VYS Blowout Policy

Purpose: to prevent excessively lopsided matches and ensure a positive experience for all players involved.

When It Applies:

• First Half: If the score differential is 5 goals or more travel teams, 4 goals or more for recreation teams.
  
  

• Second Half: If the score differential is 7 goals or more. For travel teams, 6 goals or more for recreation teams.

Key Responsibilities

Coaches Must:

• Notify each other and the referee when the Blowout Protocol is triggered.
  
  

• Agree to and implement modified play.
  
  

• Report any blowout scores to the VYS Executive Board for further discussion with coaches 

Referee's Role:

• Allow modified play but not enforce it.
  
  

• Document whether the protocol was followed if requested by coaches.

Required Actions During Blowout Protocol:

Teams must take one or more of the following steps (not ranked or exhaustive):

• Play shorthanded, even multiple players short.
  
  

• Let the opposing team add players.
  
  

• Play players out of position.
  
  

• Limit to 5–10 touches before a shot.
  
  

• Use a 2-touch maximum per player.
  
  

• Require 5+ passes before going forward.
  
  

• All players must touch the ball before advancing.
  
  

• Place the top scorer in goal.
  
  

• Swap forwards and defenders.
  
  

• Limit to 2–3 attackers past midfield.
  
  

• Goalkeepers cannot use hands except for saves.
  
  

• Goalkeepers may only hand-feed balls into their own half.
  
  

Goal: Maintain balance while still challenging both teams.

Additional Note for VYS In-House Recreational Teams:

Recreational and competitive youth soccer should always prioritize:

• Player development
  
  

• Fun and enjoyment
  
  

• Creativity and learning through the game
  
  

Lopsided games can discourage players and hurt the experience. The Blowout Protocol ensures matches remain balanced, challenging, and positive for everyone.

• These teams are required to follow the Blowout Protocol.
  
  

• If teams are clearly imbalanced, consider swapping players between teams for better competition.

Additional Note for VYS Travel Teams:

To ensure every player has a positive, fair, and developmentally appropriate experience, especially in games with a large goal difference. This policy encourages coaches to promote sportsmanship, maintain competitive balance, and support player growth and enjoyment.

• Failure to follow the Blowout Policy may result in penalties and negatively affect your standings in MCYSA.

This policy is not about punishment or restricting players—it's about respect, sportsmanship, and learning through meaningful play. Coaches are leaders in setting the tone for a positive soccer culture.