Object of the Game
The game is played by two teams of differently-abled athletes using special
footguards attached to powered wheelchairs as „feet‟ to kick a large ball.
The object of the game is to manoeuvre the ball over the goal line of an
opposing team while preventing them from doing the same.
Modifications
Subject to the agreement of the national association concerned and
provided the principles of these Laws are maintained, any or all of the
following modifications are permissible:
size of the field
size, weight and material of the ball
duration of the periods of play
substitutions
Further modifications may be allowed based upon decisions made between
referees, coaches, and tournament directors prior to the start of the match
or tournament.
Male and Female
References to the male gender in the Laws of the Game in respect of
referees, assistant referees, players and officials are for simplification and
apply to both males and females.
Safety
Players must use lap seatbelts. Leg, feet and chest straps should be used if
normally worn. Other authorised equipment may include helmets,
headrests, and other assistive or protective technology normally used by
the athlete.
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December 2010 6 / 53 Official document
Law 1 – The Field of Play
Dimensions
The basic size of the field that the game will be played on is 28 m x
15 m (94 ft x 50 ft) (standard size basketball court):
Length: maximum 30m (98-1/2 ft)
minimum 25m (82 ft)
Width: maximum 18m (59 ft)
minimum 14m (46 ft)
Surface
The surface of the field must be hard, smooth, and level for easy
manoeuvrability of the powerchairs. The use of wood or artificial
material is recommended. Concrete or tarmac should be avoided.
Markings
The field is marked with lines which belong to the areas of which
they are the boundaries.
The two longer boundary lines are called touch lines. The two
shorter lines are called goal lines.
All lines are a minimum of 5 cm (2 in) wide.
The field is divided into two halves by a halfway line.
The centre mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. The
mark may consist of a 15 cm (6 in) “X” taped securely onto the floor
with contrasting/non-damaging tape.
Goal Area
A goal area is marked at the centre of each end of the field, 8 m (26
ft) wide and 5 m (16.5 ft) deep.
Penalty Mark
A penalty mark is placed 3.5 m (11.5 ft) from the goal line and
equidistant from each goalpost to indicate the location of the ball
during the taking of penalty kicks.
The mark may consist of a 15 cm (6 in) “X” or line taped securely
onto the floor with contrasting/non-damaging tape.
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December 2010 7 / 53 Official document
Goals
Goals must be placed on the centre of each goal line.
They consist of two upright posts (pylons or cones) placed
equidistant from the corners of the field and securely fastened to the
floor with non-damaging tape.
The distance between the posts is 6 m (19ft 6.8 in).
Officials’ Area
An area at least 1 m (39.4 in) wide is placed around the entire
perimeter of the field which allows the manoeuvre of the officials.
The Corner Arc
A triangle 1 m (39.4 inc) from each corner is drawn inside the field of
play.
Technical Areas
The technical area lateral limit are from the goal line to the halfway
line or 1 m (39.4 inc) from the scorer‟s table and extends forward to
the edge of the officials‟ area.
Additional requirements and restrictions concerning the technical
area are described in the administrative notes.
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December 2010 8 / 53 Official document
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December 2010 9 / 53 Official document
Law 2 – The Ball
Qualities and Measurements
The ball is:
spherical,
Of appropriate pressure so as to minimise
bouncing yet prevent powerchairs from riding
over it.
See FIPFA Ball technical specification for further
information.
Replacement of a Defective Ball
If the ball bursts or becomes defective during the course of a match:
the match is stopped
the match is restarted by a set ball where the ball first became
defective (see Law 8)
If the ball bursts or becomes defective whilst not in play at a kickoff,
goal kick, corner kick, free kick, penalty kick or kick-in:
the match is restarted accordingly
The ball may not be changed during the match without the authority
of the referee.
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December 2010 10 / 53 Official document
Law 3 – The Number of Players
Players
A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than 4
players, one of whom must be a goalkeeper. A match may not start
if either team consists of fewer than 2 players.
Players must be at least 5 years of age and must have adequate
control of their powerchairs.
The referee has the authority to stop a player who is not in full
control from participating in a game.
Official Competitions
Teams shall consist of 4 players with up to 4 substitute players;
however, the rules of competition may allow a greater number of
substitutes.
A greater number of substitutes may be on the team provided that:
the teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum
number
the referee is informed before the match
If the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before
the match, no more than 4 substitutes are allowed on the team
sheets.
Teams must provide team sheets to the referee prior to the start of
the match. Players & substitutes not so named may not take part in
the match.
Substitution Procedure
To replace a player by a substitute, the following conditions must be
observed:
The nearest assistant referee must be informed of the
substitution request prior to the stoppage
The assistant referee signals that a substitution has been
requested
A substitute only enters the field of play from the technical
area and during a stoppage in the match
The substitution is completed when a substitute enters the
field of play
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December 2010 11 / 53 Official document
All substitutes are subject to the authority and jurisdiction of
the referee
A team may not substitute a goalkeeper for a penalty kick
unless there has been an injury or equipment failure
Changing the Goalkeeper
Any of the players may change places with the goalkeeper, provided
that:
the referee is informed before the change is made
the change is made during a stoppage in the match
Infringements/Sanctions
If a substitute enters the field without the referee‟s permission:
the referee stops play (although not immediately if the substitute
or substituted player does not interfere with play)
• the referee cautions him for unsporting behaviour and orders him
to leave the field of play.
• If the referee has stopped play, it is restarted with an indirect free
kick for the opposing team from the position of the ball at the time
of the stoppage (see Law 13 – Position of free kick)
If a player changes places with the goalkeeper without the referee‟s
permission before the change is made:
• the referee allows play to continue
• the referee cautions the players concerned when the ball is next
out of play
In the event of any other infringements of this Law:
• the players concerned are cautioned
• the match is restarted with an indirect free kick, to be taken by a
player of the opposing team from the position of the ball at the time
of the stoppage
Restart of Play
If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution:
the match is restarted by an indirect free kick to be taken by a
player of the opposing team from the place where the ball was
located when play was stopped (see Law 13)
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December 2010 12 / 53 Official document
Players and Substitutes Sent Off
A player who has been sent off before the kick-off may be replaced
only by one of the named substitutes.
A named substitute who has been sent off, either before the kick-off
or after play has started may not be replaced.
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December 2010 13 / 53 Official document
Law 4 – The Players Equipment
Safety
A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is
dangerous to himself or another player.
Basic Equipment
The basic compulsory equipment of a player is:
a jersey or shirt
all members of a team will wear shirts of the same
colour which contrasts those of their opponents
shorts or warm-up pants which matches the rest of their
team
a powered wheelchair
lap seatbelt
Footguard
A clear and visible number
Powerchair
powerchair must have 4 or more
wheels
3 or 4-wheeled scooters or similar equipment are not
permitted
The maximum speed allowable during the match for
powerchairs is 10 kph (6.2 mph), forwards and reverse.
Backpacks, bags, etc. are not allowed to be attached to
powerchairs during play (essential equipment accepted e.g.
Oxygen / feeds / ventilators etc.)
chairs must not have any sharp surfaces or items that might
become entangled with other powerchairs (inc. essential
equipment)
chest/shoulder/head restraints are required equipment for
those athletes who need them
no part of the chair shall be constructed so as to be able to
trap or hold the ball
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December 2010 14 / 53 Official document
additions should be placed on the powerchair which prevent
the wheels from trapping, holding, or riding over the ball
Footguards
must consist of unbreakable material and be securely
attached to the powerchair
players must be able to maintain eye contact with the ball
footguard surfaces shall be solid and not angled to hit the
ball upwards
o all surfaces must be flat or convex. Concave
surfaces are not allowed. No part of the footguard
shall be constructed so as to be able to trap or hold
the ball
footguards must not have any sharp surfaces or protrusions
footguards must not be wider than the widest point of the
frame or wheelbase of the powerchair
footguards must not be narrower than the front casters (or
attachments) of the powerchair
See FIPFA Footguard technical specification for further
information.
Goalkeepers
Each goalkeeper wears colours that distinguish him from the other
players. Distinguishing colours may include shirts, bibs, etc.
Infringements/Sanctions
For any infringement of this law:
play need not be stopped
the player at fault is instructed by the referee to leave the
field of play to correct his equipment
the player leaves the field of play when the ball next ceases
to be in play, unless he has already corrected his equipment
any player required to leave the field of play to correct his
equipment does not re-enter without the referee‟s
permission
the referee checks that the player‟s equipment is correct
before allowing him to re-enter the field of play
the player is only allowed to re-enter the field of play when
the ball is out of play
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December 2010 15 / 53 Official document
A player who has been required to leave the field because of an
infringement of this Law and who enters (or re-enters) the field
without the referee‟s permission is cautioned and shown the yellow
card.
Restart of Play
If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution:
the match is restarted by an indirect free kick taken by a
player from the opposing team, from the place where the
ball was located when the referee stopped the match (see
Law 8)
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December 2010 16 / 53 Official document
Law 5 – The Referee
The Authority of the Referee
Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to
enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match to which
he has been appointed.
Powers and Duties
The Referee:
enforces the Laws of the Game in accordance with safety
and sportsmanship
controls the match in co-operation with the assistant referee
ensures that the field played on meets the requirements of
Law 1
ensures that any ball used meets the requirements of Law 2
inspects and ensures that the players‟ equipment meets the
requirements of Law 4
collects and verifies team sheets prior to the start of play
acts as a timekeeper and keeps a record of the match
stops, suspends, or abandons the match, at his discretion,
for any infringement of the Laws
stops, suspends, or abandons the match because of outside
interference
stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously
injured
stops the match if, in his opinion, a dangerous situation
occurs or is likely to occur.
stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is in danger of
flipping over or if major powerchair components begin
falling onto the field
allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player
is, in his opinion, only slightly injured
ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the
field. The player may only return on receiving a signal from
the referee, who must be satisfied that the bleeding has
stopped
allows play to continue when the team against which an
offense has been committed will benefit from such an
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December 2010 17 / 53 Official document
advantage and penalises the original offense if the
anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time
punishes the more serious offense when a player commits
more than one offense at the same time
takes disciplinary action against players guilty of a
cautionable or sending-off offense. He is not obliged to take
this action immediately but he must do so when the ball
next goes out of play
takes action against team officials who fail to conduct
themselves in a responsible manner and may, at his
discretion, expel them from the court and its immediate
surroundings
acts on the advice of the assistant referee regarding
incidents which he has not seen
ensures that no unauthorised persons enter the field
restarts the match after it has been stopped
may, if requested or required, support the ball during the
taking of a free kick or restart
provides the appropriate authorities with a match report
which includes information on any disciplinary action taken
against players, and/or team official and any other incidents
which occurred before, during or after the match
allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a
player‟s equipment breaks down and he is not in danger.
When there is a stoppage in play, the referee will allow time
for the repair of the equipment. If the repair time is
significant, the referee can order a substitution
Decisions of the Referee
The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are
final. Facts connected with play shall include whether a goal is
scored or not and the result of the match.
The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is
incorrect or, at his discretion, on the advice of an assistant referee,
provided that he has not restarted play.
Clarifications
A referee (or where applicable, an assistant referee) is not held liable
for:
any kind of injury suffered by a player, official or spectator
any damage to property of any kind
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December 2010 18 / 53 Official document
any other loss suffered by any individual, club, company,
association or other body, which is due or which may be due
to any decision which he may take under the terms of the
Laws of the Game or in respect of the normal procedures
required to hold, play and control a match
this may include:
o a decision that the condition of the field or its
surrounds or that the weather conditions are such
as to allow or not to allow a match to take place
o a decision to abandon a match for whatever reason
o a decision as to the condition of the fixtures or
equipment used during a match including the
goalposts and the ball
o a decision as to stop or not to stop a match due to
spectator interference or any problem in the
spectator area
o a decision to stop or not to stop play to allow an
injured player to be removed from the field for
treatment
o a decision to request or insist that an injured player
be removed from the field for treatment
o a decision to allow or not allow a player to wear
certain apparel or equipment
o a decision (in so far as this may be his
responsibility) to allow or not allow any persons
(including team or venue officials, security officers,
photographers or other media representatives) to
be present in the vicinity of the field
o any other decision which he may take in
accordance with the Laws of the Game or in
conformity with his duties under the terms of the
association or leagues rules under which the match
is played
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December 2010 19 / 53 Official document
Law 6 – The Assistant Referees
Duties
Assistant referees may be appointed whose duties, subject to the
decision of the referee, are to indicate:
when the whole of the ball has passed out of the field
which side is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick, or kickin
when a substitution is requested
when a team may be penalised for having exceeded the
number of allowable players in the goal area
when a team may be penalised for having a player, other
than the goalkeeper, completely cross the goal line
between the goal posts
when misconduct or any other incident has occurred out
of the view of the referee
when offenses have been committed whenever he is
closer to the action than the referee (this includes, in
particular circumstances, offenses committed in the goal
area)
whether, at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper has moved
forward before the ball has been kicked and if the ball
has crossed the line
may, if requested or required, support the ball during the
taking of a free kick or restart
Assistance
The assistant referees also assist the referee to control the match in
accordance with the Laws of the Game.
In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee
will relieve an assistant referee of his duties and make a report to
the appropriate authorities.
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December 2010 20 / 53 Official document
Law 7 – The Duration of the Match
Periods of Play
The match consists of two equal periods of 20 minutes, unless
otherwise mutually agreed between the referees and the two
participating teams. Any agreement to alter the periods of play (for
example to reduce each half to 15 minutes) must be made before
the start of play and must comply with competition rules.
Half-Time Interval
Players are entitled to an interval at half-time which must not exceed
10 minutes.
Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval.
The duration of the half-time interval may be altered only with the
consent of the referee.
Allowance for Time Lost
Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through:
stoppage to ensure a player‟s safety such as when a
player is in danger of falling over or when major
powerchair parts fall onto the field in close proximity
to play
removal of a non-operable powerchair from the field
for repair
o if the player‟s equipment breaks down during
play, the referee may allow play to continue if
the player‟s’ safety is not jeopardised
o at the next stoppage, or if the player‟s
equipment breaks down during a stoppage,
the referee will allow for the repair of the
equipment. If the repair takes excessive
time, the referee will order a mandatory
substitution of the player
assessment of injury to players
removal of injured players from the field for treatment
wasting time
any other cause
The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee.
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December 2010 21 / 53 Official document
Penalty Kick
If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either
half is extended until the penalty kick is completed.
Abandoned Match
An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules
provide otherwise.
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December 2010 22 / 53 Official document
Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play
Preliminaries
A coin is tossed and the team that wins the toss decides which goal it
will attack in the first half of the match.
The other team takes the kick-off to start the match.
The team that wins the toss takes the kick-off to start the second
half of the match.
In the second half of the match, the teams change ends and attack
the opposite goals.
Kick-Off
A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play:
at the start of the match
after a goal has been scored
at the start of the second half of the match
at the start of each period of extra time, where applicable
A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off.
Procedure
all players are in their own half of the field
the opponents of the team taking the kick off are at least 5 m
(16.5 ft) from the ball until it is in play
the ball is stationary on the centre mark
the referee gives the signal
the ball is in play when the ball has been kicked and moved
the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has
touched another player
after a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other
team
Infringements/Sanctions
If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched
another player:
An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be
taken from the place where the infringement occurred
For any other infringement of the kick-off the kick-off is retaken.
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December 2010 23 / 53 Official document
Set Ball
A set ball is a way of restarting the match after a temporary
stoppage that becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any
reason not mentioned elsewhere in the Laws of the Game.
Procedure
The referee sets the ball at the place where it was located when play
was stopped.
One player from each team comes no closer than one 1m from the
ball; both players must face the ball parallel with the touchline until
the ball is touched.
All other players must be at least 3 m (10 ft) from the ball until it is
in play.
Play restarts when the referee makes a signal.
Infringements/Sanctions
The ball is set again:
if it is touched by a player before the referee‟s signal
if the ball rolls before the referee‟s signal
if a player not involved in the set ball encroaches within
3 m before the referee‟s signal
Special Circumstances
A free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own goal area is
taken from any point within the goal area.
An indirect free kick awarded to the attacking team in its opponents
goal area is taken from the goal area line parallel to the goal line at
the point nearest to where the infringement occurred.
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December 2010 24 / 53 Official document
A set ball to restart the match after play has been temporarily
stopped inside the goal area takes place on the goal area line parallel
to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was located
when play was stopped.
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December 2010 25 / 53 Official document
Law 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play
Ball Out of Play
The ball is out of play when:
it has wholly crossed the goal line or touch line whether
on the ground or in the air
it is held immobile for more than 3 seconds between two
or more opponents in active play
play has been stopped by the referee
it elevates above 50.8cm (20in) from the floor
Ball In Play
The ball is in play at all other times, including when:
it rebounds from a goalpost and remains in the field of
play
it rebounds from either the referee or an assistant
referee when they are on the field of play
The ball may only be played by the players‟ powerchairs: it cannot
be moved by contact with a player’s body (e.g. hand, foot, or head).
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December 2010 26 / 53 Official document
Law 10 – The Method of Scoring
Goal Scored
A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line,
between the goal posts, provided that no infringement of the Laws of
the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the
goal.
In absence of a goal post, a goal is scored when majority of the ball
passes inside the goal marking and wholly crosses the goal line.
Winning Team
The team scoring the greater number of goals during the match is
the winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no
goals are scored, the match is drawn.
Competition Rules
For matches ending in a draw, competition rules may state
provisions involving extra time or kicks from the penalty mark to
determine the winner of a match.
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December 2010 27 / 53 Official document
Law 11 – Field Position
General
There are two possible offenses based on relative positioning of
players and the ball during play. However several criteria must be
met before the positioning becomes an offense.
2-on-1 Field Position Offense
two teammates and an opponent are within 3 m (10 ft) of the ball
while it is in play
both teammates and the opponent are involved in active play
Active play is defined as:
interfering with play or
interfering with an opponent or
gaining an advantage by being in that position
There is no 2-on-1 offense if one of the two teammates is a goalkeeper in
his own goal area
there is no 2-on-1 offense if there is no opponent within 3 m (10
ft) of the ball
Offense
Either of these position situations is only penalised if, in the
opinion of the referee. One of the teammates is involved in active
play.
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December 2010 28 / 53 Official document
Goal Area
3 or more teammates within their own goal area at one time while
the ball is in play.
Infringements/Sanctions
For an offense of this Law, the referee awards an indirect free kick to
the opposing team to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred, in accordance with the requirements of Law
13.
Unless it denies a goal scoring opportunity follow Law 12
The definitions of elements of involvement in active play are as follows:
Interfering with play means playing or touching the ball passed or
touched by a team-mate.
Interfering with an opponent means preventing an opponent from
playing or being able to play the ball by clearly obstructing the
opponent’s movements or making a gesture or movement which, in
the opinion of the referee, deceives or distracts an opponent.
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December 2010 29 / 53 Official document
Gaining an advantage by being in that position means playing a ball
that rebounds to him off a post having been in a 2-on-1 position or
playing a ball that rebounds to him off an opponent having been in
a 2-on-1 position.
FEDERATION INTERNATIONALE DE POWERCHAIR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
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December 2010 30 / 53 Official document
Having 2 teammates within 3 m of the ball and an opponent is, in
and of itself, not an offense until or unless the 2nd of the
teammates becomes involved in active play.
FEDERATION INTERNATIONALE DE POWERCHAIR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
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December 2010 31 / 53 Official document
Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct
Fouls and misconduct are penalised as follows:
Direct Free Kick
A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player rams or
attempts to ram an opponent in a manner considered by the referee
to be careless, reckless or using excessive force:
A direct free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player
commits any of the following offenses:
holds an opponent with his powerchair
handles the ball deliberately
uses his arms to push, hold, or strike an opponent, or
attempts to do so
spits at an opponent
denies a goal scoring opportunity
A direct free kick is taken from where the offense occurred.
Penalty Kick
A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above offenses is committed
by a player inside his own goal area, irrespective of the position of
the ball, provided it is in play.
Indirect Free Kick
An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player
other than the goalkeeper:
wholly crosses their own goal line, between the goal
posts, during play
An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a 3rd player enters
their own goal area while the ball is in play.
An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player, in
the opinion of the referee:
plays in a dangerous manner
impedes the progress of an opponent
deliberately moves or pushes-over a goal post
commits any other offense, not previously mentioned in
Law 12, for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a
player
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December 2010 32 / 53 Official document
The indirect free kick is taken from where the offense occurred
(subject to the requirements of Law 13.).
Disciplinary Sanctions
Only a player or substitute player may be shown the red or yellow
card.
The referee has the authority to take disciplinary sanctions, as from
the moment he enters the venue of the match until he leaves the
venue after the final whistle.
Cautionable Offenses
A player is cautioned and shown a yellow card if he commits any of
the following seven offenses:
1. is guilty of unsporting behaviour
2. shows dissent by word or action
3. persistently infringes the Laws of the Game
4. delays the restart of play
5. fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted
with a corner kick, kick-in, free kick, goal kick, or set ball
6. enters or re-enters the field of play without the referee‟s
permission
7. deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee‟s
permission
Sending-Off Offenses
A player is sent off and shown a red card if he commits any of the
following eight offenses:
1. is guilty of serious foul play
2. is guilty of violent conduct
3. spits at an opponent or any other person
4. denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal scoring
opportunity by deliberately handling the ball
5. denies an obvious goal scoring opportunity to an opponent
moving towards the player‟s goal by an offense punishable by
a free kick or penalty kick
6. denies the opposing team a goal by completely crossing over
the goal line (goalkeepers excepted)
7. uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures
8. receives a second caution in the same match
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A player who has been sent off must leave the vicinity (sight and
sound) of the field of play and the technical area
The elements of Law 12 are defined as follows:
Tackling and fair charges are allowed as long as they are footguard
to footguard. Contact with any other part of the chairs or ramming
is a foul and is NOT allowed.
Ramming is defined as when a player deliberately drives into an
opponent, with or without the ball, at a high rate of speed or with
excessive force. The opponent may be moving or standing still.
Holding is defined as when a player deliberately and physically
restricts the movement of an opponent’s powerchair. Clipping is a
variation of holding.
Clipping is when a player deliberately contacts the side or back of an
opponent’s powerchair in order to impede the progress of the
opponent.
Spin kicks are a method of propelling the ball farther and faster than
is possible when running straight at the ball. It is an exciting and
breathtaking action which makes the sport of powerchair football a
wonderful spectator sport. Nonetheless, if the spin kick is performed
during play it can also create a dangerous situation because for a
portion of the move, the kicker is unable to see the ball or if anyone
is approaching within the vicinity of where the ball is.
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Law 13 – Free Kicks
Free Kicks
Free kicks are either direct or indirect.
For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary
when the kick is taken and the kicker must not touch the ball again
until it has not touched another player.
Direct Free Kick
if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents‟ goal, a
goal is awarded
if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the team‟s own goal, a
corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
Indirect Free Kick
Signal
The referee indicates an indirect free kick by raising his arm above
his head. He maintains his arm in that position until the kick has
been taken and the ball has been touched by another player or goes
out of play.
Ball Enters the Goal
A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another
player before it enters the goal.
if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents‟
goal, a goal kick is awarded
if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the team‟s own
goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
Position of Free Kick
Free Kick Inside the Goal Area
Direct or indirect free kick for the defending team:
all opponents are at least 5 m (16.5 ft) away from the
ball, (unless goalkeepers are behind their own goal line
between the goal posts).
all opponents remain outside the goal area until the ball
is in play
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the ball is in play when it is kicked directly out of the
goal area
a free kick awarded in the goal area is taken from any
point inside that area
Indirect free kick to the attacking team:
all opponents are at least 5 m (16.5 ft) away from the
ball until it is in play, (unless goalkeepers are behind
their own goal line between the goal posts).
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
an indirect free kick awarded inside the opponent‟s goal
area is taken from a point along the goal area line
parallel to the goal line, at the point nearest to where the
infringement occurred
Free Kick Outside the Goal Area
all opponents are at least 5 m (16.5 ft) from the ball until
it is in play
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
the free kick is taken from the place where the
infringement occurred
Position of Defenders
defenders have priority for position in their own goal area
prior to the kick.
Infringements/Sanctions
If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than
the required distance:
the kick is retaken
The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands)
before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the
kick to be taken from the place where the infringement
occurred
If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its
own goal area, the ball is not kicked directly into play:
the kick is retaken
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Law 14 – Penalty Kicks
General
A penalty kick is awarded against a team that commits a major foul
for which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own goal area while
the ball is in play.
A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick.
Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of
each half or at the end of periods of extra time.
Position of the Ball and the Players
The ball:
must be placed on the penalty mark
The player taking the penalty kicks:
must be properly identified
The defending goalkeeper:
at the time the kick was awarded must defend the
penalty kick (no substitution allowed)
must remain on his goal line, facing the kicker,
between the goalposts, with whole of the chair behind
the goal line until the ball has been kicked
The players other than the kicker are located:
inside the field of play
outside the goal area
behind the penalty mark
at least 5 m (16.5 ft) from the penalty mark
The Referee
does not signal for a penalty kick to be taken until the players
have taken up position in accordance with the Law
decides when a penalty kick has been completed
Procedure
after the players have taken positions in accordance with the Law,
the referee signals for the penalty kick to be taken.
the player taking the penalty must kick the ball.
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he must not touch the ball again until it has touched another
player
the ball is in play when it is touched and moves.
When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time has
been extended at half-time or full time to allow a penalty kick to be taken
or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the goalposts:
The ball touches either or both of the goalposts and/or the
goalkeeper
Infringements/Sanctions
If the referee gives the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and, before
the ball is in play, one of the following infringements occurs:
The player taking the penalty kick or a teammate of the player
taking the kick infringes the Laws of the Game:
the referee allows the kick to proceed
if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken
if the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and
restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the opposing
team from the place where the infringement occurred.
The goalkeeper or teammate of the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of
the Game:
the referee allows the kick to proceed
if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded
if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken
A player of both the defending team and the attacking team infringe
the Laws of the Game:
the kick is retaken
If, after the penalty kick has been taken:
The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands)
before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick
to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
The kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another
player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to
be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
The ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward:
the kick is retaken
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The ball rebounds into the field of play from the goalkeeper or the
goalposts, and is then touched by an outside agent:
the referee stops play
play is restarted with a set ball at the place where it touched
the outside agent, unless it touched the outside agent inside
the goal area, in which case the referee sets the ball on the
goal area line at the point nearest to where the ball was
located when play was stopped.
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Law 15 – The Kick-In
General
A kick-in is a method of restarting play.
A goal can be scored directly from a kick-in.
A kick-in is awarded:
when the whole of the ball passes over the touchline,
either on the ground or in the air
to the opponents of the player who last touched the
ball
Procedure
the ball is placed on the touchline at the spot where it left the
field
opponents must remain at least 5 m (16.5 ft) away until the ball
has been put into play
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
the kicker must not touch the ball a again until it has touched
another player
Defenders have priority for position in their own goal area prior
to the kick.
Infringements/Sanctions
For any other infringement of this Law:
the kick-in is taken by a player of the opposing team
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Law 16 – The Goal Kick
General
A goal kick is a method of restarting play.
A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the
opposing team.
A goal kick is awarded when:
the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, either
in the air or on the ground, having last touched a
player of the attacking team, and a goal is not scored
in accordance with Law 10.
Procedure
the ball is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player of
the defending team
Opponents remain at least 5 m (16.5 ft) away until the ball is in
play
the kicker must not touch the ball a again until it has touched
another player
the ball is in play when it is kicked directly out of the goal area.
Infringements/Sanctions
If the ball is not kicked directly out of the goal area from a goal kick:
the kick is retaken.
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again before it has
touched another player:
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be
taken from the place where the infringement occurred, subject to the
provisions of Law 13.
For any other infringement of this Law:
the kick is retaken
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Law 17 – The Corner Kick
General
A corner kick is a method of restarting play.
A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick.
A corner kick is awarded when:
the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, either on the
ground or in the air, having last touched a player of the
defending team, and a goal is not scored in accordance with
Law 10.
Procedure
the ball is placed inside the corner triangle closest to where the
ball crossed the goal line.
Opponents must remain at least 5 m (16.5 ft) away from the
corner triangle until the ball is in play, (unless goalkeepers are
behind their own goal line between the goal posts).
the ball is kicked by a player of the attacking team
the ball is in play when it is touched and moves
the kicker must not touch the ball again until it has touched
another player
Defenders have priority for position in their own goal area prior
to kick
Infringements/Sanctions
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again before it has
touched another player:
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be
taken from the place where the infringement occurred, subject to the
provisions of Law 13.
For any other infringement of this Law:
the kick is retaken
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Law 18 – Classification
18.1 THE ROLE OF CLASSIFICATION
The FIPFA classification system intends to place all participating athletes
into sport classes according to how much their impairment affects core
determinants of performance in Powerchair Football. Overall, the
classification system provides a framework for competition and ensures
that the strategies, skills and talents of athletes and teams determine
competitive success.
More specifically, this system has a dual purpose:
(1) Determine Eligibility to Compete.
(2) Group Athletes for Competition.
18.2 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Powerchair Football is played only by those with a diagnosed,
severe physical impairment that leads to a verifiable, permanent *
activity limitation, as a consequence the athlete needs the use of
powered mobility in order to play a sport.
*Some variable, fluctuating impairments may imply classification at
every competition, (for example, multiple sclerosis)
The FIPFA eligibility criterion does not question the presence of a
genuine impairment; it refers only to the eligibility of the athlete to
competitively play Powerchair football.
Levels of fitness, age, cognition, gender or skill, are not factors in
classification. The assessment needs to focus on the functional
performance of the presenting athlete in relation to Powerchair
Football, and their ability to play the sport safely.
If an Athlete fails to meet the eligibility criteria for Powerchair
Football the Athlete will be declared ineligible for competition.
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18.3 SPORT CLASS AND SPORT CLASS STATUS
Every athlete eligible to take part in a Competition must be allocated a
Sport Class and Sport Class Status in accordance with the rules of FIPFA or
they cannot compete.
To minimise the impact that impairment has on the outcome of athletic
competition, all participating athletes are placed into sport classes
according to how much their impairment affects their athletic performance.
Once athletes have been assessed as meeting the minimal eligibility
criteria they are allocated one of 2 Sports classes;
PF1: This denotes a player who has highly significant levels of
physical difficulty which affects their overall performance.
PF2: This denotes a player who has moderate to mild levels of
physical difficulty which affects their overall performance, but who
still meets the minimal eligibility criteria.
Each team must field a maximum of two PF2 sport class players during a
match for all FIPFA designated competitions
There is no restriction in the combination of sport classes within the
playing squad of a team
Infringements / Sanctions
If a team has more than two PF2 classified players on the field of play
during a match, at the next stoppage in play they must become compliant
and a penalty be awarded to the opposing team.
If unable to make the team compliant, then they must play on with one
player less
Sport class status indicates the extent to which an Athlete is required to
undergo further evaluation and opportunities for protest of an Athlete‟s
sport class. This is designated as;
New (N) *
Sport Class Status New (N) is assigned to an athlete who has not been
previously evaluated by an FIPFA Classification Panel and has not had an
entry Sport Class verified by FIPFA .
Review (R)*
Sport Class Status (R) is assigned to an athlete who has been previously
evaluated by an international classification panel but is still subject to
further re-evaluation. The athlete‟s current Sport Class is valid, but the
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athlete is subject to re-evaluation and the Sport Class may be changed
before or during competition.
Confirmed (C)*
Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) is assigned to athletes who have been
previously evaluated by an FIPFA Classification Panel and the panel has
determined that their Sport Class will not change.
18.4 CHANGES IN SPORT CLASS FOLLOWING OBSERVATION IN
PERFORMANCE
If any changes to an Athlete‟s sport class are determined by the
Classification Panel as a result of observation during competition, all
relevant parties should be informed as soon as is logistically possible.
18.5 PROTESTS
The term “protest” refers to the procedure by which a formal objection to
an athlete‟s sport class is made and subsequently resolved.
Instructions about the management of protests are clearly identified in the
FIPFA Classification Rules document.
18.6 APPEALS
The term “appeal” refers to the procedure by which a formal objection to
the manner in which Classification procedures have been conducted is
made and subsequently resolved.
Instructions about the management of appeals are clearly identified in the
FIPFA Classification Rules document.
18.7 CLASSIFIER TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION.
To be certified as a classifier an individual has to complete the FIPFA
formal Training, which includes theoretical and practical education, as well
as practical training and mentorship.
18.8 ATHLETE PRESENTATION
All athletes must be prepared to be fully assessed by the classification
panel and be present at the evaluation location at the assigned time, in the
appropriate uniform as if ready to begin a match, and with all
documentation, equipment and devices as required by the FIPFA
Classification Rules.
The athlete may be accompanied by an interpreter, and not more than one
representative of the Athlete‟s NPC/National Federation.
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18.9 ATHLETE EVALUATION PROCESS.
The athlete evaluation process may include, but is not limited to:
Physical Assessment
Technical Assessment
Observation of Performance Assessment
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Kicks from the Penalty Mark
General
Kicks from the penalty mark is the method of determining the
winning team where competition rules require there to be a winning
team when the score is still tied after finishing both regulation time
and two extra time periods.
Procedure
The referee chooses the goal at which the kicks will be taken
The referee tosses a coin and the team whose captain wins the
toss decides whether to kick first or second
The referee keeps a record of the kicks being taken
Subject to the conditions explained below, both teams take four
kicks
Only those players who are on the field of play at the end of the
match, which includes extra time where appropriate, are allowed
to take kicks from the penalty mark
Only the designated goalkeepers who are on the field of play at the
end of the match, which includes extra time where appropriate, are
allowed to defend the kicks from the penalty mark
The ball is in play when it is kicked and moved
The kicks are taken alternately by the teams
If a team has a greater number of players at the end of the match,
than their opponents, they shall reduce their numbers to equate
with that of their opponents and inform the referee of the name
and number of each player excluded. The team captain has this
responsibility.
Each kick is taken by a different player and all eligible players must
take a kick before any player can take a second kick
If, after both teams have taken four kicks, both have scored the
same number of goals, or have not scored any goals, kicks
continue to be taken until one team has scored a goal more than
the other from the same number of kicks
If, before both teams have taken 4 kicks, one has scored more
goals than the other could score, even if it were to complete its 4
kicks, no more kicks are taken
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The goalkeeper who is on the field of play at the end of the match,
which includes extra time where appropriate, will defend all the
kicks from the mark by the opposing team.
The goalkeeper who is the team-mate of the kicker must remain
outside the field in which the kicks are being taken, along the
touchline
A goalkeeper who is injured or suffers complete technical failure
while kicks are being taken from the penalty mark and is unable to
continue as goalkeeper may be replaced by a named substitute.
The substitute must participate in the kicks and is the only player
allowed to defend all subsequent kicks by the opposing team.
If a player is injured or sent off during the taking of kicks from the
penalty mark and the team has one player fewer.
Unless otherwise stated, the relevant Laws of the Game apply
when kicks from the penalty mark are being taken
Infringements/Sanctions
For any infringement of this procedure:
the kick is retaken
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Administrative Notes
Technical Area
Technical areas may vary between venues, for example in size or location,
and the following notes are issued for general guidance:
The technical area lateral limits are from the goal line to the
halfway line or 1 m from the scorer‟s table and extends
forward to the edge of the officials‟ area
It is recommended that markings are used to define this area
The number of persons permitted to occupy the technical
area is defined by the competition rules
The occupants of the technical area are identified before the
beginning of the match in accordance with the competition
rules
Only one person at a time is authorised to convey tactical
instructions
Team personnel may enter the field only after receiving
permission from a referee (safety/imminent danger
situations excluded). Personnel seeking permission to enter
the field must first ask the nearest assistant referee to signal
the referee
The coach and other occupants of the technical area must
behave in a responsible manner
The Fourth Official
The fourth official may be appointed under the competition rules
and officiates if any of the three match officials is unable to
continue
He assists the referee at all times
Prior to the start of the competition, the organiser states clearly
whether, if the referee is unable to continue, the fourth official
takes over as the match referee or whether the assistant referee
takes over as referee with the fourth official becoming an
assistant referee
The fourth official assists with any administrative duties before,
during and after the match, as required by the referee
He is responsible for assisting with substitution procedures during
the match
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He supervises the replacement footballs, where required. If the
match ball has to be replaced during a match, he provides
another ball, on the instruction of the referee, thus keeping the
delay to a minimum
He has the authority to check the equipment of substitutes before
they enter the field of play. If their equipment does not comply
with the Laws of the Game, he informs the referee
He must indicate to the referee when the wrong player is
cautioned because of mistaken identity or when a player is not
sent off having been seen to be given a second caution or when
serious misconduct occurs out of the view of the referee and
assistant referee. The referee, however, retains the authority to
decide on all points connected with play
After the match, the fourth official must submit a report to the
appropriate authorities on any misconduct or other incident that
has occurred out of the view of the referee and the assistant
referee. The fourth official must advise the referee and his
assistant of any report being made
He has the authority to inform the referee of irresponsible
behaviour by any occupant of the technical area
Coaches
Coaches are responsible for all persons associated with their teams
and said persons conduct and compliance with the Laws of the Game.
Coaches may also play but must be listed on the team sheet in both
roles.
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Referee Signals
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