The Morton Pumpkin Classic is an annual tournament hosted in Morton, IL, famously known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World. Renowned for its vibrant tradition, this tournament attracts more than 120 teams to its meticulously cared-for, illuminated grass complex.
- Pumpkin Classic Tournament – September 22-24 at the beautiful McClallen Park in Morton, IL (the Pumpkin Capital of the World).
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 17th | Registration Deadline |
| April 22nd | Prelim Brackets Released |
| April 29th | Schedule Released |
| April 30th | Payment Due |
| May 1st | Schedule Final |
Tournament Rules – Morton Pumpkin Classic
A. Laws of the Game
Games will follow FIFA Laws of the Game, with exceptions mentioned in the rules.
B. Player Eligibility
Players’ age determined by USYSA age for 2022-2023 season.
C. Team Eligibility
Maximum four guest players allowed.
Rosters cannot be changed after submission.
Registration requires player passes, state-approved roster, medical waiver, and guest player forms.
Sharing players allowed with approval, not within same division, max 3 games/day.
D. Duration of Game
Match durations vary by age division.
Running time with 5-minute maximum breaks between quarters/halves.
Game length can be altered due to weather or delays.
Home team kicks off, choice of side for home team.
E. Build Out Line
U7 and U8 use build out line on goal kicks.
U9 and U10 use build out line for goalkeepers’ possession.
Offside can be called between build out line and goal line.
F. Substitutions
Unlimited substitutions allowed.
U7 and U8 teams can substitute at any time.
Other formats can substitute on goal kick, kick-off, or throw-in with possession.
Players can leave and reenter the game.
G. Heading
Heading banned for players aged 10 and under.
Purposeful heading results in an indirect free kick for opponents.
H. Ejection
Ejected players or coaches ineligible for next game.
No substitution allowed for ejected player.
Fighting leads to immediate tournament disqualification.
I. Forfeits
Minimum players required: 4v4 (3), 7v7 (5), 9v9 (6), 11v11 (7).
Team must start with minimum players; after 10-minute grace, forfeit declared.
Forfeiting team might be eliminated from tournament.
J. Uniforms and Equipment
Players must wear shin guards.
Suggested light color for home team, dark for away.
Same uniform for each player on a team.
K. Conduct
Coaches responsible for team’s conduct.
Complaints can lead to expulsion from tournament.
Adults must stay on opposite side of field.
Derogatory remarks not allowed.
L. Preliminary Round
Divisions with 6, 8, or 10 teams divided into groups.
Group winners generally qualify for semifinals.
Less than 6 teams play round robin schedule.
M. Points
Victory/forfeit earns 3 points, tie earns 1 point, no points for loss.
Tiebreakers include head-to-head, wins, goal differential, goals allowed, goals scored, penalty shots.
N. Ties (Semifinals and Finals)
Penalty shootouts used to break ties in semifinals and finals.
O. Awards
Trophies and medals awarded for first and second place.
Participation medals for other placements.
P. Protest
Protests must be submitted in writing within an hour of game completion.
Referee’s judgment not a basis for protest.
Protest fee refundable only if protest is successful.
Q. Complaints
Complaints heard only when presented by coach with team manager or assistant coach.
R. Rain Policies/Act of Nature Cancellation
Games may be rescheduled, relocated, or terminated due to weather.
Tournament committee makes decisions on game adjustments and cancellations.
No refunds except for tournament cancellation due to “act of nature.”
http://www.mortonunitedfc.com/mortonunitedfc/Home
Conclusion
In the spirit of unity and competition, the Morton Soccer Tournament 2023 promises to deliver an exhilarating experience for players and fans alike. With its well-defined rules spanning player eligibility, conduct expectations, tie-breaker strategies, and more, the tournament sets the stage for a harmonious blend of sportsmanship and skill. As teams converge to showcase their talents, these rules serve as the foundation for fair play and an unforgettable event. The Morton Soccer Tournament 2023 stands as a testament to the dedication of all involved, shaping a memorable chapter in the rich tapestry of soccer history.