstown Rd, Ottawa, ON, K2K 2W2

1.5 Game Day Presentation & Dress

a) OPDL strives to instill a high performance culture in all participating personnel that extends to

dress, presentation and appearance. Teams must make every effort to present their players and

team management as professionally as possible.

b) During travel, teams should follow a consistent dress code (eg. team tracksuits) appropriate for

a high performance youth soccer team and identifying their club.

c) Teams should ensure players are equipped with clothes for inclement weather, if forecast.

9 | P a g e

d) Team management (including coaching staff) must be dressed in attire that clearly identifies

their club and management status. Full footwear is required at all times (no flip-flops/sandals).

e) Playing Kit Standards

i. All uniforms must be numbered.

ii. The home team must wear a light (white or close to) uniform and the away team must

wear a dark (non-white) uniform.

1. For interleague rounds, home teams are defined as those appearing first in

the OPDL match schedule. Please note that this may mean a team that is

playing at a local venue may not be deemed the 'home' team.

2. In the event that teams' playing kit is too similar in colour, the away team

may (at the discretion of the Match Official) be asked to change into their

alternate kit. Accordingly, teams deemed to be 'away' teams should bring

their alternate kit to all matches to cover such a contingency.

iii. The OPDL logo must be displayed on the left sleeve of all uniforms.

iv. Team sponsors are permitted on team jerseys at the OPDL club's discretion, except on

the left sleeve as per above.

v. If undergarments, undershorts or tights are worn, the colour of the sleeve/shorts must

be the same main colour as the sleeve of the outer jersey or shorts.

vi. All other equipment must be as per FIFA Laws of the Game

SECTION II - AT GAME VENUE

2.1 OPDL Venue Responsibilities

a) In-Conference Rounds

The host club assumes lead responsibilities for the running of game day operations, with

support from the OPDL. Specific host club and OPDL responsibilities at in-conference rounds are

outlined in the OPDL Hosting Guidelines document that is available to all OPDL clubs.

b) Interleague Rounds

For interleague rounds, OPDL assumes full responsibility for the running of game day operations

at central venues. This includes:

i. booking and payment of central venues, including any ancillary costs such as

floodlighting, scoreclock, PA system, etc

ii. provisional of match balls, provided by Umbro, the official game ball of the OPDL

iii. assignment and payment of all match officials

iv. rostering and payment of medical staff, who will be in attendance at all OPDL matches

v. rostering and payment of event support staff

vi. provision of provincial/regional technical oversight and player monitoring

10 | P a g e

2.2 OPDL Coordinators

a) For all of your OPDL matches, your team will be OPDL Coordinator assisted onsite by an OPDL

Coordinator, who will be there to assist you, your team and your supporter base while onsite at

a venue to play your game. This includes:

i. assistance with change room and field directions at the venue

ii. liaison with team needs during pre-game and warm-up

iii. assistance to the player benches during game time

iv. initial contact in the case of emergency of special incident

v. assistance with team as required post-game

2.3 Venue Arrival

a) Teams are required to be at the central venue at least one hour before game time. As there are

multiple games played on game day, it is imperative that you are not late as a delayed kick-off

impacts kick-off times for subsequent games.

b) In the event that you are travelling as a team and are unavoidably late, please contact your

OPDL Coordinator as soon as this becomes apparent and maintain constant contact with them

with regard to your expected time-of-arrival.

c) On arrival at the game venue, contact your OPDL Coordinator in-person and notify them of your

arrival. Your OPDL Coordinator will advise you of information related to change rooms (pending

availability), drinking water sources, video area and warm up field at the venue. These might

only be accessible to teams one hour prior to their scheduled game time.

d) Your OPDL Coordinator will also identify key locations at the central venue for you such as

concession sites and designated spectator areas.

e) Please note that the following is not permitted at OPDL venues:

I. pets of any kind

II. alcohol or tobacco

III. glass bottles or containers

IV. food (inside the field area)

2.4 Change Rooms

a) Some venues come equipped with change rooms, allowing your team to change for match play

at the venue, and shower and change after. Some venues have limited change rooms that may

require your players to come to their games changed and ready for play, but with change room

access after their game to shower and change. A few venues have no change rooms, requiring

players to come to and leave the venues in their playing kit.

11 | P a g e

b) You may be notified of change room status in the Pre-Game Briefing you receive earlier in the

week, so you can suitably notify your players and their parents.

c) When using change rooms, please ensure they are treated respectfully and left clean and

undamaged. Please also ensure valuable items are not left in change rooms, as neither the

central venue nor the OPDL will take responsibility for their loss or theft.

2.5 Drinking Water Sources & Concessions

a) All venues will have access to hydration, which you will be directed to by your OPDL Coordinator

on arrival. Teams are responsible for bringing their own water bottles and filling/replenishing

them as needed.

b) The availability of concessions varies at each venue. Options for the purchase of food and drink

items will be advised to you by your OPDL Coordinator on your arrival at the central venue.

c) Teams' support groups are permitted to bring food and non-alcoholic drinks with them for

consumption at games outside the field area. All related litter must be disposed of in litter bins

or taken away with you on vacating the venue.

d) OPDL teams except those from a host club at in-conference rounds may not operate concession

sales of any kind at OPDL events.

2.6 Spectator Designated Areas

a) Spectators may watch the games in designated areas only. Most venues come equipped with

spectator bleachers and/or seating of various capacities.

b) Spectators are not permitted to be located on the side of the field that the technical areas are

located and are not permitted to be in the technical areas at any time.

c) If spectators have any queries at any time during their visit at an OPDL venue, they should be

directed to the OPDL Coordinator.

2.7 Team Sponsors & Banners

a) Support groups for OPDL teams may bring general, non-sponsor banners of support for their

team at their discretion, on the grounds that they do not represent a threat to public safety

when erected or waved.

b) Each team may erect one (1) banner displaying a team sponsor located at their team bench no

largely than 4' x 8'. If your team plans to bring such a banner, please advise the OPDL of the

name of the sponsor to be placed on the banner at least two (2) weeks before its intended use.

12 | P a g e

This is required as some venues require approval of non-resident sponsor names to be displayed

as part of the rental agreements on their facilities.

c) Team sponsors logos may be displayed on team playing kit and apparel at teams' discretion in

accordance with OPDL Sponsorship Guidelines (see Appendix for detail) and must be pre-

approved by the League (as per Guidelines).

d) Use of the OPDL logo on banners and kit/apparel must be conducted in accordance with OPDL

Brand & Logo Guidelines (see Appendix for detail).

2.8 Pre-Game Warm Up

a) Each team shall be entitled to a concurrent warm-up period of twenty (20) minutes which shall

end strictly ten (10) minutes before kick-off.

b) The warm-up zone will be indicated to you on your arrival by your OPDL Coordinator and may be

separate from the designated field of play.

2.9 Game Sheets & Player Reporting

a) Game sheets will be available at the OPDL section of the OSA website for download and must be

completed by each team, with four copies made.

b) The game sheet must adhere to standards in the OPDL Operations Manual (section 3.10).

c) The game sheet should be completed appropriately, with all 18 eligible players properly listed

(both starting and bench) including the team's two designated goalkeepers.

d) Game sheets must be given to the OPDL Coordinator at least thirty (30) minutes before kick-off.

e) Team management must bring OSA player books for all players to be listed on the game sheet to

all OPDL games.

f) Without an OSA player book, a player is not eligible to take any part in an OPDL game.

g) Team failing to produce player books for any player listed on the game sheet as part of 2.9(f) will

be subject to disciplinary action under the OPDL Disciplinary Code

h) Player books are subject to inspection by the Match Officials at every game. Match Officials will

inspect players name and picture against the game sheet and report any inconsistency.

Inspection shall be made no later than ten (10) minutes before kick-off. Following inspection,

player books will be immediately returned to team management. A player cannot take any part

in the game until inspection is completed by a Match Official.

13 | P a g e

i) If a discrepancy in player eligibility is identified, it must be brought to the OPDL Coordinators

attention immediately and the team will be subject to disciplinary action under the OPDL

Disciplinary Code.

j) Upon completion of the game, all game sheet copies must be signed by the team

representative. One copy will be returned to each team.

k) On completion of the game, all copies of your substitution form should be returned to the OPDL

Coordinator, who will in turn give you one of the copies for your records.

2.10 Match Officials

a) All OPDL games shall be officiated be a referee and two assistant referees. All referees shall be

graded eight (8) or above. Assistant referees shall be graded six (6) or above.

b) Teams should adhere to Match Officials commands and request at all times, including requests

for game sheets, warm-up completion, game start and team bench vacation at game

completion.

c) OPDL Match Officials should be appropriately dressed in official referee uniform and come

prepared with flags, whistles and other means needed to officiate a game.

d) All Match Officials should be in attendance 45 (forty-five) minutes before each game and must

report immediately to the OPDL Coordinator on site upon arrival.

e) OPDL Match Officials will be mentored, developed and evaluated at OPDL games. OPDL team

feedback will be requested routinely after each game to assist with the evaluation of Officials.

Commitment and cooperation in consistently returning honest and fair feedback on OPDL

Officials is requested to ensure proper development outcomes.

f) Mentors must not be approached regarding any decision before, during or after the game.

2.11 Match Delays & Forfeits

a) As per the OPDL Operations Manual (section 3.11), a match may be delayed for up to one hour

before being deemed cancelled and duly forfeited. The declaration of a forfeited game is the

sole decision of the Match Official.

b) In the event of poor light, an unplayable field or insufficient player volume, the referee may at

their discretion terminate a game before the completion of the scheduled game length. A match

will be deemed completed if 75% or more of the game is completed, as per OPDL Operations

Manual (section 3.9).

14 | P a g e

c) When a significant delay in a match start occurs, OPDL event staff will endeavour to inform team

management for the teams of proceeding games as soon as possible.

d) When match delays occur, proceeding games will still be afforded appropriate warm-up, game

time and half time break as per usual, albeit with a delayed kick-off time.

e) Repeated late arrival at games from a team, particularly where it causes the delayed start and

finish of a game, is an offence that is assessed as part an OPDL club's annual Performance

Review and may result in disciplinary action from the OPDL in line with the review process.

2.12 OPDL Technical Staff & Scouting Personnel

a) OPDL's technical staff, as well as Ontario Soccer Association technical personnel will be in

attendance at all interleague games and random but routine in-conference games. Their role is

to monitor the incremental development of all OPDL players, in consultation with OPDL club

technical leadership. They are also present to assess and duly select OPDL players for invitation

to talent development centres. OPDL technical staff will be identifiable, dressed in appropriate

OSA/OPDL uniform.

b) OSA technical staff will also be in regular attendance at OPDL games to monitor the

development of OPDL referees and for coach development purposes.

c) OPDL/OSA technical staff are present at OPDL games in an observatory capacity only and should

not be approached at OPDL games by players' parents, coaches, or by the players themselves.

d) From time-to-time, other technical personnel from other high performance soccer organizations

(including the national team program) may also be in attendance at OPDL games.

e) At older age groups, scouting personnel from prospective adult soccer establishments (including

NCAA and CIS schools) are expected to routinely attend games to scout players.

SECTION III - IN-GAME

3.1 Game Length & Half Time

a) Game rules employed shall be those of FIFA except instances noted in the OPDL Development

Rules and the OPDL Operations Manual.

b) At U13 and U14 age groups, matches will be three periods of 30 minutes per period, with a 5

minute intermissions. The commencement of the intermission period commences when the

referee blows for the end of the first half.

15 | P a g e

a. A coin toss is not required for the start of the 3rd period and teams will attack the same

goal as in the 1st period. Kick-off is taken by the same team as in the 1st period.

c) The referee will indicate to teams when two minutes of intermission are remaining and players

are expected to be on the field ready for play one minute before the end of half time.

3.2 Game Time Management Team & Technical Area

a) The following team management personnel must be present at OPDL games during game time:

i. Team Head Coach

ii. Team Assistant Coach

iii. Team Manager

b) In the event that a Head Coach is sick or unable to attend a game for unavoidable reasons,

another National B level coach or the club's Technical Director should substitute in their place.

c) At least one (1) member of the management team who is not the Head Coach should have first

aid training, with the responsibility for managing the welfare of injured players (or other parties)

that do not require direct ambulatory care following initial treatment by OPDL medical

personnel at a game event.

d) Teams are also encouraged to have in attendance where possible the following:

i. Fitness coach

ii. Goalkeeper coach

e) The technical area shall be marked and shall not exceed 5 x 10 yd. The technical area extends

forward up to a distance of no more than one (1) metre from the touch line. Management of the

Technical Area is the responsibility of Match Officials.

f) Only coaches (Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Goalkeeper Coach), players and team

administrators registered with the team may be permitted in the technical area.

g) The team's coaching and management must remain within the confines of the technical area

except in special circumstances, e.g. entering the field of play, with the referees permission, to

assist in the assessment an injured player.

h) All players and other personnel in the technical area must have pinnies on that identify them as

not being active players in the game.

16 | P a g e

i) Only one person per team is authorised to convey tactical instructions to players at any one time

within the confines of the technical area during the match and must return to his/her position

after giving these instructions. Always acting in a responsible manner. All players on the

substitutes bench must remain seated on the bench at all times.

j) A player dismissed from the match may not continue to sit in the technical area. Dismissed

players shall remain in a designated area, properly identified by the OPDL Coordinator.

k) All coaches or administrators dismissed from the game are not permitted in the technical area

and must vacate the vicinity of the field.

3.3 Game Recording

a) OPDL will not be routinely video recording games. Video recording of OPDL games by OPDL

teams specifically for technical player analysis reasons is permitted, at the discretion of the

participating clubs.

b) It is the responsibility of the participating OPDL clubs to ensure that the appropriate waivers

have been secured from players' parents to undertake video recording of games. Verification of

such waivers should also be sought from the opposing team before a club undertakes recording

of any kind.

c) If you do intend to video your team's game, please notify your OPDL Coordinator on arrival.

They will direct you to the most appropriate location from which to record. Some venues have

specified areas on raised ground that are designed for match recording purposes. Others may

have a designated area that your Liaison will be able to advise you of.

d) Recording equipment must be in a safe location and may not obstruct the view or movement of,

or cause confusion for game officials. Recording equipment and its location must be approved

by the referee.

e) An OPDL team that decides to record a game is solely responsible for any cameras and

associated video recording equipment and property and neither the venue nor the OPDL is

responsible for this property's damage, loss or theft.

3.4 Retreat Line Rule

a) In order to maximize the effectiveness of the development of players in the OPDL, a unique

match rule has been implemented at U13 age group called the Retreat Line Rule. This rule has

been established to train young goalkeepers and defenders to restart the game from a goal kick

in an optimal manner, without prohibitive pressure from opposing attacking forwards.

17 | P a g e

b) When the Retreat Line is not enforced (U14 Games), retreat line field markings shall be

removed from the field by the OPDL Coordinator.

c) The rule is as follows:

i. A 'Retreat Line' is drawn 15 yards beyond the top of the penalty area and will either be

marked with different colour paint or with cones located on either side of the field.

ii. On goal kicks, the opposing team must position all of its players behind this line.

iii. The opposition is allowed to cross over this line once the ball has been released from

the goalkeepers hand/foot.

3.5 Fair Playing Time

a) OPDL is a high performance League, whereby the technical leadership at individual OPDL clubs

has the freedom to assign playing time to its players at their discretion.

b) OPDL clubs are required to implement a fair playing time policy. Furthermore, all substitutes on

game day should play a minimum twenty (20) minutes in that game. This is subject to the

discretion of OPDL club coaching staff, as it pertains to the health, safety and eligibility of the

individual player.

3.6 Substitutions

a) As per OPDL Operations Manual (section 3.6), a maximum of three (3) field player and one (1)

goalkeeper substitutions are permitted per game and no more than 3 players may be changed

during any one substitution.

a. Substitution of an injured player counts as one of the three allowed substitutions.

b. If the substituted injured player substitutes a player during the periods of play, it counts

as one of the three allowed substitutions.

c. If a team has exhausted all three substitutions and an injury occurs, the injured player

cannot be substituted until the next intermission. If injury occurs during the 3rd period,

team will play short until the end of the game.

b) Teams must keep substitution forms during the game. Form must be inspected by the OPDL

Coordinator upon request for substitution. Substitutions will not be permitted without

substitution cards.

c) Unlimited substitutions are permitted at intermissions, which do not apply to the three (3)

players that are able to be substituted during game time.

d) Substitutions can be made at any game stoppage.

18 | P a g e

3.7 Misconducts

a) For U13 divisions only, a player who has been sent off may be replaced by one of the named

substitutes listed on the game sheet.

b) All misconducts will be reviewed in accordance with the OPDL Disciplinary Code.

3.8 Sideline Conduct

a) As the OPDL is a development League, the appropriate behaviour and conduct of all spectators

and personnel watching the game is imperative to provide an environment conducive for

players to learn and grow.

b) All personnel must strictly follow the OPDL Code of Conduct (see Appendix for more detail).

OPDL clubs are directly responsible for the conduct of all personnel associated with their teams,

including players' parents and supporter groups.

c) It is the responsibility of all OPDL clubs to ensure all personnel associated with their teams are

advised of the OPDL Code of Conduct and agree to abide by it.

d) If there are instances of breach of OPDL Code of Conduct by a member of an OPDL club's

technical or supporter group, the club is expected to use whatever means it has at its disposal to

duly neutralize the breach and if necessary impose appropriate disciplinary measures on the

offending party.

e) Repeated breach of OPDL Code of Conduct by an OPDL club's teams will be taken into

consideration in the club's annual Performance Review and may result in disciplinary action

from the OPDL measures in line with the review process.

3.9 Medical Services & Game Time Player Treatment/Injury

a) A medical representative will be in attendance for all OPDL games and will be responsible for

assessment and management of game time injuries.

b) The medical representative will be the chief liaison agent in relation to Emergency Response

Management protocol, in conjunction with the central venue's EMS protocol.

c) OPDL medical representatives' responsibilities do not extend beyond game time injury

management. However, injury reports will be issued on request to the parents or Head Coach of

the team of an injured player, if appropriate waivers have been signed.

d) OPDL will be providing centralized sports medicine advice and League-wide assistance with

injury prevention and injury management measures as a support service to OPDL clubs.

19 | P a g e

e) Treatment and Health care Informed Consent Form for all players listed on the game sheet

along with any relevant medical information must be available at the venue on game day and

are subject to inspection by the Medical Staff. Failing to comply can result on disciplinary action

under the OPDL Disciplinary Code.

SECTION IV - POST GAME

4.1 Following Final Whistle

a) On completion of the game, as indicated by the referee's final whistle, players should vacate the

field of play as soon as possible to allow preparation for the proceeding game. No spectators

should come onto the field of play at any time after a game has been completed.

b) Team benches and technical areas should be cleared as soon as possible after final whistle, to

allow for preparation for the proceeding match participants. All belongings must be taken with

departing teams, and team benches and technical areas must be left clean and free of litter.

c) If change rooms are available, teams should return to their change room to shower and change.

Match debriefs should be held in team change rooms if they are available.

d) In the event of no change room availability, team debriefs should be in a location away from the

field of play. Your OPDL Coordinator will help identify such a location for you on request.

4.2 Completing Game Sheets

a) Game sheets are completed by the Match Official, with the following information recorded:

i. Goals (goal scorers with times)

ii. Substitutions (players in and out with times)

iii. Misconducts (with codes and times)

b) A member of team management from both OPDL teams must verify the game statistics and sign

the match report on site. Game sheets should be signed before leaving the field of play.

c) Game Sheets for U13 divisions returned to teams will not indicate any goals or goal scorers

d) Game sheets and substitution forms are filed directly with the OPDL by the OPDL Coordinator,

with copies given to both participating teams before they leave after the game.

4.3 OPDL Coordinator Sign Off

a) On leaving the central venue after completion of their game, OPDL team management should

contact the OPDL Coordinator and confirm their departure.

20 | P a g e

4.4 Event Evaluations

a) Shortly after your game, you will be emailed an event questionnaire that must be completed.

b) This questionnaire gathers important evaluation information from OPDL teams on venues,

referees, event staff, technical staff and other matters that contribute to the development of a

strong game day experience for all involved in the OPDL. Its completion is essential for the OPDL

to continuously drive high quality levels in its League operations.

c) The questionnaire should be completed by a member of the team's management group who

was in attendance for the full game experience being surveyed.

d) The team representative completing the survey should canvass necessary feedback from

players, parents and other members of their management and support group in order to

properly complete the questionnaire.

e) You will receive the same standardized questionnaire after each round of League play.

Questionnaires should be completed by the Friday following your match, ahead of your next

game the following day.

21 | P a g e

APPENDIX I - CENTRAL VENUE MAPS Maps, together with street directions and other venue information is available online on the websites of

central venue holders, as follows:

University of Guelph (Guelph)

The fields are located at the northeast end of the University campus. Enter from Stone Rd E, north onto

South Ring Rd E, where the fields are clearly visible. Directions and parking details can be found here. A

campus map can be found here (the fields are the green space located immediately northeast of the

Gryphon Sports Centre.)

McMaster University (Hamilton)

Directions to McMaster University can be found here. Playing fields are located at the extreme NE of the

campus, as indicated in the campus map you can access here.

University of Toronto (Mississauga Campus)

Directions and a campus map are located here. Please note that the North and South Fields are at least a

ten minute walk away from each other. Parking is located at both fields.

The map below also indicates field location. The red arrow points to the main athletics department

where change rooms are located.

University of Toronto (Scarborough Campus)

General directions to University of Toronto's Scarborough campus can be found here, although should

be noted that fields are located at the extreme south of the campus, as indicated in the campus map

here. Fields are accessed from Old Kingston Rd. If coming from the 401, continue down Military Trail

past the main University campus and turn right on Old Kingston Rd, and right again into the grounds.

22 | P a g e

Queens University (Kingston)

The fields being used at Queens University are located across its two campuses (West Campus and Main

Campus) that are located about a ten minute drive apart from each other. Information on the fields that

are being used is located here.

Main Campus

Tindall Field and Nixon Field are located at the Main Campus. Directions to the fields, including links to

maps, can be found here.

West Campus

West Campus Field and the grass fields being used are located at the West Campus, about a 10 minute

drive to the west of the Main Campus in Kingston. West Campus Field is located just north of Richardson

Stadium (not being used by OPDL), with the grass fields located directly to its south. Directions, including

a link to a map, can be found here.

Carleton University (Ottawa)

Directions to Carleton University can be found here.

Fields are located at the east end of the campus, as per the campus map found here. The fields are the

Keith Harris Stadium and a new field currently being constructed that is simply named 'Playing Field' on

the map. Fields are located within a short walk of each other, separated by a parking lot.

APPENDIX II - HOTEL/ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION Whilst it is in no way expected, it is acknowledged that OPDL teams may require overnight

accommodation for some OPDL rounds, as will players selected for Regional Talent Centres.

Intercontinental Hotels Group (including Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express) is the Ontario Soccer

Association's official hotel partner. Preferred pricing for OPDL teams at IHG hotels will be provided in

Pre-Game Briefings to teams. Also, OPDL venues have provided the following nearby options for

accommodation which teams may avail of directly at their discretion.

University of Guelph (Guelph)

The Holiday Inn, 601 Scottsdale Drive, Guelph, ON N1G 3E7, Tel: (519) 836 0231

Staybridge Suites, 11 Corporate Court, Guelph, ON N1G 5G5, Tel: (519) 767 3300

Comfort Inn, 480 Silvercreek Parkway, Guelph, ON N1H 7R5, Tel: (519) 763 1900

Best Western, 716 Gordon St, Guelph, ON N1G 1Y6, Tel: (519) 836 1240

Delta Hotel, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 0A9, Tel: (510) 780 3700

23 | P a g e

McMaster University (Hamilton)

On-Campus Catering & Accommodation

McMaster University offers on-campus overnighting and catering options that can be tailored to

suit your team's needs.

o Contact: Laurie Ham, Manager of Conference & Event Services, at haml@mcmaster.ca

or (905) 525 9140 ext. 24783

Crowne Plaza Hamilton, 150 King Street East, Hamilton, ON L8N 1B2

o Contact: Steve Sinkarcuk, Sales Manager (Steve.sinkarcuk@concordhotels.com)

University of Toronto (Mississauga Campus)

Holiday Inn Mississauga, 2125 Nrth Sheridan Way, Mississauga, ON L5K 1A3, Tel: (905) 855 5940

o Contact: Miranda Phillips, Sales Manager (holidayinnsales@norsham.com)

University of Toronto (Scarborough Campus)

On-Campus Catering & Accommodation

University of Toronto Scarborough offers an on-campus bed and breakfast service conveniently

located within minutes of the playing fields with an athletic group price rate that is very

competitive. Dinner options are also available.

o Contact Frank Villiv, Supervisor, Conferences & Events, Retail & Conference Services,

University of Toronto Scarborough at 416-208-2989 for further information.

Delta Toronto East, 2035 Kennedy Rd, Toronto, ON M1T 3G2, Tel: (416) 754 6943

Complimentary parking for overnight guests (savings of $12/day), coach's amenities upon

arrival, free WIFI in all guestrooms & common areas, post-game special menus and team

function space, complimentary URL for individual reservations

o Contact: Leila Emami, Sales Manager (leila.emami@deltahotels.com)

Queens University (Kingston)

Ambassador Conference Resort, 1550 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7M 9E3, Tel: (613) 561 6679

o Contact: Erin Finucan, Director of Sales (efinucan@ambassadorhotel.com)

Comfort Inn, 55 Warne Crescent, Kingston, ON K7K 6Z5, Tel: (613) 546 9500

Days Inn & Conference Centre, 33 Benson St, Kingston, ON K7K 5W2, Tel: (613) 546 3661

Peachtree Inn, 1187 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7M 3E1, Tel: 1800 705 0698

Carleton University (Ottawa)

Holiday Inn & Suites Ottawa Downtown, 111 Cooper St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2E3, Tel: (613) 238

0772 (x1337) www.hiottawa.ca/athletics

o Contact: William Allen, Sales Exec', Corporate & Athletics (william.allen@hiottawa.ca)

24 | P a g e

APPENDIX III - OPDL CODE OF CONDUCT General

The OPDL endeavours to provide a unique and challenging program that strives to provide the best

possible environment for elite player development. To that end, the OPDL enforces a strict Code of

Conduct for the behaviour that all individuals involved in or around the OPDL are expected to follow.

Team Official Conduct

Be respectful of the referee and your opponents

Refrain from using foul or abusive language

Limit the amount of coaching done from the sidelines to only when necessary

Keep your players and fans under control

Remember that the score of the game is secondary to the opportunity for your players to

demonstrate and improve their game

Present a professional example to your players before, during and after competitions

Coaches must adhere to any rules set out by the OSA and OPDL and associated policies and

guidelines.

All coaching/team officials must demonstrate responsible behavior in all training environments.

The use of tobacco, consumption or possession of alcohol and illegal substances is not

supported and may not be consumed while performing official License Holder/organization

duties in the presence of minors.

All OPDL Coaches agree to sign an OPDL Code of Conduct agreement.

Player Conduct

Be respectful of the referee and your opponents

Refrain from using foul or abusive language

Remember that you are here to provide a strong performance, and that the result of the match

is secondary to its benefit as a development tool.

All players must demonstrate responsible behavior within all training environments.

All OPDL players must agree to sign an OPDL Code of Conduct agreement.

Fan/Spectator Conduct

Be respectful of the referee and the teams on the field

Refrain from using foul or abusive language

Keep comments positive.

Refrain from coaching from the sidelines

Remember that you are here to support your child, not win a game where achieving a result is

not the primary objective.

Keep in mind that your attendance at OPDL events is a privilege, not a right, and that the

organization will be held responsible for the behaviour of its fans

25 | P a g e

APPENDIX IV - OPDL SPONSORSHIP GUIDELINES 1. The OSA expressly recognizes the License Holders right to enter into sponsorship contracts,

endorsements and business relationships subject always to the conditions and limitations set out

below. The License Holder hereby:

a. Consents to the OSA using, reproducing and distributing without charge, on a worldwide basis,

in any format or media (including, but not limited to, photo, video, etc.) the License Holders

name, logo or other identifiable attribute which can be linked to the License Holder (collectively

referred to as License Holders Attributes) to promote the OPDL and the OPDL website, media

guide, media kit, sponsorship, licensing, advertising, public relations, and marketing programs

(collectively referred to as the Marketing Programs). This consent will remain in effect for the

duration of the Term and for a period of two years thereafter.

b. Undertakes not to enter into any contract or sponsorship venture related to the OPDL without

first obtaining the OSAs consent. This consent will be evidenced by the execution of a written

agreement between the OSA and the License Holder. The OSA may not grant its consent if the

proposed contract or venture conflicts, in the sole opinion of the OSA, with contracts that are,

or may be, entered into by the OSA as part of the OPDLs Marketing Programs. This consent will

not be unreasonable withheld or delayed.

c. Warrants that the License Holder has not granted and will not grant to any person or entity

during the term of this Agreement an exclusive license to use the License Holders Attributes,

which would conflict with this Agreement and/or with the License Holders participation in

OPDLs Marketing Programs.

d. Releases and saves harmless the OSA from any and all claims that the License Holder may have

against the OSA, now or in the future, arising from the use by the OSA of promotional material

utilizing the License Holders Attributes.

League Sponsors

The OSA reserves the right to enter into agreements with league sponsors. As an extension of those

partnerships, the OSA may make offers to OPDL members to join in the partnership. Such partnerships

will have mutual benefits and returns to both the OSA and OPDL License Holders, which will vary from

partnership to partnership.

Organizations may choose to opt into these relationships and final decisions on participation must be

made by December 15th during the year prior to the start of the season. It is agreed and understood

that League Sponsors may be competitors to one or more of the sponsors of OPDL License Holders.

26 | P a g e

Exclusive Sponsors/Categories

The OSA may enter into exclusive sponsorships with companies and would require that no

competing sponsor representation be featured on match days.

Match Day Sponsor Rights

All match venue signage for OPDL games is the property of the OSA and will be sold and fulfilled

in OPDL sponsorships accordingly.

Match day concession rights are the property of the OSA and will be sold and fulfilled in OPDL

sponsorships accordingly.

OPDL championship merchandise/off pitch OPDL apparel will be offered by the OSA and may

not be manufactured/branded by OPDL License Holders or License Holder suppliers, without the

expressed written permission of the OSA.

Team Sponsors

OPDL License Holders may source and secure sponsors for their OPDL teams as they see fit and

retain the royalties, revenues and benefits such sponsorship agreements offer.

License Holders may not accept sponsorship from tobacco or alcohol companies or any

organization that promotes discriminatory practices, illegal activities or gambling.

License Holders may bring with them for display a team banner bearing sponsors logos that can

be no larger than (4x8) for display behind the team bench.

License Holders may sell the front of their team jersey to team sponsors. Logos may be no more

than 7 high x 10 1/2 wide and may appear on the front of the jersey only and must be pre-

approved by the OSA. The left sleeve of all game jerseys are reserved for the OPDL patch. The

right sleeve patch may be sold by the License Holder to a sponsor. The size must be 3 in

diameter or smaller and must be approved by the OSA.

27 | P a g e

APPENDIX V - OPDL BRAND & LOGO GUIDELINES 1. The OPDLs (or any future named leagues) marks and logos may not be altered in any way,

specifically around colours, proportions, font, and any other manner without the express

written consent of the OSA.

2. The OSA may change or update these marks and logos at any time and will provide adequate

notice for OPDL member groups to update their materials.

3. License Holders are encouraged to use the OPDL member logo on their website and official

correspondence but may not alter the marks and incorporate them directly into that of the

License Holder.

4. An OPDL patch will be provided prior to the start of the season and must be worn on the left

sleeve of game jerseys for all players (including bench players) and coaching/management

personnel. A License Holder may choose to adhere patches in the same manner to their practice

jerseys but this is not required.