Format:

Single Elimination

  • Teams are eliminated after one loss

  • Winning teams advance through a randomly drawn bracket

  • A 3rd place match may be played between semifinal losers

  • Forfeits result in an automatic win for the opponent

 

Team Composition:

  • 7 players on the field per team

  • Max roster size: 10 players

  • Teams must be single-gender only

  • All players must be registered before their first game

  • Substitutions allowed only during stoppages (between plays or after a score)

  • No guest players or roster changes after the first match

 

Field Size:

  • The field will be slightly smaller than a standard football field

  • Estimated size: 60–70 yards long, 25–30 yards wide

  • End zones: ~8–10 yards deep

  • First down line is at midfield

    • Teams have 4 downs to reach midfield, then 4 more to score

 

Match Format:

  • Two halves of 20 minutes each (running clock)

  • 5-minute halftime

  • 1 timeout per team per half (1-minute duration)

  • Clock stops only during timeouts and in the final 2 minutes of the second half for:

    • Incomplete passes

    • Players going out of bounds

    • Scores

  • If tied in knockout matches:

    • Each team gets one offensive possession from the opponent’s 10-yard line

    • If still tied, sudden-death format begins

 

Rules of Play:

  • No tackling – players must pull flag belts to stop the ball carrier

  • No blocking or stiff arms

  • 4 downs to reach midfield, then 4 downs to score

  • All players are eligible receivers

  • Quarterbacks may run only if rushed

  • Defensive rush allowed after 7-second count from snap

  • Fumbles are dead at the spot

  • Interceptions may be returned

  • Touchdown = 6 points (no extra points)

  • No kickoffs – possessions start at the team’s 10-yard line

 

Code of Conduct:

  • Respectful, modest, and Islamic behavior is expected at all times

  • Only team captains may speak to referees regarding disputes

  • No aggressive physical contact; excessive force results in penalty or ejection

  • Fouls (e.g., flag guarding, holding, roughness) may result in:

    • Warning

    • Yardage penalties

    • Player disqualification

  • No alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances allowed

  • Unsportsmanlike behavior may lead to disqualification

 

Uniform & Equipment:

  • Players must wear modest athletic attire

  • Flag belts will be provided by the tournament and must be worn properly

  • Cleats are allowed but not required (no metal spikes)

  • No jewelry or watches

  • Teams encouraged to wear similar-colored tops for visibility

 

Dispute Resolution:

  • Neutral referee/match supervisor will manage all games

  • Disputes must be brought up immediately by team captains

  • If unresolved, the Organizing Committee will make the final decision