National Federation of High School Rules (NFHS)
- Rules: NFHS Soccer Rules – 2011 – 2012. Unfortunately, unlike the other sets of the rules, NFHS rules cannot be downloaded digitally. The rules must be purchased from NFHS’s wesbite. NIOSA’s comparative study shows the differences between NFHS, NCAA, and USSF; so, if in a bind, the comparative study may help, but should not be relied upon.
Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA)
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
United States Soccer Federation (USSF)
Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)
Misc.
Which Rules to Use?
In US soccer, there are three major sets of rules. Various leagues chose from the various sets of rules to use. Many times, after a selection is made, the league amends and applies modifications to the chosen rules, which are specific to the league. In Massachusetts, high schools primarily use rules by National Federation of High School (“NFHS”). This is because most schools are “Member Schools” in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (“MIAA”). Since Member Schools are subject to the rules and mandates of the MIAA, Member Schools are bound to MIAA’s mandate that soccer “will be played under the rules of the National Federation of State High School Associations with [6] modifications.” MIAA, Rules and Regulations Governing Athletics, Rule #77. High schools who are not member schools to MIAA typically choose to use the rules of either NFHS or National Collegiate Athletic Association (“NCAA”).