Laws of football

Football or American football (also known as soccer) is a high intensity sport that never has a dull moment. It consists of two teams battling for one ball by using fancy feet and leg work. Each team strives to sink the ball past their opponent’s goalie into their opponent’s goal the most times in a game. The Laws of the game govern this game with a set of 17 laws that make sure the game is played with structure and fairness. Compared to many other sports, this law book is rather short. Many sports contain hundreds to thousands of pages of rules and regulations while the Laws of the game carry less than 50. The “Field of Play,” explores the correct structure of the pitch (the field). Many terms are explained thoroughly including; half-way line, centre spot, and penalty box. The half-way line divides the field in half determining which area belongs to which team. The centre circle surrounds the centre spot of the field that all games begin on. The penalty area around the goal is designated for the goalie and stretches 44 yards long and 18 yards wide in front of the goal. Each mark on the pitch is important in the game and the “Field of Play” law tells us the correct measurements and that we must have the proper markings for each game.

The rule book also tells us about the soccer ball itself. It must be an air filled sphere that is approximately 14-16 oz. Other specifications include the type of leather it’s made from and how many hexagons it should have around the ball (32). “The number of players, The player’s equipment and The Referee” are stated as well. The game must have no more than eleven players on a team of football (or soccer), they must be equipped with the proper gear. This includes a shirt, shorts, socks, footwear, and shin guards. Although headgear is not included in their list, players should always take caution because head injury can occur during a game. Jewelry and watches are forbidden to wear during any game for they may cause damage to themselves and other players. The goalkeeper carries the same set of rules when it comes to their kit (gear) as the rest of the players. However, they are required to make sure to wear something that will make them distinguishable as a goalkeeper such as, shirts with different colors or patterns from all of their teammates as well as their competitors. To make sure the game follows each law correctly the Association of football appoints a Referee. The referees are assisted by two assistant referees (linesmen). Sometimes a game can have up to 4-5 assistant referees as stated in Laws number five and six. The remaining laws dissect the moments and kicks that are allowed in the game and help the game run smoothly.