Introduction

The BCS Soccer League is a recreational league where the enjoyment of the game is the main goal. However, every team, across all divisions, competes earnestly to win their matches and play their best soccer. This makes all divisions inherently competitive to some degree. The league offers up to five tiers of 7-a-side soccer (D2, D3, D4, D5, and D6). Availability of these levels may vary, particularly during the summer seasons.

D2 Division Guidelines (previously D3):

Division 2 is the highest level of competition, designed for teams and players who are highly skilled and seek a challenging, competitive environment.

Expectations for Division 2 Players:

• Players are permitted to participate in Division 3 as well, provided they strictly adhere to the rules and expectations of that division.
• While Division 2 is intensely competitive, players are expected to exhibit sportsmanship and respect towards all participants.
• As the top competition level, Division 2 will involve the most physical contact, consistent with the advanced skill level of its participants. Slide tackles are not allowed in Division 2, in line with all 7-a-side divisions, to prioritize player safety and maintain a fair, competitive atmosphere.

D3 Division Guidelines (previously D4):

Division 3 is the second-highest level of competition, designed for teams with solid skills and a competitive mindset. There are no specific "focus class" player requirements in this division, allowing for a broader mix of players based solely on ability and team strategy.

Expectations for Division 3 Players:

• Players are allowed to participate in both Division 2 and Division 4, provided they adhere to the specific rules and expectations of each division.
• While Division 3 is competitive, players are expected to maintain good sportsmanship and respect the varying skill levels within the division.
• As the second-highest competition level, Division 3 will feature moderate physical contact, appropriate for the skill level of its participants. Slide tackles are not permitted in Division 3, as is the case with all 7-a-side divisions, to ensure player safety and maintain a fair and enjoyable playing environment.

D4 Division Guidelines (previously D5):

The D4 division is designed for recreational play, emphasizing fun and inclusivity, particularly for players who are new to soccer or those who are older. Teams must have at least two "focus class" players on the field at all times. The "focus class" includes men aged 40 and older and women of any age. This rule aims to reduce the intensity of play and maintain a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Expectations for Division 4 Players:

• Players in Division 4 may also be on Division 3 or Division 5 rosters, but they must adhere to the recreational spirit of each additional division.
• Players from other divisions should not dominate play or aim to be the top scorer in Division 4. This division is for fun, and high levels of competitiveness are discouraged.
• Division 4 games are not professional tryouts; players should focus on enjoying the game rather than scoring excessively.
• As teams in Division 4 improve in skill and chemistry, they are encouraged to consider moving up to Division 4. The league will assist in creating a transition plan, allowing teams to play against both Division 4 and Division 4 opponents to evaluate readiness. Teams will not be forced to move up unless they are clearly dominant (e.g., undefeated with a large goal differential). If a team consistently wins by large margins, even with "focus class" players, they should be prepared to move to Division 4.

D5 Division Guidelines (NEW!):

The D5 division is designed as a recreational league that emphasizes fun and inclusivity, particularly for teams with older or less experienced players. To maintain a balanced and enjoyable atmosphere, teams in this division must have an average player age of 30 or older.

Team Composition:

• Teams are allowed to have up to two "focus players" on the field at any given time. "Focus players" are defined as males under the age of 30 or females of any age.
• The requirement for the team's average age to be 30 or older helps ensure that the level of play remains appropriate for recreational purposes.

Expectations for Division 5 Players:

• Players in Division 5 who are also on Division 4 rosters must respect the recreational nature of Division 5, which is less competitive than Division 4.
• Overly competitive play, especially from younger or more experienced players, is discouraged. This division is meant for fun, and players should focus on enjoying the game rather than winning at all costs.
• Players should remember that Division 5 games are recreational; the focus should be on participation and enjoyment, not personal accolades like being the top scorer.
• As teams in Division 5 develop better skills and chemistry, they are encouraged to consider moving up to Division 4. The league will help facilitate this transition by allowing teams to play against both Division 4 and Division 5 opponents to assess their readiness. Teams will not be forced to move up unless they are clearly dominant (e.g., undefeated with a large goal differential). Teams that consistently outperform others, even while adhering to the "focus player" rule, should be prepared to move to Division 4.

D6 Division Guidelines:

Division 6 is designed to provide novices with a fun, safe environment to learn the game and improve their skills before moving up to higher divisions.

Expectations for Division 6 Players:

• Women of any age are eligible to play in Division 6 without restrictions. However, men under 30 are not allowed on Division 6 rosters (e.g., a 21-year-old cannot play in Division 6).
• If a player is deemed too dominant by a vote league board members and referees they may be moved to a team in a higher division.
• Players in Division 6 are not permitted to play in any other division.
• As teams in Division 6 improve their skills and chemistry, they are encouraged to consider moving up to Division 5. Teams can discuss this with the league, and a transition plan will be created to play against opponents in both Division 5 and Division 6 to assess readiness.