Recreational Games should be fun learning experiences for all players, refs, coaches & spectators alike. Referees & coaches are encouraged to explain calls and always be fair & positive to everyone on the field.

Blow-out games where goals get out of hand by a dominating team can become quite discouraging. The Club encourages the following suggestions when one team is 4 goals ahead:

1. Substitute out dominating goal scorers, giving other players a chance to play forward or
   more playing time.
2. Play more ball possession/defense rather than high pressure attacking.
   • Focus on passing, switching side of field
   • Perhaps 2 touch only, or try 10 passes in a row
   • Focus on using weaker foot
   • Perhaps send no more than 3–4 attacking players across the half-way line
3. When all else fails with young, overzealous goal scorers, consider playing 1-2 players short for the remainder of the game.

Coaches should adjust as necessary to make for a fun, competitive game for all. If necessary, we've asked Center Referees to politely discuss with the coach of a dominating team to modify game plan, rather than reach a situation where a team or coach simply wants to give up & abandon a match.

Just as a comparison from Class 3 (comp.) and Class 1 (top level premier) leagues, blow-outs are also discouraged. And in some tournaments, there are actually penalties for running up scores. League & group coordinators watch for repeated lopsided scores, and will remind coaches of fair, competitive play. Remember, you could be on the short end of a 0 - 10 blowout next week too!