Player Fines, Protests, Hearings

Fine, Suspension and Protest Rules

League Hearing Procedures

In the case where the league must suspend a player, coach, or team, a hearing may be held to make a decision or series of decisions as required. Hearings may also be called for by the league to handle team or game protests, in season rule changes, etc. The league may decide that some hearings may be decided by ranked vote of the panel.

A volunteer panel of five people will be asked to serve. Four coaches from a division not related to the issue (one coach is an alternate), one outside disinterested person appointed by the league, and one referee.

Roles: One of the coaches shall lead the panel. The referee or the disinterested party may NOT lead the panel. Each volunteer will receive 1 vote. All five panel members must vote.

Scope: The panel shall answer all of the questions asked by the league. If there is a request for a decision outside the stated scope provided, the panel must receive permission from the league.

Procedures: The group may meet and vote by email, phone, text, video, or live.

Meeting 1: Review and discuss the questions posed by the league. Assign a volunteer to collect more information, interview players, coaches, spectators, or witnesses as appropriate and needed.

Meeting 2: Discuss any new information, ask the league any questions about policy, US Soccer Rules, and precedents. Come to a decision if possible. Assign someone to give the league a written decision.

Updated 3/10/2026