As the 30th Yass Touch Football Knockout approaches, below are some questions you may have about the rules and regulations, as well as the tournament itself.
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Quick guide to touch footy
Touch Football Australia, the sport’s governing body as recognised by the Australian Sports Commission, describes the game as “a sport that can be played anywhere at any time”.
The Yass Touch Knockout competition has a few slight rule changes, most notably the length of game time (see below).
What kind of competition is it?
It is a round robin competition for all teams on Saturday, January 27 (three games each) with a knockout competition on Sunday, January 28.
Any numbers and restrictions?
Each game will be 25 minutes and the competition will be six players per side.
Mixed teams must have a minimum of three female players on the field.
A player can’t play for more than one team in a division (e.g. men’s division).
What are the special rules about touchdowns?
The first touchdown in each match on both days except for the grand final on Sunday is worth three points.
The second touchdown and each subsequent touchdown are worth two points.
Touchdowns in the grand final are worth one point.
After each touchdown, teams change ends.
How do the draws and points system work?
A points system will operate on Sunday with three points for a win, two for a draw, one for a loss and zero for a forfeit.
Each team will play at least three games on Saturday and at least one game on Sunday.
There will be no repechage competition for first-round losers on Sunday.
Draws on Sunday will be decided by the drop-off system.
Who will be referring?
Each team needs to nominate a qualified non-playing referee to participate in the knockout – playing referees are not allowed.
Any player sent off for the remainder of the game will receive an automatic one-game suspension on either day unless the Yass Touch Football Association judiciary believes otherwise.
All decisions by the association’s knockout disputes committee are final.
How about playing gear?
Players in each team must wear the same playing shirt with a number on the back or on both sleeves.
Players are not allowed to swap shirts.
All players must wear approved touch football shoes while playing.
Each team must supply their own ball.