This annual spectacle transcends the boundaries of a mere sporting event, morphing into a celebration of dedication, talent, and the universal language of soccer. With teams converging from various corners of the globe, the Sereno Soccer Tournament not only showcases the beauty of the sport but also fosters cross-cultural connections that extend far beyond the pitch. 

Arizona Collegiate Spotlight

• Boys’ Weekend: March 1-3, 2024;
• Girls’ Weekend: March 8-10, 2024;
• Location: Phoenix, Arizona.

Previously recognized as the Sereno Soccer Showcase, this esteemed event, founded in 1999, stands as Arizona’s premier college soccer exhibition. Participants experience fierce competition, and it’s an unmatched platform offering visibility to coaches from the country’s elite college programs. 

PRE-GAME PROCEDURES:

Teams should be prepared and present with the referee on the field 15 minutes before their scheduled match. During this period, the players’ equipment will undergo inspection. If a team fails to arrive on time, they will forfeit the game. Once the match concludes, both the coach and referee must verify the results. The team manager will then retrieve the roster and passes from the referee.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

All age groups can make unlimited substitutions.

EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS:

The referee will assess the safety and appropriateness of a player’s gear. This includes decisions regarding orthopedic casts and hard braces. Players must wear shin guards, and items like jewelry and hairpins are prohibited.

COACHING ETIQUETTE:

Coaches bear full responsibility for the behavior of their players, substitutes, and fans. While sideline coaching is allowed, the following rules apply:

• No use of mechanical devices;
• Coaches should instruct, not insult;
• Coaches and substitutes must remain within 10 yards of the halfway line;
• Negative comments or gestures towards referees, coaches, players, substitutes, or spectators are forbidden;
• Profanity and disruptive behaviors are not tolerated.

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS:

Receiving two cautions (yellow cards) in a game equates to an ejection (red card) for tournament point purposes. Ejected players or coaches cannot return for that game. Attacking a referee results in tournament expulsion. Notably, coaches can also receive cards. U.S. teams facing disciplinary action will have their State Association notified, while foreign teams will have their respective associations informed.

GAME MANAGEMENT:

Tournament and Site Directors cannot interfere with or overturn referee decisions. If game officials believe a game should pause or end early due to certain factors, it will. Games suspended for reasons other than misconduct may resume, but must end at least 5 minutes before the next scheduled match. Misconduct may result in the offending team’s suspension, with prior earned points untouched.

INJURIES:

Injury-related game delays will have equivalent time added to the match’s duration, at the referee’s discretion. Preliminary games, though, will conclude at least 10 minutes before the next one starts.

POINT SYSTEM:

Wins earn three points, ties one point, and losses none. Tiebreakers follow a sequence: head-to-head results, goal difference, goals scored, goals against, most wins, most shutouts, and finally FIFA penalty kicks if needed.

HOME TEAM RULES:

The home team, listed first on the schedule, provides the game ball (subject to referee approval). They must also switch jerseys in case of color conflicts, or they risk forfeiting the match. Spectators will sit across from their team’s bench.

GAME FORFEITURES:

Forfeiting teams get a 0-1 loss score, with six tournament points given to the winners. Late teams, those not checking in, or those leading to game termination will forfeit. A minimum of 7 players is required to start a game.

DISPUTES AND PROTESTS:

The Tournament director will resolve all disagreements, with their decision being final. Protests and appeals are not accepted.

AWARDS:

All participants get pins, and the top teams in the U13-U19 divisions receive trophies.

REFUNDS:

Teams that join cannot get refunds.

TOURNAMENT STRUCTURE:

Teams are guaranteed at least 3 games, maxing out at 2 games per day.

GENERAL INFO:

Tournament details can be found at the venue’s headquarters or online via GotSport. Field Marshalls and Athletic Trainers are available for assistance. Teams should respect and clean up the facilities, using provided trash receptacles.

WEATHER CONTINGENCIES:

Should adverse weather occur, the Tournament Director can alter the rules for safety. Changes will be communicated by the Field Marshalls or the tournament website. Various potential adjustments include continuing as planned, eliminating pre-game warm-ups, shortening games, or substituting games with penalty shots.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sereno Soccer Tournament stands as a testament to the power of sports in fostering camaraderie, skill development, and a sense of community among players and fans alike. Through its competitive spirit and commitment to fair play, the tournament has not only showcased exceptional athletic prowess but has also promoted values such as teamwork, discipline, and determination.