The International Football Association Board (IFAB) released several key changes to the Laws of the Game. In Maryland, these changes are in effect beginning with the Fall 2019 season.
These changes were made to help encourage a faster pace of play with less down time, clarified what is/is not handling, and introduced the ability for referees to give a card to bench personnel, and better maintain the spirit of the game.
Here are some resources that will help everyone better understand the law changes:
Additionally, our friends in Colorado and Arizona have put together great videos regarding the Law Changes:
Remember: MSYSA has a Zero Tolerance Policy regarding abuse of any kind, including against referees.
Interested in becoming a referee? Contact Maryland Soccer Referees for more information.