Definition and General Policy

In all Recreational divisions of play, sliding tackles are not to be allowed.  A sliding tackle is to be defined as an intentional sliding play with an opposing player within playing distance.  Players are to be allowed to slide to play the ball in all other situations.

Procedures for Younger Players (U8 and under)

For pre-k, U6, and U8, the offending player is to be reminded of the rule and encouraged to stay on their feet.

Procedure for Older Players (U10 and older)

For U10, U12, and U14, the following procedures are to be followed by the referee:

• A sliding tackle itself is not a foul according to Law 12 and need not cause a stoppage of play.
• The first sliding tackle from either team is to result in both teams and both benches receiving a warning and reminder of the policy.
• Following that initial warning, any further sliding tackles are considered unsporting behavior and as such is a cautionable offense under Law 12.
• As with other offenses, advantage may be applied for sliding tackles.
• The result of the play determines the decision to stop play and the appropriate restart:
• If the player commits a foul in attempting a sliding tackle, the foul is called and the result is a direct free kick.  If advantage is applied the appropriate warning or caution must be enforced at the next stoppage.
• If the play results in a more serious offense (reckless or with excessive force), the more serious offense should be enforced.  If the play itself is a cautionable offense the sliding tackle is not cautioned separately.
• If no foul was committed and the attacking player was dispossessed by the sliding tackle, play should be stopped and the resulting restart is an indirect free kick for the attacking team after the appropriate warning or caution.  Advantage may be applied in this case even though no foul was committed and the appropriate warning or caution enforced at the next stoppage.
• If no foul was committed and the attacking player retained possession, the referee can decide to allow play to continue or to stop play and restart with an indirect free kick.  If play is allowed to continue the appropriate warning or caution is to be enforced at the next stoppage.